Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q: What types of trusses does Paragon support?
A: Paragon truss software supports the layout, design, and analysis of metal plate-connected wood trusses.
Paragon software does not support other materials used for truss components such as gusset plates, timber, and light gauge, cold formed steel.
Article Updated: 12/15/2025
Q: Can truss layouts and truss designs generated by Paragon be easily shared with a client or collaboration partner for design confirmation and truss layout approval?
A: Yes, the following options are available to help visualization and collaboration. These options do not require the recipient to have a Paragon software subscription.
Download Layout DXF, IFC and PDF (Note: IFC downloads only include trusses and do not include walls.)
Shared Component Sets allow you to share a read-only version of Paragon Layouts and Designs viewable by anyone that has the link (and Internet).
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: How do I know which Paragon Plan is best for me?
A: The best plan for you will depend on whether you want to analyze & size truss plates and also on how you plan to use Paragon within your organization.
Free Plan
The Free plan does not include truss plates. To include truss plates in your designs, you need a Designer plan.
The Free plan only includes live and dead loading. To specify wind loading, snow loading, sprinkler loading, etc., you need a paid plan.
The Free Plan does not include layout, only individual truss design.
Designer vs. Estimator Plans
Designer plans include "Manufacturer Truss Designs" which include connector plates in the designs.
Estimator plans include "Prototype Truss Designs" which do not include connector plates in the designs. You are still able to view the forces at each joint on Prototype Truss Designs.
Individual vs. Team Plans
Individual plans are great for individuals or small teams that do not need direct access to other team members' projects. You can always leverage Paragon's Shared Sets functionality to share projects with anyone!
Team plans are best for when you have a number of users who need to sign in concurrently and seamlessly collaborate on each other's projects. Team plans are also suggested once you get above a certain volume of truss designs.
Starting out with 1 or more Individual Estimator or Individual Designer plans is a great first step to determining if Paragon is right for you.
Enterprise Plans
Enterprise plans are intended for large design teams and manufacturers.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: Are there browser settings to help optimize Paragon app performance?
A: Yes, certain browser settings—especially those related to hardware acceleration—can significantly impact the performance of web applications. Optimizing these settings can improve responsiveness, reduce lag, and enhance overall user experience. In addition to verifying hardware acceleration is enabled, you should ensure that your computer is current on all updates.
What is Hardware Acceleration?
Hardware acceleration allows your browser to offload specific tasks (like graphics rendering or video decoding) from the CPU to the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). This can enhance performance for graphically intensive applications.
Most modern browsers enable hardware acceleration by default, but it can be toggled on or off in settings.
When Can Hardware Acceleration Improve Performance?
Enabling hardware acceleration typically helps when:
Your app renders complex visuals or animations.
You're using high-resolution displays or multiple monitors.
The system has a capable GPU.
You’re experiencing choppy graphics or UI lag.
However, in some cases, it may reduce performance—especially if:
Your GPU is under powered or outdated.
There's a driver compatibility issue.
You're running other graphics-heavy apps simultaneously.
Other Variables That Affect Performance
While hardware acceleration plays a role, other environmental factors can significantly influence web app performance:
Internet Bandwidth & Latency
Slow or unstable connections can delay data loading and affect real-time features.
CPU & GPU Resources
Low-end or overburdened systems may struggle with multitasking or rendering-intensive tasks.
RAM Availability
Insufficient memory can lead to slow performance, particularly with browser-based apps that open multiple tabs.
Browser Extensions
Some extensions consume significant resources or conflict with app scripts.
Browser Version
Older versions may lack optimizations or have unresolved bugs. Always use the latest stable version.
Screen Resolution and DPI Settings
Higher resolutions can demand more processing power, especially when scaling visuals.
How to Adjust Hardware Acceleration in Major Browsers
Chrome:
Go to
Settings > SystemToggle "Use hardware acceleration when available"
Restart the browser
Firefox:
Go to
Settings > GeneralScroll to Performance
Uncheck "Use recommended performance settings"
Check or uncheck "Use hardware acceleration when available"
Edge:
Go to
Settings > System and performanceToggle "Use hardware acceleration when available"
Restart the browser
Best Practices for Optimizing Browser Performance
Enable hardware acceleration if your device has a capable GPU.
Monitor performance; disable it if you experience glitches or freezing.
Keep your browser and graphics drivers up to date.
Limit the number of open tabs and background applications.
Temporarily disable extensions if experiencing lag.
