October 2024 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine by Component Manufacturing Advertiser

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: Being Prepared

Joe Kannapell: Wall Panel Technology, Part VII: A Deeper Dive into Automation

Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: How Service and Support Can Make a Difference

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: Automation Worth Considering for the Building Industry

Glenn Traylor: Have You Taken the Quality Assurance Challenge?

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. –LimTek Solutions: F1 Pit Stop Each Truss

Erin Ohnesorge – ROGworx: When Saws Go Rogue

Ed Serrano – Vekta: Revolutionizing Frame and Truss Manufacturing: The Power of RealTime Optimization

Carl Villella – Acceptance Leasing: Fixed Rate Drops Below Prime…Just in Time for BCMC!

Valerie Hansen – BuyMetrics: Optimize Offsite Production by Optimizing Lumber Costs

Frank Woeste – All Things Wood: Impact of Specific Gravity on Wood-toWood Connections

Thomas McAnally – The JobLine: Harnessing the Benefits of AI

Geordie Secord – Design Connections: Options for Filling Your Open Positions

John “Buddy” Showalter, PE and Sandra Hyde, PE – ICC: 2024 IBC Significant Structural Changes — Wood

MiTek Staff: The Emerging Significance of EPDs in Building Construction

Joe Polder – Simpson Strong-Tie: Meeting Industry Need with the HTTH6.5: The Next Evolution in Holdown Solutions

Joe Kannapell – The Last Word BCMC Hits & Misses

What can 4Ward Offer you?

CONSULTING

Develop a ROADMAP that guarantees a smart path forward.

Analyze the COST-BENEFIT for NEW PROJECTS to ensure a strong ROI

Identify CAPABILITY GAPS to optimize your operations

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

4Ward

DESIGN

EXTEND YOUR EXISTING CAPABILITIES WITH 4WARD’S DESIGN EXPERTISE. Without the hassle and expense of training your own designers, partnering with us guarantees that each wall panel, floor truss or roof truss will be designed for structural integrity and production and field efficiency.

OUR NEWEST OFFERING GIVES YOU ACCESS TO CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES. WHEN YOU’RE READY FOR NEXT-LEVEL GROWTH, IO IS YOUR BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE.

ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS

HIGH-END AUTOMATION

MODUCORE

SUPPLY CHAIN PRODUCTS SMART FACTORY DEVICES

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

the Structural Building componentS induStry

New & Used Equipment

Saws

Truss Equipment

Panel Equipment

Trucks & Trailers

Misc. Equipment

Modular Manufacturing

Door | Stair | Window Equipment

Safety First

Calendar of Events

TheJobLine - Jobs & Candidates

Industry News

Inside

Published Monthly

Publisher Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.org

Editor Anna L. Stamm 800-289-5627 x 3 anna@componentadvertiser.org

Distributed FREE Via e-mail subscription Download PDF or Read on line at www.componentadvertiser.com

Hiring Zone + Subcontract Designers Available

4Ward Solutions Group

Acceptance Leasing & Financing

Acer, Inc

Akhurst Machinery

All Points Technical

Alpine

BuyMetrics

Clark Industries, Inc.

Eagle Metal Products

Eide Integrated Systems, LLC | ProCut, LLC

Element Equipment

Fitzgerald Group

G-J oist

HOLTEC USA

Hundegger USA

JAX, The Wood Retriever

LimTek Solutions

MiTek

Panels Plus

Paragon

ROGworx Automation

Simpson Strong-Tie

Spida USA

The Hain Company

TheJobLine

Timber Products Inspection

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC

Triad | RUVO | Merrick Machine

Vekta Automation

Wasserman & Associates

West Fraser

Wolf X Machina

Wood Tech Systems

104,105,108,109,117,120,121,127,129

News of Interest and Advertising inquiries can be submitted to: anna@componentadvertiser.org An Open Forum for many sources. Deadline 20th of each month. Articles, Trade Names, and Logos are the property of their respective owner or creator unless otherwise noted

Disclaimer: We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or material that we deem not in the interest of the industry or the Advertiser. Permission to use content is the responsibility of the contributor including permissions to use any likeness of persons.

The Advertiser is provided “As Is” including typographical errors, omissions, and mistakes both intentional and unintentional.

Component Manufacturing Advertiser

The Advertiser 7586 Becks Grove Road Freetown, Indiana 47235 no reproduction in whole or in part without permission from the component manufacturing advertiser

Archive Copies Available On Line www.componentadvertiser.com

Anna L. Stamm Director of Communications and Marketing Component Manufacturing Advertiser.

Advertiser F Forum

Being Prepared

Unlike my father who was an Eagle Scout, I never had any professional training in being prepared. I’m a fan of the idea though, and I like to Be Prepared for situations as best as I can anticipate.

Crafting Your Plan

Simply put, the best way to be prepared is to think about the scenario you expect to experience, then sketch out the steps that will be needed for successful completion. You may not need to write it down on paper, as though you’re writing a grocery shopping list of actions, but you should have a clear understanding of the process in sequence.

Take, for example, my recent water heater replacement. Having experienced that process previously, I knew many of the actions and reactions to expect, such as

• They’ll need to drain the existing water heater – make sure there is a path from the water heater to the yard for the hose (and have my hose on standby in case they need to borrow it like last time!)

• The guy steering the hand truck with the old/new water heater may have trouble maneuvering the weight – clear all furniture and wall hangings from the path, just in case

• Water is involved – keep towels/rags handy for emergencies and/or clean up.

Expecting the Unexpected

But even with all of the advance planning in the world, you always have to expect the unexpected. Here’s the item I didn’t have on my mental list:

• Move the pot holders off the stovetop in case the guy wants to light his blowtorch from the gas burners in the kitchen!

Yep, the water heater closet is off the kitchen, so I guess using a gas stovetop to light a blowtorch is a natural step before soldering gas lines back together. But, at least I didn’t need my new fire extinguisher!

There will always be complications and situations we didn’t expect, but we can still prepare for the obvious and manage the rest as it comes.

Monet DeSauw FWA 500 Floor Web Cutter

• Push Button Powered Blade Angulations

• Single Push Button Setting for 2 Blades per Side

• Electronic Digital Readouts

• Backup Mechanical Indicators

• Cuts 4 Angle Webs, Cantilever Webs (2 piece webs) & Square Blocks

• Magazine Lumber Feed for 3x2, 4x2 and 6x2 Lumber 12 1/2” to 48 1/2” Length Capacity (7” Minimum on Square Blocks)

• 60 Pieces per Minute

• (4) Internal 16” Blades & (1) External 16” Cut-Off Blade

• Pneumatic Blade Brake on External Blade

• Dust Hoods

• Belt Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Add $4,300 for 12’ Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Add $2,100 for Extra Set of Blades

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

FOBMO Call For Pricing

Linear Saw

• Automated (Truss Design Software Download) or SemiAutomated (Touch Screen Entry) Operation

• All Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• 22” x 40 Tooth Blade on PAE Cut 1 or 2 Boards up to 20’ (2 Second Plunge Cut)

• Cut Chords, Webs, Rafters, Wedges & Stair Stringers

• Cut Long Scarfs by MultiPlunging

• Servo Positioning on Infeed, Angle & Outfeed Pusher

• Over Travel Protection

• Ink Jet Printer

• Lumber Optimization Program

• Belt Waste Conveyor

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase / 60 Amp

• Includes 5 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Optional Monet DeSauw Live Deck, Bunk Feeder & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor FOB MO Call For Pricing

Monet DeSauw DeSawyer

2000 Automated Saw

• Touch Screen User Interface with Backup Mechanical Controls

• 3 Operating Modes: Auto, SemiAuto & Manual

• All 20 Axes of Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• Anti-Collision & Optimizing Programming

• Auto Calibration Productivity & Time Tracking

• Maintenance Diagnostics

• Variable Speed Conveyor (0-50 Flights per Minute)with Powered Hold Downs

• (1) 30” x 80 Tooth Blade (27 3/4” Scarf on PAE)

• (4) 16” x 40 Tooth Blades (13 1/2” Scarf on Centerline)

• Pneumatic Blade Brakes on all 5 Blades

• 16 1/2” to 20’ Length Capacity (11” Minimum on Square End Blocks)

• Vibrating Waste Conveyor Under Saw

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Includes 4 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Add $2,900 for Extra Set of Blades

• Optional Live Deck, Label Printer, Ink Jet Printer, Catcher Display & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor.

Call For Pricing FOB MO

Buy Factory Direct From Wasserman & Associates at the same price as the Manufacturer, and get the added support and care you need to be up and running FAST! WE’LL EVEN HELP SELL YOUR USED EQUIPMENT TOO!

Monet DeSauw DeRobo

EZ-SET AUTO JIGGING EXCLUSIVE & PATENTED DESIGN

Automatic Truss Jigging System to drastically reduce setup times. Allows for 100% embedment on the table, with top & bottom chord pucks in the same slot. TopSider or standard configurations available for conventional kick-leg, walk-thru, or our new trackless 8' and 10' continuous table systems. Systems for other roller & hydraulic gantries are coming soon. Available in new machine installations or for retro-fitting your existing table. The TopSider is exclusively applicable for “kick or flip leg” style truss presses such as the Tri-Axis & Lumbermater®

FEATURES / APPLICATIONS

• Capable of 100% On-Table Nail Plate Embedment

• Two Pucks Per Slot

• 24", 26", and/or 30" Spacing

• Compatible with all current major design software

• Multiple Simultaneous Layouts

By Joe Kannapell

Wall Panel Technology, Part VII: A Deeper Dive into Automation

Toll Brothers imported an automated panel line commensurate with their luxurious homes, or so they expected. Perhaps because the European economy was ailing in the early 1990s, Randek from Sweden, like the Makron company from Finland before them, offered Toll an excellent deal. But Randek was an eminently worthy partner, then and now 30 years later, having grown their automation expertise by working closely with prefabricated housing producers beginning in the post-World War II recovery. However, the Randek line was designed around smaller and more repetitive housing units, not Toll’s larger and more customized units. But it offered features that Toll hoped would greatly enhance their panel output.

Randek employed the same extrusion process employed by Makron (for details, see “Wall Panel Technology, Part VI: Panel Equipment Innovations”). However, to keep the line moving, window and door components were built ahead and stored in compartments stacked vertically. To run with fewer stops and starts, shorter panels were grouped together and built adjacent to one another between continuous top and bottom plates, which were sawed apart at the end of the panel line.

Toll’s component operations, aggregated under a wholly owned subsidiary called Toll Integrated Systems (TIS), exclusively served their building divisions in the northeast. Their only plant at the time was located north of Philadelphia in Morrisville, PA, just across the Delaware River from Trenton, NJ. While every associate in the field or in the plant worked for the namesake brothers, Bruce and Bob Toll, TIS management was often overpowered by high-level executives in the home building divisions who demanded more output than the plant could produce. And Toll’s modus operandi was loading their models with options, the total cost of which could exceed the base price of the model. During the 1990s, Toll’s architecture office across town lacked 3D rendering software and would send TIS floorplans of one-off options without integrating them into the main body of the house. This practice greatly complicated TIS design work and lengthened lead times. Because of the northeast’s notoriously complicated permitting process and the complexity of the designs, Toll had a difficult time predicting when component deliveries would commence. As a result, when all issues were resolved, TIS was compelled to put orders into production immediately, and upon completion, panels often languished in the weather before erection, reflecting poorly on TIS.

Both Toll and Randek worked together through the remainder of the 1990s to maximize output, but finally decided that major upgrades were necessary to keep up with the doubling of workload that had occurred during that decade. In 1999, a new line was installed in Morrisville and the existing line was shipped to a new plant in Emporia, VA. Fortunately, not long after installation of the upgraded line, Toll management protected their very large investment by bringing onboard Brian Hunter, who had 20 years’ experience in automotive manufacturing. Brian quickly assessed the opportunities to not only improve the line’s throughput but also its output quality.

Toll’s high-end buyers continued to expect high-quality interior finishes, necessitating uniformly straight studs. Even though TIS paid a premium for higher-quality Douglas Fir studs from the west coast, they still had to develop a culling process that did not slow down the line. This led to the provision of a skate-wheel-based work table were straightness and defects were assessed. Those that passed inspection were gravity-fed into a trough and power-conveyed into the extruder upon demand. The studs were then automatically clamped into position, while the top and bottom plates were incrementally advanced, and plate-to-stud nailing was initiated. This Toll-developed infeed system replaced the standard overhead conveyor and dedicated the operator to delivering the next round of top and bottom plates and window and door components. But this was just one of many such improvements that were made to enhance productivity.

In 2008, Toll recruited Keith Fell as Director of Manufacturing, who had spent 35 years managing plants inside and outside the component industry. Among the improvements he initiated were the elimination of routing by precutting sheathing and implementation of just-in-time production by closer coordination with the field. These enhancements and others shortened lead times, reduced finished goods inventories, and lessened the time panels were exposed to the elements, thereby improving quality.

Toll’s experience highlights the advantage of bringing outside experts into component plants who aren’t hesitant to add offline enhancements to automated systems, and to engage suppliers to accommodate such adaptations. In the long run, this type of supplier–user cooperation paves the way for more productive automation in the future.

Next Month: Panel Automation from American Suppliers

INTEGRATED AUTOMATED SOLUTIONS FOR MORE GROWTH

Improve the efficiency of your plant and reduce labor requirements by implementing automation solutions for more growth. You can optimize your facility’s workflow by using reliable cutting, material handling, and assembly equipment that utilizes integrated software.

MiTek automated solutions are supported by:

Shortest automation lead time in the industry

Considerable addition of resources to technical development and service teams $ Visit the MiTek booth at BCMC | FS to learn more.

Substantial investments to significantly increase manufacturing capacity since 2021

TheJobLine.com

Software Territory Sales Representative –Component ManufacturersJ15336

You want to be an important member of a strong team of other makers who take pride in their work and support each other. As a Territory Sales Representative (TSR) – Component Manufacturing, you will be responsible for growing Truss sales in the Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Northern Arkansas Territory while creating and maintaining effective relationships with component manufacturing customers. Your goal for these relationships will be to promote the company's software suite and related hardware products. This encompasses job management, design and analysis for prefabricated metal plate connected wood trusses and engineered wood products. You will coordinate with and contribute to the overall branch and company efforts to profitably grow our business. You will also lead and participate in training sessions/workshops in and out of the territory. These workshops require scheduling, promotion, set-up, presentation, and take-down, as well as providing observation and suggestions for improvement. You will work with Regional Sales Managers, Product Management, Marketing, and other TSRs to develop/coordinate sales strategies and programs; and communicate appropriate market trends and field intelligence to provide to Management and Operations to ensure customer satisfaction. If career growth is important to you, we not only know how to help you with that, it’s what we love to do.

Advanced equipment for truss and wall components.

As a longtime partner to the construction industry, Simpson Strong-Tie continues to explore and invest in advanced equipment. Around the country, manufacturers and LBMs are already gaining speed and accuracy with our EasyFrame automated marking and cutting system for wall panels. Now with Monet DeSauw truss machinery — a full line of precision component and linear saws — you have all you need from one source. Along with industry-standard connectors, fastening systems and software, our cutting equipment is available nationwide. It comes with fast, onsite installation and in-depth training to get your team up and running, plus expert service and support.

See the EasyFrame and Monet DeSauw saws in action. Visit our booth at BCMC, October 7-11.

‘Set

& Forget’ With The Sheather 5 Gun 2 Saw

A fantastic addition to your wall frame line! You’ll have perfectly sheathed walls in minutes, without being labor intensive.

ONE TOUCH AUTOMATION PREVENTS SHINERS KEEPS UP WITH WALL EXTRUDER +

Suitable for all common walls and most raked walls, the Sheather 5 Gun 2 Saw is the ultimate in wall sheathing!

Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery

How Service and Support Can Make a Difference

When it comes to investing in machinery and equipment for your frame or truss production, a number of factors are normally part of the decision making – what efficiencies will this product provide, what pain points does it need to alleviate, how will it aid my growth or overall profits, how long will it take for the machine to have paid for itself? But is service and support part of your decision making? If it isn’t, we would recommend you add this to your criteria when making a decision (not leaving it until after the machine is in your factory), and here are the benefits of doing just that.

The Importance of Machinery Service

There are a number of reasons why machinery service should be part of your decision making, with some even going to the extent of saying it’s just as important as the machine itself! When it comes to manufacturing, the wish of customers is for machinery to never break down and never need parts replacing. Unfortunately, the reality is that machines, regardless of their quality, can break down and parts over time will need replacing. So, it’s better to plan for this and make sure you’re well supported in your machinery purchases.

Machinery servicing has a number of benefits including:

• Extends the life of the equipment, reducing the need to purchase new/replacement equipment

• Reduces downtime and delays in your production, allowing machines to run without unplanned interruptions

• Enables more efficient operations within your manufacturing factory

• Minimizes the need for costly repairs due to negligence and allows you to spot any issues when they are “small” and easier and more cost effective to resolve.

In particular, we recommend that you consider the following areas of service in your machinery purchase decision making.

Regular Preventative Maintenance

Having regular maintenance on your machinery and equipment reduces the chance of unnecessary downtime and extends the life of the machinery – thereby saving you time and money. Also, by maintaining your equipment, you minimize the risk of operator injury due to worn or faulty equipment.

High performance machinery like we have at Spida needs to be properly maintained and serviced to guarantee optimum performance. We offer regular preventative maintenance of your machinery to ensure it is running efficiently, reliably, and safely. We offer one, three, six, and twelve-month service plans depending on the type of machine and how often it is being used. We understand that when your machine is not running, that’s costly for you, which is why we schedule these maintenance visits in advance. By planning ahead, it also means we can have back-up parts in place or standby and can be ahead of any queries that may arise, allowing the machine to keep purring along.

Alternatively, for customers who are not on a plan, a prepaid one-time service can be scheduled for you. There’s also ongoing maintenance and checks that you can do yourself too – daily, weekly, and monthly, to ensure optimal performance of your Spida machine. The details of these service regimes are included in our machinery manuals.

Replacement Parts

When you first purchase your machinery and equipment, everything is new and working as expected. However, over time with the constant use in your factory and general wear and tear, there will be a need to replace some parts. When this time comes, you want the process to order and receive the parts to be simple, straightforward, and quick. At Spida, this process is easy and streamlined. Simply contact our service team at usasupport@spida.com and they will take care of you!

Response, Service, and Support

Another key area of service to consider is the communication channels and how much support you will receive. A company may boast it has a service team, but if they never answer their phone or respond to emails, how much support is that? We pride ourselves on having a local, “boots on the ground” service and support team, allowing us to respond to your needs as quickly as possible. While machinery is what we provide, it’s people and relationships which are at our core – we’re just a phone call or email away.

In fact, we offer we also both Machinery Support and Technical Support Agreements, so you can choose from different levels of annual service.

We’ve got a very experienced and capable team within the U.S, as well as our wider support family of technicians in New Zealand and Australia, so we can always provide the local support our customers need. The great depth and combined experience of our local team means we have availability when you need it. You’re able to plan ahead for installation dates and schedule in service runs. Our vehicles are also well equipped with materials, making our servicing and maintenance work very efficient. Moreover, our machinery technicians have the ability to dial into a networked machine and diagnose any software glitches or anomalies. This provides you with prompt and efficient support, so you can be back using your machine as quickly as possible. Supporting our customers so they can get optimal performance out of their Spida machines is a priority for us.

It’s Spida from Start to Finish

When you choose Spida Machinery, you’re guaranteed we’ve involved every step of the way. From the production of the machinery, to the programming, to the installation and training, through to service and support, this all happens by our Spida team. This means we have complete transparency and knowledge of the full end-to-end solutions we’re providing you. This allows us to provide the ultimate support to our customers.

When you invest in machinery, we encourage you to consider service in your decision making given the number of benefits it provides. We make high-quality precision machinery for the structural building components industry, and we know our customers expect and deserve the same level of quality for servicing, maintenance, and support. We understand that. That’s why we have a dedicated team to take care of all your machinery needs.

Our comprehensive service team across the globe highlights the importance we place on working with our customers and providing you the best experience! We offer great value servicing contracts which will benefit your machines and your operators – including maintenance, technical support, and training.

If you’d like to learn more about Spida Machinery and the service and support we offer, please get in touch with us today.

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

Hundegger leads the way in automation innovation for the truss component industry. Our advanced CAMBIUM software offers cutting-edge automation and digitalization solutions, revolutionizing operations, boosting productivity, and driving sustainable growth for manufacturers like you.

We go beyond standard mechanization; we champion true Automation. The Hundegger TD-II isn't just a saw-it's a transformative, comprehensive solution designed to streamline your production process. From retrieving lumber to optimizing, nesting, stacking, destacking, sorting, buffering, and precise delivery, our system ensures peak efficiency and productivity, tailored specifically to truss component manufacturing.

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Harness the power of data with Hundegger's advanced CAMBIUM TACTICAL software. It meticulously tracks and optimizes your production, ensuring more automated operations and significant productivity gains.

We provide state-of-the-art automation and control solutions that set the industry standard. Our focus on industrial automation and robotics positions Hundegger as the leader in enhancing performance and efficiency in truss component manufacturing and beyond.

Hundegger products are essential for future-proofing your business. Elevate your productivity and secure your competitive edge with our advanced technologies and automation solutions, meticulously designed to meet the unique demands of component manufacturers today and tomorrow.

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive. Learn more about Automation and Mechanization at BCMC 2024

● PlanSwift Lumber & Bldg Mat Takeoffs

● Truss & Wall Panel Design Staff

● EWP Layouts and much more!

www.AllPoints.Tech

Dave Walstad - Panama City Beach, FL

Cell - 941-713-4395

Dave.AllPoints@gmail.com All Points integrates with Epicor’s BisTrack So you can be More Accurate, Faster.

European Glued Truss - Joist Licensees, Partnerships, or Investment Opportunity U.S. & Globally protected product and process

This first-of-its-kind G-Joist offers unique parallel chord options

• Can use bottom OR top chord support

• Manufacture as a custom joist, chase opening, and support or

• manufacture as fixed length, arbitrary cut, and support

• Can be cut arbitrarily AND trimmed on one OR both ends

• No hanger required when top chord support

• No proof loading required Dr. Tuomo Poutanen Kuninkaankatu 41 B 33200 Tampere Finland tuomo.poutanen@tuni.fi +358408490900, www.gjoist.com

• Can be configured with large chase openings Contact me for details: Dr. Tuomo Poutanen tuomo.poutanen@gjoist.com +358408490900 www.gjoist.com Material Takeoffs Slowing You Down? All Points Can Help You Sell More in 2024!

