The variety of truss types is one of the essential elements used to support various types of structures, from residential roofs to large bridges. Trusses are designed to distribute loads evenly, provide structural stability, and save materials without compromising strength. There are several commonly used truss types in construction, each with its own functions and advantages.
What Is a Truss?
A truss is a framework made up of triangular units connected at joints. This framework is typically used in construction to support roofs, bridges, and other structures because triangles are a naturally strong shape that can efficiently handle heavy loads and forces.
The design of a truss allows for the even distribution of weight and pressure across the structure, providing stability and strength without requiring a large amount of material. This makes truss frameworks a cost-effective and durable solution for spanning wide areas in buildings, bridges, and other engineering projects.
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14 Truss Types for Various Needs
Truss types are structural frameworks typically made of steel or wood that are used in construction to distribute loads evenly and provide structural strength. The selection of the appropriate truss type depends on the structural design, span length, and loads it needs to bear.
1. K Truss
The K truss is named for its geometric shape resembling the letter “K” inside the frame. This design provides good strength for both vertical and horizontal loads. It is commonly used in bridges and large buildings due to its efficient load distribution.
2. Pratt Truss
The Pratt truss features diagonals sloping towards the center of the truss at the bottom, while the vertical members are at the top. This design is efficient at resisting tensile forces and provides strength against vertical loads.
3. Howe Truss
Trusses like the Howe truss have diagonals sloping from the bottom to the outside. This makes them ideal for resisting compressive loads and providing strong stability.
4. Fink Truss
The Fink truss is often used in residential roof construction. Its design consists of small triangles that evenly distribute loads. It is commonly employed in residential roofs to support roof loads while reducing material usage.
5. Warren Truss
The Warren truss features repeating equilateral triangles along the structure, providing balanced load distribution without vertical elements.
6. Gambrel Truss
The Gambrel truss has two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper slope. This design is commonly used in buildings like barns because it provides more space in the attic.
7. Flat Truss
Flat truss types have a horizontal design that distributes loads evenly across long spans. This type is suitable for buildings requiring flat roofs or long spans, such as factories or warehouses.
8. King Post Truss
The King Post truss is a simple and economical design, characterized by a horizontal tie beam, two sloping rafters, and a central vertical post. This frame effectively distributes roof loads through its structural elements and is usually used in small to medium buildings with spans of up to eight meters. Due to its straightforward construction, this roof minimizes errors, making inspections easier and more cost-effective.
9. Queen Post Truss
The Queen Post truss is similar to the King Post truss but features two vertical posts for greater support, allowing for spans of up to 12 meters. Although suitable for larger structures and offering a more attractive design, it is generally more expensive to produce and install due to the additional components and wider spans.
10. Scissors Truss
The Scissors truss has a shape resembling scissors with two diagonal elements meeting at the peak. This truss type creates a higher interior space, providing extra room under the roof. This concept is ideal for buildings with high roof designs, such as churches or halls, as it creates a larger interior volume.
11. Fan Truss
Fan truss types feature a triangular design resembling a fan, with elements spreading from a central point. This design offers good strength against compressive loads and is often used for large roof structures, such as stadiums or factories, due to its strength and stability.
12. Mono Roof Truss
The Mono truss has only one sloping side and is typically used on roofs that have only one supporting side. This design is common in extensions or additions. It is generally used for buildings with a single-slope roof, such as home extensions, garages, or small warehouses.
13. Double Fink Truss
The Double Fink truss is a more complex version of the Fink truss, featuring additional diagonal elements to distribute loads more evenly.
14. Double Howe Truss
Last but not least, the Double Howe truss is commonly used to offer longer spans for maximum support.
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Strong and Quickly Built Truss Solutions
Light Gauge Steel (LGS) construction plays a significant role in the modern industry, particularly in supporting various truss types used in buildings. This lightweight steel has strong yet lightweight properties, making it an ideal material for creating efficient and durable truss structures.
The advantages of Light Gauge Steel include easy installation, corrosion resistance, and the ability to support heavy loads with less material. These truss types make it the right choice for creating strong and durable roof structures. LGS trusses are designed to evenly distribute loads, provide structural stability, and reduce construction costs thanks to their material efficiency.
Consult your needs with a trusted service provider like Tradecorp. We offer a variety of steel frame-based construction options using light gauge steel or cold-formed steel for the creation of frameworks and building structures. Light Gauge Steel construction is the perfect choice for building houses, offices, mess halls, canteens, warehouses, and other operational buildings.