What to Ask Your Contractor When Choosing Timber Roof Trusses

3 September 2015

Eugene Vargas

Timber roof trusses can open up your home and give it a spacious, grand feeling that you usually cannot get with any other type of design and construction. Timber trusses can be left bare and untouched for a very rustic look, or they can be painted or stained to match your home's décor or to provide a nice contrast to wall colors. When choosing timber trusses for your home, note a few questions you'll want to consider with your contractor. This will ensure you choose the right type of trusses and that you'll be happy with your decision for years to come.

 What are the options for connectors?

Your timber trusses will need to be connected, usually by a metal plate that is often left open and exposed. You'll want to discuss your options for these plates with your contractor, as a lightweight metal plate can be inexpensive and easy to fabricate and work with but may not provide much protection during a fire. Some types of metal are more prone to melting and warping when heated and, in turn, they allow the trusses to collapse, whereas other types are denser and more fireproof. You don't want to opt for the cheapest type of metal connector, especially if your home is in a high fire risk area, so discuss your options with your contractor and ensure that you don't compromise safety for price.

What styles are available?

Trusses can come in a wide variety of styles, and you want to ensure you choose the one that will suit your home and each room properly. Don't simply accept the first style that your contractor offers you, as a simple collar tie or ridge and rafter truss may look less cluttered than a craftsman style. Your contractor may be more comfortable working with a certain style, but be sure you choose one that works for you and for your space in particular, while still picking one that is strong enough to hold up the weight of your home and roof overall.

Can the trusses be made from recycled wood?

If you're very conscious of the environment, ask if the trusses can be made from recycled wood. Very often, pieces from other projects that have been torn down can be cut and fabricated so that they can be used on new projects. This keeps them out of landfills and reduces the amount of new material that needs to be harvested for a project. Most contractors can find and work with recycled wood, so ask about this if it's important to you.

For more information, contact a local truss and frame company like Wadsworth Joinery. 

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