The construction of a truss system is a rather complicated and responsible business. However, it can be done independently if you follow certain rules.

This article will talk about the elements of the roof structure, as well as how to put the rafters on the roof.

Before you put the rafters on a gable roof, you need to find out what elements the roof structure consists of. It consists of:

• Mauerlat. This is a beam rigidly fixed along the load-bearing walls of the building. For its manufacture, as a rule, a bar with a section of 15 by 15 centimeters is used. serves as the bottom, and also evenly distributes the load created by the roof structure on the walls of the building. Between the bearing wall and the Mauerlat beam, a waterproofing material, for example, roofing material, should be placed. If the roof frame is made of metal, channels or I-beams are used as Mauerlat.

• Rafter legs. They are the main element of the roof frame. Their size is taken in accordance with the design calculations. The lower parts rest on the Mauerlat beam, and the upper parts on the ridge beam. For their manufacture, regardless of the type of construction being erected, it is recommended to use a pine board with a section of 150 by 50 mm or 200 by 50 millimeters.

• Run. It is a horizontally located beam that perpendicularly crosses the rafter legs along the entire length of the roof. There are three types of runs in the truss structure: side, ridge and Mauerlat.

• Sill. It is a horizontal bar that is mounted on an internal load-bearing wall. This element serves as a support for the racks and evenly distributes the load they create. Beds install complex truss systems. In other words, this roof element is optional and is applied where necessary.

• Puff. It is an element of a hanging rafter system. The puff forms a triangular truss with rafter legs. This element reduces the expansion force created by the hanging rafters on the walls of the building. The location of the tightening depends on the type of roof structure being erected.

• Rigel. This element, like the puff, connects the rafters. The crossbar makes the structure more durable and stable. For its manufacture, a bar with a section of 10 by 15 centimeters is usually used. On the crossbar, in contrast to the tightening, there is a compressive load, and not a tensile one.

• Racks. It is a bar installed vertically. It is used if the width of the building is large enough. This element strengthens the truss system from the inside. Runs supported by struts are installed on the racks.

• Struts. They are inclined beams supporting horizontal elements. Struts reinforce the structure of the truss and counteract the distortion and compression of the roof structure.

• Roof overhang. This is part of the rafter legs protruding from the outer walls of the building by about 40 centimeters. The overhang protects the outer walls of the building from rain and melt water rolling down from the roof.

• Filly. It is a piece of board. Used to lengthen the lower part of the rafter leg.

Tools and materials

The roof structure should be made of coniferous wood. The moisture content of the wood used should be less than two percent. Before use, the material must be treated with special protective equipment.

For the manufacture of hanging rafters and puffs, they are made from first grade wood. Rafter legs are made of wood of the first and second grade. It is possible to use a tree of the third grade only for the manufacture of struts and racks.

The strength of the roof structure depends on:

• Reliability of connections;

• The quality of the material used;

• Correctness of the performed calculations.

Before you put the rafters on the roof, you need to prepare the following tools and materials:

• Axe;

• Hammer;

• Level;

• fasteners;

• waterproofing material;

• boards;

• Pencil;

• Chainsaw;

• Electric drill;

• A set of drills for an electric drill;

• Nails or screws;

• Roulette;

• Cord.

For the manufacture of stopels, a bar or edged board is used. Wood elements should be treated with bio-protective and fire-retardant materials.

Before installation, it is necessary to choose the type of ridge connection and the method of fixing the rafters to the beams or mauerlat.

Calculation of the pitch of the rafters

This issue must be given special attention, because the strength of the roofing system depends on their cross section.

When calculating the distance between the rafters, the permanent and temporary loads on the roof being erected should be taken into account. The following elements create a constant load:

• roofing material;

• rafter system;

• roofing pie (vapor barrier, insulation, waterproofing);

• elements of decoration of the attic or residential attic.

• the weight of a worker performing roof repairs or maintenance.

To perform calculations (section and step of the rafter legs), theoretical knowledge is required, as well as practical skills. You can determine the approximate parameters of the roof structure using the following table:

When choosing a rafter pitch, it is necessary to take into account the type of heat-insulating material. It is important to remember that the span between adjacent rafters should be 10 - 15 millimeters less than the width of the cotton insulation.

Also, when choosing the distance between the rafters, it is necessary to take into account the recommendations for laying the selected roofing material.

Types of truss system

There are two types of rafters: hanging and layered. Each type will be considered separately.

hanging

Hanging truss systems are used in cases where there are no internal supports (columns, walls) in the house. This design is supported by external retaining walls.

In this case, the rafters work in compression and bending. exert a bursting force on the outer walls of the house. To reduce it, use a puff.

