When planning your roofing project, you’re likely going to choose between two types of structures; namely, rafters or trusses. This should be discussed with your hired contractor, as they know the most appropriate type of roofing structure that should be installed in your home. You can even have both types of structures installed, but only if it’s necessary. The pros at JAM Roofing share their insight.
Rafters
You’re probably familiar with what rafters look like in a typical roofing system. They’re known as the “stick framing” of the roof, or essentially the planks that are 2 x 10s or 2 x 12s. They slope down from the central ridge beam at the top part of the roofing system and intersect with the exterior walls. The elongated planks support the roof sheathing and roofing and their ceiling joists extended horizontally across the floor of the attic space. This is located between the exterior walls and secures them together as they create a sturdy structure that supports the attic and the roofing system.
Trusses
Depending on the design of your roof construction, a roofing contractor may decide to build it with pre-made trusses. If you haven’t seen them before, they’re prefabricated wooden structures that form a triangle-based webbing to support the roofing system. These are made of chords, which are the long sloping beams that extend towards the chords as well as the beam that runs horizontally along the bottom of the webbing. Multiple trusses are pre-built to distribute the weight of the roof from one end to the other.
Their Biggest Differences
Both rafters and trusses offer similar qualities that benefit your roofing system. Rafters may be more convenient as they offer more storage space if you plan on turning your attic into an additional room. You’ll also benefit from rafters as it’s faster to install attic insulation and a radiant barrier for better energy efficiency.
Since trusses are already manufactured in the factory, they offer more quality control as they’re cut precisely by computer-aided saws and other fabrication equipment. This makes roof construction faster since there’s no need to assemble them onsite. The triangular webbing of trusses is also designed to distribute the weight of the roof more effectively compared to rafters.
If you’re looking for a trusted contractor for your roofing needs, make sure to hire the best roofing company in the area. Contact JAM Roofing today at (541) 773-7663 or via our convenient online form. We serve our customers in Oregon, including Medford, Grants Pass and the surrounding OR areas!