Which truss is typically used to support a sloping roof?

The pitched chord truss is specifically designed to support sloping roofs due to its angled members that create an efficient structural form for transferring loads from the roof downward to the walls. This type of truss is ideal for applications where there is a need for a slope, making it common in residential and commercial construction.

Its design allows for both strength and stability, effectively managing the weight of roofing materials and any additional loads, such as snow or equipment. The triangular geometry inherent in trusses, including the pitched chord variety, provides excellent load distribution, which is particularly important in sloped settings.

In contrast, flat trusses are designed for horizontal applications and do not provide the necessary support for sloping roofs. Square trusses, which are less common, can lack the structural efficiency needed for roof support. Beam trusses, while useful in many construction scenarios, also lack the specific design features tailored for sloped roofs that the pitched chord truss provides.