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

To see meaningful labor savings, quality improvement and production gains, SL Lasers with their easyto-see green light are nothing short of illuminating. They enhance worker accuracy and productivity, regardless of experience or primary language. They can reduce tedious setup time by up to 70%. No complex training or costly service agreements are required. And SL Lasers integrate seamlessly with any component design software and are quickly installed over existing equipment. We’ve been trailblazers in wood component laser projection since its very beginning, and we’re still delivering more rapid ROI for roof truss, wall and floor panel producers every day. Contact our enlightening team at Wood Tech Systems to see how SL Laser can deliver for you.

Motor: HeavyDuty5HP-3phase-220vor440v(Pleasespecifywhenordering)

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate

LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

Covers: 10Gauge(1/8"Thick)Aluminumremovable

Dimensions: Height-60inches,Width-33inches,Depth-33inches

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

The Auto-Feeding RetroC

The Amazing RetroC by Enventek

A complete wood processing system proven to profitably feed cut lumber to truss plants of all sizes.

Easy to use, simple robust automation that is scalable with less labor. A RetroC holds calibration.

Out Produces Any Saw in Batch Cut or Cut by Truss Mode

Auto-Feeding, no upper hold-downs (just 15 automation axes) with electronic braking. Efficient material handling that will significantly increase cut piece production with reduced operating costs and improve truss build times with consistently accurate cut pieces.

Catching labor is eliminated with our optional SpeedCatch cart system. Sophisticated SpeedCatch software enhances the efficiency of truss production by effectively collating and organizing the lumber at the truss tables. SpeedCatch upgrades the RetroC to a comprehensive one-person (sawyer) wood processing system.

Robotic Truss Assembly Review Offering

√ All 3 Major Roof Truss Auto Assembly Systems.

√ Unbiased No Vendor Referral Fees.

√ Accurate Productivity, Written Reviews, and Videos.

√ Employee Issues — Reduce Costs & Vacancies.

√ Equipment and Building Design Recommendations.

√ Not All Systems Work As Advertised.

Automation Worth Considering for the Building Industry

Automation within the building industry has been ongoing for decades but at a slower pace than other industries. So, what do we mean by automation? Let’s focus on two types: automation for building estimation and automation for roof truss manufacturing. Both will be discussed at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) on October 7–11 in Milwaukee, WI.

Takeoff Automation for Materials and Cost Lists of Wood Buildings—New this year, SBCA Innovation Award Finalist CrowdBuild will present their automated online program at Booth 1503. The program generates a 3D model of residential buildings from PDF prints and creates reliable and consistent material lists and cost estimations within a few moments.

Cost estimation for each building by a CM can be very time-consuming and inconsistent. Soon, any LBM, wood component manufacturer, or home builder will be able to generate a consistent, reliable, and almost instant bid using TwinBuild LVM by CrowdBuild. Upload a PDF print of a wood building, and the program will generate a full wholehouse-quality takeoff and estimate in real time.

TwinBuild LVM uses cutting-edge technology to automatically create a whole-house-quantity takeoff from PDFs of 2D construction drawings at production-level accuracy, encompassing structural and non-structural components. Due to the level of precision, the output can be used not only for preconstruction bids but also to serve as a “single source of truth” for the entire life cycle of the structure. This fully automated experience eliminates the typically time-consuming, error-prone, manual takeoff and estimation process, accelerating job bids while significantly reducing the largest preconstruction expense.

Todd Drummond

The program has advanced features that allow an estimator to create dynamic and customized scripts for precise cost analysis.

• Automated recognition of wall profiles, opening types, and space finishings off of 2D floor plans

• Automated recognition of roof plane geometry and pitches off of 2D roof plans

• Auto-generation of complete truss layout based on detected roof geometry

• Fully customizable formulas for parts and assemblies

• Takeoff reports that can be exported as CSV (spreadsheet) or PDF files.

Besides the considerable time savings for estimators, consistently having a very accurate takeoff with a complete costs and materials list will save tens of thousands of dollars—something to consider to improve your company’s bidding services, operating costs, and profitability.

Robotic Roof Truss Equipment—Automating the wood roof truss assembly process using robotics has been very difficult. The process appears simple, but overcoming all the variables is quite difficult. From the beginning, these challenges have created cost and price barriers that have stifled the startup cost needed to overcome these challenges. However, markets change, and with labor costs steadily rising and manpower becoming more scarce, automation is something to consider seriously, regardless of price barriers. The few vendors who have created roof truss robotic automated systems are gaining sales. Many are considering investing, while a small minority have already taken the early plunge into robotic automation for roof truss assembly.

These past months, I have been globe-trotting to visit CM locations using the three different equipment vendors’ roof truss assembly automation equipment. What an equipment salesperson tells a potential buyer and what will most likely happen can be very different. Part of my services is separating the hype from the actual for all the CM equipment. Each vendor’s robotic equipment has strengths and weaknesses, and one of the three, I believe, missed the mark so much that I failed to see the benefits of their offering.

I am now offering a roof truss robotic assembly report to those interested. The report includes all three robotic truss systems (note: all three are registered trademarks of their respective companies):

1. House of Design

2. Randex AutoEye

3. Trussmatic

And yes, it includes the House of Design (HOD) equipment. By now, most of you have heard that HOD has closed and is no longer operating. I assume that, at some point, another truss equipment vendor may purchase the rights to that equipment and continue manufacturing and selling it, and in the meantime it will to provide a point of reference for those considering the costs and benefits of these automated systems.

TDC does not make referral income from any of the roof and wall panel equipment manufacturers, so this detailed report offering is a paid-for service. My services are based on unbiased and straightforward discussions about any vendor’s equipment performance, reliability, and support. So, if your group is ready, contact me.

Milwaukee, WI | October 7–11 | Booth 919

Exhibitor Education Sessions—Todd Drummond Consulting

Tuesday, October 8 — 2:00 PM- 2:45 PM

Transforming Profits Through Employment Practices — Room N206

Case Study — Building Material Supply & Truss Manufacturing

Explore the impact of employee staffing and cost issues on net profits. Understand the changes in employment demographics over the past few years and how companies have met these challenges. Through a case study at Building Material Supply and Truss Manufacturing, explore how they transformed from negative to positive net profits in three years by altering its employment practices. Gain insights into effective strategies for improving your own business’s profitability.

BCMC 2024 – Booth 919 – The TDC team is your best source for learning about proven and practical lean manufacturing best practices combined with industrial engineering principles to keep your company at the leading edge of competitiveness. No one is better at providing your team with proven results for good employee practices, pricing, truss labor estimation, and so many other bestin-class practices. TDC’s tailored solutions are for the client’s specific needs. Go beyond the typical software and equipment vendor recommendations for your operations and do what many have dared to do. Embrace the Drummond Method, and your company can experience cost savings and net profit gains that usually take months or years. These gains can be accomplished in weeks or months, resulting in an average of 3 to 6 point net profit gains for CMs. All areas are addressed, not just manufacturing. Please do not take my word about TDC’s services, though. Read the public testimonials many current and past clients with decades of expertise and experience have been willing to give: https://todd-drummond. com/testimonials/

Website: www.todd-drummond.com • Phone (USA): 603-748-1051

“Over the years Alpine ensured our quality and production kept improving. Working with Alpine has been a 22 year friendship as well as a partnership!”

— Roy Bedient Manager/ Production Manager, Warman

Truss

•

• • Automated Setup via Download or Semi-Automated Setup via Touch Screen Input

• 23 Axes

• Sets up in 2 to 15 Seconds

• Five Blades cut 2x3 thru 2x12 up to 20'

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Excludes Incline (adjacent to saw) and Live Deck (in

enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes

Hain Systems Framer

Safety Speed Cut Model 7000 Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing model 7000, vertical panel saw, 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2 inch maximum thickness, accuracy within 1/64th of an inch, 10 foot welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. Dust collection ready. Options available include lower frame extensions, digital readouts, laser guide, stop bar, vacuum and midway fence. 208-230/460 volt, 3 phase electrical (208-230 single phase, 2 HP power optional +$100.00). $10,199 Base, FOB MN.

TElectrical

Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4 Aluminum Extrusion

he Hain Systems Framer (HSF) will help you build square and accurate wall panels for residential or commercial construction applications. It will help you cut building costs by saving time and improving your quality. It’s a reliable, efficient and proven system that features a ruggedly simple design. The HSF is based on a proven design with over 20 years of actual production use and maintenance experience. It comes fully assembled and is designed for portable job site framing or in-plant permanent installation. The table has many optional attachments and will support Mylar Tape wall layout or any other type of layout. The optional gun rails can also be retro-fit to any table.

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

Details:

Internal Components: Hardened, Ground and Polished Steel and Billet Aluminum

Dimensions:

Table Construction: Thick-wall Structural Steel Tubing, Jig Welded for Accuracy

Length: 5 feet (60”) to 60 feet (720”)

Height: 12 inches

Air Supply: 90 psi (10 CFM Air Flow Recommended)

Depth: 12 inches

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Powder Coat: Industrial Gray

Dimensions: Height: 43”

Length: 16’ or 20’

Width: Adjustable 8’ to 10’ or 8’ to 12’

Shipping Weight: 3000 lbs

If you are looking for the fastest, most consistent way to measure and cut your product, then the Hain Measuring System (MEA) is your answer. The MEA changes from one length t any length instantly, up to 60’, without changing the operator’s position on the line. It is also highly accurate (+/- .010) and quickly moves from one length to the next in seconds. The MEA is designed for quick and easy setup and is simple to use. Even a first time user will be productive with little or no training required. It can adapt to any saw and can be mounted to any surface so that you can integrate the MEA with your existing setup. The MEA is versatile allowing “left” or “right” handed operation and measurement in “feet and inches” or “inches” depending on your preference. The MEA is also available in a “Skid Mounted” version.

The truss industry relies on 3rd party quality assurance services to provide random visits to review the plants Quality Assurance program along with their operations. If your plant needs to comply with the IRC, IBC and to those who depend on solid, experienced QA expertise, we ask you to consider selecting Timber Products Inspection, Inc. (TP) as your choice for 3rd party inspections.

Proudly serving the forest products industry for over 50 years, TP brings the expertise you need to ensure your business is successful. As a responsible partner, TP delivers to clients, employees, and the industries we serve the confidence to drive value through the effective use of our diverse professional team.

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry! • Al Coffman

Jean Hart

Curt Holler

Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor

Elliot Wilson

If you have questions about how you can make this selection, please contact your authorized agent above or Glenn Traylor at 919-280-5905 or trusguy@gmail.com. https://www.tpinspection.com/ https://www.tpinspection.com/auditing-services/truss

By Glenn Traylor

Have You Taken the Quality Assurance Challenge?

We have an annual tradition at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC)—the Timber Products Inspection quality assurance challenge! This competition lets truss fabricators test their knowledge of ANSI/TPI 1 Chapter 3 requirements, and the winner receives a Yeti cooler.

How well do you understand quality? Are you measuring it correctly? Do you have a firm grasp of critical joints? How about the difference between precision and accuracy? Are you managing risk to the best of your ability?

Come by booth #1020 at BCMC Milwaukee, where you can meet experts in the truss industry who can answer your questions related to truss fabrication, lumber, and what it takes to be a certified plant.

Moreover, you’ll be able to learn how a qualified 3rd Party Inspection Company can add marketability and provide significant risk management to your operations. We’ll share tips on improving your company’s QA program, so you can better understand the benefits of working with a company like Timber Products Inspection.

At the show, we’ll also have copies of the ANSI/TPI 1 Chapter 3 booklet available for purchase. Produced by the Truss Plate Institute (TPI), this publication is an essential part of your in-house inspections program. It will be available for $30 plus applicable sales taxes and credit card service fees while supplies last at the show.

We invite you to come by our booth and test your QA skills. See you at the show!

Glenn Traylor Structural Building Components Industry Consultant http://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntraylor

Cutting & Material Solutions For Your Line!

Precise cutting up to 4-boards high! The ProCut™ UC Linear Saw Series is configurable to any assembly line; providing a safe, accurate way to cut your lumber, while keeping your materials moving on your line.

For all Roof, Floor, & Wall Panel Components; webs, chords, sliders & wedges - up to 4-boards high! 6-Position clamping squares & holds lumber for spot-on accuracy.

ProDeck™ Lumber Infeed

Provide a steady supply of lumber to your saw. The ProDeck™ accumulates & dispenses the lumber to the sawyer for processing, ensuring a continuous flow of materials.

Material Handling

Eliminate carts & reduce congestion. Our line of custom Material Handling Systems optimizes material flow & delivers cut parts directly to your assembly stations.

The ProCut™ UC Linear Saw Series offers many variations to suit your plant & assembly line.

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

Why do so many manufacturers rely on West Fraser for mechanically graded lumber? With 32 North American mills, 14 of which produce MSR or MEL, we run a highly dependable supply chain in both SYP and SPF.

Our ability to identify higher grade lumber imparts predictable strength and consistency to high-performing trusses and other products. Why not let our high production standards support yours?

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

ENTER TO WIN AN ALL-EXPENSES-PAID WEST FRASER MILL TOUR

& GET A FREE PAIR OF TRUSS SOCKS JUST FOR ENTERING*

STRENGT

H IN LUMBER

*While supplies last

Building Trust. Creating Together.

Equipment Solutions for the Offsite Construction Industry

Timber Frame Wall Panel Line

CONSISTS OF:

• X-Frame Framing Table

• X-Square Squaring Table

• X-Multi CNC Bridge with Tool Changer

• X-Tilt Butterfly Table

LINE DETAILS:

• Panel Capacity: 40ft x 10ft

• Production Capacity: 800 houses / annually

• X-Floc CNC Insulation Bridge

• X-Square Squaring Table

• X-Multi CNC Bridge

• X-Square Squaring Table

Modular Building Automation designs and manufactures equipment for the offsite construction industry worldwide. A range of solutions available from individual machines and production lines to full modular factory setups.

• Capable of manufacturing standard wall panels and triangular panel trusses

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

New Monet FWA 500 Floor Web Saw New, Monet five-head, floor truss web saw, cuts 4-angle, 4×2 floor truss webs from 13 inches and 90-90 blocks from 7 inches, to 4 foot long maximum length. Features 10-board magazine feed, powered, fixed-quadrant angulation, manual carriage standard, scrap conveyor and cut-off blade. Options available for longer carriage length, incline scrap conveyor, and choice of shaker or belt scrap conveyor. 440 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical. 50 PSI air at 5 CFM required.

$75,000 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

• Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press Contact Wasserman & Associates for a Fair Market Value Assessment of your Used Equipment Operational, Needs Work, and Parts Only equipment will be considered!

Whirlwind Model 1000 Cut-Off Saw

• 5 HP Motor with 14" Blade

• 2 3/16" x 8 1/4" Capacity

• Pneumatic Blade Guard/Lumber Clamp

• Foot Pedal Control

• Dust Collection Outlet

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

• 1 Left Hand & 1 Right Hand Model Available

$3,500 NOW $2,800 Each FOB NC Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Price: $229,900

FOB: ND

Don’t just do it, nail it. It’s a brand new day in wall-panel production, with a whole new way of doing things better.

Terminailer®, a revolutionary, event-driven, nailing machine that completely defies any preconceived notions about sub-component assembly.

Terminailer all but shatters the stereotypical myth that subcomponent equipment is essentially peripheral – unimportant. And it does so by quickly and accurately driving far more framing nails in your wall panel jobs than ever before. Whether in your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality. And that reduces labor costs and other aspects of overhead.

Terminailer is an event-driven, sub-component assembler that will quickly and accurately drive 30% to 70% of the framing nails in any wall panel job. In your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality. The Terminailer functions independent of design software, requires zero set-up time when switching between any configuration, and requires no special operator training.

The Terminailer is easy to move around the shop so it’s location can evolve as your shop evolves. With all of the nailing occurring in the closed main chamber, nail injuries and nail location miss-fires are eliminated, making your plant that much safer.

With nearly ten years of development from people that know machinery it is assembled to exacting standards, well supported, and it is easily maintained with shelf-item parts. Terminailer: vetted, tested, and ready to drive maximum productivity for you. Be sure to check out our videos below for a quick review of this revolutionary machine!

and Auto-Nesting and Auto-Nesting

AutoFill button for Maximum Material Utilization

Labels parts as they cut. (printer optional)

Easy manual cuts and re-cuts

Import files from most major design suites

Industry-first sheathing saw that cuts angles.

Cuts OSB, CDX, Zip, Dense Glass and more.

Minimal airborne dust, even while cutting gypsum.

2021 Powermatic Model 511 Panel Saw 2021 Powermatic model 511 panel saw. Vertical panel saw features a powerful 3HP worm-drive motor which rotates in the carriage, adding the versatility to perform rip cuts. The solid aluminum rollers assure smooth feeding of stock and perfect 90° cuts every time. This saw will handle panels up to 5-ft tall in unlimited length. Includes horizontal and vertical scales and casters for mobility, the counterweight system keeps the saw carriage in the desired position when loading or unloading panels. Features dual 4″ dust collection ports with nylon brush surrounding the blade for superior dust collection from the front and the rear side of the panel. 115v, 1-phase electrical required.

$6,799 FOB AZ

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2023 Northfield Model 410 Upcut Saw NEW 2023 Northfield model 410 upcut saw available for immediate shipment. 90/90 degree cuts to 4″ x 10″ capacity (fence forward position) to 2″ x 14″ (fence rearward position). Saw is configured for material from left to right, with 3″ x 6″ air operated cylinder, filter, regulator, lubricator, 10 HP motor, enclosed steel base with cast iron table, magnetic starter and adjustable operating speed from 20 to 60 CPM. Includes optional two-palm controls, additional 4″ dust outlet, NEMA 12 electrics with fused disconnect and two 18″ diameter 60 tooth blades with 1″ diameter bore. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$18,630 FOB MN

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2008 Alpine PF90 Wall Panel Saw 2008 Alpine PF 90 wall panel cutting and marking system. 3.5″ x 12″ maximum cutting profile, Inkjet option, cuts to 16 ft long. From the OEM’s literature, “Effortlessly handles two of the most critical and difficult processes in any wall panel operation – plate cutting and panel layout. At the rate of 1,000 linear feet per hour or more, uses data from the design software and accurately marks stud, cripple and jack locations, job and panel number, subcomponent and window/door locations, and even sheathing locations on both top and bottom plates simultaneously with ink-jet printing.

$8,499 FOB NY

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1982 SpeedCut MetraCut

Centerline Saw 1982 Speed Cut Metra Cut, model SSA-11, centerline saw, 16″ blade, maximum cutting depth of 6″, maximum cut length of 31″, 164 deg. cutting range and 5 HP motor. Includes push-button on/off controls and analog angle measure on turntable with air stop, 20′ long infeed conveyor with OEM SpeedMeasure, 20′ long outfeed conveyor and one (1) spare blade. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required (can be converted to 240v/440v).

$6,990 FOB WY

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2005 Koskovich Servo-Omni Component Saw

Blade Servo Controlled Component Saw, Arm #5 is currently not active (#5 not used for 8 years), Cuts 2x3 through 2x14 from 11" to 20'-0", Computer, Enclosure & Stand, Remote Monitor, Ink Jet Printer (not installed, out of service for 5 years), Waste Conveyor (under saw), Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw), Spare Parts & Extra Blades, Video available upon request, Available November 11, 2024 $42,500 FOB WI

800-382-0329 | www.wasserman-associates.com

New Monet DeRobo Linear Saw

New, DeRobo linear saw by Monet organizes "fill" boards to increase optimization of each board, can produce unlimited scarf cuts, cuts 1 or 2 boards at a time and cuts webs, chords, wedges, rafters and open-stair stringers. Works with all major connector plate manufacturer's software. Features include 22 inch blade, left-to-right feed direction standard, lumber push and pull grippers for more accuracy, ink marking on the 1 1/2" face of the incoming boards and small piece capture and delivery to the front of the saw for easy access. Infeed deck and bunk feed are shown as options only. 480 volt, 3phase.

$239,000, FOB MO.

$330,000 Location: MO

New, Monet DeSawyer 2000, computerized, five-bladed component saw, sets up in 15 to 17 seconds, can run in manual mode, downloads projects from a network or manually using display screen controls. Features all powered movements, cuts from 15" 90/90 cuts to 20 foot length, 2 x 3" to 2 x 12" lumber depths and internal brakes are standard. Options include enhanced servo controls featuring autocalibration, catcher's display and either shaker or belt scrap conveyor and incline. 440 volt, 3 phase electrical.

F1 Pit Stop Each Truss

Performing an F1 pit stop for each truss is how to Feed the Beast! Truss builders know that assembling each truss on the truss tables is just like what an F1 pit stop crew does. Both F1 pit stop crews and truss assembly crews strive for efficiency, quality, safety, and teamwork, with a shared goal of optimizing and standardizing performance for repeatability. However, trusses have way more than four tires to swap out efficiently, figuratively speaking.

Many people have attempted to build work crews as efficient as an F1 pit stop crew. One of the best was the late great Mark Monkman and his record breaking “F1 Truss Pit Crew,” to whom Joe Kannapell paid tribute in his November 2020 article, “60 Years of Machines, Part XII: Best of Both.” When others believed a four-minute truss set up was the best that could be done, they showed that the same work could be accomplished in less than two and a half minutes!

As Joe chronicled, one of the keys to the efficiency of Monkman’s Maple Ridge Truss crew was how “the connector plates were uniquely organized for efficient placement” in trays “mimicking their position in the truss.” That’s the same kind of mindset that I’ve been encouraging, such as my likening of collated plate distribution around the truss to dealing a pair of plates/cards to each truss joint in my past articles, “Enhancing Truss Build Efficiency“ and “How to Squeeze Out More Truss Production.”

Consider the first photo that shows typical collated plate picks for top and bottom chords of trusses ready for efficient distribution at the truss tables.

And, how about the shopping cart approach? Do you have that kind of typical bulk plate pick which will slow down the build crew?

Now consider this, how would you F1 pit stop twenty-four (24) 66 ft trusses as shown above? How would you prep the material for a 3-person build crew? How about for a 4- to 5-person build crew? How do you ensure quality assurance for each of the 24 trusses?

Each truss needs to be “F1 Pit Stopped,” especially with “million dollar truss tables.”

Believe it or not, the average time taken by an F1 pit crew on a pit stop ranges between two to three seconds. Our truss build tables may not be that fast, but we can still aspire to speed in our shops!

Most truss plants employ a dedicated plate picker, however, the plates are picked in bulk for the job and that ends up slowing down truss assembly. What builds trusses faster, 600 pairs of collated plates or 1,200 bulk picked plates? This is the same trick question that I posed in “Batch Cutting vs. Cut By Truss.” The trick is not how many pieces you have but how well you are putting them together.

Now consider the bulk picked list on the piece of paper in the photo. It shows a total of 1,200 plates picked and presented to the truss builders. However, this will slow down the truss build crew by creating a plate huddle to go through the plates, and will waste time figuring out how to re-organize the plate distribution for each truss.

