Truss Design

Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
4
03 6p PREFABRICATED STRUCTURAL WOOD
A
A GUIDE TO USING TRUSSES

TRUSSES
NCYCLOPEDI
ALPINE
E OF OF
PREFABRICATED STRUCTURAL WOOD
6p 03
4 Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
Specify With Confidence
Since 1966 architects and builders have specified

millions of roof and floor trusses engineered by
the staff of Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
These trusses, manufactured by truss plants in
every state and province, are used in one of every
five homes built in the U.S. and Canada today, as
well as in many commercial, institutional and
agricultural buildings.
Alpine maintains a leadership position in the

industry through research, development,
technical knowledge and customer oriented
service. Our truss manufacturers are supported
by more than 30 professional engineers in the
U.S. representing all 50 states and the 10
provinces in Canada, and more than one hundred
other design and computer technicians.
Alpine’s truss design methodology is in

accordance with national standards and is backed
by extensive research and testing.
Truss manufacturers in the United States,

Canada, the United Kingdom, and South Africa
depend on Alpine for truss assembly equipment,
metal connector plates, truss design service,
design software, connectors and anchors, and
other truss related products.
© Copyright 2003 Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
The Encyclopedia of Trusses is intended as a guide to architects,

engineers, building designers and contractors for suggested uses of
trusses. The building code of jurisdiction and a truss design
professional should be consulted before incorporating information
from this publication into any structure. The contents herein are
for the exclusive use of component manufacturers who use
products from Alpine Engineered Products, Inc. in the sale and
promotion of trusses.
Alpine Engineered Products, Inc., nor any of its divisions or

companies, does not warrant the recommendations and
information contained herein as proper under all conditions and
expressly disclaims any responsibility for damages arising from the
use, application, or reliance on the recommendations contained
herein.
Encyclopedia Of Trusses
Contents
Benefits of Framing With Trusses:

For Architects and Contractors . . . . . . 2
For Owners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Ordering Trusses:
Building Code of Jurisdiction . . . . . . . 4
Building Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Geometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Spacing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Design Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Special Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Take-Off And Estimating . . . . . . . . . . 6
Building Designer’s Reference Section: . . . . 7
Truss Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Framing With Wood Trusses: Roofs . . 10
Framing With Wood Trusses: Floor . . 16
Drainage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Snow Drifting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Wind Loading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Fire Resistance Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Sound Transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Suggested Specifications . . . . . . . . . . 24
Typical Design Drawing . . . . . . . . . . 27
Builder’s and Contractor’s Section: . . . . . 28
Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Installing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Bracing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Bracing Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Construction Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Construction Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
TrusSteel- Light Gauge Steel Trusses . . . . 38
About the Industry and Its Products . . . . . 42
Information Sources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Design Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Appendices:
A - Weight Of Material. . . . . . . . . . . 45
B - References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
C - Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Truss Production Sequence . . . . . . . . 48
ALPINE
Alpine Engineered Products 1

Trusses: Framing Solutions
Special Benefits for Architects and Engineers

" Using Alpine’s proprietary software, truss
designers can produce engineered shapes that
satisfy virtually any aesthetic and functional
specification by the building design professional.
" Trusses offer simple solutions to complex designs

and unusual conditions without inhibiting building
design freedom.
" Nationally recognized standards for truss design

and manufacturing of metal plate connected wood
trusses have been adopted by major model Special Benefits for Contractors
building codes. This ensures a quality product.
" The use of preassembled components generates less
" Truss manufacturers that use Alpine software are waste at the jobsite. This improves safety and
available for consultation when special framing reduces cleanup costs.
situations arise.
" Trusses are built in a computer-aided
" Alpine professional engineers are committed to manufacturing environment to assure accuracy and
providing the highest quality, cost efficient quality.
structural products for your clients.
" Industry standards for manufacturing and
" Wood trusses connected with Alpine metal plates handling assure code-compliance.
enjoy an outstanding record of more than 35 years
of proven performance and durability. " Trusses are lightweight and easy to install,
requiring only normal construction tools.
" The wide nailing surface of 4x2 floor trusses safely

speeds deck and flooring installation.
" Expenses are accurately controlled because truss

costs can be predetermined. On-site losses from
miscutting, theft and damage are virtually
eliminated.
" Open web design allows easy installation of

plumbing, electrical wiring and heating/cooling
duct work.
" Trusses are available locally for fast delivery. More

than 550 truss manufacturers throughout the
United States and Canada are backed by the
expertise of Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
2 Encyclopedia Of Trusses
Trusses: Framing Solutions
Special Benefits for the Owner

" The owner can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that
the trusses have been professionally engineered and
quality manufactured for the specific job.
" The resiliency of wood provides a floor system that

is comfortable.
" Wood is a natural insulator because it is composed

of thousands of individual cells, making it a poor
conductor of heat and cold.
" Roof truss details such as tray, vaulted or studio

ceilings improve the appearance and comfort of
homes, offices, churches and commercial buildings.
" Floor trusses can conceal mechanical services,

leaving a clear plane for ceiling installations. This is
ideal for finished rooms in a lower level.
" Trusses provide clear spans so interior walls can be

moved easily during remodeling or when making
additions.

Ordering Trusses
Checklist of Information Needed by Truss Manufacturers

to Design and Manufacture an Order of Trusses
q Building Code of Jurisdiction
q Building use
q Geometry
q Location and size of all points of bearing
q Center-to-center spacing of trusses
q Design loads
Uniform live and dead loads
Concentrated loads such as mechanical equipment or sprinklers
Special load cases
Environmental loads (wind, snow and seismic)
q Special conditions
Corrosive environments, etc.
A discussion of each item follows:
Building Code of Jurisdiction

Generally, local building codes are based on one published by the Building Officials Conference
of the national model codes. However, many of America International (BOCA); the Uniform
local jurisdictions have variances that can have Building Code, published by the International
an impact on truss design. It is therefore Conference of Building Officials (ICBO); and the
important that the truss designer be informed of Standard Building Code, published by the
all codes of jurisdiction. The model codes Southern Building Code Congress International
referred to are: The IBC International Building (SBCCI) and in Canada, the National Building
Code and the IRC International Residential Code, Code of Canada (NBCC) as adopted by the
published by the International Code Council various Provincial Authorities.
(ICC), the BOCA National Building Code,
Building Use
Building regulations differ for various types of churches, institutional (long-term care, nursing
use and occupancy. Specify classification of use, homes, schools, hospitals, jails, etc.) or
such as single family residential, multi-family agricultural (non-human occupancy).
residential, offices, retail, manufacturing,
Geometry
Furnish span (out-to-out of bearings, plus furnished, as it is determined by the overall truss
cantilevers, if any), slope, overhang conditions, design. Also furnish any minimum lumber size
etc., that form the profiles or external geometry requirements.
of the trusses. Web configuration need not be
Ordering Trusses
Bearings
Specify all exterior and interior points of affect the required size of bearing surface to
bearing, showing location by dimension and prevent crushing.
size. Reaction forces at point of bearing may
Spacing
Give center-to-center spacing of trusses. If trusses center, it is necessary to indicate the purlin
are spaced greater than 24 inches center-to- spacing and method of attachment to the trusses.
Design (Specified) Loads

Truss design (specified) loads include both live clearly defined format.
and dead loads which may be uniformly DEAD LOADS: Dead loads are the weight of
distributed or may be concentrated at various the materials in the structure and any items
locations. permanently placed on the structure.
LIVE LOADS: Live loads are non-permanent SPECIAL LOADS: Special loads can be live or
loads. Environmental loads produced by snow, dead. Examples of special loads might include
wind, rain, or seismic forces are live loads. The mechanical units, poultry cages, cranes,
weight of temporary construction materials and sprinkler systems, moveable partition walls, etc.
occupant floor loads are live loads. Live loads are The weight, location and method of attachment
usually uniform in their application and are set must be provided to the truss designer.
by building codes or building designer. Live Multiple load cases may be required in truss
loads will vary by location and use and should be design.
furnished in pounds-per-square-foot, or other
Special Conditions
Some of the special conditions that are 6) Location from coastline, exposure and height
important to truss design include: above ground for wind.
1) Jobsite conditions that may cause rough 7) Parapets, signage or other obstructions that
handling of the trusses. may cause snow drifting, or prevent the free
2) High moisture or temperature conditions. runoff of water from the roof.
3) Use of trusses to transfer wind loads. 8) Any other condition that affects the load
4) Fire resistance requirements. carrying ability of the roof or floor framing.
5) Higher adjacent roofs that may discharge 9) Floor trusses, office loads or ceramic tiles
snow onto lower roofs. require special considerations during the
building and truss design process.
Lack of information about any of these conditions could

adversely affect the performance of the trusses.

Take-Off And Estimating
To Figure Truss Requirements Calculations Truss Order

1 Determine the part of the larger rectangle requiring
common trusses (distance from peak point to peak
48'-0" - 24'-0" = 24'-0"
Distance requiring.
FOR LARGE RECTANGLE
point) by subtracting the width or span from the length Standard Trusses. 5 Standard 24'-0" trusses overhang on both ends.
6 Standard 24'-0" Trusses clipped on one end.

.. 2 = 12 Trusses.
2 Divide this distance by 2 (trusses are set 24" on
center) and subtract one truss.
24'-0" —
12 - 1 = 11. 1 Terminal Hip Set 24'-0" overhang both ends.
1 Terminal Hip Set 24'-0" overhang one end.

3 Add the number of Hip Ends required. 2 Hip Ends.
FOR SMALLER RECTANGLE

4 No overhang on trusses to be carried by the girder.
1 Girder 24'-0" Span.
5 Determine the Multi-Ply Girder. 24'-0" Span Girder carrying 1 Terminal Hip Set, 24'-0" span,
24-0" Span Trusses. overhang on both ends.
6 Add one Hip End for the Projection. 1 Hip End. 1 Set of 5 Valley Frames.
7 Determine the number of Valley Frames. Valleys for 24'-0" Span.
48'-0"
Terminal Hip Set 11 Standard Trusses 24" O.C. Hip Set
Hip End
Hip End 24'-0"
36'-0"
Girder
Valley Frames
12'-0"
Hip End
24'-0" 24'-0"
Building Designer's Reference
Framing With Roof Trusses
Framing With Floor Trusses

Truss Configurations
Wood trusses are pre-built components that function as
structural support members. A truss commonly employs one
King Post -- Span Up to 16' or more triangles in its construction. The wood truss
configurations illustrated here are a representative sampling.
Queen Post (Fan) -- Spans 10' to 22'
Fink (W) -- Spans 16' to 33'

Vault - Two Bearing Points
Howe (K) -- Spans 24' to 36'
Vault - Three Bearing Points
Fan (Double Fan) -- Spans 30' to 36'
Coffer (Cove)
Modified Queen (Multi-Panel) -- Spans 32' to 44'

Slope Slope
Cathedral (CATH)
Double Fink (WW) -- Spans 40' to 60'

Clear Story
Double Howe (KK) -- Spans 40' to 60'

Double Cantilever
Tri-Bearing
Modified Fan (Triple Fan) -- Spans 44' to 60'
Double (DUBL)
(Double Pitch)
Triple Fink (WWW) -- Spans 54' to 80'
Modified Queen
Scissors
Triple Howe (KKK) -- Spans 54' to 80' Howe Scissors
Truss Configurations
The number of panels, configuration of webs and allowable
length of spans will vary according to given applications,
building materials and regional conditions. Always refer to an
engineered drawing for the actual truss design.
Stepdown Hip
Hip Girder
California Hip
Room-In-Attic
Double Cantilever With Parapets

Polynesian
(Duo-Pitch)
Flat Truss With Cantilever (Pratt Configuration)
Top Chord Bearing Flat Truss (Pratt Configuration)
Flat Truss (Warren Configuration)

Gambrel
Sloping Parallel Chords (Howe Configuration)
Sloping Top Chord (Howe Configuration)
Piggyback
Floor Truss (System 42 - Modified Warren Configuration)
Double Inverted -- Lengths 50' to 80'
Scissors Mono
Mono
Three Piece Raised Center Bay -- Lengths 50' to 100'+

Framing With Trusses: Roofs
Hip Framing
Trussed hip framing offers the advantage of clear span, an eave or fascia
line at the same elevation around the building, and the speed of pre-built
components. The end slope may be equal to or different from the side
slope. The ceiling line may be flat or sloped. Sloped ceilings have
limitations, therefore, consult the truss designer.
Terminal Hip Framing

Best suited for relatively short spans of 26'-0" or less, the hip jacks
extend directly to the peak. The distance from the end wall to
the face of the girder is equal to one half the span,
provided the slopes are equal. The last standard truss is
designed as a girder to carry the loads transferred by
the hip jack.
Step Down Hip Framing

Better suited for longer spans, the Step Down hip is the
most versatile of all hip types. Each of the “step down”
trusses is the same span and has the same overhang as
the adjacent standard trusses, but decrease in height to
form the end slope. The girder location is generally from 8
to 12 feet from the end wall and is determined by the span to
depth ratio. The corner and end jacks are normally pre-built.
Midwest Hip Framing

The Midwest type hip framing was developed to create a
more uniform configuration of each of the trusses in the
hip. This hip type also provides for a more uniform
structure for attaching the decking. Span capability is
the same as the step down hip.
California Hip Framing

Although this type hip framing is used as an alternative to
the step down hip, the California hip is similar in span
capability and field installation. The base portion of each
truss inside the girder is the same, except that the sloping
top chord of each successive truss is extended upward
greater amounts to form the slope intersection. Corner and end
jacks are used to form the area outside the girder.
Valley Trusses
Girder Truss A
Girder Truss B
Valley Trusses Girder Truss A
Girder Trusses
Girder trusses have two main purposes. The first (Girder Truss A)
Standard Truss Sheathing
exists in L, T, H and U shaped buildings to eliminate the need for
Flush Cut Truss Girder Truss A
an interior load-bearing wall. The girder is used to support one
Valley Frames
end of the intersecting trusses. The trusses are carried on the
bottom chord of the girder by hangers.
The second use of a girder truss (Girder Truss B) is to support Valley Framing Sets
perpendicular framing in hip roofs. In some plans girder truss A Valley framing sets are primarily used to form a ridge
and B may be one in the same. The hip framing is carried on both line by framing over the main roof where perpendicular
the top and bottom chords of the girder truss by nailing or by building sections intersect.
hangers. Valley trusses are set directly on the main trusses.
Girder trusses, because of the heavy loads they support, are Sheathing is required for main trusses with 2x4 top
generally multiple units with larger chord members than the chords, and is recommended for other top chord sizes,
adjacent trusses. Generally, because of the construction of girders, under valley frames to continue the lateral bracing of
overhangs are not used. the main truss top chords. The bottom chords of the
The girder truss may also be designed for “drag strut” loads which valley trusses are generally beveled to match the slope
are calculated and specified by the building designer. of the roof below.

