Non-Residential Codes (IBC)

Information On Truss Fire Issues

Question: 

I am trying to develop a guideline for my firefighters regarding initial fire attack in buildings with light-weight trusses. My concern is truss failure, especially when exposed to fire. Is there any information on failure time related to flame impingement? Any information about truss failure – especially in a fire condition would be helpful.

Blocking For Lateral Displacement And Rotation

Question: 

I am a building inspector and have some questions regarding how to apply IBC 2012 2308.8.5 (IRC 2012 R802.8) (similar IBC 2015 2308.4.6 & IRC 2015 R802.8) to trusses, especially those with high heels:

Vent Sizes

Question: 

I have mono trusses on either side of a firewall. I have the fire rating/wall material between them. Can I place a ridge vent above these two? Or should I use vents? How do I calculate the appropriate vent sizes and styles?

Penetration Of Fire Walls

Question: 

Can a roof truss penetrate a one-hr. tenant separation wall without having a one-hr. rated ceiling? The building official insists that the 2x4 chords are combustible and nullify the integrity of the one-hr. rated partition that is constructed in an attic above an 8 in. C.M.U. bearing wall. The partition consists of gypsum board attached to 2 x 4 stud framing. The building official insists that a ledger must be attached through the gypsum board to support the trusses each side of the wall. This is almost saying that any rated assembly must have bearing only on other rated assemblies.

Information On Frt Roof Trusses

Question: 

I need to obtain some information on fire-retardant-treated roof trusses.

Sprinkler Loading

Question: 

Does the NFPA sprinkler standard address sprinkler loading? If so, how and where do I buy it? What other information do you have on sprinkler loading? How do other truss companies price jobs for sprinkler loading the plans do not include a sprinkler layout or even say what size/type of sprinkler system will be used?

Long Span Truss Installation

Long span trusses can pose significant risk to installers. The dimensions and weight of a long span truss can create instability, buckling and collapse of one or many trusses, if not handled, installed, restrained and braced properly. As such, they require more detailed safety and handling measures than shorter span trusses. This research report provides guidelines for proper handling and installation of long span trusses for both wood and cold-formed steel.

Impact of C&C loads due to ASCE/SEI 7-16

ASCE/SEI 7-16 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures has revised Chapter 30 regarding Components & Cladding (C&C) wind loads on roofs. This report clarifies the type and scope of changes being made that will also change in the 2018 edition of the model building codes. 

Deflection Limits for Floor Trusses

There are circumstances when the deflection requirements for a specific structure that utilizes floor trusses as structural members are questioned. The current residential and commercial building codes provide minimum design requirements for loads and for deflection of structural floor members, which also apply to floor trusses. The building designer may specify more stringent requirements. This research report will focus on manufacturer or trade association deflection requirements for a number of floor topping/covering related products

Fire Retardants and Truss Design - Educational Program

This presentation provides information and analysis of fire retardant-treated wood and metal plate connected wood truss designs.