Instead, collated picked pairs of plates for the “Bottom chord Plates” and the “Top chord Plates,” shown as WiFi tablet screenshots within the composite image, represents 1,200 plates or 600 pairs of plates presented to the truss builders. Here, the plate pre-picking and the subsequent plate distribution (like dealing cards) is standardized and organized for efficient plate distribution by the designated “plate dealer” of the truss build crew. The bottom chord plates are to be dealt out for each truss for each bottom chord joint from left to right, and then the top chord plates are to be dealt out for each truss for each top chord joint from right to left.

By following this method of one pair of plates per joint per truss, the chances of missed plating are reduced – and if a plate is missed, it will be caught at the table and not out in the yard or worse at the time of truss installation. Collated plate distribution is an inherent quality assurance measure.

SPOILER

ALERT! Enventek will be introducing an innovative machine that will dispense collated truss plates to maximize your investment in “million dollar” truss table automation and enable your truss crew to F1 Pit Stop each truss! Please come visit with us at Booth #937 at BCMC Milwaukee to see our F1 Truss Pit Stop machine.

When you’re ready to Feed Your Beast and see these efficient and effective systems for yourself, let us know! Inside and out, LimTek Process Organization Technology will help you squeeze out more truss production and deliver quality trusses with shorter lead times to better service your customers by organizing your truss fabrication processes to maximize your investment in automation. https://limteksolutions.com/#solutions.

DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Elevate Your Wall Panel, Floor Truss or Roof Truss

Manufacturing with 4Ward Design Solutions’

Precision Component Design Services!

When you work with us, you get:

Speed and Scalability

Adjustable Hours

No Need for Training

Reduced Regulatory Burdens

Reliable Timelines

DESIGN

Excellence

Extend your existing capabilities with 4Ward's design expertise. Without the hassle and expense of training your own designers, partnering with us guarantees that each wall panel, floor truss or roof truss will be designed for structural integrity and production and field efficiency.

Achieve cost eﬃciency without compromising on excellence. Our costsensitive approach ensures maximum value for your investment.

Leverage our expertise, ensuring every component is attentively designed for optimal performance and durability.

We understand that every component project is unique. At 4Ward, we create custom designs, tailored to your exact speciﬁcations. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

Training. Support. Partnership. Experience service as a solution.

Strong businesses thrive on solid relationships. Working with Simpson Strong-Tie, you have direct access to dedicated professionals who are focused on customer success.

As part of our services, experienced designers and licensed engineers take the time to listen and understand your unique project challenges. We also offer accredited training on truss connectors and comprehensive training on our design and management software. Plus, our innovative products are widely available and backed by expert service and support. It all adds up to solutions that are every bit as reliable as the people behind them.

Team up with a proven industry partner. To learn more, visit go.strongtie.com/componentsolutions or call (800 ) 999-5099.

2006 Alpine Speed Rafter Cutter

• Simplified compound cutting for hip, valley and jack rafters (double & single compound cuts)

• Two Worm-Drive Circular Saws (110 Volt / 30 Amps)

• Saw Turntable (for angle cutting)

• Saw Carriage (for up to 45 degree bevel cutting)

• Infeed & Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

$4,900 NOW $4,250 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Used - Metra Cut Radial Arm Saw (2x) Parts Machine

$500 – Make Offer

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

Used - 2005 Model 305 Infeed Conveyor Designed for use with all component saws. To include: Soft Start ~ Soft Stop Inverter System. Programmable load sensing; Overload / Jamb sensing shut down feature. Gear motor providing conveyor speed of 36' per minute. Forward and reversing controls for location at both ends of conveyor unit. Material capacity range - 4' through 24' lumber. Chain deck pedestals 20' long with cross bracing. Staging area at the saw independent of the live deck system. 30,000lb. Deck capacity.

Call for pricing

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

2013 Monet DeRobo Linear Saw

Generation I computer numeric controlled linear saw with touch screen user interface and two operating modes: auto (download setups from, LAN or diskette) or semi-auto (touch screen setup entry). Configured for roof truss parts, and manually fed boards. Includes computer and PLC (programmable logic controlled) for blade settings, overtravel protection, setup screens. Features 22” x 40 tooth blade on PAE, making plunge cuts. Can cut up to 2 boards at once to produce webs, chords and wedges. Servo position on in-feed, angle, and out-feed pusher. Lumber optimization program standard, 20ft. max. material length. Includes Matthews DOD 8400 Ink-Jet marking on up to two (2) 1 1/2″ edges, and includes all available spare parts. Voltage 480/3/60 – 60 Amp electrical required, 100 psi air required.

$64,995 Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Holtec Electric Portable Crosscut Saw Transcut II Portable Crosscut Saw, Cut through an entire bunk of lumber in about 1 minute, 3/8" Kerf Stellite Armored Guide Bar, 63" Effective Cutting Length (40" x 44" Package Size), 3/8" Stihl Chipper Chain or Locally Available Equivalent Chain, 10 HP Siemens Electric Motor with Integrated Starter, Electrically Driven Automatic Chain Oiler with Sight Glass, Trigger Switch for Saw Motor Shutoff on Return, Dual Purpose Kickback Safety and Stabilization Bar, Squaring Frame, Automatic Tensioning and Chain Return Assembly, Pneumatic Tirers $5,950 FOB AZ

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

IntelliVIEW Suite Manage. Design. Build.

The industry’s most powerful integrated component design, engineering, and management software for steel and wood-framed structures.

iCommand

Manage projects, customers, materials, pricing & inventory

iModel

Design truss layout & profiles

iDesign

Optimize material usage & engineer trusses

iPanel

Design wall layouts, panelize, bundle, break & stack

eShop

Maximize crew productivity & improve manufacturing efficiency

The IntelliVIEW Suite is a fully integrated software solution for the layout and design of a building’s rough framing elements—including roof and floor trusses, wall panels, solid sawn, EWP, sheathing and various ancillaries.

The IntelliVIEW Suite provides the industry’s most complete analysis of the design, cost information and bill of materials—promoting increased profits by reducing plate and lumber use.

Ask those who know. They’ll tell you about the people at Alpine who make a difference.

Used Hain Quick Rafter Cutter

• Reconditioned in December 2020

• Board Sizes: 2x4 and 2x6

• Motors: Two 1 HP / 220 Volt or 440 Volt / 3 Phase

• Saw Blades: 7 1/4" Carbide Tipped (set at 45 degrees)

• Angle Adjustment: Manual Rotation with Air Brake

• Air Supply: 90 PSI

• Carriage: Steel Rails with Steel Dual V Rollers

• Pedestal: 3/16" Formed Steel

• Saw Housing: 1/2" Billet Aluminum

• Covers: 10 Gauge (1/8" thick) Steel

• Fully Enclosed for Safety $12,500 NOW $10,900 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Work Smar ter

1993 MiTek Easy Set 4-Blade Component Saw

1993 MiTek Easy Set 4-blade component saw, with swing-arm central control system, digital/analog display, power length carriage, waste conveyor. Cuts 2″ x 4″ to 2″ x 12″ lumber depths, up to 15′-0″ lengths. Minimum length 4-angle floor web 18 inches. 220v, 3ph power.

$8,990 FOB OH Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

In answer to the demands of high-volume customers comes the Monet DeSauw FWA 500 CA (Automated Controls) floor web saw. The 500 CA is perfect for component manufacturers who routinely run floor trusses in high volumes with variable web geometry. Another primary feature is enhanced safety through automation which eliminates the need to open the saw motor cabinets other than for periodic service. The 500 CA includes automation for all blades, including the fixed cut-off blade for minimal waste. Lumber infeed speed is variable up to sixty (60) boards per minute, while the powered carriage utilizes rack and pinion drive with airlock for set accuracy throughout the production run. Your operator will easily download batches to the 500 CA saw from your design software via an ethernet connection to a MS Windows 10 industrial PC with a 17″ monitor housed in a stand-alone console. If you frequently batch floor web cutting, and if enhanced safety with increased productivity are a concern, then an automated Monet FWA 500 CA may be the right selection for you. Mofe information Here

2Seconds

That'sallthetimeittakes todrillstudsforrunningRomexorotherelectricalwireinthewallpanels

Motor: HeavyDuty5HP-3phase-220vor440v(Pleasespecifywhenordering)

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate

LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

Covers: 10Gauge(1/8"Thick)Aluminumremovable

Dimensions: Height-60inches,Width-33inches,Depth-33inches

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

THE BENEFITS JUST KEEP EASILY, SAFELY, NEATLY STACKING UP.

Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack . This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

ProStack

By: DAK Automation

Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So, free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. Contact us to learn more today. For a ProStack demonstration video, scan the QR code below.

By Erin Ohnesorge

FWhen Saws Go Rogue

orget about “Rogue One,” ROGworx Automation has three heads that are better than one! If you haven’t met the guys yet, then you need to come by the ROGworx booth at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) in Milwaukee, WI this month.

So, who are the R-O-G in our rogue group? That would be Jeff Radich, David Ohnesorge, and Jason Gregory. These guys have been designing, programming, and building automated machinery for the component industry for more than 25 years.

ROGworx understands that automated machinery is great when it works, and we all want to avoid the frustration of repairs and downtime during a busy framing operation. That’s why our machines are simple to operate and easy to maintain. They just work. We also promise you great customer support when you need it. During their decades-long journey through the component industry, David, Jason, and Jeff have honed their expertise in bringing innovative equipment to market, and their latest designs are better than ever.

We’re also bringing our re-designed Woodchuck Parts Saw to the show this year. The Woodchuck is a double end trim 90/90 parts saw, which means it will cut both ends of a stud at the same time. This machine will cut your floor chords, studs, jacks, sills, and more – and it works at a speed of up to one board per second.

Visit www.rogworx.com for more info, and stop by, meet the team, and see the machines in person at BCMC. See you soon!

Our booth at BCMC is #419, next door to our good friends, Safety Speed. ROGworx and Safety Speed have collaborated to create the Speedworx Automated Panel Saw, which you can come see in person at the show.

Speedworx handles all types of sheet goods, and the “Autofill” button allows the computer to choose the most efficient way to use the sheet. It looks like a game of Tetris on the screen… and who doesn’t love Tetris?

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive. Learn more about Automation and Mechanization at BCMC 2024

New Monet DeSawyer ESC (Servo Controlled) Component Saw

Monet DeSauw model Desawyer ESC enhanced servo-controlled ( ESC) component saw with touch screen user interface with backup mechanical controls. Includes three operating modes: Auto (download setups from LAN or USB), Semi-auto (touch screen setup entry), and Manual (backup push-button switches for powering all movements). Includes over-travel protection, comprehensive setup screens, auto sequencing, auto-calibration and pneumatic brakes on all five () blades. One (1) 30” blade and four (4) 16” blades. Manual cut limits are 18” min., 11” min. square edge blocks, 20’ max cut. Belt under-saw waste conveyor. Voltage: 480 volt/3 phase/60 Amp. Air: 50 PSI at 5 CFM. One-year warranty included. Can be paired with a model PD-6 lumber feed system at an additional cost. Heavy duty 80 RIV chain feed system. 16’ wide x 20’ long x 36” deck height. Transfers 3’ to 20’ lumber. Includes auto-feed control, foot pedal override, forward & reverse, variable speed control with HD double-bearing construction. Other additional-cost options include, inkjet marking, label printing, backside screen display, spare blades and incline scrap conveyor.

$360,000 FOB MO

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

Our ability to identify higher grade lumber imparts predictable strength and consistency to high-performing trusses and other products. Why not let our high production standards support yours?

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

• Foot Pedal Operation

• Dust Outlet (excludes dust collector)

• 2015 TigerStop 24' Programmable Stop

• Automatic Positioning of Stop via Simple and Intuitive Controls

• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

• Video available upon request $16,900 NOW $15,900 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Safety Speed Manufacturing Model 7400 XL Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing, model 7400 XL*, vertical panel saw, 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2 1/8" maximum thickness, accuracy within 0.005 inches, 13 foot long welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. Dust collection ready. Options available include digital readouts for vertical cuts, automated length measuring, laser guide, stop bar, vacuum and midway fence. 208-230/460 volt, 3 phase electrical (208-230 single phase, 2 HP power optional +$100.00).

By Ed Serrano Managing Director

Automation

Revolutionizing Frame and Truss Manufacturing: The Power of Real-Time Optimization

In today’s fast-paced frame and truss manufacturing environments, efficiency and waste reduction are paramount. Traditional production methods often fall short in meeting the demands of modern businesses, paving the way for Real-Time Optimization (RTO) and Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery to make their mark. Done correctly, these strategies can revolutionize operations, leading to increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.

In the realm of manufacturing, JIT delivery has long been hailed as a cornerstone of efficiency. By synchronizing production with demand, JIT aims to minimize inventory and reduce waste. However, the rigid structure of JIT can sometimes prove to be a constraint, limiting flexibility and responsiveness in the face of unexpected changes. This is where RTO emerges as a powerful solution.

RTO goes beyond the limitations of JIT by offering a more flexible and responsive approach to manufacturing planning. By combining the efficiency of JIT with the adaptability of RTO, manufacturers can achieve a new level of performance.

The Principles of Real-Time Optimization

While RTO can be of benefit to any plant running a Razer saw, Vekta specifically designed and developed their new RTO system to maximize the benefits to plants that are running PackFeeders, Razer Saws, and Direct Delivery Systems.

RTO allows the operator to make changes to the optimization while the saw is still cutting to better suit the needs of the factory. It is no longer necessary to stop the saw to perform tasks such as re-optimizing and re-cutting.

The RTO system only optimizes the next stick of lumber the PackFeeder needs to pick. Consequently, multiple job files can be optimized together, but the cutting capacity assigned to each can be varied in real time to provide line balancing. This efficient method of optimizing over multiple job files allows improved optimization while specific cutting order and orientation can be provided for the benefit of the operators at the point-of-use assembly stations.

As a simple example, a frame file may be cut alongside a truss file to enable short frame components to be used to reduce waste while cutting the truss components. The outfeed direct delivery system then removes any confusion by delivering the truss components to the truss jig – in the correct order and orientation – while the frame components go directly to the framing station.

Vekta

This process of only optimizing one stick at a time also helps to address inefficiencies surrounding recuts. Any device on the local network can be used to schedule a component for recutting. The component is then guaranteed to be included in the next stick of lumber the PackFeeder picks. If possible, other members from the current job files being cut will also be included in the new stick of lumber to reduce waste. The scheduled recut member is then cut and delivered appropriately without any involvement from the saw operator.

Vekta Real-Time Optimization Software: A Game-Changer

While true real-time optimization has been a long-promised industry “holy grail,” Vekta’s RTO is already here and providing comprehensive solutions for high-volume frame and truss plants in the U.S.A., Australia, and New Zealand.

Vekta’s software leverages decades of technology advancements and intelligent algorithm development to provide unparalleled flexibility and control of the cutting and production planning processes.

Key features include:

• Simultaneous Optimization: Instantly optimize multiple jobs across assembly stations, minimizing waste.

• Real-time Adjustments: Adapt cutting volumes and flow to meet dynamic point-of-use demand.

• Decentralized Interface: Empower your operators with the ability to schedule zero-disruption recuts directly from the point-of-use. Load, adjust, reorder, and reroute in real-time from any network device.

• Multi-saw Management: Efficient single operator control of multiple saws, reducing labor requirements and costs.

• Conti nuous Cutting Lists : Eliminate end-of-file waste through seamless job transitions, optimizing material usage.

Simply put, Vekta’s RTO empowers businesses to maximize efficiency, adapt to changing demand, empower operators, reduce labor costs, and minimize waste.

By leveraging Vekta’s RTO software, high-volume frame and truss plants can unlock the full potential of real-time optimization and just-in-time delivery, transforming their operations and achieving a sustainable competitive advantage.

ACER INC

One month after installing a Double Lumber PickLine to feed two TCT Linear Saws:

"We are getting 3,000 to 5,000 bdft more each saw, than we were getting before the install.

We have shut down one Cybersaw and one TCT chord saw.

This equals about 3 less people 10 hours, and 2 less forklifts 10 hours.

Overall, it is a major improvement to our operation. We hope to have the chance to run it two shifts to further accelerate the payback.”

Tom Hollinshed, Owner

• 3 3/8" Maximum Thickness

• 13 1/2" Maximum Distance from Rip Fence to Outer Saw

• 100 HP Arbor Motor

• 2 HP Feed Motor

• 7 1/2 HP Dust Collector

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Waste Conveyor with Short Incline $35,000 NOW $21,900 FOB MN Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2005 PCS / MiTek Twin Axis Sheathing Saw 2005 PCS/MiTek Twin Axis sheathing saw: Cuts X and Y axis simultaneously in one pass through the saw. Cuts up to 1″ thick, wood sheathing material, minimum width 3″. Fully enclosed to reduce noise, dust, and improve operator safety; automated via downloaded sheathing cutting files from wall design software. Includes 8 foot long idler infeed conveyor and outfeed conveyor with pop-up skate wheels, (1) spare blade and all available spare parts. 220v/440v, 3phase electrical saw, 120v, 1 phase electrical PC. 100 PSI at 14 CFM air required.

$17,991 NOW $11,950 FOB VA Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

•

• 4" Maximum Thickness (when using 18" Blade)

• 48" Throat

• Adjustable Rip Fence

• Overhead Holddown

• Automatic Chain Oiler

• Dust Outlets

$10,500 FOB MI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

To Hire?

We’re here when you need help! visit: www.thejobline.com email: mail@thejobline.com STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL!

2021 Oliver Upcut Saw with 16' TigerStop

• Oliver Model

•

2017 Vekta model S5 linear saw, plunge-cuts and marks roof and wall parts. Cuts from 0 to 180 degrees (no bevel / compound cutting), unlimited maximum cutting length (minimum length 31 1/2″), one or two 2×4’s dimensional lumber boards at a time. Does angle cutting and birdsmouth (under or overcut) and rip cuts. Includes 5.35 Horsepower blade motor, HP cartridge printer marking on one 3 1/2″ face and one 1 1/2″ edge. Includes infeed, outfeed, scrap incline conveyor and vacuum option.

Carl Villella, CLFP President, Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service

OFixed Rate Drops Below Prime… Just in Time for BCMC!

n September 18th, the Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by half a percent, the first cut in four years.

It was a welcome development, and one that should have a positive outcome for the economy. Lower interest rates stimulate economic growth, and make lending of all types less expensive.

Even more encouraging from the news conference of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell is that he sees no red flags for an economic downturn: Growth is at a solid rate, inflation is coming down (nearing the 2% target rate), and the labor market is at very solid levels.

Here’s how you can capitalize on this good economic news: Financing a piece of equipment for $350,001+ for a 72-month term carries a rate that is now below prime, at 7.99%. This rate is for the most qualified credit. And remember, there is no additional collateral.

If you are considering financing new or used equipment, this is a great time to do it. We have several programs available for every type of borrower.

Our one-page application makes the lending process simple, and our personalized approach ensures that you’ll receive the best rate and terms available.

We invite you to contact us at 412 262-3225 to discuss your particular situation.

We are Acceptance Leasing and Financing Service, Inc. We were established in 1992, which puts us in our 32nd year of business. We pride ourselves on our Certified Leasing and Financing Professional designation. We are a member of SBCA and a frequent attendee of the BCMC tradeshows. We can provide financing for any new and, regardless of age, used equipment.

2001 MiTek Peak-Up Stacker (A)

2001 MiTek peak-up, vertical truss dual stacker system Model 71300 Mechanical only system includes (2) heavy-duty drives, auto-indexing, spring assisted receiver arms, holds up to 30 trusses from 16 foot to 80 foot in length, up to 14 foot height, with 40 sec. average cycle time. System control panel (NOT included) controls two separate setups or both units for long-span trusses. Arms work in sets of four adjacent arms or all eight arms at once per side. Includes (8) lifting arms, (8) stacking arms, (2) bridge targets, and (2) stacker units. Moveable activating starts the cycling process, bundle indexes back 1 1/2″ as each truss is stacked. NO conveyors or control panel is included. (Control Panel from OEM/Mii required at approximately $8,500) 230v, 3Ph electrical required. (Can be combined with the second system listed here to create opposing stackers for a double gantry line with a common center out-feed conveyor).

$19,900 Each FOB IL

2001 MiTek Peak-Up Stacker (B)

MiTek peak-up, vertical truss dual stacker system Model 71300 Mechanical only system includes (2) heavy-duty drives, autoindexing, spring assisted receiver arms, holds up to 30 trusses from 16 foot to 80 foot in length, up to 14 foot height, with 40 sec. average cycle time. System control panel (NOT included) controls two separate setups or both units for long-span trusses. Arms work in sets of four adjacent arms or all eight arms at once per side. Includes (8) lifting arms, (8) stacking arms, (2) bridge targets, and (2) stacker units. Moveable activating starts the cycling process, bundle indexes back 1 1/2″ as each truss is stacked. NO conveyors or control panel is included. (Control Panel from OEM/ Mii required at approximately $8,500) 230v, 3Ph electrical required.

Triad's proprietary (Patent Pending) Ai means:

•Your operator doesn't wastetimetelling themachine whatkindofsubcomponentis being built,

• ORwhatsizedimensionallumberis beingused,

• ORwhatnailpatterntoswitchtoor toolgunstouse.

•Youcanswitchfrombuildingonetypeofsubcomponent toanother instantly!

•Just-in-time subcomponents arenowareality - OR batchbuildsubcomponents --yourchoice!

Triad's unique outfeed conveyor:

• Cansendfinishedsubcomponentsinany oneof threedirections: Left, Right, orDownthe line.

• Nowyoucan sort &feed:Toyour component table, framing table,ANDmaterialhandling carts, ifdesired!

• Tee-Lok Gantry Roller with Safety Bars

• New 18" Diameter Rollers with Removable Shaft (not installed, paid $25,000)

• 7.5 HP Motor with Variable Frequency Drive (230/460 Volt - 3 Phase)

• Steel Floor Rail

• Fixed Steel Table with Fire Hose Clamping

• Tables have Pin Ejectors (never used by seller)

• Floor Truss Depths from 12" to 32" Deep

• Spare Parts

• Video available upon request

$39,890

Featuring heavy-duty drive system, auto-indexing, six (6) receiver arms, stacks trusses from 16 foot to 80 foot in length, up to 14′ foot height, with 45 sec. average cycle time. Adjustable end-stop with striker-plate starts the cycling process, bundle indexes back 1 1/2″ as each truss is stacked. Stacker system includes 85′ of conveyor rollers, 17 (9 idle/8 powered). 460 volt, 3 phase electrical, includes OEM Control panel.

By Valerie Hansen Founder and Chairman, BuyMetrics Inc.

Optimize Offsite Production by Optimizing Lumber Costs

Lumber is mission-critical to every component manufacturer (CM). On average, it represents two-thirds of your cost-of-goods (CoG), roughly half of the value of your product (Revenue – Pretax Profit). So, what are the market dynamics that surround the purchase of lumber? And how can your actions improve your position?

