You’ve likely seen the beauty and intricate architecture of the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and some of the nation’s iconic bridges. What they all have in common is construction using truss design. Essentially, trusses are built from steel, wood, and other materials that are connected at joints to form a solid, triangular framework. There are a number of truss variations and they can be implemented in both commercial and residential projects. Here’s what you need to know about some common truss designs and how they’re used in construction. 

Types of Trusses & How They’re Used

Pratt Truss

This type of truss crafts materials into vertical designs to accommodate large structures with massive height. The Pratt truss is constructed to sustain tension and allow for ample flexibility for loading. Because of this, it’s commonly seen in aircraft hangers.

North Light Truss

Exposure to natural lighting is one of the main components of the north light truss’ construction. Steel runs perpendicular to the plane of the truss for added space without columns. The truss pitch typically faces northeast or north for more direct sunlight. Many industrial building sites use the north light truss design so natural light can easily fill the space. 

Planar Truss

The materials used in a planar truss are situated in a two-dimensional plane. Slender pieces are connected at endpoints to elongate a structure. The extended construction design reinforces tension and compression forces. The planar truss is found in many roof configurations and bridges.

King Post Truss

Timber is the common material used in this type of truss. Triangles contain a vertical member between the bottom chord and apex. The king post truss design is used primarily for the construction of residential roofs.

H & H Truss & Supply in Clarksville, AR, is the region’s premier contractor for truss design, materials, and construction. Whether the project is commercial or residential, you can count on their team of engineers to produce impeccable blueprints for sturdy foundations and structures. What makes the firm unique is the use of state-of-the-art technology to create precise and customized truss designs. To learn more about these services, visit their website. If your next project calls for truss construction, call (479) 754-4999 to schedule a consultation today.