Fire and moisture damage are two unavoidable anomalies that may affect a building during or after the construction process. We feel it is necessary to provide options that minimize the effects associated with both fire and moisture from the beginning, to produce long-lasting, quality structures. Structural Truss works with a variety of suppliers to bring treated wood and sealant products in to provide fire and moisture protection for your project. BarrierTek and Zip System are a couple of our partner businesses.

BarrierTek is a Canadian company producing treated wood products that reduce the risk of high intensity residential fires and offer predictable performance for both single and multi-family applications. With urban planning shifting to a more compact single family housing layout there is a higher risk of fire jumping structures. Multi-family structures such as apartment buildings are also at a higher risk of fire and widespread damage is more likely. BarrierTek products are manufactured to mitigate these risks, and their products are supplied for Structural Truss projects upon request.

Green floor panels are treated on one side with ProTEKtor II Sub Floor with the treated side facing down to joist. This product also has a wall sheathing option for both multi and single-family applications. The treatment used on these panels is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and safe to handle. ProTEKtor II is specifically designed for harsh climates, perfect for our Western Canada winters.

BarrierTek also supplies ProTEKtor II I-Joists which are fully treated on web and flange with ProTEKtor IIJ and can be installed using conventional joist practices. These blue joists are also designed for harsh climates.

Lastly, upon request, we utilize an orange wood called AtTek Roof Trusses, part of NFPA13 alternative to traditional attic sprinkler systems and dry/glycol systems in confined spaces. Consistent with the complementary products, this treatment is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and specifically designed for harsh climates and handling. Learn more about BarrierTek and their products.

Water damage is the most common property insurance claim each year in Alberta followed by hail and wind damage. Hail and wind can pull your cladding and roofing off or wreak havoc your siding resulting in an exposed structure and the need to reclad. Wood components used to construct buildings shrink and swell as moisture levels change which may shift the building envelope, and have affects on the cladding. Having a barrier on the components, such as the wall panels and roof, is vital to minimize the effects of moisture, such as mold, rot, and corrosion. Typically, in Alberta this comes in the form of a house wrap installed on the exterior of wood-frame house and a plastic or foil sheet, a vapor barrier, placed on the inside of walls.

Zip System provides an alternative to house wrap, eliminating a step in the construction process, saving time and labour costs.  Upon request, Structural Truss builds with Wall Sheathings and tape, the optimal way to streamline the weatherization process. These panels come with a Structural 1 rating, meeting high-wind-zone requirements. In addition, Zip systems has found the balance of keeping bulk water out but allowing water vapor to pass through, optimal for water protection and drying potential. Energy efficiency is also addressed. Pairing Zip System sheathing and tape forms a tight barrier to prevent air leakage. Learn more about Zip System and their products.

Water damage and fire affects are two major concerns when building with wood. Structural Truss aims to give you options to help mitigate those risks. BarrierTek and Zip System are a couple of the companies we work with to ensure quality structures are being produced every time. For extra protection from water and fire, consider our sister company Forma Steel for your roofing and siding.