Gable Framing
Gable ends when not configured in triangles as a truss, are more type of siding, either horizontal or vertical, and the need for a louver
related to stud walls. However, they are structural elements and in the end of the building. The type of gable required is controlled by
are analyzed to resist wind and seismic loads as noted on the truss the end overhang and the need to match a soffit line.
design. The web design or framing pattern is determined by the
Standard Gable
Stud spacing as necessary to support siding.
Clearspan Gable
Used when the gable wall does not provide continuous bearing
support for the gable framing.
Standard Gable Framed For

Rectangular Louver
Dropped Top Chord Gable
Illustrated with studs. Also available with framing for rectangular,
square or triangular louver.
Standard Gable Framed For

Triangular Louver
Drop Top
Chord Gable 2-16d @
24" O.C.
2x4 Ladder Frame
Truss
(Outlooker)
Standard Truss Gable End
2x4 Block
Standard Truss
Rafter
Rafter 2x4 Ladder Frame
(Outlooker)
Standard Gable
2x4 Ladder
Frame
(Outlooker) 2-16d @ 24" O.C.
Gable End Truss
A reinforcing member may 2x Block

be required on some gable
8” Typical
end vertical members.
Panel Framing For Flat Roofs

4x8
Girder Truss Structural
Panel
n
tio
i r ec l
D e
ng an
Lo Of P
Stiffeners
Metal Joist @ 16" or 24" O.C.
Hangers Trusses
@ 8' O.C. Additional Information available from
The American Plywood Association
Typical Sloped Flat Truss End Conditions 12

Slope
12
Slope 12
Slope 12
Slope
Slope
12
Slope
12 Slope
12 Slope
12
Overhang
Overhang Varies Cant. Varies
Varies
Mansard Frames
Mansard details are normally built onto the truss. However, there construction type requiring masonry exterior walls and a non-
are design situations where it is more appropriate to have the combustible roof, difficult erection and handling situations or
mansard frame installed independent of the roof framing. Those remodeling. Building codes may require special load cases.
occasions might be when the use of the building dictates a

12
Slope Varies
Cantilevers and Overhangs 12
Slope Usually
Cantilever conditions are common in truss 12"
designs. A cantilever exists when the bearing
wall occurs inside of the truss overall length,
excluding overhangs, such as to form a porch
or entrance way. Overhang
When the bearing is located under the scarf Overhang
line of the truss, no heel joint modification is
needed. Wedge blocks or sliders (reinforcing 12 12
Slope
members) are used to stiffen the heel panel Slope
when the bearing is moved inside the scarf 12
Slope
line. Wedge blocks act to stiffen the heel joint
and are connected to the top and bottom
chord with connector plates located over or
Overhang Overhang
just inside the bearing. Sliders allow longer
cantilevers by stiffening the top and bottom
chords in the heel panel. Correct plating of
12
sliders varies from normal heel joints. Slope 12
Slope
Overhang Overhang
Typical Methods Used In Cantilever Conditions Exact Method Subject

To Final Truss Design
Slider
Wedge (Reinforcing Member)
Cant. Cant. Cant.
Long Cantilevers
The additional web (strut) is added when
the cantilever distance is too long for use
with the wedge block or reinforcing
member. This member often requires
continuous lateral bracing (CLB).
Cant. Dim.
Cantilever End Details For Flat Roofs

12
12 Slope
Slope
Cant.
Cant. Varies Varies Cant. Varies
Roof Truss Span Tables
Alpine truss designs are Total load(PSF) 55 47 40 40
engineered to meet specific Duration factor 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.25
span, configuration and load Live load(PSF) 40 snow 30 snow 20 snow 20 **
Roof type shingle shingle shingle shingle
conditions. The shapes and
55
spans shown here represent 1.15
**construction
or rain,
only a fraction of the 30 snow
not snow load
tile
millions of designs produced
Top Chord 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6
by Alpine engineers. Bottom Chord 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6
Common -- Truss configurations for the Pitch Spans in feet to out of bearing
most widely designed roof shapes. 2/12 24 24 33 27 27 37 31 31 43 33 33 46
2.5/12 29 29 39 33 33 45 37 38 52 39 40 55
3/12 34 34 46 37 39 53 40 44 60 43 46 64
3.5/12 39 39 53 41 44 61 44 50 65 47 52 70
4/12 41 43 59 43 49 64 46 56 69 49 57 74
5/12 44 52 67* 46 58 69* 49 66 74* 53 66 80*
6/12 46 60* 69* 47 67* 71* 51 74* 76* 55 74* 82*
7/12 47 67* 70* 48* 72* 72* 52* 77* 77* 56* 80* 83*
Mono -- Used where the roof is required to 2/12 24 24 33 25 27 38 27 31 41 29 32 44

slope only in one direction. Also in pairs 2.5/12 28 29 40 29 32 43 31 37 46 33 37 49
with their high ends abutting on 3/12 30 33 45 31 37 47 34 42 50 36 42 54
extremely long spans with a 3.5/12 33 37 49* 34 41 51* 36 46 54* 39 46 58*
support underneath
4/12 35 41 52* 36 45* 54* 39 50* 58* 42* 49* 62*
the high end.
5/12 38* 47* 57* 39* 51* 59* 42* 56* 63* 45* 54* 68*
Scissors -- Provides a cathedral or 6/12 - 2/12 ‡ 40 43 59* 42 49 62* 45 56* 66 48 57* 71*
vaulted ceiling. Most economical when the 6/12 - 2.5/12 ‡ 37 38 52 38 44 57* 41 50 61* 44 52 66*
difference in slope between the top and
6/12 - 3/12 ‡ 33 33 45 35 38 52 38 43 56* 40 46 60*
bottom chords is at least 3/12 or the bottom
6/12 - 3.5/12 ‡ 28 28 38 32 32 44 34 37 50 36 39 54
chord pitch is no more than half the top chord
pitch. 6/12 - 4/12 ‡ 22 22 31 26 26 36 30 30 41 32 32 44
‡ Other pitch combinations available with these spans

For Example, a 5/12 - 2/12 combination has approx. the same allowable span as a 6/12 - 3/12
Flat -- The most economical flat truss for a Total load(PSF) 55 47 40 40

roof is provided when the depth of the truss in Duration factor 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.25
inches is approximately equal to 7% of the Live load(PSF) 40 snow 30 snow 20 snow 20 rain or constn.
span in inches.
Top Chord 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6 2x4 2x6 2x6
Bottom Chord 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6 2x4 2x4 2x6
Depth Spans in feet to out of bearing

16" 23 24 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 § 25 §
18" 25 27 28 27 27 29 § 29 § 29 § 29 § 29 § 29 § 29 §
20" 27 28 30 28 28 32 31 30 33 § 32 31 33 §
24" 29 30 33 31 31 35 34 33 38 35 34 40
28" 32 32 36 34 33 39 37 36 42 38 37 44
30" 33 33 38 35 35 40 38 37 44 40 39 45
32" 34 34 39 36 36 42 39 39 45 41 40 47
36" 36 36 42 39 38 45 42 41 48 43 43 50
42" 39 39 45 41 41 48 44 44 52 45 46 54
48" 40 42 49 43 44 52 46 47 56 46 49 58
60" 44 47 55 46 49 58 48 53 63 49 55 65
72" 45 51 60 48 54 64 51 57 68 51 59 69
§ = Span Limited by length to depth ratio of 24
NOTES: These overall spans are based on NDS spans for 2x4 top chord trusses using sheathing drifting near parapet or slide-off from higher roofs.
‘01 with 4" nominal bearing each end, 24" o.c. other than plywood (e.g. spaced sheathing or 1x To achieve maximum indicated spans, trusses
spacing, a live load deflection limited to L/240 boards) may be reduced slightly. Trusses must may require six or more panels. Trusses with an
maximum and use lumber properties as follows: be designed for any special loading such as asterisk (*) that exceed 14' in height may be
2x4 fb =2000 psi ft=1100 psi E=1.8x106 2x6fb=1750 concentrated loads from hanging partitions or air shipped in two pieces. Contact your local Alpine
psi ft=950 psi fc=1900 psi E=1.8x106. Allowable conditioning units, and snow loads caused by truss manufacturer or office for more information.

Framing With Trusses: Floors
Bottom chord bearing on a stud wall. Cantilever with an exterior wall on the end. Bottom chord bearing with short
cantilever and exterior wall.
Top chord bearing on stud wall. Floor truss designed to carry an interior header.
Interior bearing on wall
Overhang on a floor truss used on a roof. Dropped cantilever for Trimmable end condition
use on exterior balconies. with I-Joist insert.
Interior top chord bearing with Top chord bearing with Top chord bearing on stud wall
a variable end height. a variable end height. with variable end height.
Multiple ply floor trusses

may require special con-
nection details between plys.
Special connectors will Double truss
be specified on the
design.
Truss Header
Hanger
Header
pocket
Stairwell openings At stairwell openings perpendicular to floor

parallel to trusses in trusses, additional posts or bearing walls may
floor systems do not be required. All loads from stairs and
present a problem. By means of surrounding walls must be considered for
enclosed headers and beams or correct floor truss design.
girders these conditions can be handled Trusses may be supported as top chord bearing or by
with ease as illustrated. hanger. Headers may be supported by a hanger.
Floor Truss Span Tables
These allowable spans are based on NDS 2001. Maximum Dead Load = 10 psf. Bottom Chord Dead Load = 5 psf.
deflection is limited by L/360 or L/4801 under live load. Basic Center Line Chase = 24" max. Trusses must be designed for
Lumber Design Values are F(b)=2000 psi F(t)=1100 psi any special loading, such as concentrated loads. Other floor
F(c)=2000 psi E=1,800,000 psi Duration Of Load = 1.00. and roof loading conditions, a variety of species and other
Spacing of trusses are center to center (in inches). Top Chord lumber grades are available.
4x2 3x2
Lumber Lumber
1 1
1 /2" 1 /2"
1 1
3 /2" 2 /2"
40 PSF Live Load 40 PSF Live Load

55 PSF Total Load 55 PSF Total Load
Center Deflection Truss Depth Truss Depth
Spacing Limit 12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22" 12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22"
16" o.c. L/360 22'2" 24'11" 26'10" 28'8" 30'4" 31'11" 19'0" 20'9" 22'4" 23'10" 25'3" 26'7"
L/480 20'2" 22'7" 24'11" 27'2" 29'4" 31'5" 18'0" 20'2" 22"4' 23'10" 25'3" 26'7"
19.2" o.c. L/360 20'9" 22'8" 24'4" 26'0" 27'6" 29'0" 17'3" 18'9" 20'3" 21'7" 22'10" 24'1"
L/480 18'11" 21'3" 23'6" 25'7" 27'6" 29'0" 16'11" 18'9" 20'3" 21'7" 22'10" 24'1"
24" o.c. L/360 18'5" 20'1" 21'7" 23'1" 24'5" 25'9" 15'2" 16'7" 17'10" 19'1" 20'2" 21'3"
L/480 17'7" 19'9" 21'7" 23'1" 24'5" 25'9" 15'2" 16'7" 17'10" 19'1" 20'2" 21'3"

