Floor Truss Fact Sheet
Builders are discovering that floor trusses are the solution to many of their floor framing problems. Floor truss installations create high quality, squeak-free construction with the added benefits of reduced framing time, waste, pilferage and callbacks. Design versatility and open web spaces are tremendous advantages to builders of today's complex and sophisticated homes.
- The fact that floor trusses are built with 2x4s or 2x3s orientated "flat-wise" means a wide, stable bearing surface that is easier to work on and around.
- The wide nailing surface provides for easy gluing and quick, accurate attachment of sheathing, reducing squeaks and improving floor performance for the life of the structure.
- Spacing floor trusses at 19.2" or 24" on center maximizes structural efficiency and speed of installation.
- Stiffness and strength can be designed into the floor truss, creating a more solid floor.
- Special bearing, cantilever and balcony details are easily built in.
- Shrinkage, warping, or twisting are minimized, reducing the potential of callbacks to the job site.
- Long spans and girder truss options reduce the need for immediate bearing walls, beams, columns or footings saving time and construction costs.
- The open web configuration leaves plenty of room for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical runs.
- Typical depths for floor trusses are 12" to 24" but shallower or deeper configurations are possible.
While floor trusses may cost more per linear foot of material, overall you save more money due to the reduced installation time and wasted material. Click HERE to see how efficiently a trussed floor could be installed on a 2,600 sq. ft. house as it compares to a traditionally built home.
Standard Floor Truss Structure details.
(Courtesy of WTCA - Wood Truss Council)
