King Post Truss
With more than a dozen different types of trusses available for builders to choose from, you’ve more than likely already heard of one of the most popular: The king post truss. Made prominent by its inclusion in Roman buildings and medieval architecture, king post trusses are truly a timeless, traditional piece that matches with any type of timber-framed roof. Aside from aesthetic improvements, they can also provide a variety of structural benefits to any building. Read on to learn more about this truss as you work with Yellowstone Timber Frame to build your dream home.
What are King Post Trusses?
Marketed as one of the most cost-effective triangle trusses available, a king post truss features a single bottom chord, two top chords and a vertical king post in the center. Some builders can also include curved or straight webs on their king’s truss.
What is a King Post Truss used for?
King post trusses are most commonly utilized when a building’s structure is at risk of spreading. The truss’s bottom chord works to hold both sides of the wall together; this evenly distributes the weight to keep them from moving further apart and placing the building’s exterior at risk of collapse. Regardless of your structure’s requirements, Yellowstone Timber Frame will ensure your king post truss is installed efficiently to support both aesthetic appearances and structural soundness.
Interested in installing a King Post Truss?
Renown for our extensive experience with timber frame construction and building prowess, Yellowstone Timber Frame can help you to turn your structural dreams into a reality. Reach out today to learn how we can incorporate king post trusses into your next project with the premier craftsmanship you deserve.
Common Types of King Post Trusses
arched king post trusses
This version most prominently features an arched lower chord, making it a common variation of the traditional king post truss. The curve is most popular for those who prefer their structure to promote a natural aesthetic and a larger ceiling.
douglas fir king post trusses
With a basic straight lower chord, this king’s truss is recognizable by the pair of right-angle triangles surrounding the center post, promoting an angular look to the structure.
extra-bolstered king post trusses
For those who wish to incorporate a heftier, robust appearance, a king post truss with extra bolsters is the apparent option. Aside from structural benefits, the thicker bolsters can also be adorned with metal straps and engraved with decorative profiles.
Components of a King Post Truss
TIE BEAM – The truss's bottom chord.
TWO INCLINED PRINCIPAL RAFTERS – The two diagonal beams on either side of the truss.
TWO STRUTS – The two "webs" extending from the king post.
KING POST – The single beam rising from the center.
RIDGE BEAM – The long beam that connects multiple trusses to one another.
What is the difference between King Post and Queen Post?
While visually quite similar, there are a few key differences separating king post trusses and queen post trusses, including:
COMPONENTS
Where the king’s truss contains one king post, a queen’s truss features two queen posts with a tie beam and a straining sill bridging the gaps.
LENGTH SPANS
A king post truss ranges from 5 m to 8 m in length, while a queen post truss ranges from 8 m to 12 m.
VERTICAL POST ARRANGEMENT
The king post truss features a single vertical center post, while queen post trusses feature two vertical posts —both spaced out to rise on each side of the truss.
How do you build a king post roof truss?
After carefully measuring the structure’s dimensions and double-checking with builders that a king post truss is a good fit for the building’s roof, construction may proceed much like any other truss. Once truss pieces are cut to size, they can be assembled using construction adhesive and steel gusset plates, which will connect chords, joists and posts together. Then, all that remains is for the final frame to be raised!
If you have any questions during assembly, Yellowstone Timber Frame will be happy to address your concerns and ensure the process occurs as smoothly as possible.
How far can a king post truss span?
A king’s truss can span from 5 m to 8 m in length.
Frequently Asked Questions About King Post Trusses
are king post trusses very expensive?
Because they are the simplest type of truss and only use basic components, king post trusses are actually the most cost-effective option.
should I use a king post truss for large scale projects
Unfortunately, due to their smaller length and simpler structure, a king post truss isn’t well suited for complex requirements.
are king post trusses strong?
Despite a basic appearance, king post trusses have been used for decades, thanks to their impressive strength and durability.
are king post trusses good for decoration?
An exposed king post truss can make for an elegant interior decoration piece with an engraved profile.
Why Choose Yellowstone Timber Frame For Your King Post Truss Design?
Renowned for our extensive experience with timber frame construction and building prowess, Yellowstone Timber Frame can help you to turn your structural dreams into a reality. Reach out today to learn how we can incorporate king post trusses into your next project with the premier craftsmanship you deserve.