Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 3/2/2009

Question
I have a truss roof system that was built before the codes were changed here (Mt. Shasta) from 40lb/ft2 to 60lb/ft2 (2x4 @ 24 W pattern span about 22 feet).

Is it possible to reinforce the truss system from inside the attic ? I live in heavy snow county and really don't want to clear snow from the 2nd story anymore ;-).

TIA

Answer
Hi Burt, of course.  You can double up the top, bottom chords and the webs.  If there is a truss company nearby you can probably get a written fix from them for a few bucks.  Or you can just double everything up and nail it together at 4" on center with your #10 nails staggered. I have done concentrated load repairs on trusses before and that's basically how they do it.  Whether you need to reinforce the entire truss?  Sometimes just the bottom chord and webs will work.  If there is not a truss company nearby you can interact with, possibly a structural engineer (P.E) can give you some direction.  I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com