What is a common spacing for trusses in a roofing system?

In roofing systems, trusses are typically spaced 24 inches on center. This spacing is a standard practice in construction because it provides adequate support for the roofing material while also optimizing material usage and cost efficiency. The 24-inch spacing allows for the proper distribution of weight across the trusses, which is essential for maintaining structural integrity and ensuring that the roof can bear loads such as snow, rain, and the weight of the roofing materials themselves.

Furthermore, this spacing is favorable for insulation and ventilation purposes, as it allows for standardized lengths of insulation batts and materials that fit between the trusses. Employing 24-inch centers simplifies the framing process and is more economical compared to closer spacing, which would require additional materials and labor without significant benefits in many residential applications.