Refer to the discussion on Browser support for WebGL for more detailed information.
Q: Do all of the Paragon documentation, video, and training assets conform to the TPI and TPIC standards?
A: The documentation and training modules provided by Paragon are for educational and informational purposes only, are general in nature, and are not intended to conform to all TPI and TPIC standards. In the event that any documentation or training modules do not conform with the TPI or TPIC standard, the standard takes precedence and supersedes any documentation or training modules published to docs.paragontruss.com or training.paragontruss.com.
Q: What building codes and TPI standards are supported by Paragon Design?
A: Building codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC), frequently refer to and incorporate standards developed by organizations like the Truss Plate Institute (TPI) to ensure the safety and quality of specific building components.
ANSI/TPI 1 is the standard for the design and construction of metal-plate-connected wood trusses. This standard is explicitly referenced and mandated by both the IRC and IBC. It outlines minimum requirements for truss design and construction, including material specifications, connection details, and quality assurance measures.
Paragon Design supports the following building codes and TPI standards:
BCNYS 2020 TPI 2014
CBC 2019 TPI 2014
CBC 2022 TPI 2014
CBC 2025 TPI 2022
CRC 2022 TPI 2014
CRC 2025 TPI 2022
FBC 2017 TPI 2014
FBC 2020 TPI 2014
FBC 2023 TPI 2014
FRC 2017 TPI 2014
FRC 2020 TPI 2014
FRC 2023 TPI 2014
IBC 2012 TPI 2007
IBC 2015 TPI 2014
IBC 2018 TPI 2014
IBC 2021 TPI 2014
IBC 2024 TPI 2022
IRC 2012 TPI 2007
IRC 2015 TPI 2014
IRC 2018 TPI 2014
IRC 2021 TPI 2014
IRC 2024 TPI 2022
NCBC 2018 TPI 2014
SCBC 2018 TPI 2014
Article Updated: 1/9/2026
Q: Does Paragon support wall panel and EWP design and analysis?
A: Currently, Paragon does not support wall framing nor EWP design. It’s possible to represent non-truss framing members, such as EWP, using Truss Envelopes that do not have corresponding, linked Component Designs. Alternatively, it’s possible to use Work Lines or Bearing Envelopes to represent non-truss framing members.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Design App
Q: How do you create a new project in the Paragon Design App?
A: For Individual Plan users (Estimator and Designer), it's possible to create new projects and access existing projects from the Choose/Create New project menu. Watch video.
Hint
With smaller screens (and some screen resolutions) we consolidate the menus on either side of the Project Name display. In the consolidated menu mode, the Choose/Create Project Menu to the left of the project name is no longer displayed, and additional commands are added to the Project Menu , including Open Other Project.
For Team Plan users, this can be accomplished via Paragon Projects. Watch video.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: What truss designs are counted towards my Plan's monthly quota?
A: Each unique truss design within a given project is considered part of the monthly quota.
Identical truss designs used in different projects are considered separate designs, and therefore each truss design counts towards the monthly quota.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: How do you copy/duplicate a project?
A: For Individual Plan users, copying a project is a multi-step process.
From Paragon Design:
Share > Create Shared Set
Copy Link
Open a new browser tab and paste the link
Copy to my organization
For Team Plan users (Coming Soon!), this is best accomplished via Paragon Projects app. From the projects list, select a project and then Copy Project. Watch video.
Q: How do you delete a project?
A: For Individual Plan users (Estimator and Designer), currently it's not possible to delete a project from within the Design app.
For Team Plan users, this can be accomplished via Paragon Projects.
Q: What types of files can be imported/uploaded into Paragon Layouts?
A: In Layout Mode, you are able to upload PDF files as underlays and upload DXF files as Work Lines.
At this time, uploading IFC files is not supported.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: Why am I not getting snap points where I'm expecting them?
A: In both Design and Layout modes, you have the ability to snap to define member or object placement. Unique to Layout mode, when placing objects using point selection, you are presented with a list of Active Snaps which serve as snap "filters." If you are not getting snap points where you expect them, be sure to check and adjust the Active Snaps selections as-needed.
Note that the gridlines displayed in the Design App are not recognized snap points.
Q: How do you override a connection?
A: To override a connection, select the carried truss envelope (the end jack in this example) and change the appropriate (Right) Carried Chord property from Auto to None.
Be sure to Regenerate Component and Regenerate Connections for the modified truss envelope. Next Analyze all Changed Components and the connector should no longer be present.