12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22" 12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22"
16" o.c. L/360 19'4" 21'4" 23'0" 24'6" 26'0" 27'4" 16'3" 17'9" 19'2" 20'5" 21'8" 22'9"
L/480 17'7" 19'9" 21'10" 23'9" 25'8" 27'4" 15'9" 17'8" 19'2" 20'5" 21'8" 22'9"
19.2" o.c. L/360 17'9" 19'4" 20'10" 22'3" 23'7" 24'10" 14'9" 16'1" 17'4" 18'6" 19'7" 20'7"
L/480 16'7" 18'7" 20'6" 22'3" 23'7" 24'10" 14'9" 16'1" 17'4" 18'6" 19'7" 20'7"
24" o.c. L/360 15'9" 17'2" 18'6" 19'9" 20'11" 22'0" 13'0" 14'2" 15'3" 16'4" 17'3" 18'2"
L/480 15'4" 17'2" 18'6" 19'9" 20'11" 22'0" 13'0" 14'2" 15'3" 16'4" 17'3" 18'2"

12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22" 12" 14" 16" 18" 20" 22"
16" o.c. L/360 16'11" 18'6" 19'11" 21'3" 22'6" 23'8" 14'1" 15'5" 16'7" 17'8" 18'9" 19'9"
L/480 15'8" 17'7" 19'5" 21'2" 22'6" 23'8" 14'0" 15'5" 16'7" 17'8" 18'9" 19'9"
19.2" o.c. L/360 15'4" 16'9" 18'1" 19'3" 20'5" 21'6" 12'9" 13'11" 15'0" 16'0" 16'11" 17'10"
L/480 14'9" 16'6" 18'1" 19'3" 20'5" 21'6" 12'9" 13'11" 15'0" 16'0" 16'11" 17'10"
24" o.c. L/360 13'8" 14'10" 16'0" 17'1" 18'1" 19'1" 11'3" 12'3" 13'3" 14'1" 14'11" 15'9"
L/480 13'8" 14'10" 16'0" 17'1" 18'1" 19'1" 11'3" 12'3" 13'3" 14'1" 14'11" 15'9"
(1) Vibration Control -- Research by Virginia Tech indicates that desiring this benefit may choose to specify an L/480 live load
L/480 live load deflection criteria provides a high degree of deflection criteria to be used for the floor trusses.
resistance to floor vibration (bounce). The building designer

Framing With Trusses: Floors
Duct Openings For Fan Style Floor Trusses With 4x2 or 3x2 Chords & Webs
Panel Size
Depth
D F
G C B A
E
Typical Duct Opening Sizes For 4x2 Fan Style Floor Trusses
Pan el
Depth A B C D E F G
Siz e
10 60 41 / 2 4 1 /4 11 4 1 /2 16 4 7
1 1
11 60 5 /4 5 /4 12 5 1 /2 15 5 8
7 3 3 1 1
11 / 8 60 7 /4 6 /4 10 6 /4 14 5 /2 8 3 /4
1 1
12 60 6 /4 6 /4 14 6 20 5 9
1 1 1
13 60 7 /4 7 /4 12 7 18 / 2 6 10
14 60 81 / 4 8 1 /4 17 7 22 6 11
15 60 91 / 4 8 1 /2 15 8 25 6 12
1 1
16 60 10 /4 9 /2 14 9 27 6 13
18 60 12 1 /4 101 / 2 141 / 2 101 / 2 26 7 15
1 1
20 60 14 11 / 2 14 / 2 12 26 8 17
22 60 16 121 / 2 15 13 30 8 19
1
24 60 18 13 / 2 16 14 32 8 21
26 60 19 141 / 2 18 15 34 8 23
30 60 22 16 20 17 32 10 24
36 60 25 171 / 2 22 191 / 2 36 10 24
All Dimensions In Inches
Typical Duct Opening Sizes For 3x2 Fan Style Floor Trusses
Pan el
Depth A B C D E F G
Siz e
9 1 /2 36 51 / 2 4 1 /2 8 3 1 /2 10 3 6 1 /2
7 3 3 1 1
11 / 8 60 7 /4 6 /4 10 6 /4 14 5 /2 8 3 /4
117 / 8 54 73 / 4 6 1 /2 10 6 1 /4 14 5 1 /2 8 3 /4
3 3 1 3
12 54 7 /4 6 /4 10 6 /2 14 5 /4 9
3 1
13 54 8 /4 7 /2 12 7 16 6 10
14 54 93 / 4 8 13 7 1 /4 16 6 3 /4 11
1 1 3 1
15 54 10 /2 8 /2 14 7 /4 17 7 /4 12
16 54 11 1 /2 9 1 /4 15 8 1 /4 18 7 3 /4 13
1 1 1
18 54 13 10 / 4 16 9 /2 20 8 /4 15
20 54 14 1 /2 111 / 4 17 101 / 2 22 8 1 /2 17
22 54 16 12 18 11 24 9 19
1 1
24 54 17 /2 13 20 12 26 9 /2 21
All Dimensions In Inches
Maximum duct dimensions are based on a truss plate width of 4 inches. Larger plate widths may
cause a reduction in duct sizes. Chase sizes are maximum possible for centered openings.
Building Design Considerations
Trusses are reliable and versatile structural building components when used with certain considerations.
Following are some of the more frequently overlooked considerations.
Drainage of Low-Sloping, Flat or Parapet Roofs

Wood trusses, when used as the structural element on flat or relatively flat roofs must have provisions
for adequate drainage so as to avoid ponding. Some suggested methods of preventing ponding are
illustrated below.
12
Slope
Sloped Top Chord Elevated Bearing Internal Drain
12
Slope
Sloping top chord cantilevered Dual slope top chord cantilevered
12 12
Slope Slope
Slope
12 12
Slope
Peaked top chord combined with flat mansard Scissors trusses combined with low slope
Positive Ventilation
When trusses are used in humid or corrosive environments, or when fire resistant wood is required,
additional ventilation may be necessary. Any of these conditions may require additional methods to
protect the light gauge metal connector plates. Refer to Chapter 6 of ANSI/TPI 2002 for any
adjustments to design values and for methods for plate protection.

Snow Drifting
An important consideration in the roof design process

is the potential for different snow load conditions.
Roofs and buildings that include details or parapets
and add-ons such as lean-tos or solar panels need to
be designed for possible additional snow Basic snow load
accumulation. Roof slope, surface material textures
Drift surcharge
and insulation may also affect snow and ice
accumulation. Basic snow load
Annual snowfall also can be affected by regional
characteristics such as mountains, flat land, and
coastal and inland areas.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
publishes Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and
Other Structures (ASCE7), which contains a detailed
procedure for determining snow drift load.
Additional surcharge due to sliding snow Snow drifting at roof projections
Basic snow load - upper
Sliding surcharge Drift

Basic snow
load surcharge
Drift surcharge
Basic snow
load - lower
Drifting snow on low roofs and decks Drifting snow onto adjacent low structures
Basic snow Basic snow

Basic snow load - upper load - upper 20’ or load - lower
Less
Drift surcharge
Drift
Basic snow surcharge
High roof load - lower
Low roof or deck
The diagrams above are adopted from the IBC of the situations that may be encountered when
International Building Code and IRC International designing a roof system. Actual design procedure as
Residential Code published by the International Code outlined in the applicable code must be consulted
Council (ICC). They are used here to illustrate some when designing for snow.
Wind Loading
Metal Plate Connected Wood trusses have performed extremely well when subjected to high wind situations such as
hurricanes, down bursts, and tornadoes. Recent extensive investigations of damage to buildings after hurricane Hugo,
Andrew, Iniki, and other storms underscore the strong performance of MPCW trusses.
The wind load that is used for the design of trusses is dependent upon many factors. The following is a partial listing of
factors that may have an influence on the wind loads used for the design of a truss.
• Wind loads are usually required by the local code. This • ASCE 7-98 includes adjustment factors for buildings
may be one of the major codes, South Florida Code, sited on hills and escarpments. In addition, ASCE wind
ASCE 7-98, or other specific local code requirement. speeds are based on 3 second gust speed rather than
fastest mile speed.
• Location of the building on the “Basic Wind Speed
Map”. • If the building designer intends a girder truss to be used
as a drag strut to transfer lateral loads, it is important
• Actual dead load on the trusses to be considered for that the loads be determined and noted by the building
wind analysis which is usually less than the gravity designer.
design dead load.
• It is important that the building designer specify the
• Building porosity. Residential buildings are normally wind speed, porosity, exposure, and location of the
assumed to be closed. Agricultural buildings may be building in addition to other considerations that will
closed, partially closed or completely open. influence the design of the truss.
• Exposure category for the building. • Special fastening or anchoring devices may be
required to attach trusses to the supporting member.
• Building application to determine importance factor.
Basic Wind Speed

(Miles Per Hour - Fastest Mile)
90(40)
100(45)
110(49)
85(38) 120(54)
90(40)
90(40) 130(58)
140(63)
Notes:
130(58)
1. Values are nominal design 3-second gust wind 150(67) 140(63)
speeds in miles per hour (m/s) at 33 ft. (10m) 140(63)
above ground for Exposure C category. 140(63) 150(67)
2. Linear interpolation between wind contours is
permitted.
3. Islands and coastal areas outside the last contour shall use Special Wind Region.
the last wind speed contour of the coastal area. 90(40)
4. Mountainous terrain, gorges, ocean promontories, and special 100(45) 130(58) Source: American Society Civil Engineers ASCE 7-98
wind regions shall be examined for unusual wind conditions. Refer to ASCE7 or code of jurisdiction for
110(49)120(54)
5. Regions outside the contiguous 48 states refer to ASCE 7-98 or final determination of design loads.
your local building official.

Fire Resistance
Evaluated by NES - Report NER-392*

ALPINE
FR-Systems Fire Resistance
*See National Evaluation Report NER-392 for full
details on assembly specifications and allowable values
and/or conditions of use concerning material presented
Rated Assemblies in this document. All materials shall meet structural
requirements of code of jurisdiction. The report is
1 Hour & 2 Hour subject to reexamination, revisions and possible closing.
Many multi-family, commercial,

Fire Rated Assemblies for Wood Trusses industrial, and institutional buildings
are required by code to have a fire
resistance rating in construction
assemblies for floors and roofs. In many
Wood Truss cases, assemblies competing with
assemblies containing wood trusses have
had a lower in-place cost, limiting the
use of wood trusses in applications where
they would otherwise be more
appropriate. Now using FR-Systems
FR-Quik Floating
with FR-Quik, wood trusses can
Channel Set
favorably compete.
FR-Systems Fire Resistance Rated

Assemblies consist of gypsum board
Drywall Screw with Bond Washer installed on wood trusses incorporating
Self Centering Tab on Sleeve End FR-Quik, an exclusive product by
Alpine Engineered Products, Inc. put in
Roof-Ceiling Designs for Sloped or Flat Roofs place by the drywall contractor as the
ceiling board is installed.
Floor-Ceiling Designs for Parallel Chord Trusses
The fire resistance assemblies described below are based on limits of the particular test specification referred to by number
full-scale tests conducted by recognized independent agencies and source.
in accordance with the requirements of ASTM E-119,
Standard Method of Fire Tests of Building Construction and For additional information about fire resistant assemblies,
Materials. When specifying to meet a given fire resistance request publication FR-Systems and/or Quick Reference from
requirement, the assembly must be constructed within the Alpine’s Earth City, Missouri Office - 314-344-9121.
FR-System 1 - One Hour Rated* FR-System 2 - Two Hour Rated*

• Roof-ceiling or floor ceiling • Roof-ceiling or floor ceiling
non-insulated plenum or attic. Insulated or non-insulated
• Parallel chord 16”min. deep plenum or attic.
or sloped trusses with 16” • Parallel chord 16”min. deep
heel height. or sloped trusses with 16”
• Single layer 5/8” Type X heel height.
gypsum board. • Two layers 5/8” Type X
improved core gypsum board.
FR-System 3 - One Hour Rated* FR-System 5 - One Hour Rated*

• Roof-ceiling or floor ceiling • Roof-ceiling or floor ceiling
Insulated or non-insulated Insulated or non-insulated
plenum or attic. plenum or attic.
• Parallel chord 15”min. deep • Parallel chord 9 1/4”min.
or 3/12 (or>) sloped trusses or wood I-beam
• Two layers 1/2” Type X • One layer 5/8” Type X
gypsum board. improved core gypsum board.
Sound Transmission
Sound Control
Ratings of floor-ceiling assemblies are determined by two Sound Transmission Class (STC) is measured in accordance
methods. The Impact Insulation Class (IIC) is measured in with ASTM Standard E-90.
accordance with ASTM Standard E-492. Airborne noise
Impact Noise
The IIC listing for floor-ceiling assemblies are generally make a significant improvement. According to most tests,
shown for bare floors and for floors with carpet and pad. the addition of a 44 oz. Carpet over a 40 oz hair felt pad
Although any carpet, with or without pad, will improve increases the IIC from 38 to 63.
the IIC, a heavy wool carpet over a good quality pad will
Airborne Noise
ASTM Standard E-413 is used to determine the sound when air leaks and flanking paths in the assemblies are
transmission class, STC. Some values listed for assemblies closed off. Assemblies should be airtight. Recessed fixtures
tested in 1970 or before were done under a different should not be back-to-back in the same cavity. ASTM
standard, however, the resulting STC will generally fall in Recommended Practice E-497 provides good guidance for
the same range. Airborne sound control is most effective sound control.
40 oz. pad & 44 oz. carpet 40 oz. pad & 44 oz. carpet
1-1/2" light weight concrete 3/4" T&G plywood subfloor
5/8" plywood subfloor
Two layers of Two layers of

