Question 1

Trusses: why use them?

Accepted Answer

When you think of trusses, do you think of freedom?

We know that might sound crazy, but it isn’t! Engineered Trusses offer virtually unlimited architecture versatility. This provides complete flexibility of interior partitioning and room arranging. The accuracy from one truss to the next creates a seamless production, installation, and finish.

• Some advantages to using trusses right off the bat:
 • Quick & easy erection time
 • Lightweight- generally 20 to 40 percent less than conventional framing
 • Open web designs available
 • Durable with a proven performance record
 • Provide efficient inspection with “total in-place cost” savings
 • Esthetically, a builder can take a basic floor plan and leave it exactly the same. Yet, from the outside, it can be made to look like a number of different ways, just by changing the trusses. This can leave your home build looking like a complete custom build ready for just you.

Most people with construction loans don’t get to their first draw until the roof is dried in. Trusses will get you there weeks ahead of conventional framing. They are pre-built at our production site, shipped to you, ready to be rolled-off or craned up top!

Since trusses can span longer distances than conventional framing, an architect or builder can limit the use of interior load bearing walls. Thus, in most cases, changes can be made to the interior floor plan without causing major structural problems. Imagine your new home having a clear span of 40’, or your new agricultural and commercial buildings having a span of up to 90’? This leaves so much room for a floor plan that works for exactly what you need it to.

If trusses are something you’re considering for your next build, we can get you a quote! Don’t hesitate to contact us at 250-374-3330, via email, or via our e-form!

Question 2

Software: what do we use?

Accepted Answer

At Kamloops Truss, we are currently using MiTek software which provides material lists, support the whole-house design created, and much more.
MiTek is a global supplier
In addition to managing materials, your structural component materials can be managed from one location because it is a true unified database that provides for consistent data flow and eliminates file sharing.

Question 3

Cutting a Truss: can I do this on site?

Accepted Answer

Cutting a truss in the field should not be done. This is because structural members of a truss require proper field repair engineering.
Non-structural members, such as overhangs or filler bottom chords may be cut as long as they do not interfere with the structural integrity of the truss. If you are in doubt, stop, do not cut and give us a call!

Question 4

Temporary Bracing: what is it?

Accepted Answer

Temporary bracing is meant to hold the trusses true to line, dimensions, and plumb during the erection of the roof. This will also hold the trusses in a stable condition until permanent bracing’s are in place.
It is important for a multitude of reasons, including:
 • Helping to withstand the gravity forces of its own weight
 • Resist wind loads during construction
 • Support temporary construction dead loads such as the weight of sheathing and roofing materials
 • Keeping the trusses plumb
 • Assuring the correct truss spacing

With this bracing, there are two common styles to choose from.
1. Start with the gable-end truss: For this technique, start by sheathing the gable-end truss on the ground and lifting it first. The gable-end truss can unfortunately be difficult to brace without the braces interfering with the second truss. Though, on a one-story building, it can be braced to stakes driven in the ground.
2. Start several trusses in: For this technique, start the first truss 8- to 12-feet in from the gable end and brace it to the deck. Working from the bracing end, fill in the open 8- to12-feet section last, after you have permanently braced the rest of the trusses.

When thinking of temporary bracing, it’s important to remember how our other services can help this. For instance, using a crane delivery can provide you with an easy solution to a temporary brace. The crane truck is able to hold your trusses vertically while you nail the bottom chord to the plates.
Temporary bracing can be the difference between a smooth and rocky set-up. It can also help to reduce bending, breaking, and fracturing of the trusses.
If you have any questions, or a project you would like a quote on, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 250-374-3330,(tel:2503202123) or via email.(mailto:sales@kamloopstruss.ca)

Question 5

Permanent Bracing: what is it?

Accepted Answer

Permanent bracing is simply a form of bracing that will be installed in the roof as a permanent part of the roof system. There are a few different types of bracing that we use at Kamloops Truss; continuous lateral bracing, T-bracing, L-bracing and scabs.

Continuous Lateral Bracing
The most common form of permanent bracing is continuous lateral bracing. This is a member placed and connected at right angles to a chord or web to prevent it from buckling under design loads. It is very important to the integrity of the trusses. Without it, members of the truss may buckle at loads far less than what they were designed to support.

Permanent T-Bracing
T-bracing is just as it sounds – taking two 2×4 or 2×6 webs of the same size, nailing it on it’s side and creating a cross-section that looks like a T. The advantage to this is less material waste by eliminating all laterals and diagonals. It also creates more integrity of the truss, and is safer for the framers to stand up.

L-Bracing
L-Bracing is also as it sounds, creating an L shape rather than a T at it’s cross-section. It too eliminates the waste of excess materials, and creates a better integrity of the trusses.