The puff is made of a wooden bar or metal. Its location depends on the design of the roof being built.

For example, when erecting a mansard-type roof, the puff is placed at the base. In this case, it performs the functions of a floor beam. The higher the puff is located, the greater the load on it.

A hanging truss structure is used if the distance between the supports is less than 6.5 meters. For the manufacture of these rafters, boards, logs, or timber are used. To connect elements to each other, use:

• steel profiles;

• cuts;

• bolts;

• nails;

• pins.

Rafters

Rafters of this type are used in buildings with a solid internal wall. These elements are usually made of wood.

The internal elements (column, wall) serve as a support for the layered truss system. This is their main difference from the rafters of the layered type.

Rafters of this type work only for bending. Laminated truss structures, in comparison with hanging ones, are more cost-effective and lighter.

How to put rafters on the roof

Installation of gable roof rafters consists of the following steps:

1. Making a truss truss template. It is necessary to raise two boards to the ceiling, and then connect them together from one edge with nails. Next, you need to install the free ends of the boards on the support beam and fix the angle between the boards. To do this, you need to nail the transverse jumper. Then you need to lower the resulting template onto the support beam and mark the angle of trimming the rafter legs with a pencil. It should be noted that the strength and reliability of the entire roof structure will depend on the quality of the template made.
2. Lower the made template down and start making rafters. The template must be well fastened so that when it is lowered, the angle between the rafters is not disturbed. The first manufactured truss truss is lifted onto the building and installed on the base.
3. Mark the cut point on the Mauerlat and rafter legs and cut with a chainsaw. Next, you need to start assembling the next truss truss.
4. Install the first two roof trusses on the Mauerlat beam along the edges of the building. The rafters installed along the edge of the Mauerlat beam are fixed on both sides with the help of props. Then pull a cord between them to determine the level. Rafter trusses must be installed perpendicular to the base of the ceiling.
5. It is necessary to assemble the remaining truss trusses after the level is set and all fasteners are checked. The rafters will not move if two boards are hammered between them. Next, you need to fix the cross bars and supports.
6. Perform installation of a vapor barrier, heat-insulating and waterproofing layer. Roofing material is attached to the crate. Its step depends on the chosen material for the roof.

This video shows how to put the rafters on the roof:

The gable roof is very popular, as its construction is considered a relatively simple and quick step in building a house. Different types of gable roofs allow you to choose the appropriate option for a particular building. It will not be difficult to install such a roof structure, even if you have little experience in construction, but, of course, you cannot do it alone. All work is carried out in stages, taking into account the features of such a roof.

Peculiarities

When erecting a gable roof, a truss system and the main details of the roof structure are installed. This includes the frame (in the form of rafters with struts), Mauerlat. They are made from high-quality wood - these are bars 150x150 mm and boards with a section of 50x150 mm. Gable roofs of a symmetrical type with straight slopes (gable roof) are considered traditional. The angle of inclination of the slopes of such a roof reaches 45 degrees, which makes it possible to avoid loads on the structure (for example, during snowfalls and wind).

Other types of gable roofs, for example, with broken slopes, allow you to equip the attic under the roof. In this case, the slopes on top of the roof are more gentle slopes, and below - with a sharp slope. A broken gable roof should be built on a more complex and durable structure. During the construction of an asymmetric roof, the roof ridge is performed with an offset from the center. This is done taking into account the structural features of the building.

Kinds

The frame structure of a gable roof can be:

• layered;
• hanging.

It is characteristic that in most buildings a rafter system of a layered type is used, inside which there are load-bearing walls. The frame thus serves as an intermediate support. With a roof width of not more than 10 m, one support is usually used. A roof with a width of more than 10 m has several proportionally spaced supports. A frame in the form of a hanging type truss system is possible in the case when the building can do with one support, without internal load-bearing walls. Such a roof is built from two belts - the upper one (two rafters), the lower one (rigidly connected puffs). The rafters rest on the Mauerlat, and the ends of the rafters go to the outer walls.

A gable broken roof can be reinforced in the form of support frames that prevent the sloping roof from sagging. So you can get a more durable design. The hanging sloping roof has additional supporting frames, to which the attic walls are installed. The support frame, which is located under the load-bearing wall inside, takes on part of the load, which makes it possible to slightly lighten the roof structure.

Device

The design of a gable roof is characterized by the presence of inclined surfaces on both sides. The area of ​​the base of the roof has a rectangular surface. The slopes do not allow snow and melt water to accumulate on the roof. The roof is naturally cleared. The roof consists of structural units: mauerlat, rafter system, ridge and filly, roof overhangs, struts, puffs, battens and racks. It is worth understanding what is characteristic of all the structural elements of a gable roof.