I’ve written about these topics in these pages (see ROI: Turn Your Largest COST (Lumber) into a Proﬁt Driver and Creating Your Own Commodity Market Performance Measures), and now I’ve been given the opportunity to talk in person with you too. At this month’s Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) in Milwaukee, WI, I’m leading one of the supplier-led educational sessions. Please join me for this session:

Optimize Offsite Production by Optimizing Lumber Costs

Tuesday, October 8 at 2:00–2:45 pm Room N204

Gain real-world insight into applying technology to measure, manage, and improve the lumber procurement process from an industry professional. Explore how a nominal change in lumber cost produces a significant change in pre-tax profit, and how to measure lumber’s contribution to your bottom line.

This session is poised to highlight data-driven technology that drives productivity while unlocking market transparency and insight, effecting a shift in market power toward the buyer.

This session is only available to Component Manufacturers, Framers, Builders, and General Contractors. SBCA staff in attendance will be Greg Greenlee.

I hope you will consider joining me for this session. I’ve learned a lot through my many decades in this industry, and I’m looking forward to sharing my insights with you. Be sure to bring your questions too, and I’ll see you at BCMC!

Valerie Hansen is the Founder and Chairman of BuyMetrics Inc. She is a 45-year industry veteran and the former owner/CEO of Custom Components Company, Racine, WI (sold 2008). From 2000–2019, she earned 21 U.S. patents for inventions in the technical areas of ﬁnance and data management. Privately serving industry-leading CMs since 2000, the BuyMetrics® commodity procurement platform automates and informs the purchase of lumber and other volatile commodities.

We create transformative website and app experiences

Since 2006, we've been helping businesses of all kinds build their online presence. We make websites and software for the construction industry to empower companies to reach a wider customer base and engage their audiences. Companies all around the world work with us to make websites and apps that people actually want to use. Reach out to Wolf X Machina if you're a business and you want a website that actually drives results.

WOLF X MACHINA

www.wolfxmachina.com info@wolfxmachina.com

New Wescana floor truss machine, available in side-eject or end-eject models. Builds floor truss depths from 12 inches to 26 inches, to 40-ft long. Features under-table cylinders powering the clamping system, built-in camber, truss flip arms, truss pop-ups, control valves for clamps, flip arms and pop-ups, with parking stations at each end of the table, and emergency shut-off bars on each side of the press head.

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Seeking Investor/Licensee, Partner for Innovative Glued Truss Joist

European Glued Truss - Joist Licensees, Partnerships, or Investment Opportunity U.S. & Globally protected product and process

The G-Joist offers unique parallel chord benefits

This first-of-its-kind G-Joist offers unique parallel chord options

• Can use bottom OR top chord support

• Manufacture as a custom joist, chase opening, and support or

• manufacture as fixed length, arbitrary cut, and support

• Can be cut arbitrarily AND trimmed on one OR both ends

• No hanger required when top chord support

• Can be configured with large chase openings

• No proof loading required

Contact me for details: Dr. Tuomo Poutanen tuomo.poutanen@gjoist.com +358408490900 www.gjoist.com

Dr. Tuomo Poutanen Kuninkaankatu 41 B 33200 Tampere Finland tuomo.poutanen@tuni.fi +358408490900, www.gjoist.com

Wescana Floor Truss Machine

We’ve got a number of products available now – saws, tables, wall assembly and roof truss assembly machines. Plus, we’ve got some of our popular Rolsplicer and Automated Apollo Saws, which can be delivered soon.*

*Subject to availability

2007 Robbins Side-Eject Roof Truss Gantry

2007 Robbins roof truss gantry, side-eject with (2) gantry heads. Both heads have 30 inch diameter rolls and pendant controls. One gantry requires a new sprocket. 110-ft working length, 124-ft overall length. Includes (16) slotted steel top tables, with skatewheel ejectors, (2) electrical festoon cords for gantry heads, (2) gantry head masts, (1) 120′ powered transfer conveyor, (11) powered roller conveyors, (14) idler roller conveyors, (4) extra tables and all available floor-to-table mounting plates. Decommissioned in October of 2023. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required. NOW $238,997 FOB QC

BCE-MASTER

TruStance Portable Field Repair Press

This is the first, self-contained, truly portable FRP unit used to press metal truss plates into dimensional lumber at virtually any location. Wood component (roof and floor truss) manufacturers, as well as builders, frequently require a tool to repair metal plate connected, wood truss components. The complete unit is mounted to a wagon built from square tubular steel. Extremely compact at only 28” wide and about 32” long the wagon features four wheels on soft-rubber solid tires, and a steering axle on the front with a handle that makes the unit easily maneuverable. The wagon contains the hydraulic power unit and an area for a portable gas generator. A rack in the back securely stores the C clamp, a standard 25′ hydraulic hose, and an electric power-supply cable. The clamp is manufactured from T1 steel, cut into a C-shape with a steel tube welded to the front that securely holds the hydraulic cylinder. Pressing is easily performed with a 4×4 magnetized steel platen that holds and presses the truss connecter plates. The C-clamp that weighs less than 30 pounds, features a throat that opens to 4-1/2” inches to accept either 4 x 2 or 2 x 4 lumber. It has a push on and release off switch to cycle the unit. A 10,000-psi electric-over-hydraulic power unit pumps hydraulic fluid through a 10,000-psi hose to activate a 10-ton hydraulic cylinder with a 3.9 inch stroke. The unit can be powered by 120v electric power or an optional 120v, 2200-amp, gasoline powered generator, which can also act as a portable power supply out in the field for other single-phase equipment.

• Pressing Capability: 4.5” throat opening presses 2×4 through 4×2, includes a standard 25-foot, HD 10,000 PSI hose, with a 10 TON, 4”x4” magnetized pressing plates

• Electric/Hydraulic: SPX Hydraulic Technologies – Rockford, IL USA 10,000 PSI / 700 BAR. 10 ton pressing capability

• Power Source: 110V Dual Power via outlet plug in and/or optional gas-powered inverter generator at an additional price. Optional generator is a Honda EB 2200i Industrial, inverter motor, manual start, GFCI Protected,120 VAC at an additional cost of $1,450.00.

• Warranty: One year from date of purchase on manufactured unit, OEM warranties on hydraulic and gas motor.

$9,779 FOB MT

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

New Wescana Roof Finish Roller Press

New Wescana roof finish roller presses, available in either a 14-ft or 16-ft throat models. Travel speed of 2-ft per second. Both models feature 24″ diameter steel rolls with 3 1/2″ diameter shafts with baffles, (2) 5-horsepower drive gear motors with controlled motor drive systems for starting and stopping, along with taper-lock sprockets, sealed flange roller bearings and reversing magnetic starters.. Includes safety shutoff bars, electric eyes, amber running light, red reversing light with buzzer, and e-stop module. 240 / 480 /575 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

Price based on configuration

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

ALLTHINGSWOOD

By Frank Woeste

SImpact of Specific Gravity on Wood-to-Wood Connections

pecific gravity (G) is a measure of wood density affected by the specific species or species combination of the commercial grade, growth region, and grading rules. It is the single most important lumber property for the strength of mechanical fasteners, such as nails and screws used in residential construction. Here, G is the ratio of the weight of oven-dried wood relative to the weight of an equal volume of water. Knowing the volume of a piece of lumber and its moisture content, the weight of a piece of lumber can be easily calculated knowing water weighs 62.4 pounds-per-cubic-ft (lbs./ft3).

The average value of G is published for various species or species group used in residential construction. For example, the G-value for Southern Pine (SP) is 0.55, meaning a sample of ovendried SP would weigh 55% of the weight of water (62.4 lbs/ft3). Assuming a 2 x 4 x 8 piece of SP, the volume (V) of the piece would be calculated as follows:

V(ft3) = (1.5 in x 3.5 in x 96 in)/1,728 in3/ft3 = 0.29 ft3

Assuming 19% moisture content (MC), the weight (W) of the piece would be given by W(19%) = (1+MC%) G x V (ft3) x 62.4 lbs/ft3 = 1.19 x 0.55 x 0.29 x 62.4 = 11.8 lbs

The factor 1.19 coverts an oven-dry 0.55 G-value to the maximum MC of 19% for “dry lumber” per the American Softwood Lumber Standard PS 20-20.

Assuming a 2 x 4 x 8 Spruce-Pine-Fir (South) at 19% MC, typically denoted on a grade mark by SPF-S, SPFS, or SPFS, would weigh 7.8 lbs (1.19 x 0.36 x 0.29 x 62.4). For softwood framing lumber commonly used in the U.S., the range of published G-values is 0.36 to 0.55. The differences in weight of the various species or specie groups are evident when sorting or handling lumber.

Impact of G on Fastener Strength

To demonstrate the impact of G on fastener strength, the lateral and withdrawal strengths versus G has been illustrated by John Scholten at the U.S. Forest Products Laboratory (Strength of Wood Joints Made with Nails, Staples, or Screws, 1965), as shown in Figure 1.

The lateral load strength with a ¾-inch side member is plotted against G at the top of Figure 1. Note that the relationship between lateral strength and G is non-linear, increasing by the exponent 5/4. The withdrawal load of nail connection with 1¾-inch embedment into the main member is plotted on the lower section of Figure 1. Note that the exponent on G is 5/2, dramatically impacting the withdrawal load based on the G-value of the lumber.

For example, the withdrawal strength of the 8d common nail in lumber with a G-value of 0.36 is only 35% of the strength of the nail in lumber having a G-value of 0.55. Knowing these wood technology facts provides incentive for designers to clearly define in their Construction Documents the G-value of the lumber assumed in their structural design work and thus required for the project. What might appear to be a minor difference in a lumber species grade mark may impact the structural performance of a building in a wind or seismic event. Likewise, when selecting lumber for trusses and wall panels, component manufacturers (CMs) should carefully verify that the minimum design values (Fb, Ft, Fc, Fv, Fc-perp, Emin, E, and G) specified in the Construction Documents for the wood framing elements have been met with respect to 2018/2024 NDS Supplement Design Values.

Nail, Lag Screw, and Bolt Design Values

Figure 1. Impact of G on lateral and withdrawal loads of an 8d common wire nail.

The 2024 National Design Speciﬁcation for Wood Construction (NDS®) gives design methods and tabulated allowable lateral and withdrawal load values for the full range of mechanical fasteners (carbon and stainless nails, roof sheathing ring shank, lag screws, wood screws, and toe-nails) based on several design properties of lumber, including the G-value of the species. In addition, reference lateral design values for bolted connections are tabulated. Tabulated design values are based on the G-value of the lumber that ranges from 0.35 to 0.67 in most tables, demonstrating the impact of specific gravity on connection strength for the members connected.

Knowing the fastener type and dimensions, details of the connection, and G-value of the lumber, the allowable value for a single fastener can be determined by simple look-up tables in the NDS. Based on the application, the tabulated values are subject to “adjustment factors” given in NDS Chapter 11. The NDS and NDS Supplement are referenced by the ICC building codes (IRC and IBC).

Engineered Fasteners and Connectors Design Values

Fastener and connector manufacturers tabulate the design values for their products based on an assumed species or species combination (hereafter, species). For example, Simpson Strong-Tie (SST) publishes uplift and lateral allowable loads for their connectors (such as the H2.5A) with two sets of design values for “DF/SP” and “SPF/HF.” A table in the SST General Notes information defines the species represented by DF/SP and SPF/HF as well as two lumber design values, compression perpendicular-to-grain (Fc┴) and specific gravity (G), as shown in Table 1.

In effect, by grouping two species combinations, the SST table defines the minimum G-value assumed for the tabulated allowable design values. For species having a G-value of 0.50 or greater, the allowable values in the respective tables with labeled DF/SP apply. For species having a G-value of 0.42 to less than 0.5, the allowable values in the respective tables labeled SPF/HF apply.

Table 1. SST General Notes reference table. Lumber Designation

Douglas Fir-Larch (DF)625 psi0.50

Southern Pine (SP)565 psi0.55

SPF-HF

SST Important Information and General Notes

Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF)425 psi0.42 Hem Fir (HF) 405 psi0.43

Referring to the previous link, footnote “f” to the G-value table states: “Unless otherwise noted, allowable loads are for Douglas Fir-Larch under continuously dry conditions. Allowable loads for other species or conditions must be adjusted according to the code. Allowable loads for alternate species may be determined as outlined in Simpson Strong-Tie engineering letter...”

Footnote “f” alerts the user to the fact that when the designer/user selects a species with a G-value less than 0.42, the tabulated design values for fasteners and connectors must be adjusted to account for the lower G-value.

New Lumber Products Available

Newer grade-marked lumber products that have a different grade mark format from the past are widely available and have published design values in a new NDS Supplement Table 4G. The caption to Table 4G is Reference Design Values for Multi-Species and Country Grademarked Visually Graded Dimension Lumber (2”–4” thick)1,2,3. Prior to 2021, published design values for grade-marked dimension lumber only included one species (such as Douglas fir) or a species group (such as Southern Pine). The unique feature of the grade-marked products in NDS Supplement Table 4G is that one grade mark includes two or more products manufactured in one country, different countries, or regions. For example, see the 2024 NDS Supplement Table 4G, pp. 62–78 for lumber made in the US, Canada, and around the world on the AWC website

Fastener and Connector Design Value Adjustment Factors

Proprietary fastener and connector design values published by the manufacture must be adjusted for species having a G-value less than 0.42. To assist the designers and other users, some manufacturers have developed and published “adjustment factors” for both fasteners and connectors for lumber having a G-value less than 0.42 as published in the NDS Supplement Tables 4A, 4C, 4F, and 4G. Designers and users should contact the fastener and connector manufacturer for the applicable adjustment factors.

Lumber Substitutions for Walls and Trusses

Lumber products tabulated in NDS Supplement Table 4G are manufactured and grade-marked using the same rules (American Softwood Lumber Standard PS-20) as used in the US and Canada and thus are an additional lumber resource for CMs, homebuilders, and the public. However, the new lumber resources require additional knowledge for interpreting the grade marks correctly, locating the design values for a specific grade mark, and knowing how to make a proper lumber substitution for ordinary wood framing, prefabricated wall panels, and roof and floor trusses. An article in the September 2023 issue of STRUCTURE Magazine, “Robust Lumber Specifications on Construction Documents,” suggests a format for specifying minimum framing lumber properties that include numbers that directly link the grade and species designation to a set of reference design values. As an example for wall framing, the specification might read: “Wall-framing shall be minimum 2×4 No. 2 SPF with minimum reference design values of: Fb/875, Ft/450, Fc/1150, Fc-perp/425, E/1,400,000, and G/0.42.”

As discussed in that article, the properties of the wall framing lumber assumed by the design professional impact their design work related to wind uplift connections and shear wall design. Other issues such as truss and girder bearing capacity can be a design and performance issue as well.

For trusses, the chord and web lumber used for fabrication should have design values that equal or exceed the design values for the grades and species descriptions that are documented by the truss design drawings (TDDs). Being that each lumber product in the NDS Supplement has eight published design values that are used in different combinations for a single truss design, a direct lumber substitution using the NDS Supplement (only) requires one that has eight design values, equal to or greater than, the design values associated with the original design. If a direct one-toone comparison of design values fails the test, then the truss designer should contact their software provider to obtain the proper design values for the lumber and associated “gripping values.”

Historically, structural designers, fastener and connector manufacturers, and CMs have viewed the strength of lumber in terms of the bending and stiffness values (Fb and E) of a few species groups (SP, DFL, HF, and SPF from Canada) that had G-values of 0.55, 0.50, 0.43, and 0.42, respectively. Designers knew the G-values by memory, design standards and building code tables were based on one of the four G-values, fastener and connectors manufacturers published design values based on the four G-values, and CM truss design software automatically used the plate design values as applicable for the specie/species group selected. With new sources of lumber products available, the G-value of the products (NDS Supplement Table 4G) can be as low as 0.35. Due to the substantial impact of G on strength of mechanical connections (Figure 1 as an example), G-related adjustment factors for fasteners, connectors, truss plates, shear walls, and diaphragms may be required for the published, familiar, and longstanding design values.

Frank Woeste, P.E., is Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech. Frank, along with his colleagues and peers, has developed and presented Virginia Tech continuing education programs for more than 35 years. He is a member of the AWC Wood Standards Design Committee and serves as the ALSC Consumer Representative (Alternate). Comments are welcome and can be sent to fwoeste@vt.edu

Compatible With Any Table Type!

» WizardPDS® Ready with 24” OC Spacing

» Side or End Eject

» 92” Table Width x Your Table Length

» Ejector Postions at Center or Side of Table

» Works with ALL Tables & Gantry types, even discontinued models

» Available for No Rail, Track on Floor, & Recessed Track

Klaisler Recessed Expansion

CMF Expansion

MiTek Universal™ Table Line Alpine CMF Klaisler MiTek Rand Robbins Tee-Lok

Two C-Clamp Presses with Unistrut Jig Table

• Hydro-Air Mark-8 Mono Press (C-Clamp, Hydraulic Power Unit, Boom Assembly & Trolley)

• Panel Clip TK C-Clamp Press (C-Clamp, Hydraulic Power Unit, Boom Assembly & Trolley)

• Unistrut Jig Table/Stands (up to 80' long trusses)

• Electric Feed Rail

• Overhead Steel Beam

• Price is in US Dollars

$20,900 FOB MB Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Hydro-Air Mark 8 Truss Assembly System

2 Each - Mark-8 Mono-Presses (C-Clamp, Hydraulic Power Unit, Boom Assembly & Trolley)

1 Each - Mark-8 Mono-Press (working condition unknown)

25 Ton Press with 9" x 16 1/2" Platen Electric Feed Rail

4 Each - Partial Mark-8 Mono-Presses (For Parts - No C-Clamp)

16 Each - Magnetic Pedestals with Jig Hardware

48 Each - Partial Pedestals (missing electrical boxes and/or magnets)

44 Each - Pedestal Frames Only Steel Floor: 5/8" x 13' x 90'

Steel I-Beams & Columns to Support Mark8 Presses

Spare Parts

$48,000 NOW $37,500 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2007 Clark Industries

Horizontal Truss Stacker

Model HVS, Two Unit, 2-Zone, 14’ Horzontal Stacking System. Two lifting units (one master and one slave) with integral electrics. A truss sensing system consisting of adjustable laser sensors mounted on slide rails. One indoor electric control enclosure & panel w/PLC and manual controls. A stacker-conveyor interface package comprised of (1) mounted 3-push button enclosure and (1) remotely mounted 2-push button enclosure (pause/ emergncy stop). Hand-held Wampfler Remote Control System. 8 stacking rails and 4 stripping posts. Stack 1 5/8” thick x 14’ tall trusses up to 30 high. Stack a truss in approximately 40 seconds (cycle time). Stack up to 55’ or longer trusses on each side of the conveyor with minor assistance for truss sag, shorter lengths can be stacked unassisted. Excludes 77’ Walk Through Conveyor System. Two systems available at $25,000 NOW $19,900 Each. FOB NE. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

The

Component manufaCturing

EMSI Field Repair Press

EMSI 10 Ton Field Repair Truss Press System. Complete with: 1/2 HP, 115 Volt, 50/60 Cycle Universal Motor – Operates at voltage as low as 60 volts. 10,000 PSI Portable Power Pack with Two Speed Operation – 200 cu in/min @ 0–200 psi, 20 cu in/min @ 200–10,000 psi and Externally Adjustable Relief Valve (unit weight 55 lbs.). C-Clamp Assembly with 8" Maximum Reach, 4" x 5" Pressing Platen (optional platen available for 4” x 2”). Independent 10 Ton Hydraulic Cylinder. 10’ Hydraulic Hose Assembly with Quick Disconnect Coupling. Handle with 24 Volt Remote Electrical Pendant. Call for Price Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

Come live in this mountain resort community. The employer needs an on-site truss designer and will pay $70-150k based on experience, skills, and ability. They prefer a candidate with MiTek software experience and help candidates with relocation and housing assistance if needed. They are a single-location, privately owned company that prefers a team closely connected to the community over everyone working remotely. However, a resort community has it's benefits and challenges,and the employer helps ensure their people are safe, secure, and happy.

• 14' Long x 4" or 5" (Inside Diameter) Schedule 40 Pipe

• Tube Steel Stands (7" Height Adjustment - Height to be Specified)

• 4 Bolt Flange Bearings

• Idle and Motorized Rollers

• 1/4 HP Motors (240/480 Volt-3 Phase) with Controls

• 1" and 1 1/4" Cold Rolled 24" Shafts Baffled

• 6 to 8 Week Delivery

Equipment Solutions for the Offsite Construction Industry

X-COMBI | Complete Assembly Machine

A complete working station for the production of timber frame construction walls.

• Full PC control with two 19” touchscreens

• Automatic download from drawing software for interactive display of panel assembly framing

• Efficient and compact design, capable of manufacturing up to 200 prefabricated houses per year

Framing Cladding Nailing

Stapling Drilling Routing Application of Breather Paper Nailing of Batten Gluing

X-FLOC | Insulation Blowing Machine System

A fully automatic system used to fill prefabricated wall panels with cellulose, wood fibre, glass/rock wool, as well as composite materials.

• Full PC control with a 17” touchscreen

• Wall panel dimensions set in PLC to automatically calculate volume of material needed to fill cavity

• Compatible with all insulation materials available on the market

Insulating Nailing Stapling Routing Application of Breather Paper Nailing & Stapling of Battens

Building Trust. Creating Together.

$179,997 FOB IN

14′ x 95’ end-eject gantry with floor mounted rail including rail for two 7’-0” park stations (109’ overall length). Includes (12) 6′-4″ x 14′ slotted, 3/4″ steeltop tables with (12) ejectors. Includes one (1) MiTek gantry head with a 24″ dia. roll and pendant control. 230v/460v, 3 ph power. (No final roller press included.)

$179,997 FOB IN

• Wall Lengths to 20' / 6' to 12' Wall Heights

• Length Stops Position the Top & Bottom Plates for Nailing (as directed by Wall Panel Design Software output)

• Touch Screen Computer/Enclosure

• 4 Everwin PN80PAL Coil Feed Nail Guns

WALL EXTRUDER OUTFEED

CONVEYOR

• Transfers Wall Panels from the Wall Extruder to the Squaring Table

STUD EXTRUDER

• Nail C, L, U Sub-Assemblies and Double/Triple Studs

• Touch Screen Computer/Enclosure

• 2 Everwin PN80PAL Coil Feed Nail Guns

CURVED CONVEYOR

• Transfer Sub-Assemblies & Studs to the Wall Extruder Operator

SQUARING TABLE

• Squaring the Wall Panel before attaching Sheathing OPTION

• Add $69,900 for 2020 Spida Sprint S600 Wall Panel Saw

Excludes: Installation/Training and Annual Technical Support Fee EQUIPMENT FINANCING available from Fidelity Leasing

$249,000 - FOB AZ

SQUARING AND ROUTING STATION

800-289-5627

With the Panels Plus Squaring and Routing Station, you are one step closer to more automation. The Squaring and Routing Station incorporates our Squaring Station with a manual X-Y router bridge. It is designed to hold wall panels square while sheathing is tacked in place and rough openings are cut out. The router bridge turns a 2-person job into a 1-person operation. The router bridge features two hand cranks to move the router in the X and Y directions and is equipped with a pendant to control the bridge position.

