A truss is a framework of timber designed to support the roof. It is an important design component.

In a timber frame home, it will create the look and feel of the entire house. There are many different types of truss but the objective is the same in all cases.

The weight is transferred from the roof or upper story of the building on to the exterior walls without needing any other support from below.

The most common truss choices are illustrated below .

The Hammer Beam is probably the most interesting type of design and is made up of a stacked arrangement of short beams and shaped support braces. These relatively short beams can be used to span fairly large distances with the advantage that the vaulted space is unobstructed.

This design is well suited to the addition of timber pendants or other decorative carvings. These details can add an attractive touch to the visual appeal.

The King Post, by contrast, joins a horizontal beam with the roof rafters and support posts. A central kingpost is used to support the ridge joint and stands on the horizontal beam. Sometimes this is further supported with struts.

This design is also suitable for the addition of a central decorative pendant. However, the lower clearance height of this system compared to the hammer beam may be an issue.

The Queen Post truss is similar in approach but utilizes two posts supporting the rafters with a further smaller cross beam connecting the posts. This system is equally structurally sound but presents a different and plainer look.

This truss, however, allows carvings to be placed either above or below the center of the span.

The Collar Beam Truss may be the simplest system of all, consisting of a crossbeam and truss rafters sitting on the outside support posts.

Although less decorative than the other alternatives, it can still lead to a delightful architectural statement in the right application.

In the traditional timber frame these truss styles are incorporated directly into the bents. Bents are a series of complete frame cross-sections assembled from posts and beams.

These are raised into place as a complete unit and then joined together to make a complete structural unit.

The post and beam construction method is different. The individual beams are joined to posts one at a time, forming an interlocking structural system. The trusses are then supported on the external posts.

This system has the advantage of being able to be constructed without using a crane but is not as fast as using bents.

The shape of roof support is an integral design element and can usually be made to work with both post and beam or timber frame systems. It can also be used in conjunction with conventional platform construction if this is required.

Our Hampton team of designers will be pleased to work with you to select the right truss option for your home.