Building Camper Trusses: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to make camper trusses

Camper trusses are an essential component of any campervan or RV, providing structural support and stability to the roof. Building your own camper trusses can be a challenging but rewarding task, allowing you to customise your vehicle to your specific needs. In this guide, we will take you through the process of constructing camper trusses, from selecting the right materials to assembling the trusses and ensuring a secure fit. We will also explore the advantages of wooden trusses, including their strength, durability and ease of installation. By the end of this guide, you should have all the knowledge you need to confidently build your own camper trusses and hit the road in style.

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Selecting the right wood

When selecting wood for your camper trusses, it's important to choose the right type and quality to ensure durability and strength. Here are some factors to consider:

Type of Wood

The type of wood you choose will significantly impact your trusses' strength and durability. Select a type of wood that is known for its strength and ability to withstand weight and pressure. Hardwoods, such as oak or maple, are generally stronger and more durable than softwoods. However, some softwoods like Douglas fir or Southern yellow pine are also suitable for construction due to their relatively higher strength-to-weight ratios.

Wood Grade

The grade of the wood refers to its quality, and it's crucial to choose a higher grade for your trusses. Select lumber with minimal defects, such as knots, splits, or warping. Look for grades like "C Select" or "1 Common", which will have fewer imperfections than lower grades like "D Select" or "2 Common." Higher-grade wood will be stronger and provide better support for your camper.

Wood Dimensions

When selecting wood for your trusses, consider the dimensions of the lumber. For camper trusses, you'll typically be using smaller dimensions like 1"x2" strips for the top chords and 2"x2" or 2"x3" blocks for spacers. Ensure that the wood you choose is straight-grained and free of any significant knots or imperfections, especially for the thinner pieces that need to bear weight.

Moisture Content

Wood with a high moisture content can be more susceptible to warping, rotting, or mould. Choose wood that has been properly dried and seasoned to reduce the risk of moisture-related issues. This is especially important if your camper will be exposed to varying weather conditions or high humidity environments.

Workability

Some types of wood are easier to work with than others. Consider the flexibility and workability of the wood, especially if you plan on customising your trusses or making any complex cuts or joints. Softer woods are generally easier to cut and shape, while harder woods may require more specialised tools and techniques.

Local Availability

When selecting wood for your camper trusses, consider the availability of the chosen type of wood in your local area. Some species may be more readily available and affordable in certain regions. Additionally, by choosing locally sourced wood, you can support local businesses and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.

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Cutting the wood

When buying the lumber, select planks that are straight and without any visible flaws (such as cracks, knots, twists, or decay). It is recommended to invest in cedar or other weather-resistant lumber. The following measurements are for a 20x40 RV carport gable roof.

For the trusses, you will need to make rafters from 2x6 lumber. Cut the angle of the rafters using the information from the diagram. You will also need to use 2x4 lumber for the middle support. Cut 1/2" plywood for the gussets. Mark the cut lines on the plywood sheets and cut them to size.

Check that there are no gaps between the rafters before attaching the gussets. Align the edges and use 1 5/8" screws to secure the gussets in place. Fit the trusses to the top of the RV carport, placing them every 24" on center. Use a spirit level to plumb the trusses and lock them to the support beams with rafter ties. Toenail the bottom rafters to the support beams for extra rigidity.

For the gable ends, you will need to cut and fit T1-11 siding sheets to the front and back. Mark the cut lines on the sheets and use a circular saw to cut them to size. Smooth the edges with sandpaper for a professional finish. Drill pilot holes and insert 6d nails every 8" along the framing to secure the sheets in place.

To assemble the overhangs for the front and back of the carport, you can adjust the size of the blockings to suit your needs. Drill pilot holes through the rafters and insert 3 1/2" screws into the blockings.

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Assembling the trusses

The first step in building your camper trusses is to construct the trusses themselves. You'll need to cut your 2x6 lumber into rafters with angle cuts, using the measurements provided in the diagram. Ensure you select straight lumber without any visible flaws such as cracks, knots, twists, or decay. Cedar or other weather-resistant lumber is a good investment for long-term protection. Once you've made your cuts, lay the rafters on a level surface.