Features:

• Manual X-Y Router Bridge

• Squaring Stops

• Footswitch & Push-Button Controls

• Horizontal Rollers

Options:

• Custom lengths available

2007 VIKING 16' X 12' SQUARING TABLE WITH SHEATHING BRIDGE

• 16' x 12' Squaring Table with Powered Width Adjustment & Powered Chain Conveyor

• Wall Panel Lengths up to 16', Wall Panel Heights from 4'-0" to 12'-2"

• Swing Gates at Both Ends of Squaring Table

• Automated Field & Edge Nailing Driving by Panel Pro Event Software & Your Programmed Nailing Patterns

• Simple Touchscreen Controls

• 2 Tool Carriages for Sheathing Nailing with Tilt Function for Seams

• 2 Paslode Nail Guns with High Load Coil Tray

• Auto Sheathing Bridge Return

• Includes 4 Pallets of Magnum Coil Nails (2 3/8 x .113)

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

$29,900 FOB KS. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2021 Triad Router Bridge & Portion of V-Track

2021 Triad Routing Bridge with approximately (20) feet of v-track. Fits over tables that build up to 12′ nominal height wall panels. Includes powered automatic bridge return, powered vertical router movement, manual fine adjustment wheel, manual vertical router travel with chain drive and (1) Milwaukee router, catalog #5625-20 120 volt, 1 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. No table included.

$28,970 NOW $5,000 FOB BC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

A

$40,997 FOB CA

Used Triad G2 Wall Assembly Equipment

Used Triad wall assembly equipment includes 16 ft x 12′-3″ max height framing station, model G2, with (2) two-tool dollies, squaring/ sheathing combo table, model G2 SH-SQ, with multi-tool mount nailing bridge and separate manual-drive router bridge, quantity of (6) 10 ft long x 2 ft wide idler roller conveyors with (4) legs, and Triad model FTCN component nailing station with four Hitachi NR83A nail tools.

Framer includes 16″ and 24″ color-coded stud locators, pop-up skate wheel conveyors, tool dollies have two tool mounts each (no tools) and powered height adjustment. Sheathing bridge includes joy-stick controls, tool offset, tool tilt, laser guide, power return and mounts for up to (23) Hitachi nail tools. Router and all available spare parts included. 120 volt, 1 phase, 30 Amp electrical required. 100 PSI air required.

New Panels Plus Floor

Cassette Framing Station

Price: $Call for pricing

FOB: MN

New Panels Plus floor framing machine, supports the structural members creating floor sections from 2" x 6" LVL through 2" x 10" to 2" x 12" dimensional lumber, 20" deep wood floor trusses or engineered wood / I-joists. Standard footprint of floor panels (cassettes) up to 12' wide x 45' long. Table consists of a fixed section and a track-guided, moveable section controlled by either a foot switch or push-buttons.

Includes a series of color-coded locator pins at 16", 19.2 and 24" on-center spacing and clamping with squaring feature including foot pedal control. The locators individually flip down if a joist comes out on top of them. After the floor is complete and unclamped, the floor section can be raised up on skate-wheel conveyors and rolled out or lifted off the table using an overhead crane. Table height is 24.5", OAL 45.5 ft, OAW 14.5 ft. 120 volt, 1 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. 90 to 120 PSIG at 15 CFM air required.

By Thomas McAnally TheJobLine.com

LHarnessing the Benefits of AI

ast month, I attended a seminar that sparked my interest in the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) in business. The event was held at an artsfocused hotel in Louisville, KY, during a company retreat my wife, an executive at the local hospital, was attending. One of the sessions discussed how AI is evolving, emphasizing that while AI won’t replace people, those who learn to work with it will have an advantage over those who don’t. The takeaway was clear — AI is here and its capabilities are growing — and I left motivated to explore how to use it effectively in my work.

As I thought about the seminar, I started to consider how AI could benefit us in the truss industry, even at a basic level. I’m no AI expert, but some practical uses quickly came to mind. For instance, AI can improve everyday tasks like writing emails. Whether it’s a quick message or a formal letter, AI can streamline the process. I’m using speech-to-text AI to write this document, which accurately transcribes my words while ensuring correct spelling and punctuation. It’s a small change, but it improves my efficiency when performing this task.

AI is already integrated into many tools we use daily. For instance, I’m writing this in Microsoft Word using its dictation feature, and Grammarly is checking for grammar in real time. These tools are simple and accessible. Then there’s ChatGPT, which can create templates for tasks like quotes, estimates, or change orders. You can set up a basic template, such as “Template #1,” and customize it for clients. For example, you can create a “Bill Smith” template with his address, project details, and terms. From there, ChatGPT can generate quotes or documents by filling in specific details. It may sound complicated, but once you set it up, AI can make routine tasks faster and more consistent.

The bottom line is that AI is a tool — so like any tool, it’s only as useful as your understanding of how to leverage it. The more we learn, the more we stand to gain in efficiency and productivity.

Are you using AI now? I am and will strive to find additional ways for it to be relevant in my tasks. If you have embraced AI, I’d love to hear your feedback at twm@thejobline.com.

2023 Panels Plus Single-Tool Sheathing Station

Featuring precision Gen. 2 controls, this system squares and sheathes wall panels ranging up to 16′ in length and up to 12′ -3″ wall height with dimensional material from 2×4 through 2×10. This late-model system includes a servodriven bridge with joy-stick controlled motion on the operator’s riding platform. The single, large-coil capacity tool carriage travels across the wall frame inserting sheathing fasteners at the spacing set by the operator. The stitchers will automatically insert fasteners through the sheathing into the top and bottom plates at your chosen spacing during the auto-return process. The bridge has 9 programmable presets for fastener spacing. Other features include: Single Beam Bridge, top and bottom plate stitchers, Operator Platform with Windows industrial touchscreen, and joystick control. Squaring table features a squaring edge, footswitch & push-button controls for telescoping side and horizontal outfeed rollers. 120 PSI at 60 CFM air.120 volt AC electrical required. Utilizes large-coil 15º wire-collated nails. (No nail tools included).

THE BENEFITS JUST KEEP EASILY, SAFELY, NEATLY STACKING UP.

ProStack

By: DAK Automation

2014 TRIAD RAKE WALL TABLE

• Wall Lengths to 12'

• Wall Heights to 40'

• Powered Height Adjustment

• Manually Adjustable Rake Side (0 to 12/12 pitch)

• Adjustable Squaring Stop

• Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyors

• Stud Locators at 16" and 24" Centers

• Center Support Bar with Stud Locators

• Excludes Tool Doilies

• Price is in US Dollars

2019 Triad Steel Interior Framing Line

Wall framing line with model DQSF Diamond Quad framing station, RO-CAT tables and conveyors, designed to frame steel stud wall panels from 6′-9″ to 10′-3″ in height, to 16-ft long. Framing station includes two (2) twin-tool dollies with optional outlets and monitors, stud locators at 16″ and 24″ o/c spacing, and four (4) Senco SG2510 tools. Station clamps and includes pop-up skatewheel conveyors. Pair of RO-CAT tables include squaring lip, tool rest and pop-up skatewheel conveyors. Line includes two (2) 10-ft long stand-alone skatewheel conveyors and two (2) 15-ft long x 36″ wide, stand-alone idler roller conveyors. 100 PSI air required. 120 volt, 1 phase electrical required. 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

In addition to the production lines listed on our site, Panels Plus will work with you to suggest a custom layout that best-suits your organization.

Wall Panel Lift

* 8’- 12’ Wall Height

* 1,000 LB Capacity

* Easy Adjustment

* Hoist and Crane Sold Separate

Handle Bar Router

* 8’ - 12’ Wall Height

* 2 Person Operation

* 3 ¼ hp Production Router

* 120 Volt /1 Phase/15 Amp

Lay-Up Tables

* 10’ x 10’ Working Area

* Lift & Extend Rollers

* Squaring Lip

* Nail Tray

Skate Rollers

* 15’ Standard Length

* Adjustable Height

* Sturdy Stands

* Custom Lengths Available

$13,900.00

$3,500.00 $3,000.00 $1,950.00

New Component Table with Skatewheel Conveyors

Lift & Extend Skatewheel Conveyors. 10' x 10' Work Area with Squaring Lip. Gun Holster & Nail Tray.

$13,900 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• 8' to 12' Wall Heights

• 1,000 Lb Capacity

• Weight: 120 Lbs

• Excludes: Electric Hoist & Freestanding Bridge Crane

$1,950 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

New Panels Plus Wall Panel Framing Equipment

Consider Panels Plus wall panel assembly equipment for manufacturers of wood or steel wall panels, floor-panels, and related framing components. Panels Plus is an employee owned, ISO certified, manufacturing company that builds state-of-the-art equipment featuring durable construction, with fit and finish second to none in the structural building component industry. The referenced base framing table allows you to assemble from 7-12 foot wall heights, at industry standard 16 foot lengths, at a working height of 29 to 32 inches. This framer design includes controls at each end of table, squaring stops and pneumatic clamping for consistent wall panel quality. Frames 2x4 or 2 x 6 walls, with color-coded, steel stud locators at 16 and 24 inches O.C. spacing. Includes pop-up skate wheels for easy transfer of completed wall frame. Framing table can be configured to receive wall framing light bars, other options include custom buildable wall heights, lengths and auto-indexing of optional 2 or 3 tool carriages.

Additionally from Panels Plus are sheathing tables with features that include foot pedal control at squaring end of table, with squaring stops, roller conveyors at both sides, single pendant controls for bridge, tool spacing at 6 inch centers with 3 inch bridge shift for offset nailing. Tool bridges can accommodate from 2 x 4 to 2 x 8 walls, with seam tilt being standard equipment Panels Plus Tool Bridges are available with single beam or dual beam design for two different tool mounts on one bridge. Squaring stations, sub-component tables, conveyors and panel lifts are also available to complete the configuration of the wall panel assembly line. Price includes factory installation and training. 50 CFM at 120 psi air. 120 or 230 volt, 1 phase electrical.

765-751-9990

ProStack Wall Panel Tilt In-Feed Conveyor

Solving the problem of missed fasteners on exterior sheathing remains one of the primary reasons for call back charges and exceptions noted during jobsite building inspections. Clearly finding and resolving missed fasteners or “shiners” becomes mission critical before a sheathed wall panel leaves the production line. Our shop-proven, tilting conveyor makes the process safe, fast, and labor efficient. The ProStack tilt in-feed safely lifts wall segments to 45º in 5 seconds for inspection and on to 75º for easy to reach repairs. This tilt system is also excellent for installing blocking , windows, and other details in your wall panel segments. More information click here. 72,657 FOB ND

$37,525 FOB ND

ProStack Wall Panel In-Feed Conveyor

ProStack powered in-feed conveyor was engineered to deliver wall panel segments at a matched speed and height into the ProStack automated wall panel stacker. Built for smooth operation and assembled with laser cut, powder-coated finish steel. Base model conveys wall panel segments up to 12’ in height and up to 16’ in length for wall segments up to 1,600 lbs. Extended length systems come in standard 20′ and 24’ length capacity. All models come with adjustable working heights and variable conveyor speeds.

Powered in-feed conveyor section, synchronized chain drive under top and bottom plate for open access, 5-HP, 208v, 3Ph power. Adjustable working height from 28” to 34”. 16′ length capacity.

New Wall Panel Lift

Panels Plus LightGauge-Steel Framing Station

2021 Panels Plus light gauge steel (LGS) framing station, builds steel stud wall panels from 6′-9″ to 16′-0″ heights, from 1′-0″ to 20′-0″ long. Includes four (4) Graber SuperDrive tools with mounts, two tools per dolly, adjustable top and bottom plate stops, squaring stops and pop up conveyors. 110 volt, 1 phase, 30 Amp electrical required. 80 PSI at 10 CFM air required. $71,993 NOW $59,000 FOB PA

Design Connections Options for Filling Your Open Positions

Continuing the discussion from my column last month, “The JobLine in Canada, eh,” I thought it would be worthwhile to look at some of the pluses and minuses of using an outside recruiter. Your company or location may have its own resources to use when filling truss and component staffing needs, but will that be the most effective approach? Have you considered using a recruiter and do you understand the tools that The JobLine would bring to the table? Let’s consider the following.

The Case for Using The JobLine

Pluses:

• Expertise and Experience: The JobLine specializes in the truss, component, and mass timber area only. JobLine’s 30+ year history, and nearly 40 years in the industry for me personally, ensures that we know the ins and outs of what makes a candidate a good fit.

• Timesavings: Let’s face it, hiring can be a time-consuming process. The JobLine will take on a substantial amount of legwork – sourcing candidates, screening skills and experience, testing candidates. This frees up your internal team to focus on other important tasks instead of getting bogged down in the details of recruitment.

• Wide Network: The JobLine has a vast network of connections in this industry that we can utilize to help find the best candidates for your positions.

Minuses:

• Cost: Yes, there is a cost when hiring a recruiter, whether it is The JobLine or a different company. But also consider this – if you are short staffed, there is a cost to leaving that position unfilled. And, importantly, at The JobLine there is no cost unless/until we succeed in finding you a candidate that you hire.

• Time to Align: While we will take a lot of the search work off your hands, we will need you to spend time with us to explain your needs, company culture, values, etc. Your help giving us a clear picture of your situation will ensure that our search is in line with your goals.

The Direct Hiring Approach

Pluses:

• Cost Effective: By handling recruiting yourself, you will save on recruiter fees. But also consider this – there are likely hidden costs involved here, like lost productivity from time spent searching for clients rather than managing your company.

• Direct Engagement: Dealing directly with candidates allows for better one-on-one communication and engagement between you and prospective new hires. It’s also true that some recruiters try to pressure candidates into openings. But know this – at The JobLine, our goal is always to have a happy candidate and client at the end of the hiring process, and for years to come.

Minuses:

• Resource Drain: As mentioned above, recruiting can take a lot of time and effort, especially if your team is already stretched thin.

• Limited Reach: Without the tools and network that The JobLine offers, you might miss out on top talent. Your job postings may not reach as many potential qualified candidates as you’d like. And, conversely, if you use a service such as Indeed, you are likely to be bombarded by unqualified applicants.

In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each option has its own advantages and challenges. You need to weigh these factors to help you decide which path is best for you and your company.

Give me a shout (705-816-4759) if you would like to discuss how The JobLine’s Canadian division can help fill your hiring needs.

Please share your thoughts with me by contacting me at secord@thejobline.com

If you want help ﬁnding that next perfect component designer or design job in Canada, please contact me. If your work is in the mass timber world anywhere in North America, I’d love to talk to you about connecting you to that next great job or candidate. You can reach me at secord@thejobline.com, or 800-289-5627 ext. 2. I’m also happy to engage at: LinkedIn.com/in/geordiesecord. www.thejobline.com

-Laser Pointer -Bridge Auto Return -Bridge Tilt at Sheathing Seams -Programmable Fastener Patterns -Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyors -6’-11” to 12’-5” Wall Heights -Fixed Squaring Stops -No Floor Rails *Includes Installation Support in the United States & Canada

• Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyor

• Powered Height Adjustment (6'-11" to 12'-5" wall heights)

• Fixed Squaring Stops

• Excludes Tool Dollies

• 110 Volt / 20 Amps

• Add $6,000 for Stud Locators at 16" & 24" O.C.

• Add $2,750 for 1 Pair of 15' Skatewheel Conveyor with Stands

• Add $11,900 for Sub-Component Layup Tables with Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyors

• EQUIPMENT FINANCING available from SLS Financial Services $38,750 FOB NE

2021 Panels Plus Light-Gauge-Steel Framing Station

2021 Panels Plus light gauge steel (LGS) framing station, builds steel stud wall panels from 6′-9″ to 12′-3″ heights, from 1′-0″ to 20′0″ long. includes four (4) Graber SuperDrive tools with mounts, two tools per dolly, adjustable top and bottom plate stops, squaring stops and pop up conveyors. 110 volt, 1 phase, 30 Amp electrical required. 80 PSI at 10 CFM air required.

ProStack Wall Panel Stacker

Reduced labor, increased safety, the benefits just keep stacking up. Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack. This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

Developed for commercial wall panel production facilities this is the remarkable ProStack, fully automated wall panel stacker. The ProStackrelieves your build team from creating a stack of wall panels and keeps them building walls instead. Stacks 2×4 through 2×8 walls up to 20′ in length and up to 12′ in height (taller by special order). The ProStack will automatically center or left or right justify each layer including multiple wall segments on the same layer. For ease of loading in your yard or on the build site, fork pockets are created in two ways: The operator can attach blocking up to 5″ tall to the last wall of the stack prior to entering the stacker, or two shorter walls can be spread apart prior to the second to last row of the stacker. Designed without any overhead frame or apparatus, so no crane inspections are required. The ProStack is “event driven”, so there is no need to read a file. Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. ProStack can even operate with your existing powered conveyors or select our optional matching conveyors (see the video shown below). 208 volt, 3 phase, 43 Amp base model electrical required. No air required. Footprint is 26′-5″L x 19′-3″W.

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

Used - 2014, R157 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

$29,900 NOW $19,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

Used - 2014, R156 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

$29,900 NOW $19,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

2015 JLG G10-55A Telehandler Lift

• 10,000 LB Capacity

• 55' Lift Height

• 4 Wheel Drive

• 3 Way Steer

• 72" Fork Carriage

• 60" Pallet Forks

• Foam Filled Tires

• Cummins QSB 4.5 Turbo Diesel

• 4,350 Hours

$59,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

PHONE: 800-289-5627

Used - R158 Roll -Off Precision Trailer

Lighting | 11.4 Ton Self Contained Power | (1) Heachache Rack | Available in October

$19,500

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

2013 JDH Trussmaster 42'-60' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Hydraulic Lift

• Sliding Tandems

• Spring Suspension

• Roller Locks & Brakes

• Headache Rack

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Koorsen Connector Detector

By John “Buddy” Showalter, PE and Sandra Hyde, PE

2024 IBC Significant Structural Changes — Wood

This article appears in the May 2024 issue of STRUCTURE Magazine as Part 7 of 9. Reprinted with permission.

This multi-part series discusses significant structural changes to the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) by the International Code Council (ICC). This article includes an overview of changes to IBC Chapter 23 on wood. Only a portion of the chapter’s total number of code changes is discussed in this article. More information on the code changes can be found in the 2024 Signiﬁcant Changes to the International Building Code available from ICC.

Wood Structural Panel Wall Sheathing

IBC Table 2304.6.1 provides requirements and limitations for wood structural panels (WSP) used as exterior wall sheathing when resisting wind pressure (Figure 1). For a given wind speed and exposure category, the table gives the minimum nail size, WSP span rating, panel thickness, stud spacing, and nailing schedule. The limitations of the table are that the building must be enclosed, the mean roof height must be not greater than 30 feet, and the topographic factor must be equal to 1.0.

Change Significance: Tabulated values are modified for basic wind speeds to be consistent with ASCE 7–22 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures. This change updates the tabulated values from allowable stress design wind speeds (Vasd) to basic wind speeds (V) for consistency with ASCE 7–22. When developing these modifications, stud and panel capacities, nail withdrawal resistance, and nail-head pull-through capacities were evaluated in the same manner as the previous table, resulting in comparable design requirements as the wind speeds are soft-converted from Vasd values per IBC Section 1609.3.1. The tabulated wind speeds are also consistent with those in 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) Table R602.3(3).

Footnote “b” was updated to reference ASCE 7 Section 30.4. Since the revised table reflects basic wind speeds, the previous text in footnote “d” is no longer required but is replaced by a new note. The new footnote “d” text recognizes the minimum specific gravity basis of 0.42 for the WSP fastener spacing and provides a prescriptive option (i.e., multiply spacing by 0.67) for framing species with lower specific gravity down to a specific gravity equal to 0.35. Engineered design of the WSP fasteners is required when the specific gravity is less than 0.35 for the lumber species used for wall framing.

Figure 1. Wood structural panel wall sheathing (courtesy Norbord [David Lewis])

Fire Protection of Connections

IBC Section 2304.10.1 provides two options for demonstrating compliance for the protection of connections in Types IV–A, IV–B, and IV–C construction: a testing option and a calculation option. The provisions do not apply to connections in heavy timber (IV–HT) construction, because heavy timber structural members do not have a prescribed fire-resistance rating. Connections in Type IV–A, IV–B and IV–C construction are required to have fire protection for the time associated with fire protection of the primary structural frame members (Figure 2).

Table 2304.6.1 revisions (image courtesy STRUCTURE). Continued next page

Figure 2. Fire protection of connections in Type IV–A, IV–B, and IV–C construction.

2304.10.1 Connection fire-resistance rating Fire protection of connections. Fire-resistance ratings for connections in Connections used with fire-resistance-rated members and in fireresistance-rated assemblies of Type IV–A, IV–B or IV–C construction shall be protected for the time associated with the fire-resistance rating. Protection time shall be determined by one of the following:

1. Testing in accordance with Section 703.2 where the connection is part of the fire-resistance test.

2. Engineering analysis that demonstrates that the temperature rise at any portion of the connection is limited to an average temperature rise of 250°F (139°C), and a maximum temperature rise of 325°F (181°C), for a time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of the structural element being connected. For the purposes of this analysis, the connection includes connectors, fasteners and portions of wood members included in the structural design of the connection.

Change Significance: This change clarifies the code intent that connections are required to be protected for the time associated with the fire-resistance rating of members and assemblies as required by IBC Sections 704.2 for the primary structural frame.

However, IBC Section 704.2 does not require connections that join elements of the structural frame to be tested per ASTM E119 Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials or UL263 Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials. The connections must only be protected with a material having the fire-resistance rating required for the structural members that they connect. It is neither practical nor possible to test connections in a standard fire test furnace since there is no capability to test large connections used to transfer gravity loads. In addition, neither ASTM E119 nor UL263 includes any provisions on how to test connections and assess their performance.

See the May 2023 issue of STRUCTURE for more background on design for fire protection of mass timber connections.

Wood Shear Walls and Diaphragms

IBC Section 2305.1 references AWC’s Special Design Provisions for Wind and Seismic (SDPWS) for the design and construction of wood shear walls and wood diaphragms to resist wind, seismic, or other lateral loads.

2305.1 General. Structures using wood-frame shear walls or wood-frame diaphragms to resist wind, or seismic or other lateral loads shall be designed and constructed in accordance with AWC SDPWS and the applicable provisions of Sections 2305, 2306 and 2307.

