Trusses
Frequently Asked Questions
Transcon Steel has compiled a list of some of most commonly asked questions from owners, designers, and builders whom are investigating the use of cold formed steel metal trusses for their upcoming project.
1. How much stronger is a metal truss system compared to wood?
A cold formed steel truss can be engineered to well surpass the strength of a wood truss system. The product is engineered with a variety of gauges and member sizes. What this means is that when a wood truss cannot be meet design loads and maintain the architectural parameters, a cold formed steel truss can meet the specifications without having to expose a project to costly redisign.
2. How much more will a metal truss system cost?
Traditionally, metal trusses are more expensive that wood trusses. For simple small span structures with limited loading a wood truss will be the least expensive way to build. Projects that require more resistance to applied forces of winds loads, dead and live loads, and snow loads or clear spans greater than 30' (9.14m), a metal truss can be supplied for the nearly the same price as a wood truss. With greater load requirements, a metal truss is the most cost-effective and safest way to build.
3. What type of walls can metal trusses be connect to?
Metal trusses can be connected to almost every type of traditional wall framing system. Traditional systems include: metal, wood, CMU, ICF, and SIP walls. Transcon Steel can design and supply all connectors for all approved wall types.
4. How are trusses off-loaded from a delivery truck?
Trusses can be off-loaded by hand for smaller projects. Larger projects will require the use of a crane or forklift with a spreader bar to lift large groups of trusses. Transcon Steel works closely with the truss installation company to create the best delivery configuration for the project.
5. Are there insurance benefits for using metal trusses?
Yes, because of the non-combustable rating of a metal truss, many areas qualify for a 15% reduction in insurance costs. Please check with your local insurance agent for more details.
6. How does the weight of a metal truss compare to a wood truss?
Metal trusses are lighter weight than wood trusses. The reduced weight makes the trusses easier to handle on-site and during installation.
7. Is shimming required with metal trusses?
With a level wall top plate, metal trusses will not require shimming to plane the trusses. Metal trusses are dimensionally stable. While wood trusses are exposed to warping, twisting and swelling, metal is not exposed to these effects. The quality of a metal truss leads to a faster and better quality truss installation.
8. What are bracing options for metal trusses?
There are two types of bracing to require for a proper truss installation. The first type is temporary bracing. Temporary bracing is used during the installation of the trusses and is removed when the truss installation is complete. Permanent bracing usually requires the use of 18ga and 20ga metal studs.
The second type of bracing is called permanent bracing. Permanent bracing can be metal stud, furring channel or custom J-metal materials. Transcon Steel will engineer a truss bracing package to meet the strength requirements for the most optimal value.
9. Does Transcon Steel work with third party engineering firms?
Yes, Transcon Steel works with engineering firms on a global basis. Clients deserve the best engineering price and oversight solution for their project. Transcon works with qualified engineering firms that are close to the project so that a client has cost-effective assurance through local oversight that their project is assembled correctly.
