Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

Where should lateral bracing (long 2x4 footers) be located in the truss area?

1. In the lower 1/3

2. In the middle 1/3

3. In the upper 1/3

4. Randomly throughout

The correct answer is: In the upper 1/3

The correct placement of lateral bracing in the truss area is in the upper third of the truss. This positioning is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and stability of the truss system. When lateral bracing is placed in the upper portion, it effectively supports the upper chord of the truss, which is critical in resisting lateral forces and preventing buckling. This strategic placement helps distribute loads evenly across the truss and ensures that the entire framework performs efficiently under various stress conditions. The upper bracing ties the trusses together, allowing them to work as a cohesive unit, which is essential during high winds or other forces that could cause lateral movement. Properly installed upper lateral bracing aids in overall load transfer and enhances the durability of the roof structure.