Guide to Creating a Timber Truss Design

1. Introduction Timber trusses are structural frameworks designed to support roofs,

ceilings, or floors using timber elements. This guide provides step-by-step instructions
for creating a timber truss design.

2. Understand Truss Basics

 Types of Trusses: Familiarize yourself with common truss types such as king post,
queen post, scissor, and attic trusses.
 Truss Components: Learn about the key components of a truss, including top and
bottom chords, webs, and nodes.

3. Determine Design Requirements

 Load Analysis: Calculate the expected loads on the truss, including dead loads
(roof materials, ceiling), live loads (snow, wind), and any additional loads.
 Span and Pitch: Determine the span (distance between supports) and roof pitch
(slope) based on architectural and structural requirements.
 Codes and Standards: Ensure compliance with local building codes, standards,
and regulations for timber truss design.

4. Sketch the Truss Design

 Start with a Plan: Sketch a plan view of the truss layout, indicating dimensions,
member sizes, and connections.
 Include Details: Add details such as bracing, overhangs, and plate heights to the
truss design.

5. Calculate Member Sizes

 Determine Member Forces: Calculate axial forces (compression and tension) and
bending moments on truss members using structural analysis software or manual
calculations.
 Size Members: Select appropriate timber sizes (2x4, 2x6, etc.) for chords, webs,
and bracing based on calculated forces and span lengths.

6. Design Connections
  Joint Details: Design connections between truss members, including nail plates,
bolts, screws, or traditional joinery techniques such as mortise and tenon joints.
 Considerations: Ensure connections are designed to resist shear, tension, and
compression forces and provide adequate support and stability.

7. Review and Revise

 Structural Integrity: Review the overall truss design for structural integrity,
including member sizes, connections, and bracing.
 Seek Feedback: Consult with structural engineers or experienced timber truss
designers to review and refine the design as needed.

8. Produce Construction Drawings

 Finalize Drawings: Create detailed construction drawings that include elevation

views, section views, member schedules, and connection details.
 Annotations: Label dimensions, member sizes, material specifications, and any
relevant notes on the drawings.

9. Fabrication and Installation

 Material Selection: Choose high-quality timber materials, such as Douglas fir,

spruce, or engineered wood products, for truss fabrication.
 Fabrication Process: Follow industry standards and best practices for cutting,
assembling, and fastening truss components in a controlled environment.
 Installation Guidelines: Provide clear installation instructions for contractors or
builders, including handling, lifting, and securing trusses in place.

10. Inspections and Quality Assurance

 Inspection Protocols: Establish inspection protocols to ensure trusses are

fabricated and installed correctly, meeting design specifications and safety
standards.
 Quality Control: Conduct quality checks during fabrication and installation to
verify dimensions, connections, and overall structural integrity.

11. Conclusion Designing timber trusses requires careful planning, analysis, and
attention to detail. By following this guide and working with experienced professionals,
you can create structurally sound and visually appealing timber truss designs for various
construction projects.