If you have been around the construction industry or met with us regarding a project you have probably heard one if not both of these terms. They relate to a roof’s structural system. So what’s the difference?
The basic difference is a truss system is a quicker, less expensive way build a roof. They look like they have boards connecting other boards in what may seem like a nonsensical grid fashion (think cutting a spider web in half). But they actually are structural pre-engineered support systems made in a controlled manufacturing facility. Trusses are then shipped to the project site and lifted into place with a crane. This can usually happen in a single day, with roof sheathing (the plywood attached to the roof) applied the next. A typical install can take only a few days, reducing the amount of time that the trusses and the rest of the house is exposed to weather.
This is in contrast to what architects and contractors refer to “stick building” or “field building”. In this roofing system all lumber is shipped to site individually and then measured, cut, and installed by hand. Without getting too technical the basic structure consists of a main beam (the ridge beam) forming the highest point of the roof line. This beam is supported by two posts holding it up and either end of the roof. The angled lumber connecting to the ridge beam at the top and to the perimeter walls are known as the roof rafters. The horizontal ceiling joists form the final piece of the roof framing assembly. Although more costly and time consuming it creates free unencumbered attic areas that can be finished and create great ways to get more space without changing the basic size of the home.
Truss Roof System Pros and Cons
- Pro – Fast installation (generally a few days)
- Pro – Less expensive materials and less labor
- Con – More difficult to create usable attic space
Stick Built Roof System Pros and Cons
- Pro – Creates usable areas for storage or finished space
- Con – Substantial Cost Increase in both materials and labor
- Con – More time consuming installation (can be multiple weeks)
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