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When floor or roof trusses are spaced more than 16" on center, how close should they bear to the studs beneath?

  1. 8 inches

  2. 12 inches

  3. 5 inches

  4. 3 inches

The correct answer is: 5 inches

When floor or roof trusses are spaced more than 16 inches on center, a critical aspect of their support system is how they bear on the studs below. The Florida Building Code specifies that trusses should be installed with adequate support to prevent structural failure and to maintain the integrity of the building's overall design. The requirement for trusses bearing within 5 inches of the studs beneath them ensures that there is sufficient load transfer between the trusses and the studs. This minimization of distance aids in stabilizing the structure, reducing the risk of buckling or deflection, and permitting an effective distribution of loads across a broader area. This 5-inch limitation is particularly important for structural soundness and is designed to accommodate slight variations or misalignments that may occur during construction. By following this guideline, builders ensure that the structure remains balanced and that the loads are efficiently routed through to the foundation. The other options suggest greater distances, which may lead to inadequate support and potential structural issues over time, making those choices not compliant with accepted building practices or code requirements.