Examining The Basics And Salient Features Of Pratt Roof Trusses
Roof trusses are known for providing excellent structural stability. However, the selection of roof trusses depends on several factors. This is where there is a wide variety of roof trusses to choose from. One such type of truss is a Pratt roof truss. This blog explores the basic structure of a Pratt roof truss and some of its features.
What Is A Pratt Roof Truss?
A Pratt roof truss is a specialized type of truss where the vertical and horizontal members are placed in an interconnected fashion. The horizontal members, however, have a more diagonal orientation and are sloped towards the center of the roof truss. This roof truss design grants the Pratt roof truss a few unique features.
Features Of A Pratt Roof Truss
1. Diagonal Members Handle Tension
The first feature of a Pratt roof truss is the diagonal members. They are designed in a specific configuration so that they can handle tensile forces acting on them, that is, the force acting on them tries to pull them apart.
2. Vertical Members Handle Compression
The vertical members of the Pratt roof truss are designed to handle compressive forces. Therefore, the two different types of members are designed to handle diametrically opposite forces. This increases the overall stability of the roof truss significantly. This is why Pratt roof trusses are designed to support bridges and roofs.
3. Increase Material Efficiency
The roof truss design of this particular truss also allows it to have increased material efficiency. This is primarily because it allows the use of lighter and thinner members, especially for the diagonal members, as they are not under compression, consequently having less chance of buckling.
4. Suited For Medium And Long Spans
Lastly, Pratt roof trusses are designed for handling medium and long spans. This is why they are better-suited for supporting bridges or roofs with a large span.
Tamarack Lumber Inc. is a premier designer, manufacturer, and distributor of roof trusses in Ontario. Known for our robust trusses, quality roof truss designs, and fast turnaround times, get in touch with us today at 905-335-1115 for more information or to request a quote.