Mauerlat is necessary for the correct distribution of the load on the load-bearing walls from the rafters. For this purpose, durable wood is usually chosen - timber (it can be oak, larch, pine). The choice of timber according to the section is determined by the type of wood (solid or glued). For example, 100 by 100 mm or 150 by 150 mm. It is worth noting that when choosing a metal truss system, the Mauerlat must also be made of metal.

The main element of the gable roof system is the rafter leg. These elements are made of durable timber and logs. When connecting the rafter leg, a truss is formed from above with a different type of intermediate support. An important role here is played by the parameters of the rafters and structural nodes.

Tightening is necessary to connect the rafter system (rafter leg) and to give strength and the necessary rigidity to the structure.

The run is of two types: ridge run, in which installation is carried out at the junction of the rafters (the roof ridge is further installed at this place), and the side run, which provides the roofing elements (truss) with additional rigidity (the size and number of such runs will depend on the load on the structure ).

Rafter racks in the form of a vertical bar also take on a significant part of the load from the roof. The gable roof rafter post is usually located in the center. If the span is larger than usual, then also on the sides. When erecting an asymmetrical roof, the racks are placed depending on the length of the rafters. For a broken roof, the installation of racks is carried out on the sides, while leaving free space. If two rooms are planned under the roof, then the rafters are placed in the center and on the sides.

Struts are supports for racks. When mowing at an angle of more than 45 degrees, the roof is better protected from deformation (snow, wind). Depending on the climatic zone, both longitudinal and diagonal struts can be installed with a rafter pair on the same plane.

The bed serves as a reliable support for the racks. This is the strut attachment point.

The crate is necessary to fix the materials and structural elements of the roof. The crate is installed perpendicular to the rafter legs. One of the important purposes of the crate is to redistribute the load from the roof to the truss system.

Requirements for building materials

The choice of materials for the truss system is an important step in preparing for the arrangement of the roof structure. When calculating the material for a gable roof, one must proceed from the fact that it must be high-quality wood, the material does not have knots, damage and wormholes, it is well processed and impregnated with special compounds (for safety and reliability during operation). For the reliability of the structure, there must be a stable connection of the elements of the entire truss system. The roof should be a solid construction of modern quality materials.

Wood species such as larch, cedar, spruce or pine are easily processed, so they are most often used in the rafter system. The rafters are made from a beam with a width of 10 to 15 cm and a thickness of 5 cm. In this case, an aged beam is usually used, which will not change shape after the roof is arranged. This is necessary to increase the stability of the structure. In addition to timber, boards are taken for rafters, especially when it comes to raising the roof of a private house.

In multi-storey construction, metal rafters are used. The disadvantage of a metal truss system for private housing construction is that such a design is not able to retain heat. Wood has more advantages in this regard - the material is distinguished by a high degree of thermal insulation and energy saving. Wood is divided into grades. First-class material goes into the creation of hanging rafters and puffs. Racks and struts are made from the material of both the first and second grades.

Projects and drawings

In the process of planning a gable roof, a drawing is prepared. This is a diagram of the future design, where there are slopes, a pediment, a ridge. In fact, the plan is a drawing with detailed elements in different projections, showing how to tie the rafters. Drawing up a drawing of a gable roof is carried out taking into account all stages of work.

The scheme of its construction includes:

• bars for crates;
• beams and rafters;
• scheme of laying heat and waterproofing;
• roofing layout;
• scheme for installing additional fasteners;
• installation drawing of the ventilation system, chimney.

A well-designed roofing plan will reduce the expense item for the purchase of building materials. To create a project of any type, one or another type of material is used, based on calculations and taking into account the reliability of the coating. The size of the roofing is also taken into account. When drawing, a part of the truss system is necessarily prescribed, which allows you to understand how maximum the load on the roof can be.

The plan also includes:

• stormwater plan (storm sewer of a certain length);
• elements of the connection of slopes;
• construction area;
• diagram of the junction of the roof (pressure profile).

The type of roof should be clearly shown in the design scheme. Detailed details on the diagram will allow you to complete the work faster and better.

Charting

Depending on the features of the roof (single or gable, shape, etc.), project documentation is drawn up.

This work takes place in several stages:

• a sketch of the future roof is drawn up (at this stage, the drawing should have a finished view of the roof with a study of the style design of the building);
• the main roofing elements are being worked out (the degree of load and the amount of materials are displayed on the drawing);
• the diagram shows the construction of the roof.

