Truss Manufacturer Knows Load Levels

The Oct. 14 “Handyman Q&A;” article headlined “Attic With Trusses Not Suitable for Storage” needs to be clarified.

Your readers need to understand that wood trusses connected by metal plates are a highly engineered product and can be designed to support a wide variety of loads.

Owners of existing homes in which roof trusses are used should consult with the truss manufacturer to determine the loads for which the trusses were originally designed. In many instances, the bottom chord of the trusses may have been designed to carry an additional load, as specified by the building designer or required by the local building code.

JIM VOGT

Wood Truss Council of America

Madison, Wis.