Did you know that nearly 80% of new residential and commercial buildings in the U.S. use prefabricated roof trusses instead of traditional rafter systems? From skyscrapers in New York City to cozy suburban homes in Texas, different types of roof trusses have become the gold standard in modern construction.
But all the types are not the same. Choosing the right type of roof truss can make or break your construction project. Whether you’re designing a residential home, a commercial warehouse, or even a historic renovation, understanding different types is key to achieving durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
This guide will walk you through the most common roof truss designs, their advantages, and which ones are best suited for your project. Let’s get started!
13 Common Types of Roof Trusses and Their Advantages
A roof truss is a strong framework that holds up a roof. It connects the space above rooms and helps distribute the roof’s weight evenly.
Most trusses are made of triangular shapes, whether they are wood roof trusses or metal. It’s because triangles are naturally stable and strong. This design keeps the roof sturdy while reducing pressure on the walls and foundation. However, in these triangles, there are different types, such as
1. King Post Truss—Simple Yet Sturdy Design
The King Post Truss is the simplest and the most common type. It features a central vertical post (the king post) connecting the apex of the truss to its base, with two angled supports (principal rafters).
This type of truss is used mainly for small to medium-sized buildings. Ideal for short spans up to 8 meters, it requires minimal timber, making it cost-effective.
Pros:
- Simple in design and easy to construct.
- Cost-effective due to minimal material usage.
Cons:
- Limited to shorter spans.
- Not suitable for heavy loads.
Applications: Commonly used in small residential buildings, sheds, and garages.
The ancient timber roof truss in St. Catherine’s Monastery, Egypt, dating back to the 6th century, and traditional cottages in England feature King Post Trusses.
2. Queen Post Truss—Versatile and Classic
Similar to the king post truss, this truss includes two vertical posts (queen posts), a horizontal beam (tie beam), and two principal rafters, forming a rectangular shape within the truss.
The queen truss is suitable for spans up to 10 meters and uses slightly more timber than the king post truss.
Pros:
- Supports longer spans than King Post.
- Provides an open space, allowing for loft conversions.
Cons:
- More complex design.
- Increased material requirements.
Applications: Ideal for residential homes requiring longer spans without central supports.
The historic Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon features Queen Post Trusses, highlighting their use in traditional architecture.
3. Fink Truss—Efficient and Cost-Effective
A Fink truss consists of a series of V-shaped webs forming a W pattern, providing a strong design. The fink truss is efficient in material usage and provides excellent load distribution. The best part of the Fink truss is that it uses less timber due to its design and is commonly used for spans up to 14 meters.
Pros:
- Efficient use of materials.
- Strong and versatile.
Cons:
- Limited attic space.
- Standard appearance may lack uniqueness.
Applications: Widely used in residential buildings, especially for roofs with moderate spans.
Found in many suburban homes.
4. Howe Truss—Strong and Durable for Large Spans
Howe roof trusses feature diagonal slopes sloping towards the center and vertical slopes connecting the top and bottom chords.
This type of roof truss is efficient for spans ranging from 6 to 30 meters and, of course, needs timber for residential applications.
Pros:
- Strong and efficient for longer spans.
- Distributes loads evenly.
Cons:
- Complex construction.
- Requires precise engineering.
Applications: Common in both residential and commercial buildings, as well as in bridge design.
The Howe truss design is prevalent in many historic railway bridges across the United States, such as the West Montrose Covered Bridge in Ontario, Canada.
5. Pratt Truss—Strong Yet Economical
A Pratt truss comprises diagonal members that slope towards the center, which is commonly used in long-span applications.
It uses a combination of vertical and diagonal elements for strength spans up to 25 meters.
And this roof truss is perfect for structures where loads are predominantly in one direction.
Pros:
- Strong and economical for long spans.
- Efficient load distribution.
Cons:
- Requires precise engineering.
- More material-intensive than simpler trusses.
Applications: Frequently used in bridge construction and industrial buildings.
The Southern Pacific Railroad Bridge in Tempe, Arizona, utilizes the Pratt truss design, showcasing its strength and durability.
6. Scissor Truss—Elegant Vaulted Ceiling Solution
It resembles an open pair of scissors, with the bottom chords crossing and connecting to the top chords at a higher point, creating a spacious interior along with a vaulted ceiling effect.
Scissor truss is suitable for spans up to 15 meters, requiring more timber due to its intricate design.
Pros:
- Allows for vaulted ceilings.
- Aesthetically pleasing.
Cons:
- More expensive due to design complexity.
- Requires skilled labor for construction.
Applications: Popular in residential homes, churches, halls, and modern homes where vaulted ceilings are desired.
Many contemporary homes feature scissor trusses to achieve spacious, open interior areas.
7. Attic Truss—Maximizing Living Space
The attic truss is designed to create a living space within the roof; it includes additional supports to accommodate floor loads.
This type of truss can span up to 15 meters, requiring more timber to support the additional load.
Pros:
- Provides additional living space.
- Adds property value.
Cons:
- Higher cost due to added complexity.
- Needs careful planning.
Applications: Ideal for residential buildings where additional living space is required.
Modern townhouses are found with Attic trusses to maximize usable space.