1/2" gypsum wallboard 1/2" gypsum wallboard
Sound Transmission Class STC=46 Sound Transmission Class STC=47

Impact Insulation Class IIC=72 Impact Insulation Class IIC=72
Intest No. 5-425-1 Intest No. 5-425-3
Assembly STC IIC

Test Component materials of floor-ceiling assemblies
vary greatly causing difficulty in assigning sound
Intest ratings. Contributing to the variations are such
factors as depth of openings between members,
5-425-1 46 72 weight of carpet, pads, or other floor coverings
thickness of gypsum board etc.
5-425-3 47 72
6-442-5 58 FSTC ---
6-442-2 --- 53
6-442-3 --- 74
87-729-13 59 FSTC ---
87-729-7 --- 83 FIIC

Architectural Specifications
SECTION 06192
FABRICATED WOOD TRUSSES
1.01 Work Included
A. Fabricate, supply and erect wood trusses as shown on the drawings and as specified. Work to include
anchorage, blocking, curbing, miscellaneous framing and bracing.
1.02 Definitions
TRUSS: The term “truss” and “wood truss component” refer to open web load carrying assemblies suitable for
support of roof decks or floors in buildings.
FABRICATOR: A manufacturer or fabricator who is regularly engaged in design and fabrication of wood truss
components.
TRUSS INSTALLER: Builder, contractor or sub-contractor who is responsible for the field storage, handling and
installation of trusses.
1.03 Design
A. Trusses shall be designed in accordance with these specifications and where any applicable design feature is not
specified herein, design shall be in accordance with applicable provisions of latest edition of National Design
Specifications for Wood Construction (NDS) American Forest and Paper Association (AFPA), and National Design
Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction (ANSI/TPI 1), Truss Plate Institute (TPI), and code of
jurisdiction.
B. Fabricator shall furnish design drawings bearing seal and registration number of a civil or structural
engineer licensed in state where trusses are to be installed. Drawings shall be approved by Architect prior to
fabrication.
C. Truss design drawings shall include as minimum information:
1. Span, depth or slope and spacing of trusses;
2. required bearing width;
3. design loads, as applicable:
a. top chord live load;
b. top chord dead load;
c. bottom chord live load;
d. bottom chord dead load;
e. concentrated loads and their points of application; and
f. wind and seismic criteria;
4. adjustment to lumber and plate design values for condition of use;
5. reactive forces, their points of occurrence and direction;
6. ALPINE plate type, gage, size and location of plate at each joint;
7. lumber size, species and grade for each member;
8. location of any required continuous lateral bracing;
9. calculated deflection ratio and/or maximum deflection for live and total load;
10. maximum axial forces in truss members;
11. location of joints;
12. connection requirements for:
a. truss to truss girders;
b. truss ply to ply; and
c. field splices.
2.01 Materials
A. Lumber:
1. Lumber used for truss members shall be in accordance with published values of lumber rules writing
agencies approved by board of review of American Lumber Standards Committee. Lumber shall be
identified by grade mark of a lumber inspection bureau or agency approved by that board, and shall be as
shown on design drawings.
2. Moisture content of lumber shall be no less than 7 percent nor greater than 19 percent at time of
fabrication.
3. Adjustment of values for duration of load or conditions of use shall be in accordance with National Design
Specification for Wood Construction (NDS).
4. Fire retardant treated lumber, if applicable, shall meet specifications of truss design and ANSI/TPI 1-2002,
par 6.4.9.1 and shall be redried after treatment in accordance with AWPA Standard C20. Allowable values
must be adjusted in accordance with NDS par 2.3.4. Lumber treater shall supply certificate of compliance.
B. Metal connector plates:
1. Metal connector plates shall be manufactured by ALPINE and shall be not less than .036 inches in
thickness (20 gage) and shall meet or exceed ASTM A653 grade 40, and shall be hot dipped galvanized
according to ASTM A653, coating designation G60. Working stresses in steel are to be applied to
effective ratios for plates as determined by test in accordance with Chapter 5 of ANSI/TPI 1-2002.
2. In highly corrosive environments, special applied coatings or stainless steel may be required.
3. At the request of Architect, ALPINE shall furnish a certified record that materials comply with steel
specifications.
2.02 Fabrication
A. Trusses shall be fabricated in a properly equipped facility of a permanent nature. Trusses shall be fabricated by
experienced workmen, using precision cutting, jigging and pressing equipment meeting requirements of
ANSI/TPI 1-2002, Chapter 3. Truss members shall be accurately cut to length, angle and true to line to assure
proper fitting joints within tolerances set forth in ANSI/TPI 1-2002, Chapter 3 and proper fit with other work.
3.01 Handling, Installation and Bracing
A. Trusses shall be handled during fabrication, delivery and at job site so as not to be subjected to excessive
bending.
B. Trusses shall be unloaded on smooth ground to avoid lateral strain. Trusses shall be protected from damage
that might result from on-site activities and environmental conditions. Prevent toppling when banding is
removed.
C. Handle during installation in accordance with Handling, Installing and Bracing Wood Trusses (HIB-91), TPI, and
ANSI/TPI 1-2002. Installation shall be consistent with good workmanship and good building practices and
shall be responsibility of Truss Installer.
D. Apparent damage to trusses, if any, shall be reported to Fabricator prior to installation.
E. Trusses shall be set and secured level and plumb, and in correct location. Trusses shall be held in correct
alignment until specified permanent bracing is installed.
F. Cutting and altering of trusses is not permitted.
G. Concentrated loads shall not be placed atop trusses until all specified bracing has been installed and decking is
permanently nailed in place. Specifically avoid stacking full bundles of decking or other heavy materials onto
unsheathed trusses.
H. Erection bracing is always required. Professional advice should always be sought to prevent toppling or
dominoing of trusses during installation.
I. The Contractor is responsible for obtaining and furnishing the materials used for installation and permanent
bracing.
END SECTION

(Short Form)
SECTION 06192
FABRICATED WOOD TRUSSES
1.01 Work Included:
A. Fabricate, supply and erect wood trusses as shown on the drawings and as specified.
Work to include anchorage, blocking, curbing, miscellaneous incidental framing
and bracing.
1.02 Design:
A. Trusses shall be designed in accordance with National Design Specification for Wood
Construction, AFPA, and National Design Standard For Metal Plate Connected Wood
Truss Construction, ANSI/TPI 1-2002, and the Code of jurisdiction.
B. Fabricator shall furnish design drawings bearing the seal and registration number
of design professional licensed in the state where trusses are to be installed.
C. Drawings shall be approved by Architect prior to fabrication.
2.01 Materials:
A. Lumber used shall be identified by grade mark of a lumber inspection bureau or

agency approved by Board of Review of American Lumber Standards Committee,
and shall be size, species and grade in accordance with design drawings.
B. Connector plates shall be by ALPINE and shall meet or exceed ASTM A653
requirements for structural steel.
2.02 Fabrication:
A. Trusses shall be fabricated as set forth in ANSI/TPI 1-2002 in accordance with

the design drawings by an established fabricator.
3.01 Handling and Installation:
A. Trusses shall be handled during fabrication, delivery and at job site so as not to be
subjected to excessive lateral bending.
B. Installation shall be in accordance with Handling, Installing and Bracing
Wood Trusses, HIB-91, TPI. Trusses shall be set and secured level and plumb, and
in correct location.
C. Trusses shall be sufficiently braced during installation to prevent toppling or
dominoing. Install all bracing before placing concentrated loads atop trusses.
D. Cutting and altering of trusses is not permitted.
END SECTION
Wood Truss Design Drawings
Typical Roof Truss Design
C N
P
I
H J1 J2
G
K
E1
D
L D
E2
A
M
F B
A Design Loading I Peak
Top and bottom chord dead and live loads (including snow The intersection of two chords where the slope changes
load) in pounds per square foot as used in the analysis. from positive to negative. Generally at the centerline of the
truss.
B Load Duration Factor
An adjustment of allowable design values of lumber and J1 & J2 Splices
fasteners. Where two chord pieces join together to form a single
member. J1 shows the location, J2 the corresponding
C Lumber Specifications connector plate.
Lumber size, species and grade for each member as used
in the analysis. K Heel
The point of the truss where the top and bottom chord
D Reaction intersect, generally at a bearing point.
The force in pounds on the bearings produced by the truss
at design load, the uplift due to the wind load, and the bearing L Span
width. The nominal span based on out-to-out dimensions of the
supports or the bottom chord length, whichever is greater.
E1 & E2 Connector Plates
The series, size and orientation. M General Notes
Notes that apply to all Alpine design drawings.
F Engineers Seal
Seal of the registered professional responsible for the design. N Special Notes
Notes that apply only to this specific design drawing.
G Slope
The vertical rise in inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. P Load Note
Notes that show the magnitude and location of all loads on
H Panel Points the truss.
The joints of the truss where the webs intersect the chords.

Handling, Installing, Bracing
Builder’s And Contractor’s Reference Section

Responsibility
According to the publication National Standard • The builder and truss installer are responsible
and Recommended Guidelines on Responsibilities for for the safe handling and installation of trusses
Construction Using Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses after they reach the jobsite. They are also
- ANSI/TPI/WTCA 4-2002, published jointly by responsible for installing both the temporary and
the Wood Truss Council of America (WTCA) and permanent bracing per the building designer’s
the Truss Plate Institute (TPI), responsibility for bracing design or the prescriptive requirements of
wood trusses is divided among the owner, building HIB-91.
designer, the truss designer, contractor or builder
(installer) and the truss manufacturer. A good guide for these areas of responsibility is
Handling, Installing and Bracing Metal Plate
• The building designer is responsible for design Connected Wood Trusses - HIB-91 published by the
of the building’s structural system. This includes Truss Plate Institute (TPI). The publication is also
specifying truss profiles and all truss loading available in a six page fold-out summary form for
requirements, permanent bracing design and use as a jobsite reference. It is recommended that
design of the structure supporting the trusses. all persons associated with the installation process
• The truss designer is responsible for the design read and adhere to the recommendations of this
of the individual truss components in accordance publication to help prevent injury to themselves,
with the owner’s or building designer’s written other workers and property.
specifications.
• The truss manufacturer is responsible for A good publication for guidance in the design of a
manufacturing the trusses in accordance with the temporary bracing system is the publication
approved design drawings and the quality criteria Recommended Design Specifications for Temporary
in TPI 1. Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses, DSB-
89, published by the Truss Plate Institute (TPI).
WARNING:
Do not cut or notch any truss member without permission of the truss designer.
Do not use or repair damaged trusses without professional consultation
with the Architect, Engineer or Truss Designer.
Handling
Your truss manufacturer produces quality trusses using alignment and the bundle strength minimizes damage during
standards recommended by Alpine and the Truss Plate storage and delivery.
Institute (TPI). These standards include provisions for tight Your manufacturer will normally store trusses vertically in
joints, accurate dimensions, proper plate placement and racks or horizontally with blocking to prevent lateral bending.
material storage. Similar provisions to protect the quality Throughout all phases of construction, care must be taken to
should be continued through delivery, storage, handling, avoid excessive lateral bending of the trusses which can cause
erection and bracing in order to maintain the structural joint and lumber damage.
reliability and strength of the trusses.
Finished trusses are usually banded with steel strapping in WARNING: Exercise care in removing steel strapping to
convenient size bundles. The strapping helps maintain truss prevent injury.
Banded trusses for delivery are

transported to the jobsite on
flatbed trailers with a roller
deck or on special “pole-
type” trailers.
If possible, trusses should
be unloaded on relatively
smooth ground. They should
not be unloaded on rough
terrain that would cause undue
lateral strain resulting in
distortion of the truss joints.
Rough terrain can also cause damage or
breaking of overhangs, soffit returns, and other parts of
the truss. E
ALPIN
Proper banding and smooth ground allows for dumping of trusses
without damage. This should be done as close to the building site
as possible to minimize handling.
If trusses are not to be immediately

installed, several provisions should
be made.
Truss bundles may be unloaded and

stored in the horizontal or vertical
position. If the trusses are
horizontal, they should be blocked
above ground to protect them from
ground water and termites.
Blocking should be on eight to ten

foot centers to prevent lateral
bending. Be sure the blocking is
solid in order to prevent toppling or
sliding.
If trusses are in the vertical position

they should be staked on both sides
of the bundle to prevent toppling
and personal injury.

