Roof Trusses
When it comes to roofs, your choice of structure can have a large, deciding effect on the cost. We have decided to delineate the cost of structural decision so you will have a better idea when buying and designing.
Residential roof trusses constructed of timber
Variety of Truss
- Fink Roof Trusses: This is the cheapest option available. It is lightweight, it uses small timber sections and can even be erected on the vast majority of roofs in a single day. It is true, however, that if you would like to use the roof space then it is not suitable, this is also the case for if you wanted to use the space for anything more than light storage in the roof space or if you have a more complex roof shape.
- Traditional cut roof: In terms of cost, there’s not much to choose when considering an attic truss with a traditional cut roof. To the untrained eye, it can be difficult to tell how an open attic roof truss has been built. It tends to come into its own when the roof shapes are complex.
- Attic truss: as the name suggests, attic trusses give you an empty attic space within the simplicity of trussed roof design. Attic trusses use much heavier timbers than fink trusses, and therefore they cost considerably more to buy.
- Panelised roofing. This variety of roofing utilises sheets which have already been insulated. These are then laid across roof beams. It works the most officially.
Complexity.
The main factor that affects the price of a roof structure is the same factor that impacts the price, in all other aspects of construction. This is complexity. As a result, the more simple the shape is, the lower the cost.
Undoubtedly, moving away from the fink trussed roof to either an attic truss of a purlin and spar roof, will add to the cost of doing business. Nevertheless, it works to provide the chance for the cheap space to be used either straight away or at a later date – it’s, therefore, cost-effective in real terms. Consideration must be given as to one who is to gain access to this additional storey and the resultant effects. For example – the need for the addition of fire doors in the case that a third storey is provided.
Number of Trusses
We measure the length and width of your structure, and we then calculate the size. Trusses need to be a bit longer than the exact width to allow overhang. You need sufficient trusses in order to mount across the length. Most are spaced between 18 to 26 inches apart from each other, depending on other conditions.
Once the number is calculated we purchase the lumber and manufacture the trusses.