It is worth considering that the differences in pitched structures are associated with the type of rafters.(hanging or layered), with uneven angles of inclination, with the dimensions of the overhang of the eaves. It is also worth considering design errors. One of the most common of them is an error with the calculation of the consumption of materials for the entire complex. The process of drawing up drawing schemes is best entrusted to specialists. The roof structure is being built in accordance with accepted building codes. In addition, it is important to minimize possible errors and defects. So, if the choice of the type of roof and the method of installation are chosen incorrectly, this will cause the collapse of the roof structure. With an incorrectly drawn slope and its construction, there is a risk of increasing the load on the roof. Although mistakes are made in the design of ventilation elements. The drawing itself should not be complicated, but the rules for installing all roofing elements should be followed, respectively, they should be prescribed. A professionally executed roof plan increases the safety of the structure.

Calculation

The importance of calculating the gable roof truss system cannot be underestimated. During the design process, it is necessary to calculate the usable area and, based on the data obtained, decide how high the vertical racks will be. In this case, several factors matter.

When erecting a roof structure, it is important to calculate the maximum load on the roof of the house, on all rafters and ceiling beams. It may be necessary to strengthen the rafters, then adjustments are made to the project. For example, it may be necessary to use additional pads or a beam with a larger section than planned. The weight of the entire truss system is also important. In this case, the calculation is carried out taking into account not only the cross-section of lumber, but also the density and moisture content of the wood, and the step distance between the rafters is determined.

To date, there is a special classification of loads on the roofing system:

1. The main load concerns the weight of the truss structure, load temperature, snow and other weather factors.
2. An additional load concerns the calculations of the influence of wind and ice.
3. Force majeure loads are associated with man-made circumstances (modern roofing must withstand everything).

The limit calculations of the truss system, taking into account all loads, are built according to two criteria (limits or states): the limit at which the destruction of the structure is possible, and the limit at which the probability of deformation and deflection is taken into account.

slope

It is important to correctly calculate the angle of inclination of the slopes. With a standard house width of 6-8 m, the angle of the slopes is 45 degrees, but this is not enough for the space in the attic. With a tilt angle of 60 degrees, the design will cost more, but the entire roof will be more successful. At 45 degrees of inclination, you can choose any roofing materials. If the gable roof is initially planned asymmetrical, then in the attic space you can safely equip a residential attic, but for this you need to calculate the usable area. A standard gable roof is usually chosen. In this case, it is important to take into account the loads on the roof due to wind and snow. With an increase in the angle of inclination of the slopes, the consumption of materials will also increase. But the performance characteristics of such a roof will compare favorably. If you plan to build a gable roof with unequal slope angles, then all work can be done in the original design. However, when designing, it is better to build on the classical design in the form of a symmetrical roof with an isosceles triangle at the base.

Step

The pitch of the rafters used to create the roof is one of the fundamental ones in the construction of the structure. There is a dependence of the pitch of the truss system on the roofing material. As the latter, corrugated board, slate, soft roofing or metal tiles are used.

Roof slate is used everywhere. This roofing material is characterized by relative strength, low cost and resistance to temperature extremes. However, the material has a certain weight, respectively, it is necessary to provide the roof with a powerful truss system. It is worth considering that for a slate roof there must be at least three points of support (in the center and along the edges).

In recent years, metal tiles have become quite widespread among roofing materials. The material is easy to install and has an attractive appearance. Metal sheets for roofing are convenient to use, as they are light in weight. In this regard, the distance between the rafters can be large (for example, 600-950 mm with a sectional beam 150x50 mm).

The corrugated board covering can be made of galvanized steel sheet with a special protective coating (against external weather influences). Modern corrugated board differs in color, corrugation width. Externally, such a coating differs in design. The step between the rafters under the corrugated board will depend on the type of profile, on the angles of inclination and the configuration of the roof. For the rafter system, in this case, a bar with a section of 50-75 mm is used. It can be a board 20-50 mm wide.

Tools

When installing the truss system, a set of tools is required. For this purpose, traditional tools are usually dispensed with - an electric saw (it can be a hacksaw), a hammer and screwdrivers. Sheathing of the roof with metal sheets is carried out with special scissors for metal. It is impossible to cut polymer-coated material with a simple grinder, so as not to damage the top layer with sheet protection. Otherwise, the skin will quickly rust. To cover the roof with roofing material, you need a barrel in which bitumen will melt.

Undoubtedly, when performing installation and any construction work, you cannot do without a reliable ladder. You should also think about your own equipment. For example, during work, shoes with non-slip soles are needed.

Installation

Do-it-yourself installation of a gable roof truss system is better with assistants, and many structural elements cannot be installed alone. Installation of the truss system is carried out in several stages.