A supplied truss certificate will indicate if permanent bracing is required. If it is, we will ensure that it’s done correctly. In addition to the bracing prescribed in the truss certificate, all roof trusses are designed to have continuous lateral bracing on their top chords. This will be in the form of either roof sheathing or purlins. Bottom chords, though, must be braced by continuous lateral bracing at 10′ on center. If the centers are closer together, another form of bracing will work without harming the integrity of the truss itself.

If you ever have any questions about permanent bracing, the different types, or just trusses in general – please don’t hesitate to ask! We are available by phone at 250-374-3330, or via email!

Question 6

Quotes: how long until I receive one?

Accepted Answer

With all of our quotes, we strive to have them back to you within 7-10 business days. With that being said though, there are a few things that you can do to help us get them back to you sooner.

Send full PDF or printed plans:
Sending a PDF or bringing in a complete set of plans will help speed up the process. With this, we know exactly what to design. A complete set of plans will include elevations, cross sections, dimensions, specifications, foundations, and any other construction notes and details.

A PDF version of this plan is preferred. This ensures we can easily scale and pull any information needed directly from your document.

If you don’t have a full set of plans, send all dimensions and specifications:
Having all specifications will let us know exactly what you are expecting. All of our quotes are done custom for you. Even if you are looking for a standard design, there are some dimensions that we need to know to start designing.

These include but are not limited to: Span and Length of building, Roof Pitch, Overhangs, Centers, Heel Height, etc.

Let us know the specific location of the project build:
The location might not sound like it’s important to your new build, but it is! It plays a huge key factor in ensuring that your design is loaded for the proper snow, wind and rain loads for that area. Without this, we are unable to produce permit layouts, or produce any material until this is confirmed.

The specific location will also allow us to accurately price out any freight and delivery costs associated to your project.

Some other information that we appreciate with all quotes is contact information such as a full name, email, and phone number, so that our designers can contact you should they have any questions or suggestions about your project!

We are always available to quote your project, so please don’t hesitate to contact us at 250-374-3330, or via email!

Question 7

Engineer: do I need one for my documents?

Accepted Answer

To answer this simply, no, you do not need an engineer. But if you have one please let us know!

Question 8

Delivery: how much notice do I need to give?

Accepted Answer

When you are ready to place your order with us and want to set up delivery, the best time to set this up is, you guessed it, the sooner the better.
While we would like to accommodate all of our clients, contractors and customers as best as possible, we ideally have 3-weeks of notice for your delivery.
3-weeks notice gives our scheduling department enough time to work with you on a date to accept your package, as well as time to ensure that the design is completed to perfection. If there ever is a time where 3-weeks out just won’t work for you, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your desired date.
We have our own Roll and Crane trucks, giving you even more opportunity to have your package delivered just when you need it! We work on an first-come-first-serve system, where once a date fills up on our production side, those who would like to book after may not get their desired date.
If you need to book a delivery with us, you can contact our office at 250-374-3330 (call:253743330)and ask to speak with shipping, or send an email to our shipping (mailto:shipping@kamloopstruss.ca)department directly.

Question 9

Orders: how do I place them?

Accepted Answer

Orders placed with Kamloops Truss are meant to be easy as possible!

When you receive your free estimate from us, please review it’s content and price. We will also send any other materials for you review. These may be layouts, profiles, beam specs, or design concerns. After your have reviewed these, we ask that you return a signed copy acknowledging this via email or in person. If you have any questions, concerns, or changes, please make us aware of these as soon as possible.

To place your orders, please contact our shipping department. There, you can let us know that you would like to make this an order, and place your deposit if needed. Shipping with also be able to help you with setting a delivery date, which we are usually 3-weeks out on. If there is a specific date that you would like us to accommodate, please just let us know!

We also have a few different ways to deliver, which we ask that you please let us know which you would prefer. Whether it be a Roll Truck which will roll your product off onto the ground, or a Crane to place your trusses right on top – we have you covered. We own and operate our own Shop Trucks, Roller Trucks, and Crane trucks. We also partner with Nomad Crane to have more availability for our customers!

Haven’t put your project in for a quote yet? That’s okay! Please contact us at the office, or fill out our form, which we will respond with your reference number to get the ball rolling. We always aim to have your quote back to you in 7-10 business days at the latest. If you need it back, or permit layouts back before then, like everything else, please just let us know!

Question 10

Measurements: who confirms them?

Accepted Answer

Measurements are one of the most important pieces in the design work that we do. Ultimately, it is up to you and/or your general contractor to confirm them.

