Non-load bearing partition connection to Bottom of trusses. 1

[Berniedog]

Does anyone know of any reference on how a non-load bearing wall/partition in a house should be fastened to the bottom chord of trusses?

 

[skier1578]

Typically you need a 1/2" gap between the two. Simpson (and others) sell products to achieve this.

 

[whyun]

Going with the gap per skier1578, provide a diagonal brace near each connector to kick the load up to the diaphragm. Otherwise, the top plates of the bearing partition may be completely detached from the bottom chord and provide kickers to the diaphragm.

 

[Berniedog]

skier1578 How often do you recommend placing these clips?

whyun I do not understand why adding a diagonal. The load path should not be thru a non-loadbearing partition.

 

[whyun]

Provide braces when partition is parallel to the truss to take out the lateral force on the bottom chord.

Required spacing is limited by the capacity of the clips, spacing of the trusses and the calculated reaction at each clip. High partitions may require clips at every truss/joist, I limit the maximum spacing at 48" but don't know whether there is a code maximum.

 

[skier1578]

I agree with whyun

 

[whyun]

As an alternate to the clips (wall perpendicular to truss/joist), you may provide one 2x flat on each side of the partition wall top plate. Top plate of the partition is set 1/2" below to allow truss deflection and not attached to the adjacent 2x. Lateral load is carried by bearing.