Let's consider them step by step:

• First you need to make a template. Rafter trusses are assembled according to a template. So, you need to take two boards of the same length as the rafter leg. They are attached to each other from the edges with one nail. The result is a "scissors" design.
• This structure must be placed with other edges in those places where there are supports on the rafter legs. The angle obtained in this way (according to the slope of the roof slope) is fixed on several nails. Fastening the corners must be done on an additional crossbar between the boards.

• Next up is another template. With it, you can further assemble the structure. Installation of cuts on the rafters is in progress. The template itself is easier to make from plywood.
• The saw cuts are cut into the rafters using a template. The elements are connected at an angle of inclination of the slope. The finished triangle is the truss truss. It is lifted to the roof and attached to the Mauerlat (this will require logs, stairs).
• The fastening of the rafter system to the Mauerlat is done with the help of nails, staples, corners. And the wooden "shorty pieces" help to secure the structure from displacement along the axis, they need to be placed over the entire area.
• At the initial stage, two gable trusses are installed along the edges. Installation and proper fixation horizontally and vertically is carried out using temporary struts to which the structure is attached.

• For reliability and convenience, a cord is pulled along the edges (between the tops of the trusses). You need to fasten it in such a way as to designate a place for the future skate. You will also need a cord when installing intermediate rafters.
• At the next stage, the remaining roof trusses are lifted and installed (at a certain distance (usually 0.6 m) from each other).
• In the presence of bulky structures, if there is a need to strengthen the structure, they are strengthened with crossbars, struts and supports.
• The run (ridge beam) is placed on special supports. Rafters of various types (short, intermediate or diagonal) are then attached to it.

The basis of the frame is the Mauerlat. Its manufacture and assembly forms the basis of the roof structure.

Mauerlat fasteners

The frame structure of the rafters is fixed to the floor beams. However, in this case, the load on the truss structure is distributed at the points where the beams are attached. This approach when installing a roof structure is possible for small and light buildings. Mauerlat is needed to evenly distribute the load of the roof in the upper part of the walls. Mauerlat is mounted parallel to the ridge of the future roof. This is how the main frame is formed. A wooden bar with a section of 150x150, 100x100 or 100x150 mm is used to manufacture the Mauerlat.

You will be able to build a reliable house if you build a quality roof for it. To do this, choose a good project, calculate how many materials will be needed to build one or another part of the house. Do the fastening of the rafters of your gable roof in good faith.

Do not forget that you will need to make high-quality waterproofing throughout the house and on the roof, insulate your home. Choose the best roofing material you can afford. For each type of roof, the rafters are made in their own way.

You don't have to build as you see fit. There are certain, proven technologies for building houses. Study the instructions, buy the necessary materials and proceed on your own or with helpers to build your home.

For example, according to the norms, the truss system is considered reliable when it can withstand a pressure of 200 kg per m2. First, decide what kind of roof you will make over the house, and then study the features of installing rafters for it.

In this article

How to give strength to the truss system?

Ideally, when you built a country cottage with your own hands. You can choose the design of the house and the layout of the rooms as you like. You will personally choose and order high-quality material and take part in all stages of construction, and then the arrangement of your home. In such a house, where every corner is familiar, it will be pleasant to live.

About rafter legs

A large load falls on the rafters - the weight of the roof. They must be of high quality, reliable and well fastened.

Layered rafters include the following materials:

• lying down;
• Rafter legs;
• Racks;
• Struts.

The legs of the rafter legs are bars of medium thickness. They are installed along the slopes. It is the rafters that keep the roof from deflecting in one place or another. The weight load of the coating is distributed to other parts of the roof.

Structures are made layered when there are too large runs between vertical posts. When you are given a project, the step between the rafters will already be calculated there. The fastening of the rafters on a gable roof should be such that the roof after installation remains strong and lasts a long time. Racks are provided here, which similarly support the roof.

Types of rafters

The rafters are included in the roof frame and can be according to their specifications. sloping and hanging characteristics. Let's take a closer look at each type:

• The layered under 2 heels have supports and they are reliable. The fastening of the rafters to the Mauerlat is such that the lower end rests on the Mauerlat or on the upper crown of the log house located on the ceiling. The lower one can rest on another rafter located in the run. This beam is horizontal and lies under the ridge. In the first case, the truss system is spacer, in the second - non-spacer.
• Hanging rafters with their top rest against one another. And the bottom is located on another beam, which is called a puff. It connects the heels located below from 2 rafter legs. It turns out a triangle, which is called a truss truss. Due to the tightening, there is no strong stretching of the materials. And this means that the load on the walls will only go from top to bottom. This design of rafters is called spacer. Its advantage is that it does not create additional load on the walls of the house.