While we do complete the truss, floor, metal, and beam designs, we base these off of the information and dimensions supplied by our customers. The dimensions that we will need to confirm prior to production include:

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Truss Span:
The truss span is the most important of measurements in your project. Simply put, this is the width you would like your building to be. This can also be taken as a dimension measuring from Butt Cut to Butt Cut, along the Bottom Chord. This can also be measured from one outside wall to another.

Building Length:
The building length is the second most important of measurements in your project. The length tells us exactly how many trusses you need. When telling us the length, please also keep in mind if you would like all common trusses or gable ends. We will also need to know how you would like your trusses spaced. The most common is 2′ on center, or 4′ on center dependent on the building size.

Roof Pitch:
Roof Pitch is the next most important of measurements in your project. This will determine the overall height of your trusses, and your roof. It’s often thought that only certain pitches will work for certain locations, but that’s not the case! We are able to design your trusses as you’d like, and will ensure it is up to code for the snow, wind and rain load for your area.

A roof pitch is determined by the RISE / RUN. For example, a 4″ rise for every 12″ run would turn out to be a 4/12 pitch. Common pitches range from 3/12 to 5/12. If you would like to have a more flat roof, 0.5/12 to 2/12 is common. If you would like a higher pitch roof, you can use a 10/12 or higher!

Overhang:
Your overhang measurements are taken from the end of the Bottom Chord to the end of the tail, not including the fascia. If you have a wall that is cantilevered, the measurement will be from the outside of the wall to the end of the tail. your overhang provides just that, overhang from the span of your truss to allow for extra protection and coverage from snow, rain, or hail.

Heel Height:
The heel height measurements can be thought of as the ‘thickness’ of a truss at the end of a bottom chord. You may add extra heel, giving extra height to allow for more insulation in your build. You may also reduce the amount of heel in the case that your building will not be insulated at all. A standard residential heel height can ranger from 4-5″. A raised, more energy efficient one can be up to 12″.

We are always available to answer any questions regarding the above measurements, so please don’t hesitate to contact us at 250-374-3330, or via email.

Question 11

Safety: what does KTL have in place?

Accepted Answer

Celebrating a New Safety Milestone: KTL is COR Accredited!

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Kamloops Truss Ltd. has achieved the esteemed Certificate of Recognition (COR) accreditation. This achievement reinforces our unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and excellence in all facets of our operations.

What it Means for KTL:
For KTL, achieving COR accreditation signifies a milestone in our journey to be leaders in safety consciousness and to be a company that puts safety at the forefront of everything we do. It reinforces our vision of building not only remarkable structures but also a safe environment for our team members and customers alike.

Our Pledge to Safety:
At KTL, safety is more than just a protocol; it is an intrinsic part of our DNA. We continuously strive to enhance safety awareness, implement best practices, and invest in cutting-edge technologies to ensure that every aspect of our operations aligns with the highest safety standards.

Safeguarding Our Team:
COR accreditation serves as a testament to the efforts we invest in protecting the well-being of our dedicated team members. Through comprehensive safety training, regular inspections, and continuous improvement initiatives, we empower our team to work confidently and securely, knowing that their safety is our utmost priority.

Exceeding Customer Expectations:
For our valued customers, COR accreditation translates into the assurance that we don’t just talk about safety—we walk the talk. It underscores our commitment to delivering top-notch engineered wood products and services in an environment that prioritizes their welfare and the successful completion of their projects.

Enhancing Community Confidence:
The COR accreditation also extends beyond our immediate sphere of influence. It reflects our dedication to being responsible corporate citizens, actively contributing to the well-being of the communities we serve. When our clients, partners, and neighbors see the COR logo associated with KTL, they can trust that we are committed to fostering a safe and secure community.

Not Just Any Truss Manufacturer: Choose KTL! At Kamloops Truss, we take pride in setting ourselves apart from the rest. Our COR accreditation stands as a testament to our core values and unwavering dedication to safety, quality, customer service, and community engagement.

Why Choose KTL?
🛡️ Safety First: Our commitment to safety is at the forefront of all that we do.
🏆 Uncompromising Quality: We deliver top-notch engineered wood products you can trust.
💼 Exceptional Customer Service: Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized solutions and support.
🌟 Community-Centric: We actively contribute to the betterment of the communities we serve.
Join us in celebrating this milestone and experience the KTL difference. Together, we are building a safer, stronger, and more sustainable future.

Take the first step towards bringing your project to life with Kamloops Truss. Whether you’re planning a residential or commercial construction, our expert team is here to assist you every step of the way. Request your personalized quote now and let’s turn your vision into reality! 💡🏠

Discover the latest updates, industry insights, and exciting happenings at Kamloops Truss! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn @kamloopsrussltd.

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