How Much Do Floor Trusses Cost

Floor trusses are a popular and practical choice for building structures in modern times, and for a good reason. Floor trusses provide superior strength, durability, and flexibility compared to traditional solid wood joists. But one of the primary considerations to make when deciding to use floor trusses is the cost. Floor trusses come at varied costs based on several factors. In this article, we delve deeper into the factors that affect the cost of floor trusses, including design considerations, span depths, and building location, among others. We also provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions about the cost of floor trusses.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Floor Trusses

Several factors determine the cost of floor trusses. These include:

Design Considerations

The design considerations of the floor trusses play a major role in determining their cost. Factors such as the span depth, the number of spans, and the type of floor system all come into play when calculating the cost of floor trusses. Generally, the more complex the design of the floor trusses, the more expensive they become. Floor truss designers typically charge more for complex floor trusses because they require more time and expertise to design, compute, and manufacture. Simple floor truss designs are usually cheaper.

Span Depth

The span depth is the distance between the floor trusses. It determines how much weight the trusses can support. The deeper the span depth, the more weight the trusses can handle. However, depth is also one of the factors that affect the cost of the floor trusses. Deeper trusses require larger steel plates, thicker chords, and more labor during installation. Therefore, floor trusses with deeper spans are likely to cost more than those with shallower spans.

Building Location

Building location is another important factor that affects floor truss costs. Before ordering the trusses, it is crucial to consider the building location and the availability of raw materials and labor. The cost of materials and labor varies across different regions of the country. If you are building in a remote area, for example, you are likely to incur additional transportation costs, which may increase the overall cost of the floor trusses.

Type of Material

The type of material used in making floor trusses also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Composite floor trusses, where the chords are made of composite wood, are relatively cheaper than solid wood trusses. However, composite trusses are not suitable for high humidity and damp environments. Steel trusses are the most expensive, but they offer superior strength, durability, and versatility.

The Average Cost of Floor Trusses

The cost of floor trusses varies based on different factors, as highlighted above. Generally, the cost of floor trusses ranges from $4 to $10 per square foot, including framing and installation. The average cost of floor trusses ranges between $6 and $8 per square foot. For example, if you are building a house with a floor area of 2,000 square feet, the cost of the floor trusses will be between $8,000 and $16,000.

FAQs about the Cost of Floor Trusses

Are floor trusses better than floor joists?

Floor trusses are better than traditional floor joists in many ways. Floor trusses offer more flexibility in design, increased strength, and longer spans with fewer supports. Additionally, they provide more space for ductwork, plumbing, and electrical wiring.

How long do floor trusses last?

Floor trusses can last for up to 50 years or more, depending on the type of material used, the quality of the trusses, and the location of the building. Regular maintenance, such as sealing the trusses against moisture, can increase their longevity.

Can I install floor trusses myself?

Although installing floor trusses may seem straightforward, it is best to leave it to professionals. That’s because the installation process requires specialized tools, skills, and experience. In addition, installing floor trusses incorrectly can lead to structural damage and safety hazards.

What factors affect the cost of floor trusses?

The cost of floor trusses is affected by several factors, including design considerations, span depth, building location, and the type of material used. Other factors include the labor costs, the availability of raw materials, and transportation costs.

Are floor trusses suitable for all building types?

Floor trusses are suitable for both residential and commercial building types. They are commonly used in apartments, hotels, offices, and other commercial structures as well as homes.

Conclusion

The cost of floor trusses varies based on several factors, including design considerations, span depth, building location, and the type of material used. Although they may be more expensive than traditional floor joists, floor trusses offer superior strength, durability, and flexibility. Before ordering floor trusses, make sure to consider these factors to ensure that you get the best value for your money.