Building Homes or Extensions/truss

Advertisement


Question
i have a room over my garage it is a 8-12 pitch i would like to make it bigger and was going to put up a ewall about 5' and make the room bigger will the trusses hold if i take out one side of them and make 8-12 in the front and about 4-12 in the back?i with a had ordered them that way but too late.thanks for the help.

Answer
John,

No, you cannot modify the truss geometry in any way.  They, unlike other framing methods, are perfectly optimized to use the least wood in the most efficient way - that is, the members are fully loaded.  Once you cut any member, they become dangerously useless.  Sorry for the bad news; you'll have to change your plans or order new trusses.  -Ted

Building Homes or Extensions

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC)

Expertise

I can answer questions about architectural design, how to work with a designer, and best construction practices for most trades. I specialize in cold-climate design (I'm in Minnesota), older home renovation, and energy-efficient/sustainable design.

Experience

As a Principal of Design45, I design and detail new homes and remodels. I am formally trained in architecture, but have also been a contractor and have experience with many trades. I strive to provide beautiful, durable, and efficient homes for clients and communities of all types and budgets.

Education/Credentials
Undergraduate work at Princeton University (Mathematics), Master's work at the University of Minnesota (Architecture)

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.