What is a Floor Truss ?
A floor truss is a geometric design using wood members fastened together with metal connector plates to form a structure which supports a given floor load.

Are Floor Trusses Something New ?
No.
Timber Tech Truss has been building floor trusses for over 25 Years.
It is estimated that 80% of all residential multi family projects in Southern Alberta are built with floor trusses. The floor truss has become the floor system of choice in Southern Alberta, Saskatchewan and Eastern Canada

Why Have Floor Trusses Become So Popular Lately ?
There are numerous answers to this question, however, the most important are the many cost saving benefits.

What Are Some Of The Advantages Of 4X2 Floor Trusses ?

Do Floor Trusses Deflect A lot ?
No! Floor trusses are not permitted to deflect more than 1/360 of the span length when under full load. To offset even this tiny deflection, camber is built in to the truss. In addition all Timber Tech Floor trusses are designed at a minimum L/480 which stiffens the floor even more.

How Are Floor Trusses Manufactured ?
Shops specifically set up to produce uniform, quality floor trusses. Trusses are assembled on jig tables. Metal connector plates are then pressed into the truss at the joints using special truss manufacturing equipment. After the truss is fabricated, clamps are released and the truss is ejected from the jig.
> Watch the video on Wood Floor Truss Systems.(Opens in new window)

Are Floor Trusses Designed By The Trial And Error Method ?
No.... Floor truss configurations are designed and certified by our registered Design Technician.

What Does A Design Technician Do With Floor Trusses ?
Many things, however, basically they analyze the structure for span length, depth of trusses permitted, and loads that the trusses are to carry. They also evaluate special conditions such as stair and chimney openings, cantilevers, placement of exterior and interior walls, etc.. Then the truss is designed reflecting type of material, web placement, and plate sizes so that the truss meets all conditions requested.

Are Floor Trusses Easy to Install ?
Yes... particularly on single story structures where the trusses can be erected and placed manually. On multiple story structures, a crane is usually used to lift the trusses to the desired height.

Are Floor Trusses Heavy And Unwieldy ?
No... the approximate weight of the 12" high floor truss is five pounds per linear foot. Therefore, a 20 foot truss that is 12" deep would weigh about 100 pounds - a weight easily managed by one or two men., In addition, because of the open web design, there are always ample hand gripping areas.

Is Cross Bridging Required ?
A 2" x 6" continuous strongback is used in place of cross bridging. This helps distribute the load to five to seven trusses instead of only two to three trusses as bridging does.

What Kind Of Lumber Is Used In Floor Trusses ?
Only the finest lumber available as listed in the "National Design Specification" manuals for stress graded lumber.

How Much Nailing Surface Is Available On The Trusses ?
Because the lumber is used flat, both the top and bottom chords of the truss have 3 1/2 inches of nailing surface the full length of the truss.

Are Stairwell Openings Difficult To Do ?
No. Several methods can be used to address stair openings.

Do Contractors And Builders Like Floor Trusses ?
Like anything different or new the first job ordered may produce some skepticism. But after that, few contractors or builders return to the use of floor joists.

How About The Ultimate Consumer ?
Builders who use floor trusses often state that consumers are delighted their basements are void of beams, posts, etc., and that in effect are complete living areas.

What Steel Is Used In The Connector Plates ?
The only steel permitted for use is metal connector plates by the Truss Plate Institute and all government regulatory agencies is top quality, prime galvanized steel. No seconds or reject steel is permitted.Timber Tech Floors uses
MITEK Connector Plates. > Visit MITEK website for more info.

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