When we built our garage last summer, we went with pre-made trusses instead of stick framing the roof. Honestly, I was kinda skeptical at first, but man, it made things way simpler and quicker. No complicated angle cuts or figuring out birds mouths or whatever they're called, lol. But my neighbor swears by traditional stick framing and says it's stronger in the long run. Dunno about that...anyone else tried both methods and noticed a difference?
- Done inspections on both trussed and stick-framed roofs... honestly, haven't seen much difference structurally if they're built right.
- Trusses definitely save time—had a buddy build his own workshop recently, he went with trusses and was pretty relieved not dealing with birdsmouth cuts or angles. Roof went up in a weekend, no issues so far.
- Stick framing gives you more flexibility for custom spaces, dormers, or attics, but that doesn't automatically mean stronger.
- Seen stick-framed roofs that were rock solid... also seen some that were sketchy because the builder cut corners or didn't know what they were doing.
- Bottom line: strength depends way more on proper installation, bracing, and materials used than just the method itself.