Additionally, you can verify that any connection manual overrides are accounted for on the carrying truss by reviewing it in Design mode. Select the truss girder and review the Carried Components in the Collections subpanel.
Q: How are Load Duration Factors (LDF) defined in Paragon Design?
A: At the time this article was published (6/23/2025), Paragon Design defines LDF (commonly referred to as Duration of Load) in compliance with the NDS. Paragon Design does not support user-defined Load Duration Factors.
Refer to the following SBCA article on LDF for additional information.
Q: When Analyzing Component Designs why does the system display "Successfully analyzed" for trusses denoted with a red label and a "Checks Exceeded" status?
A: At the time this article was published (6/25/2025), Paragon Design uses "Successfully analyzed" to mean the analysis completed without "errors" or "warnings," which does not include exceeding check capacity.
Q: Does Paragon have a "construction calculator" built into the app?
A: While Paragon Design does not have an integrated "construction calculator" most of the Paragon Design distance fields support arithmetic. This allows you to type in a series of values with arithmetic operators ( + and - ) in between the distance values. After changing mouse focus from the distance field, the calculated value will populate the distance field.
Below are some examples of performing addition and subtraction in the distance fields using the different dimension formats: Feet-Inches-Sixteenths Distance Examples
9-1-2 + 1-6-12 = 10-7-14
090102 + 10612 = 10-7-14
9-1-2 - 8-1-2 = 1-0-0
Architectural Distance Examples
9' 1-1/8" + 1' 6-3/4" = 10' 7-7/8"
9' 1-1/8" - 8' 1-1/8" = 1'
Additional Info:
While the examples show only one operator, it is possible to put a string of multiple values and operators.
Syntax is essential for proper calculator functionality.
The "+" operator does not require spaces around it, but "-" does. Spaces are required for "-" to distinguish "-" from the one in an architectural string and, in some cases, Feet-Inches-Sixteenths.
Q: What do the terms "Port" and "Starboard" mean relative to member cuts?
A: Reference lines, along with members defined from them, have an inherent direction that is not visible to the user. "Port" means "to the left" relative to the direction the line is pointed in (behind the scenes). "Starboard" means "to the right" relative to the direction the line is pointed in (behind the scenes).
When editing a member's Top Cuts and Bottom Cuts, "Port" or "Starboard" append the name of the member or reference line the selected member is cut against. Edit member cuts using from the Properties Panel or use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Click.
In the example below, the left end of W2 is cut against T1's Starboard (right) edge and also cut against W1's Port (left) edge.
Refer to How-To Guides, Optimize Tray Ceiling Truss Designs and Create Roof Trusses with Sloped Bottom Chords for examples of using Port and Starboard.
Article Created: 8/1/2025
Q: The Truss Design Drawing (TDD) section for Maximum CSI notates that all members' CSI values are under 1.0, however the notes state that deflection is OVER CAPACITY. Why is that?
A: CSI and "Lumber capacity" are not synonymous. CSI is a summary of check results, but it is not exhaustive of every check that is run on the lumber. The checks that are exceeded are likely not part of the CSI.
Article Created: 8/7/2025
Q: In Layout, what criteria determines if a jack truss is open or closed?
A: When creating jack trusses in Layout mode, the following criteria determine if a truss will be open (no end vertical) vs. closed (with an end vertical):
Open jacks are < 7' in length and < 6' in height.
Closed jacks are ≥ 7' in length and ≥ 6' in height
Additional Info:
Open jacks, by default, use toe nails for both the top and bottom chord connections.
Closed jacks, by default, use a hanger for bottom chord connections.
You can change the connection type for any carried truss by modifying the
Carried Chordsproperty. For example, if you change theCarried Chordsproperty for an open jack fromAutotoBottomthen an end vertical will be added and a hanger connection can be selected.
Article Created: 7/17/2025
Q: How are multiple overlapping roof planes managed when you have angled hips, skewed valleys, and partial intersections?
A: Truss profiles are automatically defined by the “first” (lowest) plane intersection. Additionally, users have full control of modifying which planes are used for each “intersection" via Additional Cuts.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: If a truss passes under a valley-defining plane, does Paragon automatically profile the top chord to the upper plane?
A: This depends on how the planes are cut. If you “undercut” the main plain, top chord geometry follows the underlying plane (creating a common profile). If you cut the main plane around the valley, then the top chord shape will follow the perpendicular valley planes (creating a sloped to flat profile).
