Parallel Chord: An economical workhorse ideal for flat roofs and floors. Following is a list of the various open-web truss profiles (Figure 2). Although the trusses are industrial grade and come with cosmetic imperfections, some designers elect to leave them exposed for visual effect. Pin-connected open-web trusses come in a variety of profiles and chord configurations allowing for unique designs. Although much of the following design and installation information could be applied to either style of truss, the balance of this article will focus on pin-connected trusses.

They can also be attached to a variety of wall types, and their high strength-to-weight ratio and long-span capabilities give architects more design freedom with large open spaces.

The trusses are custom designed and manufactured for each job, yet pin-connected trusses offer designers and builders the advantages of both wood and steel that generally allow for a shallower truss. With their open-web construction, both truss styles allow for easy installation of plumbing, electrical lines, and HVAC ductwork. These trusses are suitable for either roof or floor systems. Open-web pin-connected trusses have chords made of either solid-sawn or engineered wood, and tubular steel webs attached using pinned connections.These types of trusses are typically used in roof applications, yet are sometimes used in floor systems. Metal-plate-connected wood trusses are typically manufactured with chords and webs of solid-sawn wood fastened together with metal plates.Two types of wood trusses are found in today’s market: Exposed trusses create visual appeal for the Taylor Middle School cafeteria and public meeting space.

Curved space truss