Truss Roof Framing versus Stick Framed Roofing

By Mark J. Donovan

When it comes to framing a roof you have two basic choices, framing with trusses or stick framing. Both offer advantages and disadvantages.

Truss Roof Framing

Truss roof framing offers several advantages. First it is significantly cheaper. Since roof trusses are fabricated at a manufacturing facility fewer carpenters are needed on the jobsite. In addition, assembling roof trusses on a home goes much quicker than stick building a roof. Also, roof trusses, for the same size roof, typically use less lumber material than stick built roofs. Finally, truss roof framing eliminates waste and mess on the job site, thus saving money on jobsite cleanup as well as in scrap material costs.

One downside of using roof trusses is that they are not conducive to creating useable attic space. Typically roof trusses have interior web members between their top and bottom chords which inhibits open attic space. Another issue with truss roof framing is that it does not necessarily work well for complicated roof lines that may include dormers and cathedral ceilings. Also, typically a crane is required to lift and position roof trusses into place.

Stick Frame Roofing

Stick framed roofing offers the advantage of constructing complex roof lines, such as roofs that include dormers and cathedral ceilings. In addition, stick framed roofs typically enable more open attic spaces.

The main downside associated with stick framed roofs is that they cost more to build. More skilled carpentry labor and time is required on the jobsite and typically there is more waste material.