MASTERING THE ART OF SHED CONSTRUCTION Chapter 8

Framing Roof System

Frame the Shed Roof System

DIY-Plans.com have a detailed truss design for our sheds. Overall, framing a shed roof system with trusses is a straightforward process that requires careful measurement and cutting of lumber, proper assembly and installation of trusses, and attention to detail when sheathing and roofing the structure. With the right tools and knowledge, anyone can successfully frame a gable shed roof system with trusses.

Gable Shed Roof

To frame a gable shed roof with trusses, you will need to follow these steps:

Determine the pitch of the roof. The pitch is the angle of the roof and can be calculated by measuring the rise of the roof (the height of the roof at the peak) and the run (the distance from the peak to the edge of the roof).
Cut the truss pieces according to the pitch and size of the shed. The truss pieces consist of a top chord, bottom chord, and diagonal web members.
Assemble the trusses on a flat surface using wood glue and nails or screws. Make sure the trusses are square and the diagonal web members are at the correct angle.
Install the trusses on the shed walls, spacing them according to the shed design and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Attach the trusses to the top plate of the shed wall using metal truss hangers and nails or screws.
Install the roof decking or sheathing on top of the trusses, starting at one end and working your way to the other end. Use construction adhesive and nails or screws to attach the decking to the trusses.
Install the roofing material of your choice, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofing, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

By using trusses to frame a gable shed roof, you can create a strong and stable roof system without the need for a center beam. The trusses distribute the weight of the roof evenly across the shed walls, providing structural support and stability.

4x6 Lean To Shed Plan Wall Framing Instructions

Framing a Modern-Style Roof

Framing a modern-style roof is a little different from traditional roof framing because of its unique design. Here are the steps to frame a modern-style roof:

Determine the pitch of the roof: The pitch of the roof refers to the slope of the roof. The pitch is calculated by measuring the rise (height) and the run (horizontal distance) of the roof. A modern-style roof typically has a low pitch, usually between 1/4:12 and 3:12.
Calculate the roof load: The roof load refers to the amount of weight that the roof will need to support. This includes the weight of the roofing materials, as well as any snow or ice that may accumulate on the roof. The roof load is calculated by multiplying the square footage of the roof by the weight per square foot of the roofing materials.
Determine the roof span: The roof span refers to the distance between the two opposite walls of the building that the roof will be attached to. The roof span will help determine the size and spacing of the roof joists.
Install the roof joists: The roof joists are the horizontal beams that will support the roof decking and the roofing materials. The size and spacing of the roof joists will depend on the roof span and the roof load. The roof joists can be installed using joist hangers or by nailing them directly to the wall plates.
Install the roof decking: The roof decking is the plywood or OSB that is attached to the roof joists. The decking provides a solid base for the roofing materials. The decking should be installed perpendicular to the roof joists and nailed securely in place.
Install the roofing materials: The roofing materials for a modern-style roof can vary, but are typically flat or low-profile materials such as standing seam metal roofing or membrane roofing. These materials are attached to the roof decking using special screws or adhesives.

Finish the roof edges: The edges of the roof will need to be finished with metal flashing or other materials to prevent water from penetrating the roof system.