Metal plate connected wood trusses are prefabricated structural building components, assembled with wood members and truss plates designed to carry superimposed loads. Sometimes trusses are inadvertently damaged or altered and require repair. When this is observed, the contractor should seek professional assistance from the building designer, truss designer, or truss manufacturer to remedy the condition.

The repair and modification of metal plate connected wood trusses can be a very complicated subject, because each situation must be analyzed individually. It is important not only to calculate an adequate repair or modification, but also to ensure that the repair or modification can be performed in the field. The truss designer needs to obtain as much accurate information as possible by asking questions about what damage occurred and how. In simple scenarios, this may involve a redline truss design drawing or photos of the damaged truss; with more complex damage or modification requirements, this may even involve visiting the site. This design guide will give an overview of the fundamental principles behind truss repair that inform the truss designer’s approach in all truss scenarios. Contractors and installers should consult BCSI-2025, Chapter 13, on guidance for what to do when truss damage is encountered.