What materials do you need to make a truss?

To start with, let us first explain in very simple terms to all our readers as what a 'TRUSS' is.

A truss is a structural member that is fabricated by means of joining various suitably designed members of desired parameters like length, section, material, weight, end connection system, etc. into a grid type shape.

A truss usually takes advantage of the strength of triangular shaped units that are joined together by different means.

The most common building materials that are used for fabricating trusses are structural steel sections, seasoned wood, hollow or solid pipes, bamboo, etc. The selection of the material essentially depend upon the load factor, type of use, material availability, etc. In some of the cases, even a combination of more than one material can be used.

The most common type of trusses used in construction purposes are:

• King post truss
• Queen post truss
• Bowstring truss
• Attic truss
• Pratt truss
• Lenticular truss
• Gambrel truss
• Hip truss
• Fink truss
• Flat truss
• Howe truss
• Inverted truss

The most common uses / places where trusses are erected are:

• Roof supports
• Bridges
• Sheds
• As permanent beam supports (as against formwork)
  

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