When you purchase beams for rafters, do not be too lazy to drive to the warehouse. The wood should be seasoned, not wet, even and not chipped, with no signs of mold or bugs. Buy only high-quality material, give up the bad. Then you will treat the bars with an antiseptic composition so that they do not become moldy or insects spoil them.

Fixing the roof beams

The beds serve as a support for the bars and so the run is supported. The legs of the rafter will rest against the Mauerlat with one of the ends, and with the second into the runs. They are attached to the latter.

Struts are made to make the rafter legs even more stable.

Make sure that the connections between the parts are strong and reliable. Fasten the parts to each other:

• tie-in method;
• nails;
• anchor bolts;
• Self-tapping screws are used.

Mounting methods

When you are just starting work on the construction of the roof, you need to attach the Mauerlat around the perimeter of your walls. What it is? A large beam, it is attached to the load-bearing walls of the house using anchor bolts. Mauerlat is the basis for a roof with rafters.

Before assembling the truss truss, you must carefully cut all the planks with beams and beams. They are cut at an angle.

At the top, where the base of the Mauerlat, the rafters must be fastened end-to-end using screws. Want to avoid cracks? Drill a hole slightly smaller than the screw itself.

The most popular slings made of wood. They are preferred by the vast majority of those under construction. The material is lightweight but durable. Both an experienced builder and a beginner who decides to build a house on their own will be able to work with him.

We install rafters on a gable roof on our own

Many make such a design when the rafter legs hang down. The system is good for both home and bath. Some work can be done on the ground, and then lift the bonded material to the installation site. There is relatively little lumber for such a structure, which will allow you to save.

1 triangle of rafters is required, which is made according to clear dimensions and adhering to the rules. Made rafters, which will have well-measured and fastened crossbars with puffs, are pulled onto the roof. Here they need to be placed in certain places vertically and very evenly. Attach them to the ridge with Mauerlat.

If the slopes near the roof are longer than 4.5 m, then in order for the system to be stable and more reliable, you need to install racks in a vertical position. One of their ends will support the rafter leg, 2 will rest directly on the beam located on the ceiling.

Do this and it does not matter which rafters you installed: layered or hanging. When slopes are added to the structure, it becomes stiffer. Do not forget that the rafters are most often attached to a ridge beam with a Mauerlat. A reliable gable house will come out.

How to avoid additional payments?

Entrust the creation of a project at home to a professional. He will tell you what diameter in section the beams are needed, the length of the slats and other details. After all, the specialist knows that the rafter system holds the roof. It takes the biggest load and needs correct calculations, high-quality building materials.

It’s better not to ask advice from house builders like yourself. Yes, they built their house, but how strong is it? Not known.

It is best to contact a familiar foreman and ask him for practical advice. After all, he owns the documentation. There are clear standards for the permissible load per 1 m2, which must be followed when building a house. The documentation states what kind of load is given and what material will cope with it.

Take a notebook with a pen to a meeting with the foreman and immediately write down his advice. So, you definitely won’t forget anything, you won’t mix it up. Build it the way he expertly recommends.

For gable roofs, most owners make rafters from wood. Choose the one that has matured. Now process it carefully so that the mold does not start, the bug cannot undermine.

When you assemble the structure, make sure that the angle between the rack with the struts is no more than 45 degrees. Wooden beams must be cut obliquely so that the construction truss tilts at an angle of 40 degrees.

Rafter parts can be attached to each other not only with brackets, but also with corners. Get the right size metal corners to attach the rafters to the Mauerlat. The latter in any of the parts must be strong and reliable. Parts of the system can be interconnected with nails with cutouts, corners with screws, and other devices.

When you build a roof, do not fuss. Everything must be done soundly and thoroughly. After all, even wooden frame houses cost at least 50 years, and log cabins and 100.

Your task is to adhere to technology, not to make mistakes anywhere so that the roof does not warp after a year or 5. Consult with craftsmen and experienced comrades who have already made roofs for themselves or to order, and gradually build a roof.

The truss system of any object is equivalent to the value of the load-bearing structural elements of the house. The roof plays the role of a node under which the stiffening ribs of the building are assembled. Accordingly, when installing the roof with your own hands, it is required to give the maximum value to all structural units, even when using a simple option - gable.

Advantages of gable roofs

There are a lot of options for pitched truss systems. Among them, simple symmetrical is especially popular. Why? Here are her virtues:

• On the basis of a gable roof, variations are created to reflect the special architecture of the building.
• Simple calculations, easy to understand.
• The one-piece design creates favorable conditions for the dryness of the internal space and the unhindered flow of water, snow and ice.
• The maintainability, strength and durability of a gable roof are much higher than other options.

