Installing Floor Trusses? Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid
Floor trusses fit into modern residential projects like a glove. Built with outstanding features, their long and clear spans offer immense design flexibility for architects. Not to mention, they make it easier for builders such as yourself to accommodate mechanical runs. No wonder they’re such a builder’s favorite!
However, mistakes during installation can arise. Unfortunately, these errors can compromise performance and lead to expensive delays and reworks. But there’s a way to dodge these nasty bullets.
In this blog, we’ll show you how you can avoid floor truss installation mistakes after explaining each one for greater clarity.
1. Altering Truss Members
This basically takes the shape of cutting or notching individual truss members, and we do not encourage it. Especially if the one being altered is a part of the top or bottom chord of the floor system. You see, floor trusses are carefully engineered systems. If you try to alter them, you not only lose your manufacturer’s warranty but you also end up compromising the entire structure’s load-bearing capacity.
How to fix it: If alteration is necessary for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) runs, our suggestion would be to plan ahead for these as per the open spaces built into the webs of the truss. However, if you’re in dire need of a modification, you should consult the truss designer before making any changes.
2. Inadequate Bearing Support
Floor trusses are like the core, the foundation your residential project rests on. This makes it crucial to ensure they sit on the right type of support, which generally includes beams or walls. The final choice will depend on the type of load you intend them to carry. Expect problems such as deflection, sagging or loss of structural integrity due to improper support or misalignment.
How to fix it: Irrespective of the type of bearing surface you use, ensure it is levelled and aligned properly. Trusses should also bear on pre-specified points only. Guide your placement with the help of the truss manufacturer’s construction drawings.
3. Incorrect Fasteners
As a builder, you know screws, nails and hangers come in several types and sizes. Using the wrong ones to connect trusses can reduce their structural integrity, especially when it comes to high-load areas.
How to fix it: Most good truss manufacturers will specify the type of fasteners and hangers you should use. You can ensure a secure connection by using certified hardware that meets design requirements. Also, make sure you double-check the connections spanning truss-to-beam and truss-to-wall.
4. Improper Onsite Truss Storage
Labelling construction sites as “messy” isn’t inaccurate. Especially due to their exposure to nature’s elements. Leaving your floor systems in this condition can cause issues such as warping and damage before installation. This is obviously an expensive burden to shoulder if it happens.
How to fix it: First of all, start by storing your trusses on even ground. They should get support at multiple points so they don’t sag. Next, cover the entire system with a tarp made of breathable material. This will keep the rain out while maintaining airflow, thus preventing warping and damage.
5. Skipping Pre-Installation Checks
You must verify the layout’s accuracy before installing floor trusses. Not doing so will lead to misaligned systems and uneven decking, which is bound to squeak when used. It can also clash with other structural components, thus causing problems in daily use.
How to fix it: Check your truss plan against the layout carefully before putting floor trusses into their final place. Confirm bearing points, orientation, and spacing just to be sure everything is perfectly aligned. To avoid confusion, you can mark placement locations clearly on the sill plates or beams.
Final Thought: Get Your Trusses From A Trusted Supplier
The safest way to avoid all confusion and mistakes during floor truss installation is to work with a quality supplier like Fonthill Lumber Inc. With us, you get more than engineered wood products. You get access to service and support coupled with 75 years of expertise. Contact us to get guidance on design coordination, delivery, and installation so you can keep costly errors at bay.
