Types of truss
A truss is a structure that consists of members organised into connected geometrically stable triangles so that the overall assembly behaves as a single object. Trusses are most commonly used in bridges, roofs and towers. In their simplest form they are a triangle made up of three straight members, or with a web of triangles joined together to enable the even distribution of weight, handling tension and compression without bending or shearing. They can often carry significant loads, transferring them to supporting structures such as load-bearingbeams, walls or the ground.
The term truss can be used to decribe a structure, often forming the roof that is made from timber, metal, concrete, composite materials, bamboo or even cardboard, the term refers to the structiral composition. The name of trusses may also be shared by the name of the roof, for example a gable roof uses a gable trusss (or simple truss) and so on and the names for different types of truss can describe their form, their use, the material, their structure, who invented them or where they originated. Here are some different types of truss, though the list is not exhaustive, so feel free to add any that are missing.
- Simple truss
- Planar truss
- Space frame truss
- Pratt truss
- Warren truss
- North light truss
- King post truss
- Queen post truss
- Flat truss
- Howe truss.
- Scissor roof truss.
- Hip truss.
- Bowstring truss.
- Fan truss.
- Fink Truss.
For more information see: Truss.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.