The Importance of Timber Roof Trusses

Posted on March 4, 2010 by Dana

Back in the old days, roofs were built flat instead of as a triangle or A-shape with diagonal sides. Back then, people did not understand the ramifications of building a roof in this fashion and it was simpler much less costly to build a flat roof.

Timber roof trusses

Soon enough people learned that flat roofs would not withstand many kinds of weather and saw their roofs collapse within just a few years from when they were built. From this lesson a standard in the roofing industry has been created whereby roofs are built using a timber roof truss.

A roof truss is a frame made from timber that is dried in a kiln. The frame is connected with steel nail plates, resulting in a strong supporting shape for the roof. As part of the home design process, specific measurements will be taken for your roof to ensure that your roof truss fits your roof perfectly, with no allowance for weakness. It is important that your roof truss is a perfect fit, to ensure that it provides adequate support for your roof coverings, as well as to help tolerate inclement weather.

There are a few different aspects to roof trusses. It is important that the roof truss is lightweight yet still strong enough to serve its purpose. This trait is created by drying the timber in a kiln and using timber that is strength graded. The roof truss’ design is also extremely important and can be a major disaster if anything is changed without the knowledge and approval of a structural engineer. Similarly, it is vital that an engineer is involved in joining the timber frame as it must be precise. Otherwise, the truss strength could be compromised and the roof could collapse.

Although timber roof trusses are very sturdy and supportive, they can sometimes fail. Therefore, it is important to keep your eye on your roof trusses. For example, exposure to moisture over an extended time period will have a negative impact on the wood, even if it has been weather treated. This will ultimately lead to a weaker roof truss. However, this condition is more often found in older buildings.

Roof trusses can also be weakened by rot or insect damage, which is also more often found in older buildings. Another problem found with older buildings is joint failure, where joints used were Mortise or Tenon joints, which are a tasty treat for woodworms.

To ensure that you get the best roof with the best roof truss system, hire a good roofer with a great reputation and you will be sure to have a roof with a long life.