Depending on the size, homeowners always have the opportunity to equip the under-roof space, make it a full-fledged floor or attic. In a word, a gable roof is the right and profitable solution for any object, whether it is a residential building, a summer house or a bathhouse.

Elements of the truss system

Depending on the type of roof, structural elements vary. Without knowledge of the appointments of each, it is impossible to arrange a reliable coverage at home. Let's analyze in detail:

Mauerlat

The basis of the truss system. It is a beam with a section of at least 150 mm, or an I-beam channel, if the roof structure is metal. It is located on the bearing walls of the object. Its purpose is to distribute the load of the system evenly throughout the structure of the house.

Rafter leg

Structural basic unit of the system. Together with others, it forms a truss system - strengthening the strength of the entire roof. It is made of a wooden beam, which is not inferior in cross section to Mauerlat or profile pipes.

Rafter rack

Vertical bar or pipes. Depending on the gable roof variant, the pillars can be located in the center and/or on the sides. They take part of the weight of the entire truss system, which is why the cross section is 150 mm.

Rafter girders

Horizontal beams laid on racks and under the ridge to support the rafter legs. They provide structural rigidity and relieve stress on trusses.

Puffs and braces

Connecting beam for rafters. The action is similar - relieving the stress of a beam or metal and making the structure rigid.

lying down

Mounting support for racks and struts. To securely connect these two elements, a large-section beam is required - 150 mm or a thick-walled pipe of impressive diameter.

Lathing beam

Elements laid perpendicular to the rafters. Serve to install the selected roofing and create a multilayer protective cake. The cross section is small - 40–50 mm.

If the intended roof structure is made of wooden beams, you should carefully consider the quality of the wood upon purchase - the beam should not have knots interspersed, be made of soft wood.

Also, wood must have natural moisture, otherwise it will begin to dry right in the system structure, cracking, deforming the roof model, depriving it of reliability and safety.

Calculation of the truss system

A gable roof is a complex structure. The project takes into account many factors - natural nuances, wind, constant and variable loads. It is extremely difficult to make calculations on your own, without special knowledge about the climate of the area, the characteristics of the material for the manufacture of the system, and the nuances of pressure distribution.

Ideally, the calculations are at the mercy of professionals, you can independently choose only the material for coating - the following parameter depends on its type:

Tilt angle

The minimum angle of inclination of the roof relative to the parallel of the earth is 5 degrees. However, its dependence comes from the chosen roofing material. In this capacity, traditional slate, profiled sheet, flexible and metal tiles are used.

They are guided by the following rule: the steeper the slope, the more textured the roof can be.
From 5 degrees for laying rolled protective insulation of the roof. The number of layers matters - up to 15 degrees three-layer coatings, above - two- and single-layer coatings.

• From 6 - ondulin.
• From 11 - slate.
• From 12 - corrugated board.
• From 14 to 20 - metal tiles.
• From 15 to 45 - soft roof.

Thus, the resulting precipitation - snow, water - will not linger on the surface, although complete cleaning requires one's own efforts or the involvement of specialists for the installation of the Anti-Ice system.

Determining the parameters of the rafters - step, length, section

The rarer the step, the more impressive the cross-section of the beam or the diameter of the pipes should be. As a rule, for load-bearing structures, this parameter is at least 150 mm, 100 mm - for country houses and related construction - gazebos, bathhouses, outbuildings.

Next, you need to set the number of rafters per slope: its length is divided by the installation step, which is from 60 to 100 cm + 1 extreme leg. Multiplying the result by 2 gives the total. Depending on the section of the beam, the amount of rafter legs and the installation step vary.

The length of the rafters is simply calculated if the school knowledge about the right triangle is left in the luggage. The rafter leg is equal to the hypotenuse of the resulting figure. The calculation is as follows: A² + B² = C², where - A is the height of the roof, B is half the length of the pediment, C is the length of the rafter leg. To the resulting value is always added from 30 to 70 cm for cornice overhangs.

Types of truss systems

Before getting down to work, it is important to choose a truss system option for a gable roof. There are few of them, each has its own advantages and disadvantages:

hanging

Suitable only for a standard roof width of 6 m, respectively, this is the length of the rafter leg. Fastening occurs by fixing the ends to the ridge run and the bearing wall. Be sure to install a puff that levels the stress and pressure of the structure.

In addition, they will play the role of load-bearing beams. Without them, the structure will disperse under weight. The advantages of the option are in the absolute dryness of the roof surface during the off-season, and in less deformation at the time of shrinkage.