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: When roof planes are altered due to a plan revision, how do existing trusses update?
A: Paragon utilizes Truss Envelopes and linked/unlinked Component Designs. Truss Envelopes are dynamic and adhere to the geometry dictated by planes or user-defined Additional Cuts.
Component Designs represent the actual truss design. Component Design geometry is initially defined by the Truss Envelope geometry, however, once the Component Design is created, it is its own object. This is true whether or not the Component Design is linked to the Truss Envelope.
If the plane geometry changes, the Truss Envelope will be reprofiled automatically, however, the linked Component Design will not automatically change.
Users can force a Component Design to update by using Regenerate Component.
If/when manual edits are made to Component Designs, they are retained. Regenerate Component and Convert to Settings will expunge any edits and revert to the current or original profile, respectively.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How are parapet conditions typically modelled?
A: Parapets are applied in Component Design mode. There are tools available to assist with the initial member placement and users have full control of manipulating any truss member as-needed.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: Does Paragon support level-to-level load transfer?
A: Paragon supports truss-to-truss connectivity and load transfer. Paragon does not currently support level-to-level nor truss-to-other load transfer.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How are girder trusses identified and generated in Layout?
A: Paragon does not explicitly define “Girder trusses” but rather implicitly identifies a truss as a “girder” if it carries other components.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How does Paragon represent and handle ply counts, reactions, and tributary area loading?
A: Ply Counts: Plies are a property of any truss. Ply count is represented in layout by the width of the object in the scene.
Reactions: Reactions for the carried truss are easily accessible from its component properties. Reactions of the carried truss show up on the carrying truss (girder) as point loads in their respective load cases.
Tributary Areas: This is controlled by the user-editable on-center spacing property of a given component.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How are openings such as skylights, hatches, and larger voids introduced into the roof space?
A: Paragon does not currently have an “opening” object but rather users are able to input trusses at any location using a “reference line” for placement. The best way to accomplish this today, is to represent the skylight with Work Line segments and then “trace” the Work Lines with Truss Envelopes.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How are non-standard loads applied to localized regions of the floor system rather than globally, such as for heavier loading requirements at corridors?
A: General loading is controlled at a variety of levels, including Project, Building, Level, and Component. It is not currently possible to add or alter loading in a specific area of a layout, but rather loading can be altered and refined for individual component designs.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How does Paragon handle web alignment across adjacent trusses where strongbacks are required but webs don’t naturally line up?
A: Paragon currently does not have any purpose-built tools to aid in web alignment across components. This would be best accomplished by duplicating a template Component Design and linking it to a different Truss Envelope and then modifying the design in Design mode. Alignment can be validated using the 3D view in Layout.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How are recessed zones (e.g. shower pans) handled?
A: Shower pan drops are best depicted in Layout using a Step. The Step object is added to a Feature Pattern Container and currently applies a vertical step in the bottom chord of a Feature Pattern Truss.
Once the location of the vertical step is defined in the Layout, it is easy to manipulate the individual chord and web members in Design mode to finalize the design.
It’s also possible to simply determine the location of the pan using user-dimensions and then apply the chord/web modifications in the component design.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How does Paragon represent and account for large mechanical ducts and other HVAC voids/obstructions?
A: Feature Pattern Container Chase objects are supported and can be used to force a void in the Component Design webbing.
Currently, there are no tools to force a “void” in the layout of trusses, though it's possible to use boundary-defining Work Line segments to create a void and frame around the void with Truss Envelopes.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: When MEP openings or services move late in the process, does the framing update cleanly, or is manual rework required?
A: With current functionality, a designer would modify the void-defining object in Layout to properly represent the new location & specifications, and then do one of two things:
Regenerate the affected components and finalize the new designs.
Using the existing component, apply the necessary changes manually to accommodate the new void specifications.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How clean are the roof and floor truss placement diagrams straight out of the Layout?
A: Currently, there are few “drafting” tools available natively within Paragon. Paragon currently supports generating a basic PDF framing layout.
Currently, the most effective workflow is to generate a Layout .dxf file and finalize the framing layout in a CAD-specific application.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How reliable are material take-offs and truss/framing schedules once the model has been iterated on?
A: Outputs, such as detailed material reports, are generated by the user as-needed and represent a snapshot of the project materials at the time of creation. Previously generated reports are not automatically updated throughout the project lifecycle.
