Roof Truss

Roof trusses are the structural backbone of most modern Australian roofs. They are pre-fabricated off-site by specialist truss manufacturers using computer-aided design and precision cutting equipment. Each truss is engineered to carry the specific loads for its position in the roof — including the dead load (weight of the roof covering, battens, and lining), live loads (maintenance access), and environmental loads (wind uplift and rain). Trusses are typically spaced at 600mm or 900mm centres and are braced together with timber battens or metal bracing to form a stable, rigid roof frame. The most common truss type in Australian residential construction is the Fink truss (also called a W-truss), characterised by its W-shaped internal web members. Other configurations include scissor trusses (for cathedral ceilings), hip trusses (for hip roof ends), and girder trusses (for carrying other trusses at intersections). The bottom chord of the truss serves as the ceiling joist, supporting the ceiling lining and insulation. In Gippsland, roof trusses are used on virtually all new residential construction and many commercial buildings. During a roof replacement, Town & Country Roofing inspects the trusses for any damage, rot, or structural compromise before installing the new roof covering. If a tile roof is being converted to a lighter metal roof, the existing trusses are generally more than adequate, as the structural load is significantly reduced.