40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

Which statement is true regarding notching or drilling holes in truss members?

1. Only small notches are permitted

2. Holes are allowed if properly sized

3. Neither holes nor notches are permitted

4. Notching is allowed on the ends of trusses

The correct answer is: Neither holes nor notches are permitted

When it comes to structural integrity and safety, truss members are crucial components in construction. Trusses are engineered to support loads effectively, and any modifications to them, such as notching or drilling holes, can compromise their structural integrity. The true statement regarding notching or drilling holes in truss members is that neither is permitted. The prohibition against notching or drilling holes stems from the fact that these alterations can weaken the truss by reducing its load-carrying capacity and altering the stress distribution in the members. Manufacturers and engineers design trusses with specific load-bearing characteristics, and any modification can lead to catastrophic failures, especially in load-bearing applications. Thus, the only acceptable practice regarding truss members is to retain their original design without alterations that could affect their structural performance. This ensures that safety standards are upheld and that the trusses function as intended within the building's structural system.