Making an Informed Choice--Part 2 8/31/2011 8:58 AM Part One
listed factors to consider in order to make an informed decision
about which building will provide you with the best long-term
value and performance. This week we will look at steel strength
and what it means as you evaluate your options. Quality,
thickness (gauge) and total amount of steel are a significant
influence on the safety and longevity of a building. Some
manufacturers will use a thin, 14 gauge steel for their trusses
which allows excessive flexing and buckling under relatively low
forces. When comparing manufacturers, ask for the following
information: - Diameter of each of the chords in the truss -
Diameter of the webs in the truss - Gauge of steel used in each
- Total weight of structural steel in the building This data
will allow you to accurately compare the facts affecting steel
strength. In the next post I will explain how snow shedding
qualities affect the design and strength of a building.