Can You Remove a King Post From a Truss? (Solved)

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Yes, you can remove a King Post from a truss. You can also replace it, but usually, then the assembly must be deconstructed and rebuilt. It takes some time, but it’s not that difficult to do, especially if you take the time to prepare ahead of time.

However, removing a king post truss from a structure may require the supervision of a structural engineer and jobs of considerable size may require consideration of building regulations.

There are different types of king post trusses, some are more decorative than structural, in some cases, it is necessary to shore up the roof with several steel struts in order to remove the king post trusses in case of remodeling.

If you want to remove the king post truss to create space for an attic, for example, this can be done by supporting the roof loads with steel or large timbers spanning the entire length of the loft.

So, what is the purpose of a King post truss?

A King post truss is a truss assembly that uses a king post, which is a vertical member that extends from the bottom of one truss to the top of another.

It is suspended from the top chord with tensioned ropes or cables and is used to transfer horizontal forces, such as those produced by wind loads, to the structure.

It also supports one or more beams in the middle of each truss and one or more beams at either end. In addition, the king post serves to distribute the weight of the roof to other, supporting members such as beams and rafters.

Not a do-it-yourself project

If you are doing an attic remodel, and there are several king post trusses or one of considerable size supporting the roof, this is not a project you should do yourself, unless you are a knowledgeable structural engineer.

Although there are similar situations, each structure containing a king post truss may function differently, the king post truss is located in strategic spaces, you should enlist the help of a structural engineer to perform an evaluation of the load distribution in your attic or structure.

By the way, it should also be noted that in some states you need a building permit to do this type of remodeling since you are structurally modifying the roof and possibly moving important parts.

King Post truss dimensions
A king post can be any length, as long as its height (the distance it extends above the floor) is equal to or less than the height of the roof it supports.

King-post trusses are often used for roofs with heights that allow for a taller king post. For example, they are used on roofs of churches and many other public buildings.

They are also used in private homes and buildings to support the second story of a house, especially in areas like Florida that don’t allow for a full second story.

King Post truss span
A king post truss can span a distance of up to 18 feet with a maximum height of 12 feet. The span of the truss is measured from the inside edge of one rim board to the other. In addition, a king post can support a roof and floor load of up to 800 pounds per square foot.

To calculate the maximum ceiling load that a king-post truss can support, divide the maximum weight by the truss span and add one foot to obtain the total weight in pounds. The result is the maximum load that can be supported at any point along the truss.

Benefits of king post truss
The king post truss assembly is usually more economical than other trusses because the top chord is less expensive and the obtuse angle that occurs when opposing trusses intersect keeps the overall length of the assembly to a minimum.

They are also easier to assemble: The two trusses can be put in place without the help of cranes or other expensive lifting equipment and with minimal cross bracing. This makes them one of the most economical trusses to assemble when compared to other truss assemblies.

They are space-efficient: The king post truss arrangement can be used not only in buildings but also to partition walls, floors, and ceilings. Additionally, it can be used as a flooring arrangement.

They are easy to repair: It is simple to repair a king post truss. It’s easy to tear down and rebuild if necessary. This makes it easier to use in existing structures such as cottages and farm buildings.

They are easy to build in the field: It is simple to assemble the parts of a king-post truss on-site, without help from cranes or other equipment. This is a major benefit because it means that the trusses don’t need to be manufactured at a factory before they are shipped.

Disadvantages of king post truss
They are not as structurally sound as other trusses. The upper chord is more flexible than the lower chord on other truss designs, and the upright position of the king post makes it more susceptible to wind damage.

Conclusion
Overall, king post trusses are a convenient method of supporting beams. They are most often found in homes and commercial buildings because they are easier to install. In homes, they are used most often in doorways and rooms that require support for longer spans.

They are also used to support both roofs and floors. They are easy to disassemble and repair if necessary, making them sturdy, durable, and cost-effective trusses. We hope that you’ve found this article useful. Thanks for reading!

Resources

https://gharpedia.com/blog/king-post-truss/

King post truss: definition, span, dimensions & advantages

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