Installing
Trusses may be installed manually, by crane, or by forklift,

depending on truss size, wall height and job conditions. Individual
trusses should always be carried vertically to avoid lateral strain
and damage to joints and members.
Trusses installed manually are slid into position over the sidewall
and rotated into place using poles. The longer the span, the more
workers are needed to avoid excessive lateral strain on the trusses.
Trusses should be supported at joints and the peak while being
raised.
Large trusses should be installed by a crane or forklift employing

chokers, slings, spreader bars and strongbacks to prevent lateral
Manual Installation bending. Trusses may be lifted singly, in banded groups, or
preassembled in groups.
Tag lines should always be used to control movement of trusses

during lifting and placement.
Refer to Handling, Installing and Bracing Metal Plate Connected Wood

60° Trusses (HIB-91) by the Truss Plate Institute, or Wood Truss Erection
or less poster by the Wood Truss Council of America for proper methods
of installation.
Installation procedures are the responsibility of

the installer. Job conditions and procedures
vary considerably. These are only guidelines
and may not be proper under all conditions.
Typical
Using A Sling Tag Line
Typical
Using A Spreader Bar Tag Line
Typical
Using A Strongback Tag Line
Temporary Bracing
Guidelines For Installation Of Bracing From HIB-91
All trusses must be securely braced, both during erection and All trusses should be installed straight, plumb and aligned at the
after permanent installation. Individual wood trusses are specified spacing. Trusses should also be inspected for structural
designed only as structural components. Responsibility for damage.
proper bracing always lies with the building designer and There are two types of bracing. Temporary bracing is used during
contractor for they are familiar with local and job-site conditions erection to hold the trusses until permanent bracing, sheathing
and overall building and ceilings are in place. Permanent bracing makes the truss
design. component an integral part of the roof and building structure.
Approximately
45 degree angle
Temporary and permanent bracing includes diagonal bracing,
cross bracing and lateral bracing.
Located within 6 inches

of the ridge line
2-16d double headed nails

at every member intersection
Repeat diagonals
at approximately
20 foot intervals
Lap lateral
bracing over at
least two trusses
First truss to be well braced before

Lateral erection of additional trusses
Brace
Ground Locate ground braces for the
Brace first truss directly in line with all
rows of the top chord continuous
lateral bracing (either
Ground temporary or permanent).
Stakes
Permanent lateral bracing, as may be required by truss design to It is important to temporarily brace the first truss at the end of
reduce the buckling length of individual truss members, is part of the building. One method calls for the top chord to be braced by
the wood truss design and is the only bracing specified on the ground braces that are secured by stakes driven in the ground,
design drawing. This bracing must be sufficiently anchored or preferably outside and inside. The bottom chord is to be securely
restrained by diagonal bracing to prevent its movement. Most anchored to the end wall.
truss designs assume continuous top and bottom chord lateral Adjacent trusses are now set connecting each to continuous
support from sheathing and ceilings. Extra lateral and diagonal lateral bracing on the top chord. These are typically spaced at 6’,
bracing is required if this is not the case. 8’ or 10 feet on centers along the length of the truss. Refer to
Bracing members should be 2x4 nailed with two 16d nails at HIB-91 for diagonal spacing.
each cross member unless specified otherwise on the design This top chord bracing will be removed as the sheathing is
drawing. Lateral braces should be at least 10 feet long. Cross and applied after the other bracing is completed.
diagonal braces should run on an approximate 45 degree angle.

Temporary Bracing
Temporary bracing should be 2x4 dimension Continuous

lumber or larger and should be 8 feet lateral brace
minimum in length. Continuous lateral
bracing maintains spacing, but without cross
bracing, permits trusses to move laterally. Dominoing
See HIB-91. trusses
Trusses in
To prevent dominoing, cross bracing should vertical plane
be installed in the plane of the webs as the
trusses are installed. See HIB-91.
Diagonal
X - Brace
at 45° angle
Top View
All top chords can buckle together if
there is no diagonal bracing
Top chords can buckle

despite frequent purlins
Top View
Top Chord
(typical)
Continuous
purlins
(typical)
Diagonals form braced bay. Repeat at both

ends and at approximately 20 foot intervals.
Diagonal bracing nailed to the under side of the top

chord prevents lateral movement of the top chord.
Full bundles of sheathing should not be placed on the trusses. These recommendations are offered only as a guide. Refer to
They should be limited to 8 sheets to a pair of trusses. Likewise, Recommended Design Specifications for Temporary Bracing of Metal
other heavy concentrated loads should be evenly distributed. Plate Connected Wood Trusses (DSB-89) by the Truss Plate Institute
Inadequate bracing is the reason for most wood truss installation (TPI), or Handling, Installing and Bracing (HIB-91) by TPI.
failures. Proper installation is a vital step for a safe and quality
roof structure.
Permanent Bracing
Web Bracing Installation
V-Brace Lap lateral brace 16d Nails
2x4 with at 45° angle two trusses @6" O.C.
2-16d nails
at each truss
2x4 Flatwise as
noted on design
CLB
(Typical)
Typical web Diagonal Brace

at 45° angle Typical web
member member
Continuous Lateral Bracing T-Brace

When continuous lateral bracing (CLB) is specified on the design drawing, the CLB shall be The T-Brace is typically
installed and connected to each end of the building and cross-braced at intervals determined by the used with hip trusses.
building designer.
Typical Bottom Chord Bracing (CLB)

CLB
(Typical)
2x4 or larger as
required with two 16d
nails at each truss
10' O.C. Max.

or as specified
Where the building design does not provide for a ceiling spacing of the continuous lateral bracing of the bottom chord.
diaphragm or other means of continuous lateral bracing of the NOTE: The building designer is responsible for the design of the
bottom chord of the truss, the truss design will specify the roof, floor and building bracing.
Strongbacks
2x6 with 3-16d nails

at each truss
Strongbacks, 2x6 minimum, should be secured to a vertical row for each 10 feet of truss span. Blocking behind the vertical is
member with 3-16d nails on floor trusses. For spans less than 20 recommended while nailing the strongback in place. Strongback
feet, one row of strongbacking at the centerline is sufficient. For lumber should be at least 14 feet in length and lapped two feet
spans greater than 20 feet and less than 30 feet, use two rows of at their ends over two adjacent trusses.
strongbacking equally spaced. In general, use one strongback

Specialty Bracing
Typical Bracing for Piggyback Trusses

If a truss is too tall to build and/or haul in one piece, a cap truss can be
used on top of a base truss to form the overall height required. The cap
truss is attached to the base truss to resist lateral and uplift forces.
Various methods are used for this attachment. The flat top chord of the
Cap Truss
base truss must be braced with a system of lateral AND diagonal braces
to prevent buckling. This bracing is part of the permanent bracing
system designed by the building designer. For structures that do not
require a licensed designer, the permanent bracing can also be
Attachment of cap determined by referring to the individual truss design drawings for
truss to base truss the location of permanent bracing and following the prescriptive
(See Text)
requirements of HIB-91 for lateral and diagonal bracing.
Permanent
Diagonal
Bracing
Permanent
Lateral
Bracing
Wall Plate
Flat Top Chord
These drawings illustrate permanent bracing for the top chord of base
trusses only. Permanent bracing for other chords and webs are not
shown. Connection between the piggyback cap truss and the base
Base Truss truss are not shown. Drawings are not to scale.
Web-Block Engineered Bracing Solution

The Alpine Web-Block is a reinforcement method for strengthening
the buckling capacity of wood webs and minimizing the use of field-
applied braces such as T-braces, L-braces or continuous lateral braces.
The Alpine Web-Block consists of an additional 2x4 web member Permanent Bracing
plated to the side of the existing web member, narrow-face to narrow- applied to web
face. This results in increased bending strength of the web, which with three
connectors
results in increased strength for webs that are susceptible to buckling.
minimum
Advantages of Alpine Web-Block:

• Exists entirely within the plane of the truss and does not affect
truss stacking, so it can be applied at the truss plant.
• Saves truss installation contractors time and trouble by not having to
install bracing after erection or source bracing materials and fasteners.
• Increases job site safety by reducing the need for installers to climb through trusses to
install bracing members.
• Consists of standard plates and web material, so no new supplies or equipment are required.
• Permits truss fabricators to increase sales by selling additional web material while minimizing
problems due to call-backs and contractor complaints from missing bracing.
• Is lower cost than the competing cold-formed-steel reinforcing members on the market.
Bracing Design
The Importance of Proper Bracing in Structural Performance
The structural performance of a frame diagonal bracing, bridging and blocking
building depends on continuous paths at the heels and ends of the trusses.
for all loads to eventually be transferred This bracing functions to strengthen
to the ground. In the specific instance and stabilize the truss chords and webs
of pre-engineered trusses, there are which may be particularly long or highly
several types of bracing, which are stressed. The required locations of the
sometimes confused. Each of these continuous lateral bracing are typically
types of bracing is important to the called out on the shop drawings
construction process and ultimately to supplied by the truss engineering
the structural integrity of the building. company. These lateral braces must be
There are two distinct types of bracing. stabilized at regular intervals with
Temporary or construction bracing is diagonal bracing. This extremely
the first type, and permanent bracing is important bracing system creates the
the second type. continuous path through which all loads
applied to the roof are transferred, from
Temporary or Construction Bracing: the truss system into the walls and
eventually to the ground.
This is the proper bracing of the trusses
during the erection phase of the Because of the component nature of our
structure. Much like walls are braced fast track building process, permanent
until the completion of the framing bracing design is not supplied by the
process, when trusses are placed on the wall panel designer, or by the truss
plate line, they must be braced to hold fabricator, because neither party
them safely and securely in place and to controls the design process of the other
resist environmental influences such as component. To bridge this gap in the
wind gusts during the framing process. information process, a number of
Temporary bracing guidelines are engineering firms are beginning to
available through truss industry provide permanent bracing design based
documents for truss spans up to 60 ft. on their review of the wall and truss
For spans over 60 ft. a professional layouts supplied by separate parties.
For information regarding the
services of Alpine Structural engineer should be consulted for the
temporary bracing plan.
Alpine Structural Consultants
Consultants, for cold-formed steel
and wood construction projects, A division of Alpine Engineered
contact: 800-755-6001 or e-mail: Permanent Bracing Products, Alpine Structural Consultants,
info@alpinestructural.net Permanent bracing typically includes is an engineering group that can assist
continuous lateral bracing (CLB), with the design of an entire roof or floor
system by providing:
• Roof and floor diaphragm design
• Layout and design of trusses
• Engineered bracing systems for perm-
anent and temporary truss bracing
Web lateral brace • Truss-to-Truss and Truss-to-Bearing
connections
Web diagonal
brace
• Non-truss framing in trussed roof
structures, including engineered wood
products
• Complete truss system framing plans,
including design of stick framing
members such as:
- Fascia beams
- Headers
- Blocking
Truss Bracing Types - Over-framing
Bottom chord - End wall gable frames
lateral brace
Heel Blocking
Bottom chord
diagonal brace

Construction Loads
Storage of Materials During Installation
Unsafe Unsafe Small
Small Area Area Bundles
Bundles Small Bundles
Unsafe Area
Temporary Bearing Partition Bearing Partition or

Bracing or Beam & Column Beam & Column
Mechanical Equipment
Platform Stringers Perpendicular To Trusses
Mechanical
LOAD Unit LOAD
Stringers
(Sleepers)
Trusses
Trusses under mechanical units must be specifically designed and shall cover joints on each side adjacent to the stringers (sleepers).
may be doubled. Stringers (sleepers) shall be placed directly over If building designer is relying on the sheathing to support the
truss joints or a scab of the same size, grade and species of lumber mechanical load or other heavy load, it is important that the
as the top chord shall be nailed to the top chord @ 6" o.c. Scab building designer verify the sheathing thickness and capability.
Platform Stringers Parallel To Trusses

Mechanical
Unit
LOAD LOAD
Stringers
(Sleepers)
2X - Scab
(See Above)
2X Strongback
Trusses
Loads Suspended From Bottom Chords

Load
Perpendicular
To Trusses
LOAD
LOAD LOAD
Load Parallel
To Trusses
2X Reinforcement
When the load is perpendicular to trusses, reinforcement of NOTE: Mechanical loads may produce sufficient vibration to be
bottom chord as well as other parts of truss may be necessary. considered in the truss design. Such loads may require additional
When the load is parallel to trusses, reinforcement of bottom trusses or custom design.
chord may be necessary.
Construction Hardware
Hanger and Connection Installation Information
Installation Notes:
1. All specified fasteners must be installed according to the in- 6. Unless specified by a professional engineer, lag bolts should
structions in the catalog. Incorrect fastener quantity, size, type, or not be used with any product listed in the product guide.
material may cause the connector to perform poorly or even fail.
7. Bolt holes shall be a minimum of 1/32" and a maximum of 1/16"
2. All nails shown in the tables are to be common nails unless larger than the bolt diameter, per the 2001 NDS.
noted otherwise. Box nails or sinkers of the same nominal size
(length) are not to be used unless an appropriate reduction in the 8. When attaching a product to concrete or masonry, the product
hanger capacity has been made in accordance with the 2001 should be installed plumb, square and true. If necessary,
edition of the National Design Specification (NDS) published by temporarily brace the product in place while the concrete is
the American Forest and Paper Association. poured and cured.
3. When special short nails are indicated in the tables, use only 9. If power or pneumatic nail drivers are used, the nail should be
nails that have the same diameter as the listed common nail size. driven through the pre-punched holes only. Use the correct
• An 8d x 1 1/2 nail is 0.131 inch in diameter and 1 1/2" long. quantity and size of fasteners. The pneumatically driven nails
• A 10d x 1 1/2 nail is 0.148 inch in diameter and 1 1/2" long. shall conform to the nail sizes shown on the schedules. When
using powder actuated or pneumatic nail drivers, always follow
4. Do not use any other nails than those shown in the design load the specific written instructions for the equipment and wear safety
tables. If a smaller diameter nail or a shorter nail is used, the glasses. Improper use of the nail driving equipment may cause
listed design load may have to be reduced in accordance with the injury to others.
2001 NDS.
10. When prefabricated structural wood is framed into a hanger or
5. The proper installation of structural hangers is dependent on other product, follow the manufacturer's written instructions
the wood being sound and virtually unchecked in a continuously regarding nailing, minimum and maximum nail size, nail locations
dry environment. If the wood splits during nailing, it will not and the use of blocking or web stiffeners, if required.
support the listed load safely. The wood member should be
replaced. 11. Welding galvanized steel may produce harmful fumes. Please
follow proper welding procedures.
Do Not Use Roofing Nails Or

Shingle Nails In Hangers At Any Time. For additional information about connectors
hangers and hardware, visit Simpson’s Website:
Use The Exact Nails Specified http://www.strongtie.com
For The Hanger.

