If you look closely, I hope you can see that the top chord extension is also being used as bearing. There is nothing suporting the truss joists on the bottom.
I am not used to seeing this method and wanted to see if anyone knows if truss joinsts can now be engineered this way.
Thanks,
New construction? Did you ask for the truss design documents?
Top chord bearing trusses are not uncommon although, usually, what we see around here the chords are flat instead of on edge.
Was it a heavier load area?
http://www.nachi.org/forum/attachments/f23/49147d1319651081-top-chord-bearing-1026-20-.jpg
Thanks for the responses…This is a tract builder and he does not have to give me the truss engineering. I could track down the truss builder and pass it by them, or possibly another designer… I have never seen this method approved so it is getting my attention.
Larry, you say that this is not uncommon?
Yes, that’s right. This is what I see around here often (or similar):
Not Uncommon
See it often primarily with Townhouse and Condominium construction.
Marvin, the only definitive answer for this new construction is to be found in the structural drawings and the truss shop drawings.
These documents are required to be available on site.
Top hung trusses are very common in commercial construction. I have installed them numerous times. Plumbers and electicians love them as it is easy to install there water and wiring. Just make ure they have a continuos 2x4 or 2x6 on each upright between the webs.
Its very difficult to comment on floor truss bearing without the drawings unless there are signs of movement or apparent missing/added members.
I agree with Robert and Gregs comments on the design. The contractor does have to show the info but not to a HI. If you are on site for consulting you need another HAT so to speak.
