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Truss installation method

Truss installation method

Truss installation method

(OP)
I usually subscribe to the Solidworks Forum... but I'm building a garage and thought the members of this forum could offer me some advice regarding installation.

The garage is 22 X 26 feet. I'm installing fink type trusses, 22 feet long, 19 trusses 16 inches on center..... and 2 gable ends (it's a fairly simple, straightforward design).

  When installing the trusses is it typical to install a single gable end truss, brace it and sequentially add the other trusses, bracing them...AND FINALLY INTALL THE OTHER GABLE END.....

OR... do you intall the TWO gable ends first.... and then fill in the trusses, WITbracing as you go along?

Thank you for your suggestions.

RE: Truss installation method

Usually you start at one end and work to the other.  But there should be some literature that came with the trusses outlining proper bracing.  Its not just a few 2x struts down the ground.  Usually it involves X-bracing within the attic space as you progress.

I got involved in a serious lawsuit some years ago where two brothers were setting up trusses - 14 in all - in a similar construction to yours.  They got to number 13, all the while using little 2x4's to space out the trusses at 2 feet on center.  They ignored the bracing plan that came with the trusses and as no. 13 was being lifted in place the whole thing came crashing down.  

Just a little out-of-plumb for that many trusses is a lot of weight to resist laterally.  

RE: Truss installation method

(OP)
JAE,

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, I did get the colored summary sheet BCSI B1... and in addition I've been reading about bracing and how important the temporary bracing is as well as the permanent bracing.

Was really curious about starting at one end and working the way down to the end gable and then installing that gable....

Any other tips would be well received.  

Thanks.

RE: Truss installation method

Yes - start at one end work your way down to the other FOLLOWING ALL bracing recommendations.  Some people even start installing the roof sheathing as soon as possible.  That really helps. Make sure your walls are braced and/or sheathed.  Have fun!!

RE: Truss installation method

Just a tip.  If your gable ends are going to be covered, it is best to do that on the ground first prior to setting them.  

RE: Truss installation method

(OP)
Thanks all for your help and suggestions.  Very helpful.

Any other suggestions are welcome.



RE: Truss installation method

These things will collapse on you in a heartbeat if not adequately braced during installation.  I, with 6 helpers, placed nine 28' Fink trusses for a porch a few years back and fortunately had no problems.  We took our time and treated them with the respect they were due.  If you could use a crane to lift them in place it's one thing.  It's a whole other matter to pick them up, rotate them into position and get them lined up correctly while they wave in the breeze.  Be careful!!  Like previously stated, there should be some documentation from the manufacturer that will help you and there are also several web sites that have tips on how to put them up.  All, of course, offer the disclaimer that it is your (the designer or engineer or architect) not their responsibility to ensure permanent bracing is adequate.

Dan

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