Introduction of Difference Between Rafter and Truss
The Roof Framing system, especially when considering the rafter vs truss and truss vs rafter debate, has undergone a huge revolution over the last some years.
What are rafters? They, along with trusses, primarily function to support the roof of the structure. If you are constructing your new home, then you may be confused that what should use to support the roof.
Many people are confused about the difference between rafters and trusses, often asking truss vs rafter, and which one should be the best option for your building.
In this article, we will highlight the Difference between Rafter and Truss and which one you should use in the construction of your home.
What Is Rafter?
Rafters, or the rafter in steel structure, are the Roof Framing system traditionally used in various constructions. Their rafters meaning in the context of rafters in construction is significant.
In simple words, the rafters are the planks of wood. The Rafters slope from the central ridge of the beam to the top most part of the roof. Rafter includes a sloping outer beam which mainly provides support to the roof.
Rafters are assembled on the construction site. Rafters are fabricated on the construction site which will lead to the wastage of the materials and time due to which the cost of the project increases.
The Rafter are generally used in the building which is smaller than 6 meters. It is generally used for small-scale construction projects.
Rafters, especially when considering the rafter in truss design, are easy to modify and innovate in the future without affecting the roof structure. Rafters are used key component in the construction of the roof structure.
Rafters are generally made from timber or steel. The size of the Rafters can be increased if larger roofs spans are required.
Advantages of Rafter
- More head height in the attic.
- Can be used anywhere.
- Ideal for small construction projects.
- Reduced lead time.
Disadvantages of Rafter
- Costly.
- More time-consuming.
- Skilled workers required.
- Slower pace of building.
What Is Truss?
A truss rafter, or simply a truss, is a framework made from timber with a triangular shape, showcasing the essence of clerestory windows architecture, providing structural support and stability to the roof.
Trusses are generally prefabricated and mainly consist of two forces members. Trusses are prefabricated so that they can be directly installed on the Construction sites.
Trusses have more triangle webs inside the principal frame. As the trusses consist of a network of various beams in the triangular shape, the beams are distributed all over the roof due to which there will be an even weight distribution all over the roof.
The Trusses are prefabricated in the factory due to which they can be directly installed on the construction site which makes it more affordable compared to the rafters.
Trusses are suitable for the construction of large-span structures which can span up to 35m. Trusses are interconnected members which makes it difficult to renovate or modify it in the future.
Advantages of Truss
- Less expensive.
- More accuracy.
- Quicker construction.
- Greater strength.
- Diy friendly.
Disadvantages of Truss
- Big weight and size.
- Limitations in-ceiling design.
- No future alternations possible.
- No room for storage or conversion.
Difference Between Rafter and Truss
The trusses vs rafters debate is ongoing. Here’s the difference between truss and rafter according to their properties and various factors.
| Sr.No. | Rafter | Truss |
| 1 | Rafters are not prefabricated, they are built on the construction site. | Trusses are prefabricated and constructed in the factory and then shipped to the construction site. |
| 2 | Rafters provide less support and stability to the structure as compared to the Trusses. | Trusses provide more stability and support to this structure because of the web of triangles inside the mainframe. |
| 3 | The construction of the Rafters is very time-consuming. | The construction of the Truss required very less time. |
| 4 | Rafters consist of two main outer beams which support to the roof of the structure. | Trusses consist of multiple beams which add more support to the structure. |
| 5 | Rafters are simple in look. | Trusses add aesthetical beauty to the structure. |
| 6 | The Rafters are suitable for the construction of small space areas such as a small house or car shed etc. | The trusses are suitable for the construction of large space areas such as big houses and godowns etc. |
| 7 | Installation of the rafters is more expensive as compared to the Trusses. | The cost of installation of the trusses are less than the rafters |
| 8 | The modification and the renovation of the rafters are very easy and simple. | The modification and the renovation of the Trusses are very complex. |
| 9 | Rafters have less strength as compared to the Trusses. | Trusses have greater strength. |
| 10 | Installation of the rafters required skilled labour. | Installation of the trusses does not require skilled labour. |
| 11 | Rafters have a shorter lead time. | Trusses take a longer time for its installation. |
Conclusion of Rafter and Truss
The Trusses are prefabricated in the factory due to which it is manufactured under skilled supervision due to which the Trusses are of superior quality, whereas the rafters are fabricated on the construction site by the labours and workers under the supervisor which may affect the quality of the Rafters.
The use of the Trusses are more preferred as compared to the Rafters because of their cost and.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary function of rafters and trusses?
Both rafters and trusses primarily function to support the roof of a structure. They are essential components in roof framing systems.
What are rafters?
Rafters are planks of wood that slope from the central ridge of the beam to the topmost part of the roof. They are traditionally used in various constructions and are assembled on the construction site.
What are trusses?
Trusses are a framework made from timber with a triangular shape, providing structural support and stability to the roof. They are generally prefabricated in a factory and then installed on the construction site.
What are the advantages of using rafters?
Advantages of using rafters include more head height in the attic, suitability for small construction projects, and reduced lead time. They are also easy to modify and innovate in the future.
What are the disadvantages of using rafters?
Disadvantages of using rafters include being costly, time-consuming, requiring skilled workers, and resulting in a slower pace of building.
What are the advantages of using trusses?
Advantages of using trusses include being less expensive, more accurate, quicker to construct, providing greater strength, and being DIY-friendly.
What are the disadvantages of using trusses?
Disadvantages of using trusses include their big weight and size, limitations in ceiling design, difficulty in future alterations, and no room for storage or conversion.
Which is more suitable for large-span structures, rafters or trusses?
Trusses are more suitable for the construction of large-span structures, which can span up to 35 meters.
Can rafters be easily modified or renovated in the future?
Yes, rafters are easy to modify and innovate in the future without affecting the roof structure.
Are trusses more cost-effective than rafters?
Yes, trusses are generally more cost-effective than rafters because they are prefabricated in a factory, which reduces installation time and costs.
Do trusses require skilled labor for installation?
A11: No, the installation of trusses does not require skilled labor, making them easier to install compared to rafters.
What is the main difference between rafters and trusses in terms of stability?
Trusses provide more stability and support to the structure due to the web of triangles inside the mainframe, whereas rafters provide less support and stability.