For the middle support, use 2x4 lumber. Fit this onto a level surface, ensuring there are no gaps between the pieces. Cut 1/2" plywood into gussets, marking the cut lines on the plywood sheets. Check for gaps between the rafters before attaching the gussets with 1 5/8" screws.

Now, you're ready to fit the trusses to the top of your camper. Place them every 24" on center, using a spirit level to ensure they are plumb. Secure them to the support beams with rafter ties, and toenail the bottom rafters to the support beams for added rigidity.

At this point, you can add T1-11 siding sheets to the front and back gable ends of your camper. Mark the cut lines, then use a circular saw to cut the sheets. Smooth the edges with sandpaper for a professional finish. Align the edges flush, leaving no gaps, and insert 6d nails every 8" along the framing.

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Attaching the trusses to the camper

When attaching the trusses to your camper, it is important to ensure they are securely fastened and aligned correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  • Building the Trusses: Before attaching the trusses, you'll need to construct them. Measure and cut the lumber according to the required dimensions. Use 2x6 lumber for the rafters and make angle cuts to fit your camper's roof design. Ensure the lumber is straight and free from any flaws such as cracks, knots, or twists.
  • Middle Truss Support: Use 2x4 lumber for the middle support of each truss. Assemble the truss components on a level surface, ensuring they are aligned perfectly and with no gaps. Use plywood for the gussets, marking and cutting the plywood sheets to attach to the truss joints.
  • Attaching Gussets: Check for gaps between the rafters, then attach the gussets using screws. A common size is 1 5/8" screws, which should lock the gussets securely in place.
  • Placing the Trusses: Fit the assembled trusses onto the top of your camper, spacing them evenly. A typical spacing is placing the trusses every 24" on center. Use a spirit level to ensure the trusses are plumb, and lock them to the support beams with rafter ties.
  • Securing the Trusses: In addition to rafter ties, you can toenail the bottom rafters to the support beams for added rigidity. This will help ensure the trusses are firmly attached and able to bear weight.
  • Finishing Touches: Once the trusses are in place, you can finish the roof by adding siding sheets, roofing felt, and shingles. Follow the specific instructions for your camper's roof design, ensuring you comply with local building codes.

Remember to work with a helper whenever possible for safety and to ensure accurate measurements and alignments. Take your time and double-check each step to ensure a sturdy and reliable truss system for your camper.

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Finishing touches

Once you've built your camper trusses, there are a few finishing touches to add to ensure a professional-looking and long-lasting result.

Firstly, fill any holes with wood putty and smooth the surface with sandpaper to create a seamless finish. This will also help to protect the wood from decay. Next, apply a few coats of paint or stain to further protect the wood and enhance the appearance of your project. Choose a paint or stain that is suitable for exterior use and opt for a colour that complements your camper.

If your camper has ductwork for AC/heating or wiring, you will need to carefully plan how to incorporate this into your new trusses. It is best to build the bottom and uprights on the floor, lifting them into place and screwing the top arch, thereby enclosing the wiring and ductwork inside. This method is safer and faster than cutting and splicing wires, and it also complies with legal requirements.

Finally, if your camper has a roof, you will need to install roofing felt and shingles. Start by securing the roofing felt to the roofing using a stapler, ensuring it overlaps by at least 2 inches. Then, follow the instructions for your chosen shingles, making sure to cover the top ridge with a strip of paper.

By taking the time to add these finishing touches, you will not only improve the appearance of your camper but also ensure its functionality and longevity for many years to come.

Frequently asked questions

You should select planks that are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather-resistant lumber is a good idea.

This depends on the type of truss you are building. For a 20x40 carport gable roof, you will need 2x6 lumber for the rafters and 2x4 lumber for the middle support.

You will need a hammer, tape measure, framing square, level, miter saw, drill machinery, screwdriver, sander, concrete mixer, and a post-hole digger.

It is important to select high-quality lumber that is straight and free of flaws. When inserting galvanized screws, use a spirit level to ensure the project has a symmetrical look.

If you have all the required materials and tools, you can get the job done in about a day.

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