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Key Differences Between Roof Trusses and Roof Rafters

November 09, 2021

Most people get confused when it comes to choosing between roof trusses and rafters. Here are some significant differences between the two that will help you decide which one is ultimately right for your dream home.

To put it briefly, rafters are the horizontal structural pieces that support the roof's weight while roof trusses connect the rafters to other beams that support the weight, thereby creating a framework for the top. Let's discuss this in detail.

Roof Trusses

Roof trusses are essential components of a building's roof because they are the structural pieces that support the rooftop. Most high-quality manufacturers use trusses made of metal, wood, or hybrids of both materials, and their design focuses on the roof's weight.

Roof trusses are usually triangular shapes with pointed ends connected at their bases to form beams. The sharp ends are called gable ends, so roof trusses can also be called gabled trusses.

Roof Rafters

Roof rafters are used as a structural component of a roof. They are usually made of wood, metal, or steel and are nailed or bolted to the rafters or the trusses.

To prevent the roof from sagging, rafters are joined at the top or bottom to form right angles. On a typical residential roof, the rafter spans from the ridge to the apex of the roof.

Roof Trusses Versus Rafters

Roof trusses are typically larger, stronger, and more expensive than roof rafters.
Roof rafters are usually lower in cost and weight.
Roof trusses are more likely to be used for buildings in which a large flooring span is needed.
Roof rafters are more likely to be used for residential buildings because they are typically smaller and cheaper.
Roof trusses are the modern way of roof framing, whereas roof rafters are the traditional choice.

Get The Best Roof Trusses and Rafters

If you’re searching for a reliable manufacturer or supplier of trusses and rafters, you can always count on us at Tamarack Lumber. Contact us today to learn more about our excellent selection of roof trusses.