Alpine

Ask Charlie V Ask Charlie V . . 38 Strength-wise, what is the difference between conventional framing and trusses? Isn't conventional framing as strong? CV: It should be, but, how do you know? Trusses are designed with 2 to 3 times the design load. They are calculated and tested to perform at that level. The conventional framing depends on how good the carpenter in charge of the framing is. The only thing he knows about loading is what's been done in the past from a skilled carpenter. Most don't have formal training today. Why use trusses? CV: Trusses offer virtually unlimited architectural versatility - complete flexibility of interior partitioning and room arrangement - uniformity and accuracy from one truss to the next - faster and easier erection time - lightweight (generally 20 to 40 percent less than most other structural systems) - open web design - durable. They have a proven performance record - inspectable and "total in-place cost" savings. Esthetically, I can take one basic floor plan and leave it exactly the same. Yet, from the outside, I can make it look like four different floor plans, just by changing the trusses. The only cost difference is the trusses, not the floor plan. I am only showing you four; but, with imagination, I can do a few more elevations. If I have the resources, I can virtually work all winter on homes by building the outside shell of the house in fair weather, and work on the inside during inclement weather and get a good day's work done. If I was conventionally framing, my days would be more subject to the elements. Most people with construction loans don't get to their first draw until the roof is dried in. Trusses will get you there weeks ahead of conventional framing. With trusses, if the square foot of the floor plan is the same, no matter what I do to the floor plan, my cost difference would be the cost of adding or deleting a wall. Since trusses can span longer distances than conventional framing, I don't often rely on interior load bearing walls, so you can make changes to the interior without major problems. Plus, I can create heavy storage areas above the ceiling if needed, without changing the floor plan. Is it OK to cut a truss in the field? CV: Structural members of a truss should never be field cut without proper field repair For nearly 46 years, Charlie Vaccaro has worked in virtually every phase of the truss industry. Originally an aeronautical engineer, he has designed truss connector plates and trusses, started truss plants, and as been an Alpine production consultant since 1970. Today, he serves as a speaker, author and National Sales and Plant Consultant for Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.

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