Last week's question identified the two basic methods of roof framing - Stick Built and Manufactured Truss Framing. We learned, Stick Built Roof Framing is the traditional, hand-made method which are typically built on the construction site. The Manufactured Trusses are an engineered system that are built in a factory with carefully calculated load ratings. But what happens when the engineered system needs to be altered on the job-site to address some unforeseen obstacle?

True or False? Manufactured Roof Trusses are allowed to be altered (modified, cut, reworked, etc.) on the construction site by a licensed contractor, to adapt the engineered design and framework to post-design changes.

FALSE - Modifying factory built roof truss systems is a BIG "no-no". In a factory built system, the individual truss components and design were carefully calculated to meet the necessary load ratings for the specific building application. ANY modification of a truss component will void the manufacture's warranty and possibly result in catastrophic failure. Sometimes sub contractors, such as plumbing or HVAC will inadvertently cut some of the truss components to make their installation easier - but this IS NOT PERMITTED, by the truss manufacturer, and should be avoided. If one of the trusses is damaged, the truss manufacturer should be contacted to determine the best method of repair and get an official recommendation in writing.

Alice E Harman at Beach Properties of Florida