How To Install Roof Trusses? [Step-By-Step Guide]

To build a strong roof, you have to install roof trusses. Roof trusses are used on the roof to support loads. And if you like to install roof trusses, a question may cross your mind about how to install roof trusses.

Roof trusses are easier to install than a traditional frame, but you need to do it carefully. You should not make huge mistakes while installing roof trusses. So, You need to follow a guideline.

And, in this article, you’ll get the proper guideline to install your roofing truss successfully.

How To Install Roof Trusses?

Installing roof trusses is a quicker process. And, you don’t need to calculate and cut difficult roof angles. Also, it’s a low-cost material. But, as it is your roof, the most necessary part of any construction, you better don’t make any mistakes.

You’ll need a large truck to carry the roof trusses in the construction area and, also, a crane to lift them. After that, you have to install the roof trusses step-by-step.

Now, we’re explaining the step-by-step guideline in the rest of the article.

Preparation

Roof trusses can be of different sizes. So, first of all, choose the necessary sized roof truss for your structures. Then, you need to prepare the working area so that all the work is done in a good manner.

Set an upright table lift at both ends of the gable.
Fix the structural timber. With transom clips, keep the timber in place.
Then, ensure that the wall plates are even and securely fastened.
After that, on each wall plate, make a mark for the trusses’ placement.

Transferring Roof Trusses On Wall Plates

Transfering Roof Trusses On Wall Plates

Make sure that your working area is prepared and safe. Then, start to lift the trusses.

Lift the trusses onto the rafter in the vertical direction either mechanically (this is the recommended technique) or manually. In the mechanical method, you need to use a crane.
After that, attach a piece of structural grade wood to the front of the truss packs.
Then, fastened horizontal timber on the truss front’s timber span with two nails from the table lift.

Each brace should have two nails.

Using a long timber, nail the trusses in the truss pack one by one.

Setting The Trusses

Now, release the first truss by cutting the banding. Then, carry it to the roof’s opposite end.

Align them to the wall plate markings you established. Then, fix them in their position with nails.
Nail both faces of the truss and make them even with a strap connected to the timber on the next table lift.
Then, tie a line between the truss pack and the shingle.
In the same way, release the second truss and move it to the other end of the roof.
Following the same fixing process of the first truss, fix the second one with nails.
By repeating the previous process, layout the trusses all over the roof and fix them to the frame.

Finishing Touch

All remaining transversal, diagonal, and zigzag bracing, as well as the metallic restraining straps should be fastened to the end of the gable at this point.

Install the bottom bracing in accordance with the roof detail.
Established secure and safe access to require higher bracing to be repaired without causing harm.
Install all high-level bracing in accordance with the roof detail.
Restraint straps should be adjusted as needed.

Awareness

Humidity and temperature fluctuations can put stress on the trusses, causing the bottom chord’s center to rise higher. All the members of trusses have numbers. There is a common mistake done by all and that is swapping the top chord with the bottom cord.

As the cord passes the wall plate, it’s an acceptable error. Sadly, it prevents the truss from moving as planned, breaks the warranty, and can cause adjacent truss parts to fracture. So, nail the trusses where they are shown on the plan.