If you’re familiar with the design of our DIY metal and steel buildings, you know we rely on trusses for the infrastructure. That’s because of the amazing strength the design offers, and it all has to do with the triangle.
You don’t have to hold a degree in architectural engineering to understand what’s going on here. There’s an easy way to understand the science behind the strength.
Back to Basics
At the heart of the truss design is the triangle. Three equal sides give it inherent stability and optimal weight distribution. The magic happens when you combine triangles. The resulting structure allows stress to be evenly distributed across the entire structure. That means a structure made of triangles weigh dramatically less than solid structure.
When you utilize this approach, you can create load-bearing beams that can hold up enormous weight that are barely impacted by external forces such as wind, or the vibrations of an earthquake. That’s because these uneven forces are safely distributed across the entire structure of a truss.
Trusses Go Way Back
The use of trusses are seen throughout history as far back as ancient Egypt. They used trusses to strengthen the hulls of their boats. The Romans used them to create the clear interior spans found in their architecture. It’s believed that trusses were used across their massive exterior columns as early as 550 BC.
Besides excellent structural support for buildings, trusses are commonly found in the construction of bridges. Iron actually resists more tension and compression than stone. The most common truss design you find in bridges is known as the Warren Truss, an unmistakable combination of nothing more than triangular pieces of steel.
Why We Use Them
Our truss designs take advantage of the strength and efficiency of the triangle. Pre-fitted at the factory, each truss is shipped to your location in four pieces that are easily bolted together and ready to be tilted into place. Then they’re ready to be attached to bolts in your concrete foundation, or in cement anchors.
One thing that sets our truss design apart from others is that we insist on closer spacing and even closer secondary members (purlins and girts). The result is a stronger superstructure, but it also rewards you with the ability to work with an interior that has a standard 12-inch on center configuration. Finish it up with regular drywall or any other standard building material. Learn more about the Miracle Truss® Advantage.