Cold-Formed Steel Trusses
®
The Most Trusted Name in CFS Trusses
Unmatched strength and stiffness in a cold-formed steel truss.

TrusSteel is the most accepted, most specified cold-formed steel stiffest cold-formed light gauge steel trusses on the market. Not
(CFS) truss system on the market today. No other building surprisingly, these same characteristics combine to create a light,
component combines strength, stiffness, fire resistance, insect economical steel building component having exceptional load-
resistance and design flexibility so well. span capabilities, with clear spans in excess of 80 ft.
The unique, patented truss chord shape and Double-Shear™ Supported by Alpine’s powerful VIEW® design and analysis
fasteners, combined with commercial-grade closed tube webs, software, TrusSteel CFS trusses provide reliable, economical
make TrusSteel CFS trusses, pound-for-pound, the strongest and structural solutions for almost every roof or floor application.
Contractor-Friendly Installation
Safer to Handle Save Time, Effort and Money
Unique features of TrusSteel trusses TrusSteel trusses streamline the
make them safe to handle and erect. building cycle and save money.
Stiffer trusses add handling control
• Timely quotations from local
and reduce the danger of buckling
TrusSteel Authorized Fabricators
during lifting and placement. The
provide competitive prices and
rolled edges of the chords and webs
define project costs up front.
help protect workers from cuts.
• Greater price stability with CFS
Easier to Install
trusses.
TrusSteel trusses can be as light as
• Sealed engineering drawings and
one-half the weight of similar wood or
code-compliant components
“C” channel steel trusses. Unlike some
expedite submittals.
other CFS trusses, laterally stiff
TrusSteel trusses resist folding or • Quicker turn-arounds for revisions.
“butterflying”. And TrusSteel trusses
• Delivered to the site ready to erect,
work exceptionally well in rafted
shop-built trusses save days of labor.
installations.
• Faster truss erection with accurate
No Special Tools Required layouts, extensive details, and a full
The tools you are now using to erect line of installation hardware.
light gauge steel framing are all you • Easier site inspections with
need to install TrusSteel trusses. A full comprehensive shop drawings and
line of TrusSteel construction hardware clearly identified components.
allows you to make connections with
standard screws. Installation details Delivered Quality
and construction hardware are
Roof lines plane accurately, eaves and
available from your Authorized
soffits align properly, and interior
TrusSteel Fabricator.
ceiling lines are flat and true. High-
Reduced Callbacks quality TrusSteel trusses help you
achieve your quality goals.
TrusSteel trusses reduce callbacks
because they start straighter and Delivered Value
remain straighter than many other
From bidding to punch list, TrusSteel
types of trusses. And the dimensional
delivers value to your project through
stability of steel reduces drywall
increased safety, quality, efficiency and
fastener pops.
cost-effectiveness.
®
The Most Trusted Name in CFS Trusses

Proven Benefits
• Outstanding design flexibility • Assured structural performance
TrusSteel CFS trusses provide the same span With over 35 years of experience in the truss
capabilities and design flexibilities as wood industry, you can rest assured that Alpine
trusses. And, the pre-engineered system understands the structural performance of
allows much greater design flexibility than trusses. The powerful VIEW truss design
steel “C” truss framing. As a result, you can software analyzes each truss individually
design in familiar roof lines – pitched or flat, using the latest industry standards, guided by
with hips, gables, gambrels, monos, the new ANSI/AISI/COFS/TRUSS 2000 -
mansards, cantilevers, overhangs, scissors – Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing -
and floor trusses. This design flexibility Truss Design. Finally, each truss design is Project Phoenix, the Pentagon rebuild
makes TrusSteel trusses ideal for almost any reviewed and sealed by an Alpine Professional
building type – new construction, retrofit, Engineer.
commercial, institutional, military,
• Quality trusses
educational, industrial and municipal
structures. TrusSteel CFS trusses are built in a shop
environment with experienced fabrication
• Easy to specify and design
personnel. TrusSteel endorses industry truss
There is a wealth of information available to shop quality control standards as developed
help you specify and design with TrusSteel. A by the Steel Truss & Component Association.
guide specification in CSI format, and
standard details in DXF and DWG formats, • Economical system
can assure that your specs and construction Since TrusSteel CFS trusses are the stiffest
documents are accurate and complete. trusses in the industry, less permanent
ICBO, NER and UL reports are available to bracing is typically required in the truss
assist you in making design decisions and in system. This feature, combined with
working with code officials. Local TrusSteel excellent performance at 4 ft. on-center
fabricators can aid you in making informed spacings or greater, can reduce the cost of the
decisions about project designs and costs. installed truss system through reduced labor
costs, materials and project duration.
• Responsible products
Property insurance premium discounts may
TrusSteel CFS trusses contribute to a safe provide long-term savings.
built environment. They do not emit
moisture or fumes during their life cycle. • Nationwide availability
They are resistant to insect attack, and do not TrusSteel supports the largest network of
provide a medium for the growth of mold. independent CFS truss fabricators in the
And over 64% of the steel used for CFS industry. This nationwide network assures
framing is recycled steel. that TrusSteel trusses are available for your
projects in every region of the United States.
• Recognized fire resistance
Noncombustible TrusSteel trusses provide
integral, recognized fire resistance that does
not fade with time. See page 4 for a list of
TrusSteel’s useful, cost-saving UL-listed roof
and floor assemblies.
®
TrusSteel design information, including Guide
ALPINE
Division of Alpine Engineered Products, Inc. Specifications, ICBO & NER reports, UL listed
assembly information and extensive Standard Details
in CAD formats is available on an interactive CD as
Design well as on www.TrusSteel.com. To order the
Resource interactive CD, send an e-mail to info@TrusSteel.net,
Disk
35 Years of Engineering Excellence April-2002
or call 888-565-9181, and ask for the TrusSteel Cold-
www.TrusSteel.com
888-565-9181 Formed Steel Truss Design Guide CD.

Standard Details
JACK HANGER DETAIL UPLIFT ATTACHMENT TO STEEL UPLIFT ATTACHMENT TO STEEL TrusSteel Connectors
An extensive set of TrusSteel connectors
and application details allows a designer
to create a complete truss framing
system, whatever the roof type,
supporting conditions or other framing
materials.
Bottom chord bearing jack to Bottom chord bearing truss to Bottom chord bearing truss to
girder truss (rated). steel girder connection (rated). header channel connection All TrusSteel connectors are load-rated
(rated). connectors, and you can have their per-
45° JACK HANGER SPRINKLER PIPE HANGER SPRINKLER PIPE HANGER
formance data at your fingertips with our
fully-noted Standard Details (simplified
examples shown here).
Bottom chord bearing jack truss Truss bottom chord hanger Truss top chord hanger detail
to girder truss connection detail (rated). (rated).
(rated).
Code Recognition
TrusSteel trusses are designed and built in the International Council of Building Officials
compliance with ASTM A370, ASTM A653, (ER-5638) and Underwriters Laboratories.
ASTM A500, ANSI Standards, and voluntary Visit our Web site to download the complete
standards as set out in our own reports from reports.
the National Evaluation Service (NER 529),
UL Listings TrusSteel products qualify for hourly ratings as shown below.
Design Assy. Hourly Material Assembly

®
Number Type Rating ALPINE
No. P515 R 1 Double layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board We can take the heat!
(pitched) Go ahead - compare us to any other system
on the market. Our 1, 1 ½ & 2 hour
single layer UL CLASSIFIED fire assemblies make
No. P525 R 1, 1-1/2, Single layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board TrusSteel the affordable system for
(pitched) 2 commercial and institutional projects.
SSSIIFF
U 1, 1-1/2 Single layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board LLAAS IIEE
CC
DD
UL
UL Design
Numbers
P525, P526,
RR
G542 & L551
U 2 Double layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board
Roof and Floor Truss
Single Layer Assemblies
No. P526 R,U 1 Single layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board with
(pitched) insulation in cavity ALPINE
TrusSteel is a division of Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.

888-565-9181 • www.TrusSteel.com
No. L551 U 1 Single layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board with Call about our 2-hr rated assemblies.
(flat / floor) insulation in cavity
No. G542 R,U 1 Single layer 5/8” Type C Gypsum Board with
(flat / floor) insulation in cavity
Notes
R = Restrained Assembly
U = Unrestrained Assembly
Typical Roof Truss Design Spans
® Every TrusSteel roof truss is a custom design based upon the unique load,
span, bearing, use, and code criteria of a particular project. The load /
span tables shown below demonstrate only a tiny subset of the possible
combinations available with TrusSteel CFS roof trusses.
Load 1 Load 2 Load 3 Load 4

20, 10, 10 psf 30, 10, 10 psf 20, 10, 10 psf 30, 10, 10 psf
90 mph wind 90 mph wind 140 mph wind 140 mph wind
Chord Size TSC2.75 TSC4.00 TSC2.75 TSC4.00 TSC2.75 TSC4.00 TSC2.75 TSC4.00
O.C. Truss Spans 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’ 2’ 4’
Common Pitch
3/12 48 26 80+ 62 38 20 80+ 52 48 26 80+ 62 38 20 80+ 52
4/12 56 31 80+ 77 45 23 80+ 60 56 31 80+ 77 45 23 80+ 60
5/12 62 33 80+ 80+ 52 27 80+ 65 62 33 80+ 80+ 52 27 80+ 65
6/12 64 36 80+ 80+ 55 27 80+ 75 64 33 80+ 80+ 55 27 80+ 75
7/12 64 37 80+ 80+ 56 28 80+ 80+ 64 35 80+ 80+ 56 28 80+ 80+
8/12 64 38 80+ 80+ 58 30 80+ 80+ 64 37 80+ 80+ 58 30 80+ 80+
Scissor Pitch
3/12 27 15 57 32 22 13 48 26 27 15 57 32 22 13 48 26
4/12 34 19 69 43 28 15 65 36 34 19 69 43 28 15 65 36
5/12 40 22 77 51 33 18 69 42 40 22 77 51 33 18 69 42
6/12 46 25 79 57 38 20 72 47 46 25 79 57 38 20 72 47
7/12 50 28 80+ 60 44 23 73 53 50 28 80+ 60 44 23 73 53
8/12 53 31 80+ 61 49 25 74 55 53 31 80+ 61 49 25 74 55
Mono Pitch
3/12 36 25 80+ 60 32 21 80+ 50 36 25 80+ 60 32 21 80+ 50
4/12 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52
5/12 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52
6/12 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52 34 26 80+ 64 32 23 80+ 52
7/12 34 28 80+ 64 33 23 80+ 52 34 28 80+ 64 33 23 80+ 52
8/12 34 28 80+ 64 33 23 80+ 52 34 28 80+ 64 33 23 80+ 52
Flat Depth
12” 22 18 24 20 19 16 24 20 22 18 24 20 19 16 24 20
18” 30 23 36 28 29 21 33 27 30 23 36 28 29 21 33 27
24” 39 28 45 35 35 25 42 32 39 28 45 35 35 25 42 32
36” 49 35 64 46 44 28 59 41 49 35 64 46 44 28 59 41
48” 58 36 75 55 51 29 70 49 58 36 75 55 51 29 70 49
60” 65 36 80+ 62 57 29 80 55 65 36 80+ 62 57 29 80 55
72” 66 33 80+ 68 51 25 80+ 61 66 33 80+ 68 51 25 80+ 61
General Notes:
1) Spans shown in charts are in feet.
2) Loads shown above are outlined as Top Chord Live Load (TCLL), Top Chord
Dead Load (TCDL), and Bottom Chord Dead Load (BCDL).
3) Top chord designed assuming structural sheathing offers lateral restraint.
4) Bottom chords designed assuming lateral restraint spaced at 24 inches on center.
5) Deflection limits: Live Load - L/360 Total Load - L/240
6) Trusses designed with ASCE7-98 wind
- Wind speed shown in charts
- Exposure C
- Building category II
- Truss bearing elevation is 8’0”
- No topographic effect from escarpment or hill taken into account
- Enclosed building
7) Some trusses above may require a piggyback truss due to excessive truss height.
8) 80+ as shown above means that a span in excess of 80’0” is possible. Refer to
TrusSteel Technical Bulletin TB991102 and a TrusSteel engineer regarding these
spans.
9) Scissor trusses designed with a bottom chord pitch equal to half of the top chord
pitch i.e. a 6/12 top chord pitch scissor truss will have a 3/12 bottom chord pitch.
10) Designs may include multiple gauges for top and bottom chords as determined by
the designer using Alpine’s VIEW engineering software. Maximum chord gauges
are 18 gauge for the TSC2.75 chord and 16 gauge for the TSC4.00 chord.
11) The truss web pattern used in the design is to be determined by the designer
using Alpine’s VIEW engineering software.