2305.1.2 Permanent load duration. Permanent loads are associated with permanent load duration in accordance with the ANSI/AWC NDS. For wood shear walls and wood diaphragms designed to resist lateral loads of permanent load duration only and that are not in combination with wind or seismic lateral loads, the design unit shear capacities shall be taken as the AWC SDPWS nominal unit shear capacities, multiplied by 0.2 for use with allowable stress design in Section 2306 and 0.3 for use with load and resistance factor design in Section 2307.

Change Significance: Terminology in IBC Section 2305.1 changes to use “wood shear walls” and “wood diaphragms” instead of “wood-frame” shear walls and diaphragms. The terminology change is driven by the need to cover the design of both wood-frame and cross-laminated timber shear walls and diaphragms in the SDPWS (Figure 3).

Figure 3. CLT shear wall.

Reference to the SDPWS is appropriate for the design of wood shear walls and diaphragms to resist wind and seismic loads, but for resistance to permanent lateral loads, such as soil loads in foundation design, the nominal unit shear capacities in SDPWS need further reduction to account for long-term effects. Permanent loads are associated with a permanent load duration factor (allowable stress design, ASD) or time-effect factor (load and resistance factor design, LRFD) as defined by the NDS. IBC Section 2305.1.2 now requires the use of a 0.2 factor for ASD and a 0.3 factor for LFRD.

Hillside Light-frame Wood Construction

One of the most important aspects of prescriptive methods is meeting the restrictions and limitations required to use the method. The structures for which conventional light-frame wood construction is applicable are described in IBC Section 2308.2. For light-frame wood dwellings on steep hillsides, the typical assumption of floor loads transferring to braced wall panels based on the tributary area of a flexible wood floor may not provide adequate seismic performance (Figure 4). This building configuration was found to be vulnerable in the 1994 Northridge, California earthquake. Whether the earthquake motion occurs across the slope or perpendicular to the hill, seismic forces follow the stiffest load path to the uphill foundation, rather than distributing evenly to all braced wall panels as assumed in prescriptive IBC seismic wall bracing provisions.

CHAPTER 2

DEFINITIONS

CRIPPLE WALL CLEAR HEIGHT. The vertical height of a cripple wall from the top of the foundation to the underside of floor framing above.

2308.2 Limitations. Buildings are permitted to be constructed in accordance with the provisions of conventional light-frame construction, subject to the limitations in Sections 2308.2.1 through 2308.2.6 2308.2.7.

(No changes to Sections 2308.2.1, 2308.2.2, 2308.2.4 and 2308.2.5. Changes to 2308.2.3 and 2308.2.6 not shown for brevity.)

2308.2.7 Hillside light-frame construction. Design in accordance with Section 2308.3 shall be provided for the floor immediately above the cripple walls or post and beam systems and all structural elements and connections from this floor down to and including connections to the foundation and design of the foundation to transfer lateral loads from the framing above in buildings where all of the following apply:

1. The grade slope exceeds 1 unit vertical in 5 units horizontal where averaged across the full length of any side of the building.

Figure 4. Cripple wall heights that trigger engineered design.

2. The tallest cripple wall clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 mm); or, where a post and beam system occurs at the building perimeter, the post and beam system tallest post clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 m).

3. Of the total plan area below the lowest framed floor, whether open or enclosed, less than 50 percent is occupiable space having interior wall finishes conforming to Section 2304.7 or Chapter 25.

Exception: Light-frame buildings in which the lowest framed floor is supported directly on concrete or masonry walls over the full length of all sides except the downhill side of the building are exempt from this provision.

Change Significance: These new load path provisions provide a correlation between the prescriptive requirements of IBC Section 2308 and IRC Section R301.2.2.6 Item 8. The hillside requirement was added to the 2021 IRC with the intent of improving the seismic performance of hillside light-frame wood buildings. A related modification was also made to ASCE 7–22 to provide additional guidance to engineers designing these types of structures.

Wind Uplift

Wind loads (based on main wind force-resisting system pressures) can cause considerable uplift forces on roof framing. The uplift loads must be positively transferred into the structure below to resist the uplift (Figure 5).

2308.11.4 Wind uplift. The roof construction shall have rafter and truss ties to the wall below. Resultant uplift loads shall be transferred to the foundation using a continuous load path. The rafter or truss-to-wall connection shall comply with Tables 2304.10.2 and 2308.11.4.

Exception: The truss-to-wall connection shall be determined from the uplift forces as specified on the truss design drawings or as shown on the construction documents.

Change Significance: Changes to IBC Section 2308.11.4 (formerly 2308.7.5) and the corresponding table update roof-to-wall connection uplift loads to comply with the IBC-referenced standard ASCE 7–22. Tabulated wind uplift loads have been updated based on the basic wind speeds used in ASCE 7–22 (and ASCE 7–16) which match the required basic wind speeds of IBC Figures 1609.3(1) through 1609.3(4). (See the March 2024 issue of STRUCTURE on IBC Chapter 16 loads for more background.)

Basic wind speeds are tabulated for 90–140 mph which provides values up to the maximum wind speed permitted in IBC Section 2308.2.4 for conventional light-frame construction. Uplift loads for Exposures C and D with an assumed mean roof height (MRH) of 33 feet are also now tabulated eliminating the need for the table in Footnote “a”. A higher MRH will require engineering analysis for uplift connectors.

Figure 5. Roof truss-to-wall uplift connectors (courtesy Norbord [David Lewis]).

Continued next page

Uplift connection requirements now include the effects of 24-inch overhangs. Calculations are no longer required to determine the magnitude of the uplift loads by adding the overhang loads previously found in the table. While conservative, engineering analysis can be used to reduce uplift loads for roofs with shorter overhangs. Overhangs greater than 24 inches will require engineering analysis.

A new exception is added to IBC Section 2308.11.4 to allow truss-to-wall connections to be designed using either the loads on the truss design drawings or the construction documents. This new language is meant to be consistent with IRC Section R802.11.1 for truss uplift resistance.

Conclusion

Structural engineers should be aware of significant structural changes in the 2024 IBC Chapter 23 on wood. Tabulated values are modified for basic wind speeds to be consistent with ASCE 7–22. New footnote text provides a prescriptive option for framing species with a specific gravity lower than 0.42. Connections in Type IV–A, IV–B and IV–C construction are required to have fire protection for the time associated with fire protection of the primary structural frame. Design requirements for wood-frame and cross-laminated timber shear walls and diaphragms are added. For resistance to permanent lateral loads, such as soil loads in foundation design, capacity reductions are added to account for long-term effects in nominal unit shear capacities. New load path requirements are intended to improve the seismic performance of hillside light-frame wood buildings. Roof-to-wall connection uplift loads are updated to be consistent with ASCE 7–22.

About The Authors

John “Buddy” Showalter, PE, M. ASCE, M. NCSEA (bshowalter@iccsafe.org) is a Senior Staff Engineer and Sandra Hyde, PE, M. ASCE, M. NCSEA (shyde@iccsafe.org) is Managing Director of ICC’s Consulting Group.

About This Series

Reprinted with permission, this article is Part 7 of 9 from the series in STRUCTURE Magazine:

Part 1: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Roof assemblies (IBC Chapter 15)

Part 2: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Special inspection & soils/foundations (IBC Chapters 17 & 18)

Part 3: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Concrete & Masonry (IBC Chapters 19 & 21)

Part 4: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Steel (IBC Chapter 22)

Part 5: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Risk Categories (IBC Chapter 16)

Part 6: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Loads (IBC Chapter 16)

Part 7: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Wood (IBC Chapter 23)

Part 8: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes — Glass and Glazing (IBC Chapter 24)

Part 9: 2024 IBC Signiﬁcant Structural Changes —Temporary Structures (IBC Chapter 31)

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Time To Hire?

We’re here when you need help! visit: www.thejobline.com email: twm@thejobline.com STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL!

Steel teeter carts, quantity of (16), for moving bulk material for production staging, can be used to deliver full units to sawyer or long cut material to an assembly area at a convenient working height. Size 72″ long x 46″ wide x 32″ high, 2,500 lb. load capacity. Feature (2) pneumatic tires/ steel wheel, and (2) swivel casters. Units shown without large tires: quantity of (3) at $500 each.

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• Foot Pedal

• 2 Pairs available at $7,500 NOW $6,500 Each Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2008 Genie GTH-1056 Telehandler

Genie telehandler lifts up to 10,000 lbs over 10 ft high, and up to 5,000 lbs 56 ft high. Can also extend out 42 ft. carrying up to 3,000 lbs. Features a 74 HP diesel engine with 3 speed transmission. Also features 3-mode power steering (2-wheel, 4-wheel coordinated and crab), frame leveling +/- 10º, and Full time 4WD with front and rear limited slip differential (LSD). Vehicle weight is 31,900 lbs. 4,618 hours on the telehandler.

www.woodtechsystems.com

By MiTek Staff

The Emerging Significance of EPDs in Building Construction

Sustainable building materials and methods are top-of-mind in today’s construction industry. While there are many sustainable building materials to choose from during design, wood is naturally a superior choice for developers, designers, and builders interested in lowering the environmental impact of their projects.

An essential part of sustainable construction is transparency into the environmental impact of building materials selected for the project. Transparency into the effects of building material manufacturing processes may be achieved through Environmental Product Declarations or EPDs. Unlike product evaluation reports that evaluate properties for building code compliance, such as structural strength, durability, or fire resistance, EPDs are currently voluntary, independently verified reports that document the measurement of environmental impacts across a building material’s life cycle. A building material’s life cycle may be measured as:

• “Cradle-to-gate” (for the production stage only) or,

• “Cradle-to-grave” (for the production, construction, use in a building, and end-of-life stages).

Construction works life cycle (adapted from ISO 21930:2017 Figure 1)

EPDs are based on Life Cycle Assessments or LCA studies conducted per ISO standards. Specific rules for evaluating similar building materials are found in Product Category Rules or PCRs. PCRs are in turn developed by independent program operators such as ASTM International, SCS Global Services, UL Solutions, and BRE. This alphabet soup can be confusing, but the core deliverable is the EPD that designers use for making decisions on building materials. EPDs may be building material manufacturer and product-specific or part of an industry-wide EPD with environmental impacts averaged across multiple manufacturers and locations. There are numerous directories that list verified EPDs, including:

• Environmental Product Declarations – Certification – Products & Services (astm.org),

• Certified Green Products Guide | SCS Global Services,

• SPOT – Sustainable Product Database (ul.com),

• Impact (bregroup.com).

MiTek now has EPDs in place and ready to use to support our customers and the building industry.

Environmental impacts measured in an LCA and reported in an EPD include the potential for:

• global warming,

• acidification (absorption of CO2 into bodies of water),

• eutrophication (increase of nutrients in bodies of water leading to excessive plant and algae growth),

• smog creation,

• ozone depletion,

• abiotic resource depletion (diminishing availability of non-living natural resources).

These potential impacts interest environmental scientists, the most notable being global warming potential due to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. GHG includes embodied carbon in building materials, measured in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent or “CO2e”. The CO2e may be used to calculate the embodied carbon of building materials for a designated unit of measure in the EPD, such as a metric ton or cubic meter of material. For instance, the carbon footprint of a wood truss package could be calculated by summing the kgCO2e contributions of all the dimensional lumber by volume, connector plates by mass, and the energy used during truss production.

Embodied carbon is becoming more significant for the construction industry as jurisdictions introduce and enforce regulations for using building materials with lower embodied carbon. Some examples of embodied carbon regulations include:

• California Assembly Bill No. 2446,

• General Services Administration (GSA) Low Embodied Carbon Program,

• U.S. Federal Buy Clean Initiative.

The common thread in these regulations is the goal of reducing GHG emissions and decarbonizing the building stock over the coming decades through lower embodied and operational carbon.

EPDs may also be used in whole building LCA and voluntary green building programs such as:

• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) by the U.S. Green Building Council,

• National Green Building Standard (ICC 700) by the International Code Council,

• Green Globes™ by Green Building Initiative,

• Living Building Challenge™ by the International Living Future Institute,

• Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM®) by BRE.

These voluntary green building programs go beyond the building code requirements we are more familiar with and incentivize green building design using materials with EPDs.

As mentioned at the outset, wood is a sustainable building material and helpful from an environmental standpoint as it sequesters or stores carbon. Other traditional building materials such as concrete, masonry, and steel have higher embodied carbon levels through their production, yet steel has a significant environmental benefit due to its recyclability. The American Wood Council (AWC) has developed EPDs for softwood lumber and engineered wood products, which can be found at https://awc.org/sustainability/epd-tb. In July 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also awarded significant financial grants to AWC, ICC, and other building material associations under its Reducing Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Construction Materials and Products program. This will prime the pump for development of even more PCRs and EPDs for wood and other sustainable building products over the coming years.

Environmental transparency of building materials provides a unique value to the construction industry, enabling smart decisions for sustainable design. The demand for building material EPDs will continue to grow as the need for more sustainable building methods become paramount.

• Sources for MSR Lumber

Filter by species, grade and dimension to locate products from MSRLPC members.

• Educational Resources

Find helpful information for current and potential MSR lumber users.

• NEW! Design Values

Comparison Tool

Compare MSR lumber reference design values with visually graded dimensional lumber by species. The

make informed purchasing decisions as well as those exploring design optimization with MSR Lumber. Check it out!

BAM “Ovation”

Door Machining Center (DMC)

New Builders Automation Machinery

“Ovation” series, door machining center (DMC). Fully programmable, two-stage door machine featuring (27) axes of operation. Can be specified with either two or four front machining heads. Machine is side-eject, direct-drive with helical gear racks and gear protection from dust. The door loader is driven by an absolute encoder; no stepping motors, belts or exposed ball screws are used.

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

Trucks & Trailers

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

Fitzgerald Group, LLC

A Note to Our Customers

We apologize if you've had difficulty contacting us this year. Since December, we were caring for our daughter during her courageous battle with cancer.

We are returning to the office on September 9. If you’ve found alternative solutions for your needs, we completely understand. However, if you still require any of the services we provide, please call or email us, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has sent their condolences. Your support has been deeply appreciated.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) door loader, model 2001. Allows you to stack door slabs horizontally and feeds them into a horizontal door machine like the BAM model 996E-TS. Mechanically adjusts door stack height vertically as slabs are fed into machine. Clamp automatically adjusts to type and size of door slab: steel, solid-core or hollow-

controller manages the

machine

BAM Stair Wedge Saw

Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) model 2220, stair wedge saw station automatically produces wood wedges used to lock stair treads and risers into slots cut into the stair stringers…

Price based on configuration FOB FL

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

BAM Pre-Hung

Door Machine

Titan Series

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) Titan series pre-hung door machine. Designed to produce between 150 and 250 doors per day. Multi-function door machine capable of doors 1′-6″ to 4′-0″ in width, and both 6′-8″ or 8′-0″ door heights. Processes both 1 3/8″ and 1 3/4″ thick door slabs. Machines the door, hinge jamb and strike jamb all at the same time. Capable hinge sizes include 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″, 4″ x 4″, 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ with 5/8″ radius. Cycle time with flush hinge routing is 45 seconds. 10′ long x 7′-6″ wide footprint. Shipping weight 4,000 lbs.

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

BAM Staircase

Assembly Clamp

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) staircase assembly clamp, model 2210, accommodates up to 20 foot long stringers with a maximum width of 54″…

Price based on configuration FOB FL

By Joe Polder Senior Territory Sales Manager

Meeting Industry Need with the HTTH6.5: The Next Evolution in Holdown Solutions

At Simpson Strong-Tie, we continually look for ways to improve our offerings for the building industry. During one of our periodic product line reviews, we realized there was a void to be filled in our holdown line for residential construction.

Over the last decade, we’ve made strides to improve the efficiency of our HTT4 and HTT5 heavy tension ties. We made them more compact, relocated nail holes, and accommodated use with our Strong-Drive® SD Connector screws for higher loads. None of this was quite enough, however, since the HTTs’ allowable loads topped out at about 5,000 lb.

The next higher-capacity holdown was the HDU8, which can support approximately 8,000 lb. loads — overkill for many conditions. It became clear the gap between the two products needed to be bridged, so we had some work cut out for us. We started with a goal of creating a cost-effective, nail-installed (or SD Connector screw-installed) heavy tension tie with a load right between the HTT5 and HDU8. And we did it!

We’re proud to announce the new HTTH6.5 heavy tension tie — the first heavy tension tie with uplift values up to 6,500 lb. using nails. This gives a specifier the option to use a heavy tension tie in place of our more expensive HDU holdown.

The off-the-shelf cost of HTTH6.5 is lower than that of the HDU8. But where this tie really shines is in installed cost. The HTTH6.5 uses standard 0.148″ x 2 1/2″ or 0.162″ x 2 1/2″ nails (pneumatic or hand driven). And if your demands are higher, the HTTH6.5 can also be installed with Simpson Strong-Tie SD #10 x 2 1/2″ Connector screws for a whopping 7,650 lb. load.

HDU8 Installed

• 6,500 lb. uplift capacity (with nails — even higher with SD Connector screws!)

• Four-fold seat reduces deflection

• Tapered base increases strength and reduces deflection

• Optimal nailing pattern decreases wood splitting and maximizes fastener capacity

• 0.185″ hole diameter accommodates either nails or SD Connector screws

• Installs with industry-standard pneumatically driven nails

• Can be used in both vertical shearwall applications and in horizontal roof design.

The installer will benefit from a lower installed-cost product while the specifier will have peace of mind knowing they’re calling out the most efficient product for their application.

The HTTH6.5 is included as a holdown solution in our Simpson Strong-Tie Post-To-Foundation Designer and Site-Built Shearwall Designer web apps.

From specification to installation, we want to make sure everyone uses our products with confidence. Please reach out to us at 800-999-5099 for assistance or visit strongtie.com/htth.

The article, Meeting Industry Need with the HTTH6.5: The Next Evolution in Holdown Solutions, appeared ﬁrst on Simpson Strong-Tie Building Strong Blog. To sign-up to receive the Building Strong Blog in your inbox, go to https://blog.strongtie.com/

Typical HTTH6.5 Installation

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort

115 S. 2nd St.

Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Hotel Deadline: March 31

2025 WORKSHOP

Wednesday, 4/30

Golf Outing

Social Hour

Independent Dinner

Thursday, 5/1

Educational Sessions Tour

Hosted Dinner

Friday, 5/2

Educational Sessions

Roundtable

“The Workshop puts you in front of the right people in one place to get answers to your questions about MSR, whatever they might be.”

—Ross Harter, Drexel Building Supply, Wrightstown, WI

“Sometimes we don’t know what we don’t know. Getting together at an event like the Workshop gives everyone a chance to keep their ears open for new opportunities and ways to become more efficient.”

—Mike Momb, Hansen Pole Buildings, Browns Valley, MN

“Lumber is your #1 used item –you need to know what you’re buying and using. The knowledge I gain about the lumber market and the forecast for the coming year is invaluable to my business.”

—Sean Kelly, Automated Building Products, Marshfield, WI

Safety First!

Meeting Topics

From State Fund CA.

Safety Audits

Auditorías de seguridad

Las auditorías de seguridad periódicas en el sitio de trabajo previenen lesiones y accidentes. Las auditorías son importantes para la gestión eficaz de la seguridad como proceso continuo de planificación, análisis y corrección de seguridad en el sitio de trabajo, cuando es necesario.

Periodic workplace safety audits prevent injuries and accidents. Audits are important to effective safety management as a continuous process of workplace safety planning, analysis, and correction when needed.

Most injuries in the workplace occur due to unsafe behaviors rather than unsafe conditions. Audits focus on safety programs and behaviors while safety inspections focus on the facility, equipment, and tools. Audits help analyze employee behavior and their understanding and compliance with safety procedures and programs.

Safety audits may be scheduled or unannounced. The safety audit team can include management, supervisors/leads, project teams, and even employee committees. Conduct audits wherever employees work, such as group/team work areas, individual workspaces, in the office, facility, or field locations.

Audits include observations of employee working habits doing a variety of job tasks. Auditors walk through the workplace focusing on given job tasks and observe employee behaviors. Are employees following procedures such as conducting grounding and lockout/tagout? Are they wearing required personal protective equipment? Are they lifting properly and following good ergonomics? Include immediate feedback to employees during your audit: praise safe work behaviors and provide guidance and correction for unsafe acts.

La mayoría de las lesiones en el sitio de trabajo ocurre debido a comportamientos peligrosos y no por condiciones inseguras. Las auditorías se enfocan en programas de seguridad y comportamientos, mientras que las inspecciones de seguridad se enfocan en la instalación, en el equipo y en las herramientas. Las auditorías ayudan a analizar el comportamiento del empleado y su entendimiento y cumplimiento de los procedimientos y problemas de seguridad.

Las auditorías de seguridad pueden ser programadas o no anunciadas. El equipo de auditoría de seguridad puede incluir a la gerencia, a los supervisores/jefes de grupo, equipos de proyecto e incluso comités de empleados. Realice auditorías en los sitios donde los empleados trabajan, tales como las áreas de trabajo de grupos/equipos, espacios de trabajo individuales, en la oficina, instalación o en las instalaciones de campo.

Las auditorías incluyen observaciones de los hábitos de trabajo de los empleados realizando una diversidad de tareas de trabajo. Los auditores inspeccionan el sitio de trabajo enfocándose en tareas de trabajo específicas y observando los comportamientos de los empleados. ¿Están los empleados siguiendo los procedimientos tales como la conexión a tierra de los conductores y los procedimientos de bloqueo y etiquetado? ¿Están ellos usando el equipo de protección personal necesario? ¿Están ellos levantando objetos correctamente y siguiendo buenas prácticas ergonómicas? Incluya comentarios inmediatos para los empleados durante su auditoría: elogie los comportamientos seguros de trabajo y ofrezca asesoramiento y corrección para aquellas acciones inseguras.

Audits review safety programs, policies, and procedures to check that they cover employee job tasks and hazards. If the policies are not adequate or too complex, new procedures should be written. Audit the employee training program, ensuring that it prepares employees for their job tasks by providing compliance training and specific training for higher hazard or complex job tasks.

Include a way to document observations and recommended corrective items in a safety audit. Assign follow up corrective actions and present findings to a responsible individual or management team. Communicate the results of your audit with employees. This includes the positive observed behaviors, observations that required improvement, and information on what corrective actions were taken.

Las auditorías revisan los programas, las normativas y los procedimientos de seguridad, para verificar que estos cubran las tareas y riesgos de trabajo de los empleados. Si las normativas no son adecuadas o son demasiado complejas, deberán redactarse nuevos procedimientos. Audite el programa de capacitación de empleados, para asegurarse de que éste prepare a los empleados para sus tareas en el trabajo proporcionándoles capacitación en el cumplimiento y entrenamiento específico para las tareas en el trabajo de mayor riesgo o mayor complejidad.

