trusses verses stick framing

[kadoka]

Going to build a 24 by 32' garage with a 12/12 pitch roof. I want to leave as much of the top floor open for storage and maybe a future guest room. Is it possible to use trusses without taking up a lot of valuable space away from the sides? What are the options and are these types of trusses much more expensive. I am building it alone and the trusses would definitely be easier than trying to set a large ridge beam. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Bob

[Vector]

My 24x36 addition was built entirely with trusses. The first 24 feet are typical 6/12 roof trusses on top of 8' walls, the last 12 feet are done with "attic" trusses at 12/12 which provide a space of about 13' wide, with a 16" bottom chord (for insulation, garage underneath).

If you were willing to have a smaller bottom chord, then the space could be larger (or if you were willing to have more sloped area on the ceilings).


I'll try to locate a picture of the inside (or take one later).

[Don_P]

This is one I had on the computer. I think its a bit wider than 24', the chords are 2x10's and the floor is quite stiff. We put an apt. up there with shed dormers in the middle. Think about springing the truss from the overhang instead of the wall, it'll get you headroom faster.

[Vector]

Here's mine when it was being framed.

http://mark.vectorworld.com/albums/album08/P5270046.sized.jpg

[kadoka]

Thanks for the input. I think scissor trusses may be what I will go with. It will leave me with a vaulted ceiling and let me frame the short side walls at whatever point I decide to later.