About The Truss Industry
Evolution of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses

The highly engineered metal plate connected wood truss as we simply nailed joints, to form “wood trusses” to speed the jobsite
know it today is the evolution from a principle known to time for framing roofs.
building designers for centuries. Architectural trussing was a
late Roman invention, although it didn’t really become popular This practice was continued following the end of the war to
until the early Gothic period in Northern France around 1100. fulfill a pent-up demand for single family housing.
Church construction began to feature pointed arches and vaults,
and an overall feeling of height. The latter was not always just To shorten the labor intensive process of cutting the plywood
an impression - some ceilings towered 150 feet above the gussets and glue/nailing them to the dimensional lumber, a light
faithful. gauge metal plate was devised. The early plates were predrilled
to receive nails - still somewhat labor intensive, but an
By the 15th century, Leonardo Da Vinci’s notebooks contained improvement.
numerous drawings and comments about the strengths of
framing members arranged in triangular configurations. Looking to reduce the labor and increase truss production,
Carol Sanford invented a light gauge metal plate with “teeth”
The practice of binding, or connecting, structural members in punched from the base metal. These plates could then be
triangular configurations results in a product known as a truss. imbedded into the lumber by a mechanical device. His metal
Prior to the 1940's most trusses in the building industry were connector became a forerunner of today’s modern, highly
constructed of heavy steel. The use of wood as members was engineered and tested quality connector.
primarily limited to timbers with bolted connections in large
buildings and bridges. Lumber used in manufacturing trusses has also changed
drastically. In the early days, ordinary construction lumber was
The early days of World War II created a demand for the hurried used. Much of the lumber now used in trusses is machine stress
construction of a large amount of military housing. To satisfy rated or visually graded lumber whose stress rating is based on
this demand, engineers in many cases chose dimensional rules established by years of testing. The reliability of lumber
lumber, connected with glued and nailed plywood gussets, or today is more predictable.
Adding to these improvements are the methods used to cut and

assemble the wooden members of the truss. Widespread use of
Alpine's Wave saws with computer controlled angle and length settings assure
Connector Plate more accurate fitting of pieces and joints than with older hand
set saws. Computer aided controls are also used to set the
jigging points during the truss assembly and manufacturing
process, further assuring more accurate fit of members and
joints.
The wood truss is now a highly engineered product utilizing

two excellent materials; wood, an energy efficient, renewable
resource and steel, a recyclable resource.
Wood Truss The Canadian Wood Truss Association
The Industry Council

of America The Truss Plate Institute Of Canada
L'Association Canadienne des
Fabricants de Fermes de Bois
The metal plate connected wood truss industry is represented by high standards in the manufacture and delivery of trusses by its
two trade associations. In the U.S.A., connector plate manu- member firms and is active in the marketing of and education
facturers are organized in an association known as the Truss about trusses. WTCA publishes the Metal Plate Connected
Plate Institute (TPI), and the truss manufacturers association is Wood Truss Handbook, a complete guide to the design,
named the Wood Truss Council of America (WTCA). Both manufacturing and use of wood trusses and other publications
organizations are located in Madison, Wisconsin. (see Appendix B). WTCA produces educational video present-
ations to train in the proper installation of trusses. WTCA and
TPI is responsible for developing and publishing the design and TPI is the voice of the industry in government and code matters.
testing methodology for wood trusses and is accredited by the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as a consensus In Canada, the metal plate connected wood truss industry is
based standards writing organization. A listing of the standards similarly represented by two trade associations. The Truss Plate
and recommended practices of TPI is contained in Appendix B. Institute of Canada (TPIC) and The Canadian Wood Truss
WTCA, is an association of wood truss manufacturers, and Association (CWTA).
works closely with TPI on many projects. WTCA promotes
Sources Of Information
Wood Truss Handbook

For technical design and additional information about wood trusses, the Wood Truss Council of
America (WTCA) publishes the Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Handbook. The publication
contains more than 300 pages of references regarding the truss manufacturing industry. It is
considered the most comprehensive reference of its kind in the industry.
The Handbook covers the A-to-Z of information about wood trusses.
Contact:
Wood Truss Council of America, 5937 Meadowood Drive, Suite 14, Madison, WI 53711-4125
Phone: 608/274-4849, Fax: 608/274-3329
Internet Web Site

Alpine maintains a site on the Internet’s world wide web
that provides additional reference material and links to
hundreds of pages of useful information about trusses and
other products. The entire Construction Hardware
Division’s catalog is there, as well as full specifications and
information about FR-Systems Fire Resistance Assemblies.
Please visit that site for additional information, parts of this
publication, or just for browsing. You can find us at the
following URL: http://www.alpeng.com
Video Training
Alpine makes available, through truss manufacturers who
use their products and services, a number of video
productions that are great for use in training new employees
or in safety meetings.
Some of the subjects available are:

• Lifting Wood Trusses by Crane
• Handling, Installing and Bracing of
Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses
Your truss manufacturer also has available video

presentations for loan that are produced by the Wood Truss
Council of America.
• MPC Trusses: Fire Performance, Tactics
and Strategy
• Bracing and Erecting Wood Trusses
• Building With Floor Trusses
ALPIN
E
Contact your local truss manufacturer
for additional information.

Truss Design Considerations
Types Of Stresses To Be Considered In The Design Of Trusses
Compressive Stress Parallel To Grain Tensile Stress Horizontal Shear

Truss top chords are generally in compres- When subjected to tensile stress, wood Horizontal shear occurs along the grain,
sion. When subjected to compressive stress, members can elongate. Truss bottom chords causing fibers to slide over each other. In
wood members can buckle. The longer and are normally in tension. In lumber, tension lumber, horizontal shear strength is
more slender the member is, the less com- strength is measured by the Ft value. measured by the Fv value.
pressive force it takes to buckle. In lumber,
the compressive strength is measured by the
Fc value.
Vertical Shear
Compressive Stress Perpendicular To Grain An example of vertical shear occurs at the
An example of compression perpendicular to inside of the truss support. Wood is
Bending grain is the bottom chord sitting on a stronger in vertical shear than horizontal
Bending occurs between supports when support. It is necessary that the bottom shear. Since a vertical shearing force pro-
lumber is subjected to loads. Bending chord lumber area be sufficient to prevent duces both vertical and horizontal shear
strength is measured by the Fb value of the side grain crushing. Lumber's resistance to stresses, wood will fail in horizontal shear
lumber. crushing is rated by the Fc value. instead of vertical shear.
Loads In Wood Trusses

This truss illustrates the action of the various stresses
occurring along the wood members.
The applied loads induce stresses and movement in the truss This Member Is
members. A stable truss will resist these stresses. Load
In Compression
The wood members are designed to resist the stress according
Deflection
to the allowable design values published in the National This Member Is
Design Specification For Wood Construction (NDS). NDS is In Tension Bearing
published by the National Forest Products Association.
Forces at the member joints are resisted by metal connector
plates that are held in place by "teeth" punched out of the
base metal at right angles. The plates are rated for lateral
resistance (tooth holding), shear, and tension and require Reaction Reaction
review and approval by each of the model codes.
Short Term Loading

Wood has the ability of carrying a greater load for short Load Type Duration Adjustment
durations than for long durations. Of Load Factor
Dead Load Permanent .90

Duration Of Load Adjustment Floor Live - Normal 10 Years 1.00
The table shows the more common types of loads, their expected accumulated Snow Load 2 Months 1.15
duration and the factor of adjustment in the allowable lumber stresses and the Construction 7 Days 1.25
Wind/Earthquake Load* 10 Minutes 1.60
lateral resistance value (tooth holding) of the connector plate. Note: the Impact Impact 2.00
factors do not apply to shear and tension in the connector plate, nor do they
* 1.33 in some codes
apply to E and Fc z. See NDS Section 2.3 for possible exceptions. 1.60%
Other Adjustments 1.25%

1.15%
Other adjustments to design values may be necessary. Consult NDS 1.00%
Chapter 2. The value of lumber in extreme fiber bending "F b" may
LOAD
LOAD
10 Minutes
be increased when there are three or more trusses spaced not more
2 Months
10 Years
than 24 inches on center and are joined by load-distributing

=
7 Days
Load Capacity
elements. Normal Duration
In special single-member applications where deflection may be a
critical factor, or where deformation must be limited, reduction of
modulus of elasticity (E) value may be appropriate.
Appendix A -- Weight Of Materials
All weights are pounds per square foot (psf) unless otherwise shown.
DECKING AND INSULATION LUMBER (32 pcf)

3/8 inch thick Plywood / OSB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.2 Nominal Size: @ 12" oc @ 16" oc @ 24" oc
1/2 inch thick Plywood / OSB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.7 2x4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.4. . . . . . . . . . 1.1. . . . . . . . . . 0.7
5/8 inch thick Plywood / OSB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1 2x6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2. . . . . . . . . . 1.7. . . . . . . . . . 1.1
3/4 inch thick plywood / OSB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 2x8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.9. . . . . . . . . . 2.2. . . . . . . . . . 1.5
1-1/8 inch thick plywood / OSB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6 2x10. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.7. . . . . . . . . . 2.8. . . . . . . . . . 1.9
1 inch nominal wood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3 2x12. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.4. . . . . . . . . . 3.3. . . . . . . . . . 2.2
2 inch nominal wood decking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3
16 ga. Corrugated Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 WOOD TRUSSES - (APPROXIMATE)
20 ga. Corrugated Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.8 Based on Southern Pine
22 ga. Corrugated Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.5 Top Chord Bottom Chord PLF 24" oc.
24 ga. Corrugated Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 2x4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x4. . . . . . . . . . 5.2. . . . . . . . . . 2.6
28 ga. Corrugated Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0 2x6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x4. . . . . . . . . . 6.1. . . . . . . . . . 3.1
Rigid Fiberglass - 1 inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.5 2x6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x6. . . . . . . . . . 6.9. . . . . . . . . . 3.5
Styrofoam - 1 inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.2 2x8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x6. . . . . . . . . . 7.8. . . . . . . . . . 3.9
Insulrock - 1 inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7 2x8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x8. . . . . . . . . . 8.5. . . . . . . . . . 4.3
Poured gypsum - 1 inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.5 2x10 . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x8. . . . . . . . . . 9.3. . . . . . . . . . 4.7
Rock Wool - per 1 inch of thickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.4 2x10 . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x10. . . . . . . . . 10.1 . . . . . . . . . 5.2
Glass Wool - per 1 inch of thickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.2 2x12 . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x10. . . . . . . . . 10.9 . . . . . . . . . 5.5
Vermiculite - per 1 inch of thickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.6 2x12 . . . . . . . . . . . . 2x12. . . . . . . . . 11.6 . . . . . . . . . 5.8
We suggest the addition of 1.5 psf for misc. dead loads
WALLS AND PARTITIONS
Masonry, per 4 inches of thickness: FLOOR TRUSSES - (APPROXIMATE)
Brick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38.0 Based on Southern Pine
Concrete Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30.0 All members 2x4 - Weights are PLF
Stucco - 7/8 inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.0
2x4 Framing @ 16" oc with ½ inch Depth in inches Single Double
Thick gypsum each side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.0 Chord Chord
2x6 Framing @ 16" oc with ½ inch 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thick gypsum each side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.0 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.4
18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.6
CEILINGS
20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.9
1/2 inch thick Gypsum board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2
24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.4
5/8 inch thick Gypsum board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.8
5/8 inch thick Type X Gypsum bd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.0
Acoustical Fiber Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Metal Grid Ceiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.8 Pipe Size Dry (PLF) Wet (PLF)
Plaster - 1 inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.0 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
Plaster on Metal Lath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.5 1 1/4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.0
1 ½ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6
2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.2
ROOFING 2 ½ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.9
Asphalt Shingles - Minimum (1 Layer) . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.6. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.8
Clay Tile Shingles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.0 3 ½ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.2. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.5
1/4 inch Slate Shingles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.0 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.9 . . . . . . . . . . . . 16.4
Wood Shakes - 5/8 inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.0 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.8 . . . . . . . . . . . . 23.5
3 Ply & Gravel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.6 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19.2 . . . . . . . . . . . . 31.7
4 Ply & Gravel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.0 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.8
5 Ply & Gravel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.5
FLOORING NOTE: The weight of wood and wood products will vary
Hardwood - 1 inch nominal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.0 as the moisture content varies and as density of grain varies.
Quarry Tile 3/4 inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.0 Code of jurisdiction should be consulted for live load
Linoleum or Soft Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.5 requirements. Weight of manufactured products should be
Vinyl Tile - 1/8 inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.4 verified with manufacturers.
Concrete:
Reinforced 1 ½ inch thick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.5
Lightweight 1 ½ inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.5
Terrazzo 1 ½ inch thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19.0