8. Mono Truss—Simple and Small
A single-sloped roof truss is commonly used for extensions or lean-to roofs. Mono truss is best for short spans up to 6 meters, requiring minimal timber.
Pros:
- Simple look and cost-effective.
- Perfect for single-slope roof designs.
Cons:
- Limited to small structures.
- Does not provide any aesthetic outlook.
Applications: Small structures, sheds, and lean-to structures.
Often found in backyard sheds and carports.
9. Hip Truss—Superior Stability and Weather Resistance
Hip trusses come with 4 sloped sides meeting at a ridge, providing excellent stability. This type is suitable for spans up to 12 meters. But this truss needs more timbers with professional installation tactics.
Pros:
- Durable and wind resistant.
- Suitable for regions with extreme weather conditions.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Requires skilled labor for installation.
Applications: Large residential homes and commercial buildings.
Many hurricane-prone areas use Hip trusses for added structural security.
10. Gable Truss—Traditional and Reliable
The traditional triangular shape with strong vertical supports forms the classic gable roof. Gable truss is ideal for spans up to 12 meters, using a moderate amount of timber.
Pros:
- Simple design and cost-efficient.
- Stronger enough.
Cons:
- Not much resistant to high winds.
- Needs additional support in large spans.
Applications: General-purpose residential buildings.
Many suburban homes in the U.S. utilize gable trusses for their efficiency.
11. Raised Tie Truss—Ideal for Vaulted Ceilings
A raised tie truss is a type of truss with elevated bottom chords, creating a vaulted ceiling appearance. This type of truss is almost similar to the Mono truss.
Raised Tie truss is mostly used for spans up to 14 meters, requiring additional timber for structural integrity.
Pros:
- Enhances interior space aesthetics.
- Reduces outward thrust on walls.
Cons:
- More expensive due to increased material use.
- Requires skilled labor.
Applications: Homes with vaulted ceilings.
Mostly found in high-end homes with open interior designs.
12. Cathedral Truss—Grand and Spacious Design
The cathedral truss has an open cathedral-like interior space. This type of truss is designed with steep slopes to create such cathedral shapes.
A cathedral truss is ideal for spans up to 20 meters. And it needs a significant number of timbers.
Pros:
- Stunning architectural interior designs.
- Creates a large, open space.
Cons:
- Expensive due to material and labor requirements.
- Might need extra support structure.
Applications: Churches, event halls, and luxury homes.
Frequently used in Gothic-style churches and modern cathedral ceilings in mansions.
13. Gambrel Truss/Bowstring Truss—Aesthetic and Functional for Barns
A gambrel truss is a two-slope design that provides additional attic space. Due to its arched beam (the bow), it’s also called a Bowstring truss.
Gambrel roof truss is suitable for spans up to 12 meters, requiring moderate timber use.
Pros:
- Maximizes attic space.
- Aesthetic and functional.
Cons:
- Requires precise engineering.
- Less common in modern residential buildings.
Applications: Barns, farmhouses, and colonial-style homes.
Many historic barns and farmhouses in the U.S. feature Gambrel trusses.
Quick Comparison of Different Types of Roof Trusses
| Roof Truss Type | Design Complexity | Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) | Best Use |
| King Post | Simple | Low | Residential |
| Queen Post | Medium | Moderate | Residential |
| Howe | Complex | High | Commercial |
| Scissors | Complex | High | Residential & Commercial |
| Fink | Simple | Low | Residential |
| Attic | Complex | High | Residential |
| Mono | Simple | Low | Small Structures |
| Hip | Complex | High | Large Homes & Commercial |
| Gable | Medium | Moderate | General Purpose |
| Fan | Medium | Moderate | Industrial |
| Raised Tie | Complex | High | Vaulted Ceilings |
| Cathedral | Complex | High | Churches & Luxury Homes |
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Final Wrap
We’ve come to the end of this blog, and we really hope it has helped you discover the right types of roof trusses for your upcoming home or business project!
You see, choosing the right roof truss is essential for both structural integrity and cost efficiency. King post and queen post trusses are most common and suitable for smaller projects, while Howe and Attic trusses are better suited for large-scale projects or commercial buildings.
However, don’t forget to consider factors like span, number of timber, and design complexity when making your decision.
If you’re still unsure which truss to choose, contact us to get a free consultation from a roofing professional!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the 4 standard roof trusses?
4 standard roof trusses are
- King Post Truss: Suitable for small to medium-sized buildings
- Queen Post Truss: Ideal for spans up to 10 meters.
- Fink Truss: Best known for its strength and moderate-size projects.
- Howe Truss: Used in both roof and bridge constructions for various spans.
What are the three main types of trusses?
Among different truss types, the 3 main and mostly used trusses are King Post truss, Queen Post truss, and Fink truss. These are found in almost every general residential structure.
How do I identify the type of roof truss in my building?
To identify the type of roof truss in your building, first observe the shape and configuration of the truss members. Then, check the original architectural plans, as they often mention truss designs. Finally, an assessment by a professional roof truss designer is always recommended.
What is the strongest type of roof truss?
The Hip truss is known to be the strongest due to its triangular webbing and even load distribution. Besides, people also recommend the Fink truss as being the strongest and the most durable one.