Layered

The option is suitable for any roof width. Reliability and stability is ensured by fixing the bed to the Mauerlat. Thus, the pressure is leveled by the rack, which reduces the tension in the rafter legs. The advantage of the system is simplicity, but the design requires large investments - additional lumber is required to equip the beds.

hybrid

These systems are typical for multi-pitched roofs, where transitions are accompanied by numerous reinforcements, beams, posts, beds, slopes and other elements for the stability of the entire structure. The device is expensive and complicated, so only a professional should deal with the project and construction. At least curate it.

Do-it-yourself installation of a gable roof

So, when the option of the truss system is selected, lumber is purchased, a roof project is drawn up, you can get to work. You cannot deviate from the sequence of steps. This threatens to delay installation and loss of structural reliability.

Mauerlat mount

If the length of the beam for installing the Mauerlat is insufficient, an extension is made. Using the half-tree cutting method, the ends are connected. Additional fasteners are anchor bolts. Do not use self-tapping screws, dowels or nails - they are unreliable. Mounting to the wall is as follows:

• There must be a margin of at least 5 cm from the edge.
• Holes are drilled along the wall for inserting fasteners. Similar actions are carried out with a bar.
• Mauerlat is attached to the edge with steel studs. The fastening step is more often 2 times than the distance between the rafter legs. Subsequently, before installing the main units, they are guided by metal marks.

Important - before laying the Mauerlat, the edge of the wall is protected with waterproofing. Spread one layer even if the house is made of wood.

Making and fixing rafters

Roof trusses are convenient in that they can be assembled on the ground into a finished structure and moved to the roof. This will reduce installation time, however, the model is heavy and lifting equipment will be required, which, of course, will increase the cost of the project.

For budget construction, another method is suitable:

• At the bottom and top of the rafter legs, a gash is made to attach to the Mauerlat and the ridge run. This must be done separately with each unit, after lifting the wood up.
• Places for fixing are marked on the Mauerlat and a ridge run is installed: racks are installed along the gables, on which a beam is placed. If the length is not enough, it is increased, but in a different way, unlike the Mauerlat - a board is screwed to the junction from both sides.
• Depending on the chosen model of the truss system - layered, hanging - they make cuts in the ridge beam, Mauerlat or drill holes in them for fasteners.
• Next, begin the installation of rafter legs from opposite ends of the roof, gradually moving towards the middle. Between the corners of the extreme trusses, it is not bad to stretch the cord to exactly match the entire horizontal part.
• Between themselves, the rafter legs are connected by puffs and struts. Under the ridge part, at the angle formed by the rafters, wooden linings are stuffed, and the ends themselves are tightened with bolts.

More recently, professional builders have begun to use sliding fasteners for roof installation. Metal plates securely hold the bearing elements and at the same time move due to shrinkage. This cancels out its effects.

The work of fixing the rafters is hard and long. You should calculate the time in advance - you can not leave the roof unfinished during the rainy season, otherwise the rigidity of the structure will be lost in the future due to absorbed moisture.

Gables and framing

The side parts of the roof - gables, are made in the form of ready-made shields from boards and are completely installed at the top. Difficulties should not arise - it is only important to carefully file them at the required angle. It is necessary to fasten the crate only after the final appearance of the roofing is known. For example:

• Under the corrugated board, the step of the crate beam will be 440 mm.
• The metal tile is fastened to the crate in increments of 350 mm.
• A soft roof needs a solid plywood coating.

It is important to note the places for the passage of the chimney - the crate should not come into contact with a brick or metal surface. The distance to the hot unit is at least 15 cm. Before installing the lathing, the finished roof is covered with waterproofing with allowances extending beyond the edges of the walls. Then the beam is mounted.

If it is decided to make a warming cake from above, then first the vapor barrier is strengthened from the inside, then the selected material is put into the boxes formed by the rafters. Next, waterproofing and wind protection.

Then it is required to re-mark the contours of the rafter legs with a beam 20 * 20 and then fill a new layer of the crate, along which the roofing material will be laid - the formation of ventilation ducts. This method will save the capacity of the under-roof space if the owners are going to use it for a specific purpose.

Roofing material flooring

Regardless of the type of roofing raw material, installation starts from the edges of the roof and leads it up, laying one unit on top of the other. Thus, rain moisture will not get under the material.

The method of fastening depends on the type of material - soft tiles or tiles with a bitumen or polymer base are fused. Solid profiled sheets - ondulin, metal tiles - are fixed in pre-drilled holes to the crate, using rubber pads to seal and preserve the anti-corrosion layer.

As a result: the description of the installation of the truss system and the roof is easy only on the screen or paper. In reality, the process is complex and multifaceted. Therefore, if knowledge is not enough, it is better to invite professionals to work - their work is always guaranteed.