Can I trim or get rid of the excess metal without feeling like an idiot for asking?
Asked by Vlasta Laba 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 28, 2024
I hate to sound clueless, but can I remove some of the extra metal?
I agree. I would have added a corner collar in that situation as it seems weak in my opinion.
If it’s a truss, avoid making alterations in the field. You need an engineer’s report to do so. It can cause issues when selling the property and an inspector notices. It’s difficult to determine everything from a picture, but just wanted to mention that.
Ang nails must always remain unaltered.
Try bending it and nailing it, but keep in mind that the cam plate may be too large.
That may not be the most sound advice
If you’re planning to drywall over it, it’s recommended to keep the plate untouched and fill in a 45-degree angle along the top near the ceiling (consider using crown molding).
According to manufacturer specifications, the plates are designed to be a specific size to prevent separation, even if they are not fully embedded. It’s best to not disturb them if possible.
Definitely not! Seems to be a roof truss, and altering it is a no-go. Despite appearances, tinkering with it would weaken the section where the slanted 2×4 is.
Why do you think it would weaken the metal?
Loads and weight bearing forces do not simply move vertically. If you were to cut the metal in that location, it would compromise its strength by increasing susceptibility to twisting. Additionally, it would reduce the volume of metal, making it more prone to shearing off.
The shear load along those edges is non-existent, and stays that way until reaching the load transfer region. The entirety of the load gets transferred in the areas where the plate joins each wood member.
Are you suggesting that it’s acceptable to cut it??? The manufacturer and engineers both advise against it, and I also strongly disagree.
Incorrect. The load transfer extends across the plate itself, not just the wood joints. By cutting the corners, you are compromising the integrity of the mending plate and absolving the truss manufacturers of liability since you are altering a carefully engineered structure. I have a Masters degree in engineering.
In my opinion, I’d suggest making a diagonal cut to remove the corner that sticks out and enhance the appearance. It might be a bit of a task, though. Taking out the protruding part would allow for easier bending of the remaining leg. However, cutting it on an angle would ensure only a slight decrease in strength. Wonder why you’re considering this. If it’s a roof truss, altering it doesn’t seem necessary. (Ex-Professional Engineer)
Changing the design of an engineering structure undermines its integrity and essentially turns it into a non-engineered structure. Unless the stamped truss drawing explicitly permits it.
I ran into a similar problem during my construction a couple of years back. The structural engineer insisted I couldn’t cut it down. I ended up concealing the truss with a decorative beam wrap since it was visible.
Absolutely not!
Ot a scab a 2×2 on the 2×4
I’d do that. Flatten the hammer on the post first and then attach the screws to the plates. Simple.
Seems like this is a component of a truss system. But where’s the rest of the wood that should be behind this plate? If there isn’t any, then this plate isn’t right for this support
Hold on a second. Who drilled all those holes for a cable? Isn’t this a roof truss?
Cutting it neatly could be tricky. My approach would be to fill the gap with a matching piece of wood, tap it in, and be done with it.
Wonders how to bridge a gap with tines entering from opposite directions. Seems like a pointless use of time and resources
‘t go messing with gusset plates on a truss or joist. The part that sticks out also adds to the strength. And when you cut the steel, you end up with a sharp corner that could lead to a crack or tear in the plate. Plus, you run the risk of accidentally loosening the plate while cutting it. Those plates are simply pressed on and secured with spikes. They’re not immune to coming loose due to vibrations. – a structural engineer
The integrity won’t be affected.
We do it frequently. Never a problem.
My boss can confirm.
Says forget it….encourages getting tetanus shots