Incluya una manera de documentar las observaciones y los comentarios correctivos recomendados en una auditoría de seguridad. Asigne medidas correctivas de seguimiento y presente los descubrimientos a la persona o equipo administrativo responsables. Comunique los resultados de su auditoría a los empleados. Esto incluye los comportamientos positivos observados, las observaciones que requirieron mejoramiento, y la información sobre qué medidas correctivas fueron tomadas.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for

compliance

They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions

or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with

CalENdar of EvENts

October 1 – 3

October

October 5

October 7 – 11

October 9 – 10

October 9 – 11

October

CalENdar of EvENts

to our reader priority.

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry!

• Al Coffman

• Jean Hart • Curt Holler • Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor • Elliot Wilson

Are you a skilled Truss Designer or Wall Panel designer seeking a better work-life balance? Look no further! Our client is offering a unique opportunity for talented designers like you to thrive in an environment that respects your personal and professional needs.

In this position, you'll have the flexibility to choose from various working arrangements to accommodate your lifestyle. Some of our employers offer a 32-hour workweek with full benefits, allowing you to strike a perfect balance between your career and personal life. You can work in the office, remotely, or in a hybrid setup, depending on your location and skill level.

Truss Designer J15348

South

Remote Wall Panel Designer J15344

Southeast

Senior Truss Designer - J15342

Mountains

Truss Designer - On-site - MiTek Florida J15346

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15303

Florida or remote

Outside Sales - Truss/Lumber J15345

Southeast

Remote Truss Designer J15313

New England

Truss Designer J15339

New England

Assistant Truss Plant Manager J15311

Central Florida

Truss Designer - MiTek - Remote or OS J15312

Florida, AL, or GA for Remote

Project Coordinator J15272

Remote Wall Panel Designer - J15304

Remote - Eastern US

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15228

Florida

Truss Designer J14165 Carolinas

Implementation and Support Specialist J15306

100% Remote - Northeast

Truss Designer - MiTek - Remote or OS J15312

Florida, AL, or GA for Remote

Senior Truss Designer - J15342

Mountains

Software Territory Sales Representative –Component Manufacturers J15336 Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Northern Arkansas Territory

Truss Designer J15339 New England

Mass Timber Sales/Business Development-J15338

Central Ontario

Mass Timber Engineer-J15337

Central Ontario

Truss Designer-J15334

Southern Alberta

Senior Truss Designer-J15335

Southern Alberta

Truss Design/Estimating Manager J15332

Texas

Mass Timber Business DevelopmentJ-15330

Eastern North America

Mass Timber Business DevelopmentJ-15331

Western North America

Assistant Truss Plant Manager J15311

Central Florida

Senior Truss Designer - J15294

Western Ontario

Truss Designer-J15293

Western Ontario

Design Manager - J15295

Western Ontario

Outside Sales - Wall Panels, EWP & Trusses - J15321

Eastern Ontario

Senior Truss Designer-J15300

Eastern Ontario

Truss Design Supervisor-J15325

Central Ontario

CFS Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer J5323

Midwest

EWP Designer-J15283

Eastern Ontario

Senior Truss & EWP Designer - J15320 AB, BC, ON

EWP Designer - J15314 BC

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Production Builder Market J14107

Remote Indiana

Truss Designer-J15299

Eastern Ontario

ID: C10122

Designer/Design Manager - Truss

Relocation: Iowa

Senior Designer. - Advanced. Candidate has 24 years Truss Ddesigner experience and 5 years Truss Design Manager experience. Products include floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, and hardware. Markets include single family, custom, high end, multi-family, light commercial, and agriculture. Primary duties include design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties include checking others work, repairs, customer service, inside sales, software maintenance, training, and filling in for the Design Manager as needed. Software experience includes MiTek and Keymark. Training received includes WTCA Level 2. Education: High School Graduate and Batchelors degree.

Motivating factors: advancement, compensation, benefits, work location, job security, and relocation.

ID: C18604

Truss Designer - Remote (MiTek)

Relocation: Alberta

I currently design & layout roof trusses, floor trusses, I-Joists and EWP from PDF plans and specifications for pricing. Also does engineering using MiTek, then uploads to Management or MBA in the past. Once sold, and field measurements are provided, I update the project and clean up the layouts, trusses and release them to the shop. I also answer questions from sales and the shop as needed as well as training newer designers. Most of my projects are single family, but I have also done several apartments, hotels, assisted living centers, and other commercial projects. I want to grow, learn, and become a better designer to be a valued team member.

ID: C18698

Wall Panel Designer / Modular Designer

Relocation: Georgia

Highly-skilled and detail-oriented with over 20 years of experience in creating precise and comprehensive technical drawings and plans for architectural and engineering projects. With a keen eye for detail and a strong command of drafting software such as AutoCAD and Revit, I excel in translating design concepts and specifications into accurate and detailed drawings that meet industry standards and project requirements. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality drafting solutions, optimizing project workflows, and supporting the realization of innovative and sustainable design solutions. Eight years modular (residential and commercial) plus 4 years of wall panel design experience. Single and multi-story modular and residential wall panel focus.

ID: C10968

Senior Wood Truss Designer - Part Time

Relocation: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, REMOTE

Candidate desires to use his career long industry experience to be the best Part Time

Remote Designer you have. Prior truss plant owner for 10 years, strong production and operations management background, and JobLine Senior Designer rating in truss design using MiTek software. Also has FASTBeam experience. Products: floor & roof trusses. Markets: Single family custom, multi family, tract and light commercial. Was successful in creating strong teams in production, design and customer service, but the local economy and overwhelming competition was more than he could overcome from a small plant perspective. Degree: BSEE

Compensation: Based on employee or 1099 status.

Thom's Notes: I have worked with this candidate as an employer for years. Very detail oriented. Fair, honest, and customer service oriented. Very design/liability conscious. Scored 98

ID: C10186

Remote CFS, LGS Designer - Multifamily/ Commercial Relocation: Texas

One of my best CFS designers, the candidate has 20+ years experience in commercial, multifamily, and pagoda style structures. Want to know more, give me a call or make an inquiry.

ID: C10853

Remote Design Manager | Remote Offshore Design Project Manager Relocation: Texas, Georgia, USA - South

Top level Engineering/Design Management candidate, 14+- years experience Truss, 4+- Panel experience. Has experience building and integrating offshore design resources with internal design departments and training design managers to better utilize offshore capabilities. Large volume manufacturer experience. MiTek Sapphire design/layout proficient. Too confidential to go into more detail.

Compensation: $120k+

ID: C18549

Remote Wall Panel Designer Relocation: USA - ALL States Wall panel designer with 10 years' experience including production builders, single family custom and small to medium multifamily projects. MiTek Sapphire software experience.

ID: C18426

Remote Truss Designer

Relocation: Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Maryland, Florida, Georgia, Nebraska, REMOTE, Costa Rica, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Washington DC, Rhode Island, Saskatchewan, Oregon, Ontario, North Dakota, New York, New Mexico, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Nevada, Montana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Kentucky,

Delaware, Conneticut, California, Arizona, Alaska

Offshore Truss Designer with MiTek experience. The candidate is a civil engineer with 6 years' truss design experience for companies in Texas and Florida. Prior work for BFS and smaller manufacturers. Bilingual Spanish/English with a company set up to make paying easy. Scored 89 on our truss design skills evaluation, which is near the senior designer level. He is also SBCA I & II certified. He is willing to go to work immediately.

Compensation: $65-75k as a subcontractor, no benefits or taxes.

We haven't represented offshore candidates in the past but feel this candidate is worth a shot. Please contact Thom for additional details.

ID: C11370

General | Plant Manager/OperationsTruss/Panel/Framing Package Relocation: Texas, Arizona

20 years' experience. Started in production, advanced to Saw Supervisor, Production Manager, Plant Manager, now General Manager. As General Manager operated a $125M truss plant. Tripled output and reduced errors and labor cost. Developed and implemented standards and procedures to manage quality and costs. As Plant Manager (4 years), manage all the operation of the manufacturing plant, such as Productivity, logistics, efficiencies, costs. As Production Manager (12 years), manage all the areas of the manufacturing across the plant. Safety, quality control, efficiencies, HR, etc... Software: MiTek, Word, Excel, OptiFrame. Products: R & F Truss, Panel, Framing package. Markets: Single Family, Multifamily, Custom Homes. Bilingual English/Spanish spoken and written. Degree in Industrial Engineering.

Compensation: $90's+ bonus ($100k min) ID: C10897

Design Manager/Senior Designer/PE/ Optimizer - Truss/Panel/EWP Relocation: REMOTE

30 year industry veteran, started as a Truss Designer, earned his way to Design Manager over 20+ designers. MiTek - Advanced, AutoCAD proficient. BSCE - PE.

Compensation: Open??

Thom's Notes: PE with Mid Atlantic seals ID: C18565

Designer: Truss/Panel, Wood/Steel, BIM

Relocation: North Carolina Material take-offs, proposals, job-site meetings, Submittal Tracking, Excellent Problem-solving Skills, Material Ordering, Field Measuring, 3-D Modeling Program (3-D and 4-D BIM in-house), Generated material take-offs from the BIM model, Coordinated RFI's thru the BIM model,

Clash detection between wood trusses, structural steel and LVL's. 3-D Scan's of job-sites. Scheduled / Distributed work to 6 designers Cross-trained all designers in roof floor and wall panels for whole-house design.

ID: C18370

Plant | Location | General ManagerTruss/Panel

Relocation: California, Nevada Highly experienced (20+ years) roof and floor truss, and wall panel manufacturing manager. Started in the plant as builder, then sawyer, supervisor, truck driver, maintenance manager, designer, outside sales, plant manager, operations manager, and general manager. OSHA trained, developed and implemented safety programs. Successful turn around experience, hands on ability to work with departments to combine individual strengths into one team effort, lower costs, and meet quality and volume expectations. Past experience negotiating better vendor programs to lower costs and improve inventory turns.

ID: C10507

Senior Management - Truss/Panel/ Lumber/Installed Services

Relocation: USA - Western

I am a Diverse driven individual seeking a position in the fast paced construction component industry where my professionalism in sales, business and leadership skills along with a strong proven background in, General Management, Operations, Sales Management, strategic alliances, business development, team building, P&L experience and Customer Satisfaction will play an integral part in growing new business, nurturing existing business or developing company operations to meet the highest level of efficiencies, standards and safety while having fun

A dverti $ er

doing it!

ID: C11834

General/Regional Manager - Truss/Panel Relocation: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Ontario, Vermont

As District Manager: Responsible for the financial performance of three wood truss and wall panel plants, two Millwork and door assembly facilities and one installed labor location in multiple states. Group revenues increased from $50 million/year in to $70 million per year. Devised a “buy versus make” purchasing protocol in to ensure that internal truss and Millwork plants were operating at capacity before using outside vendors that supplied similar products. Spearheaded a “hub and spoke” organizational structure for three truss plants. This plan optimized scarce design talent, reduced clerical expenses, and synchronized output at each plant. Restructured the installed labor division to include material estimators, lumber salespeople and cost accounting methods in 2005. The changes resulted in a 400k gain in profits. Drafted corporate training material for fall protection and new hire safety orientation.

As General Manager: Won “Gold Store” award for exceeding company goals in profits, sales growth, and ROA. Served on a corporate manufacturing audit and operating performance team that made recommendations to under performing truss plants. Two of the facilities audited became “Gold Stores” the following year. When the sales of three district stores were allocated to the truss plant, the lost business ($1.5 million/year) was made up and organic sales grew by over 10%. Sales volume grew from $11 million per year to over $15 million per year.

ID: C18387

Division Manager, VP Operations, President - Truss | Panel | Building Materials | Pro Dealer

Relocation: Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Texas, USA - South, Virginia, Washington DC, Wisconsin

Executive level manager, VP, President with $1+B P&L responsibility. Lumber, building materials, trusses, wall panels, and CFS background. Inquire to discuss this candidate.

ID: C18449

Estimator | Designer - Truss, Panel | Prior carpenter

Relocation: Ohio, Pennsylvania

Prepare and distribute estimates to competing bidders. Calculate labor, time, and material estimated per individual job. Read, analyze, and interpret residential and commercial blueprints. Ensure projects meet the proper building codes and standards for the industry. Communicate with prospective bidders both over the phone and in person. Design and engineer roof trusses, floor trusses, pre-fabricated wall panels, and

EWP. Gained first-hand experience setting trusses in the field during prior construction job. Design roof systems to be most efficient and inexpensive when being constructed in the field. Design complete models in MiTek Sapphire. Design and engineer roof trusses and transfer loads throughout the structure as need. Also design and engineer beams and hangers when necessary.

ID: C12414

Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer | All Hats Relocation: Arizona

Engineered panel and truss design, developed material take off for turnkey build up, worked in coordination with multiple plants and design teams, worked closely with material suppliers on take offs and estimating.

I've worked for decades in the construction industry. Not only in new construction, but additions and remodels as well using innovative designs for added value and to drive down cost. In addition to experience with MiTek, Wallbuilder and other design software packages, I have extensive manual trig/math skills. I use these to back check questionable loads as well to design from scratch in the field when needed. I have also written tutorials for the training of others and checked other designer's work as a Design Manager at a Panel Plant. All things being equal, I love working in components whether designing, cutting, building or setting components at the site.

ID: C18430

Truss Designer | Remote Truss Designer Relocation: USA - South, USASouthwest, USA - ALL States

Extensive experience in truss estimating and design. Proficient in designing roof and floor trusses for a variety of projects including: custom homes, track homes, multi-family, mega-multifamily, and light commercial projects. I always get everyone involved with the project like architect, engineers, homeowners, and sales personnel Many times I go to the job site for the convenience of the framer and see what kind of condition or changes they might have; this way we will be working on the same page. Also included in my experience is purchasing material, negotiating contracts, setting up deliveries, steel and cmu detailing for steel columns and beams, with almost 25 years of experience in the construction business. MiTek Sapphire.

ID: C18412

Plant | Production | Operations Manager - Truss/Panel

Relocation: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida

Oversaw all aspects of the manufacturing and shipping of wood truss component systems for the building industry: roofs, floors and wall panels; 2 shift operation; 8 million in sales.

Managed the master schedule based on

sales orders, plant volume, and lead time through the Mitek Management Business Application System.

Followed all orders through the process to insure OTD (on time delivery).

Handled all phone communications from the customer as it related to changes in the delivery schedule.

Batched jobs through the engineering software to the component saws and truss building tables

Quality Assurance – WTCA/TPI

ID: C18367

Wall Panel Designer | Remote Wall Panel Designer | Mega-Multifamily

Relocation: Utah

Remote wall panel design for medium to large scale MF. Remote estimating using MiTek Sapphire to get a more accurate material count. 100,000 - 500,000 sq ft MF projects primarily in the New England Market with the panel plant being in New Brunswick. Also worked on projects in the Arizona, Texas, and California markets.

Compensation: $70's+ (45+- hours)

ID: C18365

Intermediate Canadian Remote Truss Designer - Sapphire Relocation: Ontario

Remote Truss Designer available.. Currently provides technical support and designs to lumber distributors for roof systems for residential and commercial applications. Provides technical assistance and support to the distribution staff to meet client demands for engineered wood structural applications. Ensures that wood truss fabricators, lumber distributors and specifiers have adhered to established building standards, codes and practices. Maintains extensive knowledge of structural analysis programs such as MiTek SAPPHIRE Structure design software. Analyze/prepare engineered wood designs and details for Design Engineer review and approval. Generate manufacturing information and quotations for sales team and management. Prepares the job for production. Canadian codes and standards experienced.

ID: C15958

Operations/Plant Manager - Millwork | Doors | Ply | Flooring Relocation: Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Wyoming

30 years' experience starting in production and advancing to multi-plant operations manager. Door experience includes managing three Production Managers and five Production Supervisors, consisting of 300 hourly employees producing 11,000 doors and 10,000 face frames per day. Responsible for the manufacturing functions of all mill operations, five frame component machining cells, three frame assembly

operations, four door component machining cells, three door assembly clamps, three door profiling lines, two wide belt sanding lines and specialty machining and assembly cells.

Flooring experience: Responsible for all plant functions including budgeting and P&L. Managed six Department Managers: two Production Departments, Quality Assurance, Materials, Human Resources including SHE, and Plant Engineer/Maintenance Manager including the CI program. Their staffs consist of eleven Supervisors and 330 hourly employees. The door plant operation dries lumber, cuts dimension stock, assembles and sands the doors. The panel plant produces the veneered flat and raised center panels, by cutting engineered wood and veneer from flitch and pressing the veneer to the substrate. Both plants are equipped with finishing lines.

ID: C15995

Truss Designer - MiTek

Relocation: Florida

Truss Designer. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, and cutting/production documents. Secondary duties: checking others work. Software used: MiTek and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses and roof trusses. Market experience includes single family, multifamily, light commercial, and agriculture. My volume was varied depending on projects. 2 years experience, MiTek software.

ID: C18277

Professional Engineer | Engineering Manager - Engineered Wood Products, Components Structural Hardware | Codes & Compliance

Relocation: Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, USA - Eastern, Virginia, Washington DC

Experienced and successful professional engineering manager with over 25 years experience in improving productivity and resolving structural problems for engineered wood product and truss manufacturers and developing innovative design software programs. Also skilled in building outstanding teams and relationships among sales, manufacturing, and engineering stakeholders. Highly educated with exceptional employment history & experience.

ID: C18250

Remote Senior Light Gage Steel Truss/ Panel Designer.

Relocation: Texas

Top level Light Gage Steel Senior Remote Designer with Truss and Panel and well as metal frame commercial project experience. Alpine, Truswal and Keymark experience.

ID: C17230

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Sapphire

Relocation: Newfoundland

My objective is to be part of a team/company and prove I am reliable, show my ability and

A dverti $ er

my willingness to learn! In addition to being a newer wall panel designer, I have learned software such as Mitek Sapphire, Revit 2017, Bluebeam Revu 2016. I have recently done jobs such as designing garages and adding on additions to homes. Jobs I have worked in wall paneling include a massive wall panel job for the US (500,000+ SFT) and designed units for a senior complex. In addition to wall panels...I also add in blocking, windows, doors, etc. I also do bundling and paperwork as well.

ID: C16152

Mega-Multifamily General Manager

Relocation: Florida

Mega-Multifamily General Manager. Apply to discuss this candidate. Highly confidential.

ID: C11781

Truss Design Manager

Relocation: New York

Worked on the most complicated custom projects, commercial buildings, and apartment complexes. Quickly became a team leader and was considered company wide as an expert in truss framing and computer applications. Provided training for a group of 30 experienced component designers in topics including load tracking, truss and layout optimization, and hardware specification. Optimization training helped to reduced material costs by 5%. Developed departmental procedures to increase consistency and accuracy of all designs and estimates. Reduced errors on repetitive projects by 25% by creating the master project file database, which organized and provided fast and easy access to project information. Streamlined estimating process for commercial construction projects. Analyzed the final cost of completed projects and applied results to new estimates. Reduced estimating time by 75% Managed up to 10 designers/sales reps. Software: MiTek, AutoCAD.

ID: C15999

Outside Sales - Truss | Wall Panel | EWP | Installed Sales

Relocation: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

16 years' experience in outside sales of trusses, wall panels, engineered wood components, stairs and other building materials. Projects range from tract to high volume multifamily apartments. Has developed new territory, improved sales in lagging markets, and met or exceeded sales goals in most years. Has turn key installed sales experience, and has limited design skills from the past. Please inquire for additional information. Easy relocate.

ID: C15857

Senior Truss Designer | Remote Truss Designer | Design Manager Relocation: California

Truss Designer. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties: checking others work, scheduling, repairs,

customer service, inside sales, and field measurements. Software used: MiTek and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, EWP, and hardware. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multifamily, and light commercial. My volume was varied depending on projects. Has used MiTek, Alpine, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office programs.

The candidate has been out of the industry, working in parallel jobs, and wants to return to a design position. Scored Senior Designer using an HP calculator, 8 years after his last truss design job. Speed was faster than average too. It may take a little time for him to get up to speed on the latest software. Ranked 5 out of 5 in our system.

ID: C10810

Designer/Inside Sales - Truss Relocation: Virginia

6 years design experience, 1 inside sales. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties: scheduling, repairs, customer service, inside sales, and field measurements. Software used: MiTek, AutoCAD, and CAD - Other. Component experience includes floor trusses and roof trusses. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multifamily, light commercial, and agriculture. My volume was varied depending on projects. Past carpenter and framer. Has an engineering related associates degree/ drafting

Compensation: $45k+

ID: C15679

LGS Truss & Panel PE

Relocation: USA - Eastern, USA - South

As Engineering Manager I was responsible for oversight of all technical and engineering engagements. Design of light gauge metal trusses, wall panels, shear walls, for hotels, retirement homes and other commercial and residential structures. Making jobs viable by replacing red-iron with light gauge metal was key to solidifying more projects. I was actively engaged in computer software development of truss design and coordinating overseas programming efforts into truss layout.

As Senior Technical Services Engineer, I held the nation-wide responsibility for all light gauge cold-formed steel truss engineering including field applied repair design. I provided technical advice and counsel to our staff and functioned as a subject matter expert (SME) for all three product divisions. As a result, I augmented my professional registrations to include 38 States, 1 District, and 1 Canadian Province.

ID: C14490

General Manager | Operations Manager | Turn Around

Relocation: Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North

Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, Arkansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas

Full P&L turnaround of a family owned light gage steel panel manufacturing company. Turned it form a mom and pop, into a large, functioning manufacturing company that had systems, KPI programs, personnel development, and a growing customer base. Ready to help take your company to the next level.

ID: C11976

Design/Estimating/Sales - Truss/LGS Relocation: New York

Experienced wood & cold formed steel truss designer with 12 years experience using MiTek Industries and Aegis Metal Framing products and software. Seasoned sales professional with 8 years experience selling; wood roof & floor trusses and accessories, metal roof trusses and accessories, and the sale of component design and engineering services. A highly motivated designer and sales person with a proven track record for achieving excellence, building long term business relationships, and providing impeccable service to contractors, engineers, architects, and developers throughout New York and New England. Specialize in design build and defense contracting from early pre-bid/qualification stages through installation.

ID: C11895

Designer - Truss/I-Joists, EWP

Relocation: California, USA - ALL States, Texas, Alaska

Designer. Primary duties: design and cutting/production documents. Secondary duties: checking others work and field measurements. Software used: Alpine and MiTek. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, EWP, and hardware. Market experience includes single family, single family custom, multifamily, and light commercial. BS Civil Engineering. Software: Alpine, MiTek, AutoCAD, Word, Excel.

ID: C10324

Plant Manager/Designer/Design Manager/?? - Truss/Panel/Installed Relocation: Georgia

As Location Manager, managed one estimator, four designers, a secretary/ data entry person, and a shop of 40 truss production employees. As Senior Designer, primary duties: design, layout, optimization, and takeoff. Secondary duties: checking others work, scheduling, repairs, customer service, and training. Software used: Alpine and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, wall panels, framed openings, I-Joists, EWP, hardware, lumber, and complete framing package. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multi-

family, and light commercial.

