Why is the Truss Builder so Important?
Pop quiz: who is arguably one of the most important roles in building pre-assembled framing components? If you answered truss builder, you are correct!
A truss builder has many components which make their profession impactful. This article will detail the importance of a well-trained truss builder.
What does a Truss Builder do?
While the question seems self-explanatory, there is actually a lot more that goes into the answer than just “they build the trusses of a building.” The truss builder is integral because they blend construction skills with engineering plans. Truss Builders manufacture each truss using laser measurements, table “puck” alignments, and each truss’ engineering projected on screens above. They are responsible for successfully assembling the wood and connection elements to the exact engineering specification designs to build trusses.
How do they Work?
The truss builder utilizes an ample elevated working space with several automated elements. Lasers are used to align the truss components in the working area. The truss builder uses these lasers to see where to place each pre-cut piece of lumber before fastening them together. The lasers also help with gusset plate alignment to achieve adequate connections at truss member joints. There are also moving “pucks” on the elevated workspace. The pucks automatically move into precise positions to match the engineering plans being projected on the screen above. These “pucks” are used as a stopper to again align the truss’ components against.
Building with Safety in Mind
A truss builder is essential because of the attention to detail and safety needed to carry out the job successfully. Truss Builders need to be proficient in reading truss engineering shop drawings to correctly assemble all truss components and recognize the necessary elements. This includes each gusset plate’s size, placement, and angle and the correct lumber dimensions and grades being used.
Safety is a truss builder’s first concern when creating their calculations and plans. If the builder is not keenly aware of each and every detail, the weight of the structure won’t be adequately supported. This can mean big trouble and liability for anyone involved in the construction process or if it gets to this level, regular daily life community members.
Finishing the Job
When all the components have been planned, arranged and calculated, the truss builder works to fasten it all together. Once all the lumber elements are laid out in place, they are fastened together with a corrugated fastener. The gusset plates are then hammered into business as a temporary tack before the entire truss is moved along the elevated workspace to the finish roller. The finisher roller, or plate press, is a set of large rollers with a specific throat opening that the truss is passed through that applies the required pressure to secure each gusset plate permanently.
When all is said and done, the job is left with beautifully crafted and safe trusses to support the building adequately.
Learning and Staying in the Know
Due to the importance of a truss builder’s position, it is important for them to stay ‘in the know’ professionally. This means staying up to date on any and all new information, skills or strategies that come into the construction sphere. It also means truss builders have to stay up to date with their profession and with others as well. If another area in construction changes a process, it may affect the efficiency of a truss, making truss builders extremely knowledgeable members of the construction community.
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