In multiple jurisdictions across the country, building code authorities questioned the viability of the curiously shaped metal plates being used on trusses during the last half of the 1950s. In South Florida, for example, four radically different looking plates appeared, with different...

Still defaulting to rim boards at every floor edge? In modern wood-framed construction, it’s worth taking a closer look at several detailing options including ribbon boards or top chord bearing detailing. These options can simplify construction and reduce blocking material while still...

MiTek engineers frequently receive questions on why the note “Solid blocking is required on both sides of the truss at joints…” appears on an engineering drawing and how to address it. This often arises at the high heel joints. [For all images, See PDF or View in Full...

Cal Jureit’s truss testing experience was but the first of three consequential steps that led him to invent the modern truss connector plate. Jureit’s second step was joining Truss Fabrications, Inc. (TFI), which furthered his knowledge of truss manufacturing, and focused his efforts...

The ANSI/TPI 1 standard is a critical document that governs the design and quality criteria for metal plate-connected (MPC) wood trusses. It serves as a guideline for truss manufacturers and engineers alike, providing the technical framework to design and construct reliable and code-compliant...

Today’s construction industry is governed by a complex network of building codes and standards. In the U.S., the development cycle for new building codes spans three years, while the creation of new standards may take even longer. As a result, adoption and acceptance of innovative,...

Building safety is an essential part of our daily lives, influencing everything from the homes we live in to the businesses we visit and the public spaces we use. Safe buildings don’t just happen by accident, they are the result of careful planning and the adoption and enforcement of...

Chapter 7 of ASCE 7-22 (Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures) introduces significant changes that affect the magnitude of snow loads and, consequently, truss design. While some of these changes reduce snow load values, others increase them. One of the...

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve as a transformative technology, it is increasingly supporting building safety professionals both in the field and behind the scenes. AI integration into the industry empowers professionals and organizations by providing enhanced tools to assess...

The International Code Council (ICC) recently completed the first of two Group B Code Action Hearings (CAH) in Orlando, Florida, from April 27 to May 6 for development of the 2027 I-Codes. The second CAH will be held in October in Cleveland, Ohio. This marks a significant milestone in the new...