Roof Rafters vs. Trusses: How Much Labor Do They Save?

One of the biggest decisions that goes into building out a structure is framing the roof. Not only does this effect how quickly a job will get done but how much it will cost in total. Labor is at an all time high and continues to increase. When looking at the difference between roof rafters vs trusses you will find that it all comes down to labor on the job site.

There are many factors to consider when choosing to frame your roof with rafters or roof trusses. Here we will dive into what each method offers and why roof trusses are becoming the standard on job sites.

What are Roof Rafters?

Roof rafters are dimensional lumber that are built out on site to create a roof structure.

Roof rafters or commonly known as stick-built rafters. These rafters are built with continuous members that run from the outside walls to a ridge board. When building a roof with rafters you need a skilled carpenter to know how to cut and build these on the job site. Each rafter will need to be measured and built before they can be placed on the roof line. This can take up a lot of labor time and manpower.

Stick-built roofs allow builders to modify and adjust as needed. If a roof needs to be framed a certain way you can build it out on the job site. But as we know jobsite conditions can slow you down. Weather and mistakes will only cause delays on your job site.

What is a Roof Truss?

A roof truss is built off-site and consists of wood and metal to create a truss.

Roof trusses use a series of triangles to create a strong structure that can support a roof. Prefabricated roof trusses are built in a facility that uses CAD programs to design each truss. Then a hydraulic machine presses them together to create one strong truss. When roof trusses are delivered to your job site, they are ready to be set.

Because trusses are engineered, you don’t need to do math on the job site. Trusses can span longer distances without needing an interior wall. This saves builders from spending days framing a roof with rafters.

Do Roof Trusses Take Less Labor?

Yes, roof trusses take less labor to install.

When looking at labor costs roof framing is one of the biggest factors. Roof rafters vs trusses you will see that rafters take more labor to install. You will need a team of carpenters to measure and cut each rafter then set them on the roof. This will take up a lot of man hours and cost you more money.

With roof truss installation you will only need a few men to set them. You will need a crane operator and some labor to help set the trusses. Since trusses are built off site you are saving money on labor.

How Fast Can You Set Roof Trusses?

Roof trusses can be set much faster than rafters.

Setting a roof with trusses can take as little as one day. Once your roof is dry-in, you can start other parts of your home. This helps you finish faster and can even save you money.

Roof Rafters 

When framing your roof with rafters, you will need to measure and cut each rafter. You will also need to cut your bird’s mouth and set the ridge board. If you make a mistake on any of the cuts, you will have to cut a new rafter. This can add hours to your roof. 

Roof Trusses 

Roof trusses can be set in one day on most jobs. Since the trusses are already built all you need to do is space them out and brace them. This helps you sheet your roof faster and reduce waste.

Do Roof Trusses Save You Money on Waste?

Roof trusses will produce less waste on your job site.

Having waste on your job site can cost you money. Not only will you be paying for lumber that you didn’t use but you will have to pay for a dumpster. When building rafters you will produce a lot of waste from your cuts.

Roof trusses are built with exact lumber lengths. When building trusses off site they can reuse scraps of lumber to make up blocks. So when roof trusses are delivered to your job site you will have very little waste. This will keep your job site clean and safe.

When Should You Use Rafters?

There are some situations that you should use rafters.

Roof trusses benefits are great for most jobs but there are some situations where rafters will be better.

• Older Homes: If you are building an addition onto an older home, you may need to use rafters. Some homes may not have enough space to get a crane on the property.
• Attic Space: If you want to have attic space in your home, you will need to use rafters. Roof trusses will take up all of the space in your attic.
• No Room for a Crane: Some job sites may not allow a crane on the property. You will have to build your roof with rafters.
• Unique Roof Designs: If you have a unique roof design, you may want to frame it with rafters. You will have more control over your roof’s look.

Depending on your situation, you may want to use rafters. But most of the time, roof trusses will save you money and time on your project.

Why Builders Are Switching to Roof Trusses

Builders are switching to roof trusses for many reasons.

1. Less Labor on Site: Since roof trusses are built off-site, you will need less labor on your job site.
2. No Walls Inside Home: Roof trusses let you skip interior walls. This gives you more space to play with when designing your home.
3. Engineer-Designed: Every roof truss will come with an engineer’s design. This will help with building permits.
4. Cost: Roof trusses cost less than rafters. Since you are not spending as much time on your job site, you will save money on labor.

Switching to roof trusses will help you get your job done faster and save you money.

Latco Truss — Get Your Project Done Faster

If you are looking for a company that can help you get your roof framed faster, check out Latco Truss. They carry roof trusses and floor trusses that can help you get your project done quicker. With their state-of-the-art technology, they can build you custom trusses that will fit your needs.

Need to get your roof framed faster? Check out Latco Truss today. Latco can help you with any project you may have. From farm buildings to residential homes. They can build you a roof that will last you for years to come. Visit Latco Truss online to send them your blueprints and get a quote. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are roof trusses cheaper than rafters? 

Roof trusses will cost you more upfront, but you will save money in the long run. Since roof trusses are built off-site, you will not have to spend as much time on your job site. This will save you money on labor. 

How much time can you save by using roof trusses?

You can save up to 75% of your time when using roof trusses. It can take days to frame a roof with rafters. But with roof trusses, you can have your roof framed in one day.

Can roof trusses span a long distance? 

Yes, roof trusses can span a long distance. With no walls inside your home, you can have a roof that spans 80 feet or more.