What does the span of a truss refer to?

The span of a truss specifically refers to the distance between the supports that hold it up, which is often represented by the length of the bottom chord of the truss. This dimension is crucial because it affects the load the truss can carry and its overall structural integrity. Understanding the span helps engineers and builders design trusses that can effectively support the intended loads over the specified distances without compromising safety or performance.

The other options, while related to the truss and its structure, do not accurately define what the span is. The height of the building relates to vertical dimensions rather than the horizontal distance that defines span. The area covered by the truss pertains to the overall footprint or coverage but not to the span itself. Thickness, while a critical aspect of the truss’s material and design, does not relate to the span measurement.