Appendix B -- References
The materials listed below provide a good resource library for the design and use of wood
trusses. Please contact the publisher/group directly for further information.
American Forest & Paper Association (AFPA) 202/463-2700 Southern Forest Products Association (SFPA) 504/443-4464
1111 19th St. NW, # 700 • Washington, DC 20036 www.afandpa.org P. O. Box 641700 • Kenner, LA 70064 www.southernpine.com
• National Design Specification for Wood Construction (NDS) • Southern Pine Maximum Spans for Joists and Rafters
• Wood Frame Construction Manual • Southern Pine Use Guide
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 212/642-4900 Southern Building Code Congress 205/591-1853
11 West 47th Street • New York, NY 10036 web.ansi.org International, Inc. (SBCCI) www.sbcci.org
• See TPI 900 Montclair Road • Birmingham, AL 35213-1206
• Standard Building Code
APA - The Engineered Wood Association 206/565-6600 • Wind Design Standard, SSTD 10-93
1119 A Street • Tacoma, WA 98401 www.apa.wood.org
• Use of Rated Sheathing in Roofs and Floors Truss Plate Institute (TPI) 608/833-5900
• Fire Rated Systems 583 D’Onofrio Drive, Suite 200 • Madison, WI 53719 www.tpinst.org
• Diaphragm Design • National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected
Wood Truss Construction, ANSI/TPI 1-2002
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) www.asce.org • Standard for Testing Metal Plate
1801 Alexander Bell Dr. • Reston, VA 20191-4400 Connected Wood Trusses, ANSI/TPI 2-1995
• Minimum Design Loads for Buildings And Other Structures, ASCE7 • Recommended Design Specification for Temporary
Bracing of MPC Wood Trusses, DSB-89
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) www.astm.org • Handling, Installation and Bracing Metal
1916 Rice Street • Philadelphia, PA 19103 Plate Connected Wood Trusses, HIB-91
• Test Methods for Fire Tests for Building Construction and Materials, E-119
Western Wood Products Association (WWPA) 503/224-3930
Building Officials and Code 708/799-2300 533 SW Fifth Ave. • Portland, OR 97204 www.wwpa.org
Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA) www.bocaresearch.com • Western Lumber Product Use Manual
4051 W. Flossmoor Road • Country Club Hills, IL 60478
• The BOCA National Building Code Wood Truss Council of America 608/274-4849
One WTCA Center www.woodtruss.com
Council of American Building Officials (CABO) 703/931-4533 6300 Enterprise Ln. • Madison, WI 53719
5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 798 • Falls Church, VA 22041 www.cabo.org • Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Handbook
• One and Two Family Dwelling Code • Job-Site Bracing Poster - TTB Series
• ANSI/TPI/WTCA 4-2002
Forest Products Laboratory www.fpl.fs.fed.us
U.S. Department of Agriculture
One Gifford Pinchot Drive • Madison, WI 53705
Canadian References
• Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineered Material
Alpine Systems Corporation 905/879-0700
Gypsum Association 202/289-5440 70 Moyal Court • Concord, ON L4K 4R8 www.alpeng.com
810 First St. NE, # 510 • Washington, DC 20002 www.gypsum.org • Truss Design Procedures and Specifications for
• Fire Resistance Design Manual, GA-600 Light Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses
(Limit States Design), published by TPIC
International Code Council (ICC) 703-931-4533
5203 Leesburg Pike, #600 • Falls Church, VA 22041 www.intlcode.org Canadian Wood Truss Association - L'Association 613/747-5544
• International Building Code Canadienne des Fabricants de Fermes de Bois www.cwc.ca
• International Residential Code 1400 Blair Place, Suite 210 • Ottawa, ON K1J 9B8
• Wood Design Manual
International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) 213/699-0541
5360 S. Workman Mill Rd • Whittier, CA 90601 www.icbo.com Canadian Standards Association 416/747-4044
• Uniform Building Code 178 Rexdale Boulevard • Rexdale, ON M9W 1R3 www.csa.ca
• Uniform Fire Code • CSA 086.194 "Engineering Design
in Wood (Limit States Design)"
NAHB Research Center 301-249-4000 • CSA S347-M1980 "Method of Test for Evaluation
400 Prince Georges Blvd. • Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 www.nahbrc.org of Truss Plates Used in Lumber Joints"
National Frame Builders Association (NFBA) 913/843-2111 National Research Council of Canada 613/993-2463
4980 W. 15th St., # 1000 • Lawrence, KS 66049 www.postframe.org Institute for Research in Construction www.nrc.ca/irc
• Post Frame Building Design 1500 Montreal Road • Ottawa, ON K1A 9Z9
• Post Frame Comes of Age • National Building Code of Canada (NBCC)
• Recommended Practices-Post Frame Construction • National Farm Building Code of Canada (NFBCC)
Appendix C -- Glossary
AXIAL FORCE - A push (compression) or pull (tension) acting along the HEEL - Point on a truss at which the top and bottom chord intersect at
length of a member. Usually measured in pounds (lbs). the end of a truss with a sloping top chord.
AXIAL STRESS - The axial force acting along the length of a member, LATERAL BRACING - A member installed and connected at right
divided by the cross-sectional area of the member. Usually measured in angles to a chord or web member of a truss to resist lateral movement.
pounds per square inch (psi).
LEVEL RETURN - Lumber filler placed horizontally from the end of an
BEARING - Structural support of a truss, usually walls, hangers or posts. overhang to the outside wall to form soffit framing.
BENDING MOMENT - A measure of the bending effect on a member LIVE LOAD - Any load which is not of permanent nature, such as snow,
due to forces acting perpendicular to the length of the member. The wind, seismic, movable concentrated loads, furniture, etc. Live loads are
bending moment at the given point along a member equals the sum of all generally of short duration.
perpendicular forces, either to the left or right of the point, times their
corresponding distances from the point. Usually measured in inch- NOMINAL SPAN - Horizontal distance between outside edges of the
pounds. outermost supports.
BENDING STRESS - The force per square inch acting at a point along OVERHANG - The extension of the top chord (usually) or bottom chord
the length of a member, resulting from the bending moment applied at of a truss beyond the support.
that point. Usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
PANEL - The chord segment defined by two successive joints.
BOTTOM CHORD - A horizontal or inclined (scissors truss) member
that establishes the lower edge of a truss, usually carrying combined PANEL LENGTH - The centerline distance between joints measured
tension and bending stresses. along the chord.
BRACING - See Lateral Bracing PANEL POINT - The centerline of the point of intersection in a joint
where a web(s) meets a chord.
BUILT-UP BEAM - A single unit composed of two or more wood
members having the same thickness but not necessarily the same depth, PEAK - Point on a truss where the sloped top chords meet.
which provides a greater load carrying capacity as well as greater
resistance to deflection. PLUMB CUT - Top chord cut that is plumb to the building floor line
provided for vertical installation of a fascia.
BUTT - CUT - Slight vertical cut at outside end of truss bottom chord
made to insure uniform nominal span and tight joints. Usually 1/4-inch. PURLIN - A horizontal member in a roof perpendicular to the truss top
chord used to support the decking.
CAMBER - An upward vertical displacement built into a truss, usually to
offset deflection due to dead load. REACTION - Forces acting on a truss through its supports that are equal
but opposite to the sum of the dead and live loads.
CANTILEVER - The part of a structural member that extends beyond
its support. SHEARWALL - A wall element that acts as a large vertical beam,
cantilevered from the foundation to resist lateral forces on the building.
CLEAR SPAN - Horizontal distance between interior edges of supports.
SLOPE (Pitch) - The inches of vertical rise in 12 inches of horizontal run
COMBINED STRESS - The combination of axial and bending stresses for inclined members, generally expressed as 3/12, 4/12 etc.
acting on a member simultaneously, such as occurs in the top chord
(compression + bending) or bottom chord (tension + bending) of a truss. SPLICE POINT (Top or Bottom Chord Splice) - The point at which
two chord members are joined together to form a single member.
CONCENTRATED LOAD - An additional load centered at a given
point. An example is a crane or hoist hanging from the bottom chord at a SQUARE CUT - A cut perpendicular to the slope of the member at its
panel point or mechanical equipment supported by the top chord. end.
DEAD LOAD - Permanent loads that are constantly on the truss, ie: the TOP CHORD - An inclined or horizontal member that establishes the
weight of the truss itself, purlins, sheathing, roofing, ceiling, etc. upper edge of a truss, usually carrying combined compression and
bending stresses.
DEFLECTION - Downward or horizontal displacement of a truss due to
loads. TRUSS - A pre-built component that functions as a structural support
member. A truss employs one or more triangles in its construction.
DIAPHRAGM - A large, thin structural element that acts as a horizontal
beam to resist lateral forces on a building. VIBRATION - The term associated with the serviceability of a floor. If
the occupant feels the floor respond to walking or other input, it may be
DRAG STRUT - Typically a horizontal member, such as a truss or beam, referred to as vibration or response to load.
that transfers shear from a diaphragm to a shearwall.
WEBS - Members that join the top and bottom chords to form the
DURATION OF LOAD FACTOR - An adjustment in the allowable triangular patterns that give truss action, usually carrying tension or
stress in a wood member, based on the duration of the load causing the compression stresses (no bending).
stress. The shorter the time duration of the load, the higher the
percentage increase in allowable stress.

Truss Production Sequence
Computer Design Workstation Automated Sawing
Computer Aided Jigging For Lumber Connector Plate Placement
Truss Pressing Job Staging
Delivery Erection
Alpine Good Connections
Professional
Truss Support
ALPINE
Coast to Coast ALPINE
ALPINE
ALPINE
ALPINE
ALPINE
ALPINE
ALPINE
www.alpeng.com ALPINE
Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.

Florida: Home Office • P.O. Box 2225 • Pompano Beach, FL 33061 • 954-781-3333
1950 Marley Drive • Haines City, FL 33844 • 941-422-8685
Texas: 2820 N. Great Southwest Parkway • Grand Prairie, TX 75050 • 972-660-4422
Missouri: 13389 Lakefront Drive • Earth City, MO 63045 • 314-344-9121
Illinois: 825 S. Industrial Drive • Litchfield, IL 62056 • 217-324-0303
California: 8351 Rovana Circle • Sacramento, CA 95828 • 916-387-0116
Alpine Systems Corporation

Ontario: 70 Moyal Court • Concord, ON L4K 4R8 • 905-879-0700
Québec: 2 Place de Commerce, Suite 207 • Brossard, PQ J4W 2T8 • 514-923-5555
British Columbia: 2922 Glen Drive, #204 • Coquitlam, BC V3B 2P5 • 604-944-4100
Alpine Engineered Products

Truss Design

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Truss Design

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Truss Design

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

What is Alpine Engineered Products and what services do they provide?

What is Alpine Engineered Products and what services do they provide?

What is involved in the truss production process?

What is involved in the truss production process?

Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.

A GUIDE TO USING TRUSSES

Since 1966 architects and builders have specified

Alpine maintains a leadership position in the

Alpine’s truss design methodology is in

Truss manufacturers in the United States,

© Copyright 2003 Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.

The Encyclopedia of Trusses is intended as a guide to architects,

Alpine Engineered Products, Inc., nor any of its divisions or

Benefits of Framing With Trusses:

Alpine Engineered Products 1

Special Benefits for Architects and Engineers

" Trusses offer simple solutions to complex designs

" Nationally recognized standards for truss design

" The wide nailing surface of 4x2 floor trusses safely

" Expenses are accurately controlled because truss

" Open web design allows easy installation of

" Trusses are available locally for fast delivery. More

Special Benefits for the Owner

" The resiliency of wood provides a floor system that

" Wood is a natural insulator because it is composed

" Roof truss details such as tray, vaulted or studio

" Floor trusses can conceal mechanical services,

" Trusses provide clear spans so interior walls can be

Alpine Engineered Products 3

Checklist of Information Needed by Truss Manufacturers

A discussion of each item follows:

Building Code of Jurisdiction

Design (Specified) Loads

Lack of information about any of these conditions could

Alpine Engineered Products 5

To Figure Truss Requirements Calculations Truss Order

6 Standard 24'-0" Trusses clipped on one end.

1 Terminal Hip Set 24'-0" overhang one end.

FOR SMALLER RECTANGLE

7 Determine the number of Valley Frames. Valleys for 24'-0" Span.

Terminal Hip Set 11 Standard Trusses 24" O.C. Hip Set

Hip End 24'-0"

Framing With Roof Trusses

Framing With Floor Trusses

Alpine Engineered Products 7

Queen Post (Fan) -- Spans 10' to 22'

Fink (W) -- Spans 16' to 33'

Howe (K) -- Spans 24' to 36'

Vault - Three Bearing Points

Fan (Double Fan) -- Spans 30' to 36'

Modified Queen (Multi-Panel) -- Spans 32' to 44'

Double Fink (WW) -- Spans 40' to 60'

Double Howe (KK) -- Spans 40' to 60'

Triple Howe (KKK) -- Spans 54' to 80' Howe Scissors

Double Cantilever With Parapets

Flat Truss With Cantilever (Pratt Configuration)

Top Chord Bearing Flat Truss (Pratt Configuration)

Flat Truss (Warren Configuration)

Sloping Parallel Chords (Howe Configuration)