Homeowners often face the decision of choosing between roof rafters and trusses when constructing or renovating a home. This choice can significantly affect your roof’s design, cost and construction process. Top local roofing contractor NorthWest Construction discusses in this blog post the differences between rafters and trusses.
Roof rafters embody the traditional method of roof framing, often crafted on-site, essentially forming the skeleton of the roof by running from the peak right down to the outer walls. Their stick-framed architecture allows for lofty ceilings and open attic spaces, which are particularly favorable for homeowners considering future remodels such as an attic conversion.
Trusses signify a modern approach to roofing, with pre-fabricated components that reduce labor and material costs. Unlike rafters, trusses are assembled in a controlled factory environment and delivered to the site, ready for installation. They are excellent for wider-span roofs without needing numerous load-bearing walls, making them a common choice for newer constructions carried out by a reputable roof repair and installation contractor. Given that they are engineered to precise standards, the risk of construction errors is minimized, further adding to their cost-effectiveness. However, when it comes to personalization or future home remodeling, trusses offer less flexibility due to their pre-designed nature.
Opt for rafters if you appreciate the classic appeal and possible conversion of the attic into a usable space or if you reside in an area where delivering prefabricated trusses poses a challenge. This might be the case for more remote or hard-to-reach sites where transporting large truss sections is not feasible. However, if cost and efficiency are at the forefront of your decision, trusses may be the way to go. They are ideal for large-scale residential or commercial projects, as their installation requires less time and can be more predictable, schedule-wise.
Whether you require a new roof or want a new set of gutters, NorthWest Construction is your go-to choice in Dearborn, Taylor and West Bloomfield, MI. Count on us for top-notch products and workmanship. Call us at (313) 277-7676, or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.