Yeah, rafters definitely win for storage space—trusses can be a real pain if you're trying to stash anything bigger than a shoebox. Hurricane clips are a no-brainer too, especially if you're in an area prone to storms. Seen enough roofs peeled back to know they're worth every penny...
"Yeah, rafters definitely win for storage space—trusses can be a real pain if you're trying to stash anything bigger than a shoebox."
True enough, but there's another angle to consider. While rafters do offer more open attic space, they typically require additional support walls or beams below, which can limit your interior layout flexibility. Trusses, on the other hand, distribute the load outward to exterior walls, giving you more freedom downstairs when planning room configurations or future renovations.
Also, don't underestimate trusses when it comes to structural consistency. They're engineered in a controlled environment, making them pretty reliable for load-bearing and uniformity. Rafters are great, but I've seen plenty of older homes with sagging rooflines because the rafters weren't sized or spaced correctly.
Agree 100% on hurricane clips though—seen way too many roofs fail without them.
Good points about trusses—especially about layout flexibility downstairs. I've seen plenty of remodels run into headaches because the rafters needed extra internal support. But honestly, rafters still have their place if you're looking at older homes or custom builds where attic space is a priority.
I worked on a place a few years back where the homeowner was big into woodworking and wanted a roomy attic workshop. Rafters let him open the space up nicely, but we had to beef up the ceiling joists and add some extra bracing below. Definitely doable, just required a bit more planning (and lumber!).
And yeah, hurricane clips are a must-have. I've lost count of how many roofs I've seen peeled back after storms because someone skipped that step. They're cheap insurance, folks...
Great points here, especially about attic space and hurricane clips. Rafters definitely have their advantages when you're aiming for usable attic space—I've seen some fantastic conversions into home offices or hobby rooms that just wouldn't have been practical with trusses.
One thing I'd add, though, is that if you're going the rafter route, you really need to pay attention to insulation and ventilation. Rafters typically mean cathedral ceilings or at least partially vaulted spaces, and those can be tricky to insulate properly. I've run into a few remodels where homeowners didn't factor in enough room for adequate insulation and airflow between the roof deck and ceiling finish. Result? Ice dams in winter, moisture buildup, mold... not fun stuff.
If you're planning a rafter setup, here's what I'd suggest as a quick checklist:
1. Make sure your rafters are deep enough to accommodate both insulation and ventilation channels. You might need to bump up from standard 2x6s to 2x8s or even 2x10s depending on your climate.
2. Install continuous ridge vents paired with soffit vents to keep air moving through the roof assembly. Proper airflow helps prevent moisture issues and keeps your roof decking healthy.
3. Consider using rigid foam insulation panels or spray foam if space is tight—these materials offer higher R-values per inch compared to traditional fiberglass batts.
4. Don't skimp on vapor barriers or moisture control membranes, especially in colder climates. Condensation can build up quickly in vaulted ceilings if warm interior air meets cold roof surfaces.
And I totally second the hurricane clips recommendation—cheap, easy to install during framing, and they save roofs (and lives) during severe storms. Seen way too many roofs peeled back like sardine cans after hurricanes because someone skipped that simple step.
On a side note, if anyone's considering green roofing options (vegetative roofs), rafters can actually be advantageous because they allow you more flexibility in reinforcing specific load-bearing areas without sacrificing interior layout too much. Trusses are great structurally but can limit your ability to reinforce certain sections easily.
Just my two cents based on experience... every project has its quirks!
"I've run into a few remodels where homeowners didn't factor in enough room for adequate insulation and airflow between the roof deck and ceiling finish. Result? Ice dams in winter, moisture buildup, mold... not fun stuff."
Haha, been there, done that! A couple years back, I managed a property where the owner decided to convert the attic into a cozy guest room—beautiful idea, terrible execution. They went with rafters (for obvious headroom reasons), but totally underestimated insulation needs. First winter rolled around, and we had icicles hanging down like medieval weapons. Looked cool, but not exactly safe or practical...
Ended up having to rip out half the ceiling and redo it with spray foam insulation and proper venting channels. Lesson learned: don't underestimate airflow or insulation depth if you're going vaulted. Spray foam saved us big-time since space was tight, but it wasn't exactly budget-friendly.
Also, big thumbs-up on hurricane clips. Had a storm rip through another property last year—neighbor's roof peeled back like a tuna can lid, ours barely budged. Clips cost peanuts compared to roof repairs afterward.
One minor disagreement though: green roofs might sound awesome (and they do look pretty cool), but I've seen them turn into maintenance nightmares if drainage isn't spot-on. Had tenants complaining about weird leaks and damp patches because the original builder skimped on waterproofing layers beneath the vegetation. Rafters might make reinforcing easier, but if you're going green roof, definitely don't cut corners on drainage and waterproofing membranes.
Anyway, roofs are tricky beasts—always something new to learn (usually the hard way, lol).
