Truss manufacturing uses structural grades of 2x_ dimension lumber that is either visually graded or machine graded. The species of lumber used by a truss manufacturing operation is based on what is readily available in the regional market. In general, southeastern U.S. truss manufacturers often use Southern Pine; western manufacturers use Douglas Fir, Larch and Hemlock Fir; and northern manufacturers use Spruce-Pine-Fir.

To learn more about the strength properties and details of these species, or for questions that are not truss-specific, contact the appropriate lumber marketing agencies.

• Canadian Wood Council - Spruce-Pine-Fir, Douglas Fir-Larch(North) and Hemlock-Fir(North)
• Southern Forest Products Association - Southern Pine, also called Southern Yellow Pine
• Western Wood Products Association - Douglas Fir-Larch, Hemlock-Fir, Spruce-Pine-Fir(South)
• More Links - to grading and lumber marketing agencies

For more information or if you have any questions, contact SBCA Staff, or call 608-274-4849.