Patent ID: 8448406

Claim:
A method for constructing a multilevel structure having a low profile load path between each level, the method comprising: positioning a first frame structure having a first bottom load bearing member supported by a foundation structure and a first top load bearing member supporting a truss, wherein said first frame structure includes a plurality of vertical-members configured to transfer a load from said first top load bearing member to said first bottom load bearing member; positioning said truss on said first top load bearing member, wherein said truss includes a top chord having a load-bearing interface with a top surface and a bottom surface, a bottom chord, and a plurality of webs extending between said top surface and said bottom chord, wherein said truss is wholly supported by said load-bearing interface of said top chord via said bottom surface connected to said first top load bearing member where said bottom chord terminates between said first frame structure and an attachment of a web to said bottom chord that is most proximal to said first frame structure; positioning a second frame structure having a second bottom load bearing member supported by said top surface of said truss, wherein said second frame structure includes a plurality of vertical-members configured to transfer a load from second top load bearing members of said second frame structure to said second bottom load bearing member; and securing said second frame structure to said first frame structure via a fastener that extends through: (1) said second bottom load bearing member, (2) a blocking, and (3) into said first top load bearing member of said first frame structure, thereby forming a low-profile load path between said second frame structure and said first frame structure.