It is possible to leverage Paragon’s API to benefit from real-time changes and adjustments to project data in any user-managed, integrated system, such as project management , ERP or POS applications.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: How does Paragon manage revisions, and how easy is it to identify what’s changed between iterations?
A: Currently, Paragon does not have any purpose-built features to assist with revisions. Depending on the scope of a revision, a user may be required to modify the Layout, Component Designs, and the Truss Placement diagram (.dxf).
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Q: What is included in Paragon-generated IFC files?
A: Currently, the Paragon IFC includes the location and 3D geometry of truss members and plates, however, the specific lumber and plate meta-data is not included. IFC file includes truss label/ID but does not include other metadata such as reactions.
Article Updated: 2/6/2026
Engineering Network
Q: What is the Paragon Engineering Network?
A: Paragon Engineering Network members provide component review and repair services for the Paragon software community. Engineering Network members are listed within the software when users request component review and/or repairs.
Note that all service agreements provided through the Engineering Network are between the Paragon software user and the Engineering Network member.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: What is required to join the Paragon Engineering Network?
A: Becoming a member of the Paragon Engineering Network requires the following:
Going through training and onboarding
Signing up and maintaining at least one Annual Designer Plan
Agreeing to a fixed fee per sealed truss design or repair drawing
Q: Who are Paragon Engineering Network providers?
A: The following engineering service providers are experienced reviewing and sealing Paragon truss designs and repairs.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: How much does it cost for component review seals and repairs?
A: Because all service agreements provided through the Engineering Network are between the Paragon software user and the Engineering Network member, it is suggested to contact each provider to discuss your specific use case.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: What is the average turnaround time for component review seals and repairs?
A: Because all service agreements provided through the Engineering Network are between the Paragon software user and the Engineering Network member, it is suggested to contact each provider to discuss your specific use case.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Training
Q: What training options are available?
A: Training options are captured at paragontruss.com/training and include:
Instructor-Led Training (Intended for Enterprise, Team & Individual Paid Plans)
Article Updated: 1/27/2025
Q: What is the Paragon Training Academy?
A: The Paragon Training Academy includes self-paced, guided training modules covering core skills and workflows.
Courses include:
Course 1: Intro to Paragon (3 hours 19 minutes)
Course 2: Truss Design Training (1 hour 42 minutes)
Course 3: Intermediate Layout & Design Workflow (4 hours 57 minutes)
Article Updated: 1/27/2025
Q: How hard is it to learn the Paragon software?
A: Relatively easy, but you can find out for yourself by signing up for a free account and a one month free trial.
Q: Does Paragon have documentation or a Help site?
Paragon Documentation includes tutorials, how-to guides, and other helpful resources. Utilize the Ai-Powered Search to help find specific topics within a given app or across the entire Docs site.
Paragon Documentation is broken out into the following areas:
Article Updated: 1/27/2025
Truss Design & Custom Development Services
Q: Does Paragon offer truss design services?
A: Yes. Paragon Design Services options are captured at paragontruss.com/services and include:
On-Demand Design: A pay-as-you-go service. Trained designers will review the request, provide an estimate, and complete the design work for accepted work.
Component Manufacturer Extension (CMX): A service where a Paragon-trained designer is placed with a CM and is dedicated to work for that CM. The CM pays a defined rate, based on a set number of hours per week.
Article Updated: 1/27/2025
Q: What types of truss design services are available?
A: The following services are available:
Conversion Designs: Match existing truss designs and convert to alternative connector plate.
Estimate Designs: Preliminary, cost-effective designs accurate enough for feasibility and general costing.
Pre-Production Designs: ~80% complete designs, requiring customer review and CM optimization prior to sealing/fabrication.
Repair Designs: Create design replicating field conditions to use in collaboration with the reviewing engineer.
Truss Placement Diagrams: Layouts and truss placement plans (.pdf and .dxf format)
Shared Set: Read-only Paragon layout and designs from which you can download available outputs, including material and fabrication information.
Check out paragontruss.com/services for more information and to inquire about Paragon Design Services.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
Q: Does Paragon offer custom software development services?
A: Yes. Paragon offers custom development solutions. Learn more at paragontruss.com/custom-development.
Article Updated: 1/27/2025
API & Integrations
Q: What integrations does Paragon offer?
A: Our open API can be used to create custom integrations for your business, connecting Paragon to other software solutions. Please review our API Page for more information on integrations.
While custom integrations will require some technical expertise, the integration with Make.com simplifies connecting Paragon to other applications.
Article Updated: 12/18/2025
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