Roof truss components are a crucial part of the roof frame that ensures the building’s roof is strong and durable. Roof trusses are designed with a triangular pattern to evenly distribute loads and provide maximum stability.
These trusses are commonly used in various buildings, such as residential homes, auditoriums, stadiums, warehouses, and industrial structures, especially in areas that require sloping roofs to withstand rainfall or snow.
The main components of roof trusses include top chords, bottom chords, internal web members, and steel connector plates. All these elements are assembled at joint points using welding or other connections to create a strong and efficient structure.
These trusses are capable of bearing various loads, including the weight of the roof, wind, snow, suspended ceilings, and even additional loads during construction or maintenance.
Roof trusses provide a practical solution for creating large roofs without interior supports. With primary materials such as timber or steel, these trusses are flexible for various designs and cost- and labor-efficient.
List of Roof Truss Components in Buildings
Roof trusses consist of various components that work together to create a strong and efficient roof structure. Here is a list of the main components that make up roof trusses.
1. Apex
The highest point where the sloping top chords meet, providing stability to the roof structure.
2. Bearing
The main support, usually equipped with a timber wall plate, to evenly distribute the load to the lower structure.
3. Bottom Chords
The shortest horizontal element of the truss that supports the bottom of the roof and ceiling.
4. Cantilever
A part of the truss that extends beyond its support, providing extra space without the need for additional columns.
5. Cantilever Strut
A web member connecting the bottom chord to the top chord of a cantilever truss, adding strength.
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6. Chord
The main component of the truss that forms the roof framework to bear heavy loads and provide stability.
7. Clear Span
The horizontal distance between the supports of the roof, creating a wide open space.
8. Heel
The point where the top chord and bottom chord meet to maintain the truss’s stability at a critical point.
9. Joint
The connection point between web members and chords, ensuring the truss’s structural integrity.
10. Nail Plate
A galvanized steel plate that joins the truss elements together with a nail design, ensuring strong connections.
11. Node
The meeting point of truss elements, where the load is distributed evenly.
12. Nominal Span
The horizontal distance between the outer edges of the supports, determining the truss’s length and structural dimensions.
13. Overhang
An extension of the top chord, providing additional protection to the building’s walls from the weather.
14. Panel
A segment of the truss formed by two adjacent joints, supporting load distribution.
15. Plumb Cut
A vertical cut at the end of the top chord, allowing for proper installation of gutters or fascia.
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16. Splice Point
The connection point between the top chord and bottom chord, ensuring the truss’s strength and stability.
17. Square Cut
A cut perpendicular to the chord’s edge for precise joining.
18. Stub End
A truss that is cut to remove its end portion, adapting the standard truss design.
19. Top Chord or Rafter
The upper horizontal element that supports the roof, also known as the rafter, which provides stability.
20. Web
The elements that connect the top and bottom chords to form a triangular structure that distributes loads effectively.
The Best Option for Site Office and Mining Camp
Roof Truss Materials: Timber and Steel
Comparison |
Timber Roof Trusses |
Steel Roof Trusses |
Initial Cost | Cheaper and suitable for small projects with limited budgets. | More expensive upfront, but more cost-effective in the long run. |
Durability | Prone to weather, pests, and moisture; requires more frequent maintenance. | More durable and resistant to weather and pests. |
Maintenance | Requires higher maintenance (especially for pests and extreme weather). | Low maintenance; more resistant to damage and corrosion. |
Strength | Strong enough for small projects. | Stronger and more durable, capable of supporting heavier loads. |
Design Flexibility | Ideal for traditional designs and residential homes. | More flexible and suitable for large and commercial buildings. |
Weight | Lighter and easier to install. | Requires extra attention during installation. |
Aesthetics | Provides a natural and warm look. | More modern and minimalist appearance, suitable for contemporary designs. |
Usage | Suitable for small projects like residential homes or small renovations. | Suitable for large buildings and commercial projects. |
The Best Option for Site Office and Mining Camp
Tradecorp Uses Metal Roofing, Here Are Its Advantages for Light Gauge Steel Buildings
Buildings with light gauge steel construction from Tradecorp use metal roofing due to the many benefits it offers. Why is metal roofing the best choice for light gauge steel construction projects?
1. Modern and Elegant Design
Metal roofing with square fluting design provides a modern and elegant look, suitable for various types of buildings and giving a futuristic impression.
2. Longer Reach
Designed to cover larger areas, metal roofing reduces the number of seams, making installation faster and more accurate.
3. No End Joints
With long sheets of metal roofing, installation is done without end joints, resulting in a neat appearance and reducing the risk of leaks.
4. Light Yet Strong
The lightweight yet durable metal material allows for wider roof supports without compromising stability or strength.
5. Variety of Colors
Available in a range of attractive colors, metal roofing also provides design flexibility to match your building’s aesthetic.