The company supplied more than 200 hybrid attic trusses and other specials to Chase Homes for the development of 23 apartments on the site of a former garage business.

The 8-9m long spans were not abnormally long, but the complexity of the layout, the loadings and the developer’s desire to have the rafters over-sailing and concealing central flat roofed areas complicated both the form and configuration of the trusses.

Stuart Dinsdale, technical director at Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) member Harlow, also had to accommodate a series of dormer and Velux rooflights in the designs, as well as the use of deep section cranked steel beams to reduce the spanning distance in certain locations.

  • The TRA, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, is seeking new members. The association, said that through its publicity efforts it has received more than 30,000 direct and internet enquiries so far this year.