Inspection of Metal Plate–Connected Wood Trusses in Residential Construction
Publication: Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction
Volume 19, Issue 2
Abstract
The engineered nature of metal plate–connected wood trusses may not be well understood by installers and other trade professionals, which can result in installation errors. Truss manufacturing, handling, and installation specifications are included in national design standards and truss misinstallation is therefore a code violation. Through use of the Delphi method, an expert-validated inspection methodology was developed by interviewing code officials, home inspectors, and truss manufacturers. The results included (1) identification of truss installation errors most likely to occur, (2) best practices for inspection methods, (3) determination of authoritative documentation, and (4) validation of the research methods. The inspection should begin at the top of the structure and move in a circular, systematic pattern downward through each level, and should concentrate on the identified high-risk aspects of truss installation. Installation problems include the following: broken or cut webs and chords; damaged, offset, loose, or missing gusset plates; bracing; bearing; leaning and bowing; cantilevers; hanger hardware; and temporary repairs.
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References
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction
Volume 19 • Issue 2 • May 2014
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jul 31, 2013
Accepted: Aug 27, 2013
Published online: Aug 29, 2013
Published in print: May 1, 2014
Discussion open until: Jul 13, 2014
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