A flat roof may look simple from the outside, but the structure underneath still has a big job to do.
Flat roof trusses are designed to support low-slope roofing systems while creating the clean, streamlined profile commonly used in commercial buildings, multi-family developments, modern homes, and building additions.
At Allied Truss, we design and manufacture custom flat roof trusses for projects across Texas. Every truss is built around your plans, including the required span, bearing locations, roof loads, drainage strategy, and building use.
A flat roof truss is a structural wood truss with a horizontal or low-slope profile. Many configurations use top and bottom chords that run parallel to one another, which is why they may also be referred to as parallel chord roof trusses.
Despite the name, most flat roofing systems are not completely level. A slight slope may be incorporated into the roof design to direct water toward drains, scuppers, or gutters.
The exact truss configuration depends on the architectural plans and structural requirements of the project. Allied Truss customizes each design rather than trying to make a stock truss fit where it does not belong.
Roof spans, load requirements, bearing points, mechanical systems, and drainage plans can vary considerably from one project to another. Our team designs each flat roof truss to meet the specifications of the individual building.
Flat and low-slope roofs create the crisp lines associated with contemporary residential and commercial architecture. A custom flat truss system provides the necessary structural support without changing that architectural profile.
Your wood roof trusses are manufactured in a controlled environment using precise designs and consistent production methods. Trusses arrive ready to install, helping crews spend less time cutting and assembling complicated roof framing on the jobsite.
Allied Truss has nearly three decades of experience designing and manufacturing wood trusses in Texas. We work with residential builders, commercial contractors, developers, architects, and construction professionals on projects of many different sizes.
Flat roof trusses are a practical choice for projects that need dependable structural support beneath a flat or low-slope roof.
Common applications include:
Because each project has different structural and architectural requirements, the right flat truss design must be determined from the building plans.
A properly designed wood truss system can help cover wider areas with fewer interior bearing points. This gives architects and builders greater flexibility when planning open commercial interiors, living spaces, offices, or multi-family layouts.
Depending on the final configuration, the open web area between the chords can help accommodate plumbing, electrical lines, ductwork, and other mechanical systems. These needs should be identified during the design process so the trusses and utilities can work together.
Every truss is produced from an approved design, helping create consistent dimensions and connection points throughout the roof system.
Pre-manufactured roof trusses reduce the amount of complex measuring, cutting, and assembly required in the field. Crews can set the trusses according to the placement plan and keep the framing stage moving.
There is no universal flat truss that works for every building.
Our truss designers consider important project details such as:
If a parallel chord roof truss is the right solution, we will design it accordingly. If your plans call for a sloping flat truss or another low-profile configuration, we can help identify the appropriate option.
How long does it take to get custom flat roof trusses manufactured?
Turnaround depends on project size and current shop schedule, but our team will give you a clear timeline as soon as we have your plans and quote details.
Do you deliver flat roof trusses outside of Texas?
Yes. We manufacture and deliver flat roof trusses throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
A parallel chord truss has top and bottom chords that run parallel to one another. Many flat roof systems use this configuration, but the terms are not always interchangeable. Some flat roof trusses have a slightly sloped or tapered top chord to accommodate the roof design and drainage requirements.
Allied Truss reviews the complete building plans to determine the appropriate configuration.
The possible span depends on several factors, including truss depth, spacing, bearing locations, lumber specifications, roof loads, and the building’s overall design. There is no single maximum span that applies to every project.
Allied Truss designs each custom flat roof truss according to the specific structural requirements shown in the plans.
Depending on the truss configuration, the open spaces between the webs may provide routes for certain mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. These requirements should be identified before the trusses are designed.
Truss members should never be cut, drilled, or altered in the field without approval from a qualified truss design professional.
A flat roof truss system may be designed to account for rooftop mechanical units and other concentrated loads when those loads and their exact locations are provided during the design process. HVAC equipment should not be added or relocated without confirming that the truss system was designed to support it.