Only downside I’ve run into is trying to snake ductwork or wiring through all those webs... but for most builds, that’s a small tradeoff.
That’s the one thing that always slows me down with trusses. Had to reroute some low-voltage wiring in my last garage build and it was a pain weaving around all those supports. Still, like you said, for a basic garage or shed, the speed and strength of trusses outweighs the hassle.
Curious if anyone’s actually regretted going with trusses after the fact? I’ve heard a couple folks say they wished they’d left themselves the option for storage up top, even if they didn’t plan on finishing the attic at first. I guess it comes down to how much you value that extra space versus just getting the job done quick and solid. Anyone ever try those attic trusses that give you a little more room without going full stick-frame?
I’ve heard a couple folks say they wished they’d left themselves the option for storage up top, even if they didn’t plan on finishing the attic at first.
That’s exactly what I ran into with my last build. At first, I figured I’d never use the attic space, but a few years down the road, I was kicking myself when I realized how handy it would’ve been for seasonal junk. Attic trusses are a solid compromise—costs a bit more up front, but you get that open area without going full custom. For me, it’s worth thinking about long-term needs, not just the immediate project.
I get the appeal of extra storage, but honestly, I’ve seen a lot of folks regret building out attic space they never actually use.
That’s fair, but in my experience, unfinished attics can turn into dust traps or just another spot for clutter. Plus, if you’re in a humid area, you might run into moisture issues up there. Sometimes simpler trusses and a clean ceiling are less hassle long-term. Just depends how much you really need that space.“At first, I figured I’d never use the attic space, but a few years down the road, I was kicking myself...”
Yeah, I hear you on the attic turning into a dumping ground. We did the whole “let’s finish the attic for storage” thing in our last place, and honestly, half the stuff up there just collected dust. Plus, we had to deal with insulation getting messed up and a bit of mold from humidity—total headache. This time around, I’m leaning toward simple trusses and just keeping the ceiling clean. Less to worry about, and it saved us a chunk of change upfront. Unless you really need the space, I’d say keep it simple.
I hear you about the attic turning into a black hole for random boxes—been there, regretted that. We did rafters in our first house because I wanted a “future bonus room,” but honestly, it just became a graveyard for holiday decorations and old textbooks. Trusses in our current place were way easier to deal with, and I haven’t missed the extra storage one bit. Plus, less temptation to hoard stuff I’ll never use…
