Support for roofs, bridges, and other large structures can be provided with the use of tress.A sturdy triangular frame will help distribute the weight of the structure more evenly, by fastening a number of pre-cut beams into a chosen configuration inside.To make sure your finished project is built to last, plan your project carefully using precise measurements and reinforce it with both gusset plates and construction glue.
Step 1: Measure your structure to make sure it's big.
There are many different shapes and sizes of tress that can be built.The overall length and height of the structure need to be found before you can begin planning.If you want a gable roof on one side of your home, you'll need 15 feet long and 6 feet tall.On a relatively shallow roof, the upper and lower beams may meet at a 30-degree angle on each side.Depending on the type of structure, building codes may dictate the size of a truss.You should consult your local building codes before you start drawing up plans.
Step 2: A simple king post is a good way to reinforce small structures.
There is a single vertical joist running through the center of the triangular frame.This style is useful for framing structures that don't require a lot of support.If you want to add some stability to a garden shed or gable roof, a king post tussle is all you need.
Step 3: If you want to bolster a floor, roof, or deck, build a Fink truss.
Even weight distribution from one end to the other is ensured by the arrangement of the internal joists.It was originally invented for the purpose of beefing up bridges, but now many contractors use them to increase the strength of interior structures.The center line of the triangle is where the middle of "W" will be.The points formed by the internal joists will connect on either side of the center line.The simplicity of their design makes them an attractive alternative to plainer styles for gazebos and covered outdoor shelters.
Step 4: Support from below can be provided by a Howe scrull.
Howe trusses are similar to the King Post and Fink styles, with additional beams arranged around the central joist at regular intervals.They are usually built on the underside of the structure they're intended for.At regular intervals, the Howe truss' internal angles are repeated.There are 90 and 60-degree angles on the sides of a standard Howe truss.Howe trusses are difficult to plan and assemble because of their complex configuration.A Howe-style design will offer maximum reinforcement for multi-level structures, as well as those built from heavy materials.
Step 5: The floor is 0.25 inches longer than the bottom chord.
Mention the length of the structure's floor.Add 0.25 inches.This will be used to make sure that the truss is a proper fit.If possible, use a tape measure to double-check the floor's length rather than relying on the recorded measurements listed in the building plan.
Step 6: Extra visual flair can be added by incorporating overhanging top Chords.
A built-in overhang can be created by the 2 top chords extending down over the edges of the bottom chord.If you think you would like an overhang-style truss, adjust the measurements for your top chords accordingly.The bottom chord can protrude from 1–3 feet.The stability of the truss shouldn't be affected by hanging chords, as they are more of a style feature than a practical one.
Step 7: Cut plywood plates to support the weight of the trusses.
The connections between the individual components are secured with gusset plates.Cut thick sheets of plywood to fit over each site where one joist meets another.All 3 corners of the frame, as well as the top and bottom of each beam, will be included.Cut your plywood with a circular saw or skill saw.You can keep the overhead low by making your own plywood plates.
Step 8: There are steel plates that can be used to secure the trusses.
Depending on the scale of your project and the specific building codes in your area, you may have the choice to use galvanized steel.These won't be needed for most projects, but they can be used for holding together trusses designed for bridges, cathedral-style roofs, or other large structures.There are companies that specialize in construction timber or steel-working supplies that you can order from.Make sure the steel plates fit into the budget you have set for your project because they are more expensive than the plywood ones.
Step 9: You can make a detailed sketch of your design.
Once you have all of your data in hand, make your plans on a sheet of paper.To scale the major lines and angles, be sure to note their exact specifications out to one side.You can use an architectural design software to create a diagram based on the measurements you give.If you are drafting up your plans by hand, you should use a ruler to make sure your lines are straight.There are many free or cheap digital design programs online.
Step 10: Your local licensing authority can approve your building plans.
The agencies in most cities are responsible for building codes and regulations.You need to submit a copy of the design to the licensing department for your region in order to have it approved for construction.If you don't know who the licensing authority for your area is, run a quick search for "construction licensing" plus the name of your city, state, or territory.Depending on a number of factors, the criteria used by your licensing department may be different.If you live in an area with a lot of snow, your city will likely have strict requirements about the strength of your new structure.If you are just building a small tool shed, building codes may not apply.
Step 11: Use a pencil to mark timber.
Before sawing your raw materials, you should lay out your lumber on a flat surface and trace a line where you will make each cut.If you want your truss to be sturdy, you need to make precise measurements.To keep track of how long each piece of lumber needs to be, refer back to the plans you drew up.To verify the angles at the edges of the top and bottom chords, use a triangle square.A 2 in x 4 in wooden board is the most common method of construction for common structures.
Step 12: Cut your pieces using a jigsaw.
Short crosscuts can be made through thick pieces of wood with the help of a jigsaw.To achieve clean, precise cuts, set your lumber on a shop table or between 2 saw horses and guide the saw smoothly across the measurement lines you drew earlier.If you want to prevent the pieces from shifting, use a table clamp to hold them fast.Gloves and safety glasses are required for operating a power saw.
Step 13: Pick the desired shape of your truss.
Pick up the individual pieces and fit them together after cutting your lumber.You will need at least one central joist for support.Make sure you study your plans closely to make sure the internal joists are in the correct configuration.The internal joists will remain the same despite the frame's height or width.It's a good idea to see if each component has been cut to the correct size.If you make a mistake, you may need a fresh piece of lumber.
Step 14: Use glue to hold the components together.
Apply a generous amount of glue to the face of each piece where it will intersect with the next using a knife.Return the piece to its place in the assembly.Press the pieces together for a short time to make sure they stick.Glues that come in tubes are similar to caulk guns.Make sure everything is where it needs to be by taking your time.Most glues have a window of 10 to 15 minutes before the glue begins to set.This will allow you to change the position of your components.
Step 15: Attach plates at each connection site.
There is a thin layer of construction glue on the backside of the plate.Press it firmly into place over the joint between the two beams.Use an electric drill to drive the screws deep into the wood through the holes in the face of the plate.At each joint, repeat this process.You can drill your screws through the plates themselves if you're working with plywood.Before installing the screws, give the glue 1-2 minutes to bond.That way the plates won't slip out of place.Allow the glue to set.On the following day, you will be able to add on to the structure it is intended to support.