Attic Trusses vs. Floor Trusses w/ Rafters?

Question

We are soon to be doing an addition on our home, and figured it would be easier to replace the roof...

But if have done some research on trusses vs roof rafters, and I was curious if an actual contractor could shed some light on what is best.

I would like to use floor trusses, and go with rafters for two reasons. One being we could add upward easily with the floor already in place... And two being it would allow there to be more open space in the attic.

Anyways just wanted to get input on what would be best... Cost and structurely wise..

Answer 1

There are many factors that need to be considered.
1) Type of original structure.
2) Building codes.
3) type of trusses , some are or can be used for roofs.
4) future plans
many upper floors are spaced as so that the ceiling joists and floor joists are separated by a few inches (between top of ceiling joist and the bottom of the floor) so the noise isn't transmitted .
The best thing to do is spend the bucks for an architectural engineer. (that will get the codes satisfied) and structural integrity.

Answer 2

You are not going to have attic access with trusses. Those have cross bracing. The benefit of the truss is that you do not have to worry about wall spacings whereas the common rafter design limits your room width or length. If room span in an "open floor" design is your choice, you should use trusses. If you want pricing, those trusses are Standard and can be priced right at Menards, Lowes, or Home Depot. You will find the cheaper to be Truss. Even though you might need a crane for a day or two That is the cheaper structure. Many homes today are designed where the upper level is also living space. Those need rafters. Truss is the better choice when the "attic" is not to be used due to its strength and its cost advantage.

Answer 3

I would go with the floor trusses, if used 16" on center, and the stick build rafters.

Answer 4

if u want the floor space then it does not matter if u use floor joists or prefab trusses, depends on the design, and the application

Answer 5

t c is right. the extra material costs mould be minimal compared to the cost of having to redo it later. actually, it would be cheaper than having engineered trusses made.

Answer 6

Slightly too vague to hel with, sorry.