The truss peak is the uppermost point where sloping chords intersect. In a typical common roof truss that slopes up with the same pitch from each bearing, the peak is in the center of the truss span. If the heel heights or pitches differ on each side, the peak will be offset. Many trusses, such as hip or flat top chord trusses don’t have a peak.
The peak is important in determining the rafter length, or the measurement from the overhang to the top (peak) of the truss. This measurement is most commonly used for determining roof metal length in agricultural structures and other applications where cut to length metal roofing is used.
Another key measurement in roof truss production is the heel to peak measurement as many production crews will use it to measure the truss for ”square” or to make sure it is properly manufactured.
Learn more about various truss profiles and where the peaks are located for each type in this truss configurations document.