Applications, History, Design and Manufacturing

Wood trusses are widely used in single- and multi-family residential, institutional, agricultural and commercial construction. A truss is a structural frame relying on a triangular arrangement of webs and chords to transfer loads to reaction points. This arrangement gives them high strength- to-weight ratios, which permit longer spans than conventional framing, and offers greater flexibility in floor plan layouts. They can be designed in almost any shape or size, restricted only by manufacturing capabilities, shipping limitations and handling considerations. Light frame wood trusses are prefabricated by pressing galvanized steel truss plates into wood members that are pre-cut and assembled in a jig... Applications History Design and Manufacturing.pdf (88 KB)

Storage Handling and Bracing

Trusses are slender elements. They are very strong when placed in the vertical position, but can be easily damaged or broken if racked or bent in the lateral direction. Damage or failure can occur at the joints (connector plates) or within the lumber members.

When trusses arrive at the job site they should be checked for any permanent damage such as cross breaks in the lumber, missing or damaged metal connector plates, excessive splits in the lumber, or any damage that could impair the structural integrity of the truss... Storage Handling and Bracing.pdf (440 KB)