Heavy Timber Trusses

The different types of timber frame trusses are more than just structural; they are the main part of the design. Choosing the right profile is very important for both the structure’s engineering and its look. This is true whether your main goal is to maximize the span, save money, or create a dramatic vaulted interior.

At Northern Log Supply, we design heavy-timber trusses that are both strong and look good. Here are six of the most common types of trusses used in homes and businesses today.

Scissor Truss diagram, AI generated

1. The King Post Truss

The King Post is the best triangular truss because it is strong, simple, and cheap. It has one main vertical post, two main rafters, and a tie beam. Struts are usually put at 45° angles on each side to help with lateral loads and make the “turkey track” shape stronger.

Best For: Short to medium spans (up to 26 feet) like garages, porches, and cabins.

2. The Queen Post Truss

The Queen Post gives you twice as much vertical support. This truss can spread weight over a larger area because it has two vertical posts instead of one. It has a symmetrical, “filled-in” look that is both useful and pretty.

Best For: Large residential projects and wide-span great rooms requiring more structural “reach.”

3. The Scissor Truss (Vaulted Ceiling Truss)

The Scissor Truss has bottom beams that cross to make an upside-down “V.” It’s designed to be impressive. This lets the ceiling inside slope without needing a load-bearing ridge beam, giving the space a modern, open feel.

Best For: High-end master suites, open-concept living areas, and modern vaulted interiors.

4. The Arch Bottom Truss

The Arch Bottom is like a King Post that has been raised. The bottom chord (the tie beam) is curved, but the basic idea of the structure stays the same. This adds a decorative, elegant touch that reminds me of how timber framing was done in Europe in the past.

Best For: Custom homes and commercial spaces where the truss is the primary design feature.

5. The Multiple King Post Truss

This is a longitudinal truss that is a mix of the King and Queen designs. It is made to have the longest span possible. It uses “gunstock verticals” that are diagonal to hold up the space between the panels. These diagonals are figured out based on the number of panels to handle different amounts of tension and compression.

Best For: Heavy-duty applications and extra-wide industrial spans.

6. The Hammer Beam Truss

The Hammer Beam is the highest level of decorative wood framing. It comes from cathedral architecture. It doesn’t have one long beam going across the room; instead, it has short “hammer beams” that stick out from the walls. This gets rid of the horizontal tie beam, which makes a lot of vertical space.

Best For: Great rooms, churches, and event venues looking for a grand, traditional aesthetic.

 

Truss Comparison Chart

Truss Type Typical Span Range Best Application Visual Impact
King Post 16′ – 26′ Garages, Porches, Cabins Minimalist / Rustic
Queen Post 26′ – 40′ Larger Residences, Barns Symmetrical / Solid
Scissor 20′ – 40′ Vaulted Living Rooms Open / Airy
Arch Bottom 20′ – 35′ Custom Entryways, Great Rooms Decorative / High-End
Multiple King Post 40′ – 60’+ Commercial / Industrial Spans Complex / Industrial
Hammer Beam 30′ – 50’+ Churches, Grand Great Rooms Dramatic / Cathedral

 

Planning Your Build

When choosing a truss, keep in mind that the pitch of the roof is important. A standard pitch is usually between 30° and 45°. This is the “sweet spot” for moving loads while keeping the classic timber-frame shape.

If you need to span a larger area or have specific site needs, we suggest talking to a structural engineer. This makes sure that the thickness and type of wood you use, whether it’s Pine, Cedar, or Fir, can handle the snow and wind loads in your area.

Reach out to our team today and get expert guidance to make sure your trusses turn out exactly how you want it.

FAQs

▼ How do I choose the right timber frame truss for my project?
Choosing the right truss comes down to your span, budget, and the look you want. Simpler designs like King Post trusses work well for shorter spans, while Scissor or Hammer Beam trusses create a more open, dramatic feel. Working with a designer or structural engineer is recommended to ensure everything fits your project.
▼ What is the most cost-effective truss design?
For shorter spans, King Post trusses are typically the most cost-effective because they use less material and have a simpler design. Overall cost can vary depending on span, timber size, joinery, and fabrication complexity.
▼ Which truss is best for vaulted ceilings?
Scissor trusses are a popular choice for vaulted ceilings because they follow the roof slope and open up the interior space. Other designs like raised tie or Hammer Beam trusses can also achieve a similar open feel when properly engineered.
▼ How far can a timber truss span without additional support?
Span depends on the truss design, wood species, member size, and load conditions. Smaller trusses may span around 20 to 30 feet, while larger engineered trusses can exceed 50 feet. A structural engineer should always confirm span capabilities.
▼ Are timber frame trusses structural or decorative?
They can be either. Structural trusses support roof loads, while decorative trusses are installed beneath standard framing for visual appeal. It’s important to decide this early in the design process.
▼ What type of wood is best for timber trusses?
Douglas Fir is commonly used for its strength and stiffness. Pine and Cedar are also popular depending on availability and desired appearance. The best choice depends on your structural needs and location.
▼ Do I need a structural engineer for my truss design?
Yes. A structural engineer ensures the truss meets building codes and can safely handle loads such as snow, wind, and overall roof weight.
▼ Can timber trusses be customized?
Yes. Timber trusses can be customized in size, shape, wood species, and finish. This flexibility allows them to become a key architectural feature in your space.
▼ What roof pitch works best with timber trusses?
Many traditional designs use roof pitches between about 30 and 45 degrees, but other pitches can work depending on your design, climate, and engineering requirements.
▼ Are timber trusses suitable for commercial buildings?
Yes. Timber trusses are commonly used in commercial spaces like churches, event venues, and lodges where large spans and strong visual impact are desired.
▼ How long does it take to design and build custom trusses?
Timelines vary depending on complexity. Simpler projects may take a few weeks, while larger custom trusses can take several months from design through installation.
▼ Can timber trusses be retrofitted into an existing structure?
In some cases, yes. Decorative trusses are easier to add, while structural retrofits require engineering and evaluation of the existing building.
Note: All timber truss designs should be reviewed by a qualified structural engineer to ensure they meet local building codes and are appropriate for your specific project.