Thom's Notes: Very experienced, willing to wear many hats.

The Fed’s Easing Cycle Finally Begins

Posted September 19, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

After its first post-COVID rate hike enacted more than two years ago, the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announced a significant reduction for the short-term federal funds rate at its September meeting. Tight monetary policy was undertaken to fight the worst bout of inflation in four decades. Today’s policy action marks the beginning of a series of rate decreases necessary to normalize interest rates, and to rebalance monetary policy risks between inflation and concerns regarding the labor market.

The FOMC reduced its top target rate by 50 basis points from 5.5% (where it has been for more than a year) to a “still restrictive” 5%. This was a larger cut than NAHB’s forecast projected. In its statement explaining the change of policy, the FOMC noted: “Recent indicators suggest that economic activity has continued to expand at a solid pace. Job gains have slowed, and the unemployment rate has moved up but remains low. Inflation has made further progress toward the Committee’s 2 percent objective but remains somewhat elevated.”

With the above-noted progress for inflation, today’s action is the beginning of a series of federal funds rate cuts, which ultimately should decrease the top target rate to approximately 3% in the coming quarters, as the rate of inflation moves closer to the target rate of 2%.

The pace of these future expected cuts is somewhat open to debate. Fed Chair Jerome Powell noted in his press conference that if weakening conditions require it, the Fed can move quickly. The central bank can also move more slowly if inflation and macro conditions require a more gradual transition.

As stated, today’s policy move reflects that the Fed has shifted from a primary policy focus of reducing inflation to balancing the goals of both price stability and maximum employment (with perhaps a greater concern being the labor market). Inflation does not need to be reduced to the central bank’s target of a 2% growth rate for the Fed to cut further; rather, inflation just needs to be on the path to reaching that goal (likely in late 2025 or early 2026).

The Fed’s economic projections imply an additional 50 basis points of rate cuts for 2024, followed by 150 more in 2025 and 2026. This FOMC projection implies a terminal federal funds rate for this cycle of approximately 3%, consistent with NAHB’s forecast for the medium-term outlook.NAHB Chief Economist Dr. Robert Dietz delves into the impacts this action will have on both mortgage rates and builder and developer loans in this Eye on Housing post

Single-Family Output Up Across All Regions While Multifamily Production is Down

Posted September 3, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

A lack of resale homes and pent-up demand more than offset high mortgage rates and contributed to solid single-family permit growth across nearly all geographic regions in the second quarter. However, multifamily construction permit activity continued its slide downward across the board to start 2024. Meanwhile, single-family and multifamily construction both exhibited strong growth in second home markets over the past decade, according to the latest findings from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Home Building Geography Index (HBGI) for the second quarter of 2024.

“Despite the elevated interest rate environment, single-family construction continues to move along at a better pace than 2023 and has been led by a rebound in construction activity in high density areas,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “Multifamily construction continues to slow as builders deal with higher rates, a shortage of workers and supply chain concerns for some building materials.”

“The strength in single-family construction at the start of the year continued in higher density areas, matching other data indicating a gain for townhouse construction at the start of 2024,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “New data on second homes points to most housing construction taking place in areas with fewer second homes, as most second family homes are located in less urban areas such as non-metro counties.”

The HBGI is a quarterly measurement of building conditions across the country and uses county-level information about single- and multifamily permits to gauge housing construction growth in various urban and rural geographies.

The single-family permit growth rates for all of the HBGI geographic regions were positive in the second quarter, with five of the seven posting double-digit gains. Large metro core counties had the highest growth rate for the second straight quarter at 17.6%. Micro counties had the smallest growth rate, posting a 3.4% gain.

Large metro core counties are primarily suburban areas, and this high rate of single-family permit activity is an indication that telework is a still a factor and people are moving to more affordable areas.

For the remainder of this press release, which includes more on the breakdown with reference to “the nation’s seven metro and county areas,” see the complete post on NAHB’s website, “Single-Family Output Up Across All Regions While Multifamily Production.”

The full HBGI data with geographic market shares and growth rates can be found here

Builder Sentiment Rises as Rates Fall but Affordability Challenges Persist

Posted September 17, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

With mortgage rates declining by more than one-half of a percentage point from early August through mid-September, per Freddie Mac, builder sentiment edged higher this month even as builders continue to grapple with rising costs.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 41 in September, up two points from a reading of 39 in August, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This breaks a string of four consecutive monthly declines.

“Thanks to lower interest rates, builders now have a positive view for future new home sales for the first time since May 2024,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “However, the cost of construction remains elevated relative to household budgets, holding back some enthusiasm for current housing market conditions. Moreover, builders will face competition from rising existing home inventory in many markets as the mortgage rate lock-in effect softens with lower mortgage rates.”

“With inflation moderating, the Federal Reserve is expected to begin a cycle of monetary policy easing this week, which will produce downward pressure on mortgage interest rates and also lower the interest rates on land development and home construction business loans,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “Lowering the cost of construction is critical to confront persistent challenges for housing affordability.”

The latest HMI survey also revealed that the share of builders cutting prices dropped in September for the first time since April, down one point to 32%. Moreover, the average price reduction was 5%, the first time it has been below 6% since July 2022. Meanwhile, the use of sales incentives fell to 61% in September, down from 64% in August.

Derived from a monthly survey that NAHB has been conducting for more than 35 years, the NAHB/Wells Fargo HMI gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sales expectations for the next six months as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as “high to very high,” “average” or “low to very low.” Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates that more builders view conditions as good than poor.

All three HMI indices were up in September. The index charting current sales conditions rose one point to 45, the component measuring sales expectations in the next six months increased four points to 53 and the gauge charting traffic of prospective buyers posted a two-point gain to 27. Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast fell three points to 49, the Midwest edged one-point higher to 40, the South decreased one point to 41 and the West increased two points to 39. HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS (formerly housingeconomics.com).

NEWs

Single-Family Starts Up in August but Supply-Side Issues Linger

Posted September 18, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Single-family starts posted a solid gain in August on robust demand and moderating mortgage rates even as builders continue to grapple with challenges related to lot and labor shortages and elevated prices for many building materials.

Overall housing starts increased 9.6% in August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.36 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

The August reading of 1.36 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. Within this overall number, single-family starts increased 15.8% to a 992,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate. On a year-to-date basis, single-family starts are up 10.4%. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, decreased 4.2% to an annualized 364,000 pace.

“Single-family starts were up in August as demand remains strong despite several supply-side challenges,” said Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “The rise in single-family construction mirrors an uptick in NAHB’s latest builder survey. However, builders continue to face a challenging environment due to rising construction costs.”

“With the Federal Reserve expected to begin the first of a series of rate reductions today, the loosening monetary policy over the coming months will boost new home building by lowering the construction loan rates for builders,” said Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, NAHB’s assistant vice president for forecasting and analysis. “The rise in single-family permits is further good news for the industry, which was hit hard by tight monetary policy in the first half of this year.”

On a regional and year-to-date basis, combined single-family and multifamily starts are 2.1% lower in the Northeast, 1.9% lower in the Midwest, 4.6% lower in the South and 4.4% lower in the West.

Overall permits increased 4.9% to a 1.48 million unit annualized rate in August. Single-family permits increased 2.8% to a 967,000 unit rate. Multifamily permits increased 9.2% to an annualized 508,000 pace.

Looking at regional data on a year-to-date basis, permits are 0.7% higher in the Northeast, 2.1% higher in the Midwest, 1.1% lower in the South and 6.2% lower in the West.

Single-family units under construction fell to a count of 642,000—down 5.2% compared to a year ago. The number of multifamily units under construction has fallen to 867,000 units.

Simpson Strong-Tie Promotes Ron Gaines to Senior Vice President of North American Sales

Pleasanton, CA, September 27, 2024 – Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has elevated Ron Gaines to Senior Vice President of North American Sales. In his new position, Gaines will oversee sales across the company’s five main regional branches as well as its National Retail/ eBusiness, National Builder, Pro Supply, CRM and Training teams.

A nearly 40-year veteran of the construction industry, Gaines began his career as a truss designer and salesperson in LBM. He joined Simpson Strong-Tie in 1996, spending 17 years in the field as a Territory Manager and then serving as a Regional Sales Manager, Connector Sales Manager, Regional Sales Manager for Building Technology and, most recently, Director of Sales for the Southeast US.

“Ron has a broad range of skills and knowledge, and his vast experience will be invaluable in helping the leaders of our five North American branches drive sales at their respective locations,” said Phil Burton, Executive Vice President, North America for Simpson Strong-Tie. “He has proven to have the experience and commitment necessary to lead our efforts to grow sales and market presence alongside our branch and home office teams. In addition, his focus has always been on developing his people, a mission he plans to continue in his new position.”

“I’ve been fortunate to have had many mentors inside and outside the company who valued my input and inspired me to pay their support forward,” Gaines said. “As I embark on this next chapter, I’m excited about the opportunity to work closely with our company sales leaders while continuing to mentor others, just as I’ve been supported throughout my career.”

Gaines will be based at the Simpson Strong-Tie branch office in McKinney, Texas.

About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.

Simpson Strong-Tie is the world leader in structural solutions — products and technology that help people design and build safer, stronger homes, buildings, and communities. As a pioneer in the building industry, we have an unmatched passion for problem solving through skillful engineering and thoughtful innovation. Our structural systems research and rigorous testing enable us to design code-listed, value-engineered solutions for a multitude of applications in wood, steel, and concrete structures. Our dedication to pursuing ever-better construction products and technology and to surrounding our customers with exceptional service and support has been core to our mission since 1956. For more information, visit strongtie.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn

INdustry NEWs

Alpine Announces Software Integration with Building Engineering & Design Co.

October 1, 2024, Glenview, IL – Alpine, a leading provider of industry solutions for component manufacturers, and Building Engineering & Design Company (BEDC), have expanded their partnership to deliver software innovation for component manufacturers (CMs). This partnership builds on a relationship in which Alpine worked with the design and estimating services provider to connect CMs with a cost-effective solution to scale business quickly.

BEDC leverages Alpine software, as well as their own technology, to provide customers with additional skilled, efficient design capacity. Today, the collaboration is expanding – with a click.

CMs will have seamless access to BEDC’s design services within Alpine software for a more efficient workflow. “This new integration empowers our customers to leverage BEDC’s expertise in design and estimating services while maintaining the power, convenience, and efficiency of iCommand job management tools. It provides an option to scale design capacity with a seamless, user experience and project transparency throughout the process,” said Rick Tilelli, Alpine’s Director of Software.

The upcoming release of IntelliVIEW Suite v.24.02.00 will enhance the partnership by offering advanced integration with BEDC’s ROME job management software. This new integration will allow users to send jobs directly to BEDC through the iCommand application, while tracking job progress within IntelliSheets, simplifying the entire submission and monitoring workflow.

“We are excited that Alpine customers can now effortlessly send jobs to our team with a single click, track job status, and receive files back, all in a fully integrated way,” commented Ben Powles, CEO of BEDC. “BEDC’s technology (including substantial patented AI elements) is exclusive to Alpine customers, and this integration offers enhanced design capabilities that help users work more efficiently. It is the first of many technological improvements we plan to launch together.”

This integration offers Alpine customers several benefits, including:

• Seamless workflow between Alpine software and BEDC design services

• Increased efficiency in submitting and tracking design jobs

• Expanded design capacity and increased revenue without the need for additional in-house resources

To learn more about Alpine, this partnership, or how BEDC’s design services can help your business, please contact your local Alpine sales representative or email info@alpineitw.com.

About Alpine

Recognized for its engineering excellence, productivity-enhancing software and equipment solutions, and the industry’s best service, Alpine is a leading provider of building component software, metal connector products, and equipment to component manufacturers. Since 1966, the company has partnered closely with customers to enhance their business and productivity. Alpine is also a leader in delivering software solutions that increase homebuilder productivity and profitability. The company is a division of Illinois Tool Works Inc., a Fortune 200 global diversified manufacturer. For additional information, visit https://alpineitw.com.

About BEDC

Transforming building design, Building Engineering & Design Company (BEDC), which has offices in New Zealand, Australia, USA, Canada, and the Philippines, provides design services which drive efficiencies and value for the construction industry with leading-edge patented AI technology. BEDC delivers fast, accurate and complete design services for all market sectors for roof, floor (including I-Joist), wall panel/frame and whole house. For additional information, visit https://www.us.bedc.ai/

Innovative Offsite™ Partners with Penope to Bring Advanced Machinery Solutions to North America

STANWOOD, Washington. (September 21, 2024) – Penope Oy is pleased to announce an exclusive representation agreement with Innovative Offsite™ for North America. Penope is a premier manufacturer of high-quality machinery and machining lines as well as tooling for the offsite industry. Innovative Offsite is a part of the 4Ward Solutions Group of companies.

This new representation agreement provides Innovative Offsite with a depth of Penope brand’s element tables, multifunction bridges, notching saws and other special equipment used in wall, roof and floor production lines. Penope’s products offer efficient and individual wood element production lines or entire house construction plants as well as their design services. 4Ward CEO Ben Hershey said, “With Penope’s premier line of products our team can offer offsite manufacturers innovative and technologically advanced equipment to increase production capabilities.” Eastern Solutions Expert Mike Ruede, Jr. said, “I’m excited to partner with Penope because their innovative machinery and technology perfectly align with our vision to elevate the offsite construction industry.”

Penope CEO, Jukka Rokkila said, “With this agreement, we look forward to successful cooperation. We are sure that we have a lot to contribute to the building industry with our high-tech machines, line-solutions and our long experience in the building industry. Additionally, we believe that 4Ward is the right partner for us in this market area, and we greatly value their expertise in the field.”

About Innovative Offsite and 4Ward Solutions Group

4Ward Solutions Group is the industry expert in Offsite Manufacturing, Lean Management, Robotics & Automation, Startups & New Products, Component Design, Moducore®, and Software Development. Innovative Offsite is focused on sourcing highly automated equipment and other innovative raw materials for the offsite manufacturing industry. For more information on 4Ward, visit their website at https://4wardconsult.com

About Penope

Penope Oy is the supplier of high-quality machinery and machining lines as well as tooling, filtering systems and industrial supplies in Finland. The most versatile product range on the market for the various needs of the woodworking sector with deliveries ranging up to complete production lines and plants, assembly, maintenance, overhaul and spare part services. For more information on Penope, visit their website at https://penopetechnology. com.

Visit us at the BCMC show in Milwaukee, WI October 8–10. Penope will be in booth #703 and 4Ward in booth #309.

US LBM Acquires Dallas-Fort Worth’s Nix Door and Hardware

National building materials distributor enhances specialty product and service offering in Texas

September 6, 2024 -- US LBM, a leading distributor of specialty building materials in the United States, has acquired Nix Door and Hardware, a provider of custom building products and services to builders, remodelers and homeowners in the DallasFort Worth area.

Nix Door and Hardware provides distribution, sales and installation services for windows, doors and fireplaces to residential and commercial customers. Additionally, Nix supplies and installs exterior home faux stone veneer products and also offers security and automation systems to homeowners.

Nix will operate as part of US LBM’s Texas Building Supply, which provides building materials and services to production, custom, multi-family and commercial contractors across Texas, with locations in the Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio markets. Nix enhances Texas Building Supply’s product and service portfolio, which includes lumber, engineered wood products, structural components, roofing and siding along with design and installation services for custom and production millwork, stairs and exterior doors.

US LBM Acquires Colorado Window and Door Distributer and Installer

National building materials distributor enhances specialty product offering in Central Colorado

September 4, 2024 -- US LBM, a leading distributor of specialty building materials in the United States, has acquired Gregory Door & Window located in Breckenridge, Colo.

Founded in 1998, Gregory Door & Window provides a wide range of windows, doors and hardware along with installation and customization services to residential and commercial builders and remodelers in Denver and Summit, Grand, Eagle, Park, Lake, Pitkin and Chaffee Counties in Colorado.

Through this acquisition, US LBM expands its specialty product and service offering in central Colorado, which includes the Denver metropolitan area and several growing communities and popular vacation destinations in the Rocky Mountains.

US LBM now operates seven locations in Colorado, with building materials yards in Breckenridge, Colorado Springs, Edwards, Henderson and Woodland Park and a structural component manufacturing plant in Colorado Springs.

US LBM is the largest privately owned, full-line distributor of specialty building materials in the United States. Offering a comprehensive portfolio of specialty products, including windows, doors, millwork, wallboard, roofing, siding, engineered components and cabinetry, US LBM combines the scale and operational advantages of a national platform with a local go-to-market strategy through its national network of locations across the country. For more information, please visit uslbm.com or follow US LBM on LinkedIn.

NEWs

84 Lumber Names West Fraser as its 2024 Vendor of the Year

EIGHTY FOUR, Pa. (Sept. 12, 2024) – 84 Lumber has proudly announced West Fraser, a Vancouver, British Columbia-based forest products company, as its 2024 Vendor of the Year. The annual award is determined by several factors, including sales growth and commitment to service.

“84 Lumber has been buying from West Fraser for as long as I’ve been here – which is 40 years,” said 84 Lumber’s Vice President of Purchasing, Mitch Wagner. “West Fraser’s diverse wood product offerings have been crucial in supporting our business needs. Their range of OSB products, panels and lumber offerings have consistently met our high-volume demands and have helped us supply our customers across the single, multifamily, and commercial construction industries.”

With a rich history dating back to 1955, West Fraser was founded when three brothers bought a small planing mill in Quesnel, British Columbia. More than six decades later, West Fraser has become a leading diversified wood products company with mills and locations across Canada and the United States. Their evolution and expansion have mirrored 84 Lumber’s growth, making them an integral partner in our success. Today, West Fraser is consistently one of the company’s top vendors and is essential in its forest products supply chain. The company is 84 Lumber’s largest supplier in 2024 of Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF), Southern Yellow Pine (SYP), and OSB.

“In the 1980s, they were a major lumber producer in Western Canada,” said Wagner. “They’re still in Western Canada today, but they’re also a very large lumber producer in the Southern United States, as well as being the largest OSB producer in North America. Throughout their growth and expansion over the years, West Fraser has always maintained their focus on servicing the customer.”

“West Fraser has been enjoying a productive partnership with 84 lumber for decades,” said Matt Tobin, senior vice president of sales and marketing at West Fraser. “We have watched 84 grow into one of the leading suppliers of building materials in the United States and have mutually benefitted from our partnership as we have both expanded. 84 has always been a fair, trustworthy, humble company that looks for mutually beneficial ways to service the end user. We are honored to receive the award as Vendor of the Year and look forward to continuing our partnership.”

84 Lumber is the leading supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company operates more than 320 facilities in 33 states and is continuing to grow. To learn more, visit www.84lumber.com or follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About West Fraser

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe, which promotes sustainable forest practices in its operations The Company produces lumber, engineered wood products, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, other residuals, and renewable energy. For more information about West Fraser, visit www.westfraser.com.

About 84 Lumber

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Co. is the nation’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company operates 320 facilities which include stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, and engineered wood product centers in 33 states. For more information, visit www.84lumber.com.

84 Lumber Expands Footprint in the Multifamily Market, Bolsters Component Plant Operations

EIGHTY FOUR, Pa. (Aug. 30, 2024) – 84 Lumber continues to solidify its position as a leader in the construction industry by expanding beyond its single-family roots into the multifamily sector. Recognized on Newsweek’s 2024 list of Most Trustworthy Companies in America, 84 Lumber’s commitment to quality and innovation remains steadfast as the company evolves to meet the needs of a dynamic market.

Expansion into the Multifamily Sector

Using expertise that has been honed since its inception as a single-family housing supplier, 84 Lumber successfully pivoted to expand its multifamily projects. “Our projects now encompass a wider range of structures, including apartment complexes with three-to-500 units, hotels spanning 100,000 square feet, and townhomes or condominium buildings for existing residential builders,” said 84 Lumber owner and CEO Maggie Hardy

This evolution is a testament to the company’s dedication to offering top-quality materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for a broad spectrum of residential and commercial projects. “84 Lumber’s expansion into the multifamily sector is a natural progression of our business model,” said Hardy. “We’ve applied the principles and operations that made us successful in the single-family market to multifamily projects, allowing us to grow our customer base and take on larger, more complex developments.”

This strategic shift has enabled 84 Lumber to undertake significant projects across the country. Notable achievements include the establishment of 15 multifamily hubs in key markets nationwide, as well as high-profile framing and installation projects in cities like Tallahassee and Gainesville, Florida, and Knoxville, Tennessee. These hubs serve as critical points of service and support, ensuring that 84 Lumber remains at the forefront of the multifamily construction industry

Growth of Component Plant Operations

84 Lumber supported its expanding operations with strategic investments in component plant capabilities. As the company continues expanding across the country, component plants are top of mind. Since 2014, the company has increased its number of component plants from four and is on track to have 21 by the end of this year. Recent openings include facilities in Atlanta, Georgia; Winter Haven, Florida; and a new door shop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. These plants play a crucial role in bolstering 84 Lumber’s network of stores, streamlining the company’s ability to provide materials quickly and efficiently to any of its growing projects.

These facilities are not just about increasing production capacity – they are about enhancing the overall value for customers. By expanding the company’s manufacturing footprint, it can ensure that stores are fully equipped to deliver the products and services customers require, exactly when they need them.

“Our investment in component plants is a key driver of 84 Lumber’s growth,” noted Hardy. “These plants have become a pivotal resource for the company, working hand in hand with our 84 Lumber stores to provide our customers with the products they need, when they need them. By empowering us to offer more value-added services, our new plants will fuel the growth of our company and continue to create opportunities for our associates.”

Carter Lumber Announces the Opening of a New FullService Lumberyard in Columbia, South Carolina

September 3, 2024—Carter Lumber is proud to announce the opening of a new full-service lumberyard in Columbia, South Carolina, marking another step in our steady expansion and continued investment in growing southern markets. Located at 1325 Veterans Rd., this new facility enables us to provide our comprehensive range of products and services to professional home builders in the greater Columbia metropolitan area.

The Columbia location will serve as an extension of our Charlotte and Triad North Carolina markets, operating under the same management team headed by Market Vice President, Brandon Kujawski. Brandon Kujawski on the new location, “Carter Lumber has serviced builders in Columbia for years from our Charlotte Market, but this new location will allow us to finally provide the complete package, from products to service, for those builders and many more. We strive to provide the best service in this industry, and we’re excited to prove that to home builders in Columbia.”

Gareth Rumley, a Columbia native and graduate of the University of South Carolina, has recently joined the company as the General Manager of the new lumberyard. Gareth and the management team are currently interviewing for operations and sales positions to build an industry-leading team for the market.

The Columbia Carter Lumber will be full-service, stocking a complete range of lumber and millwork products, as well as windows, interior and exterior doors, engineered wood products, cement siding, structural hardware, and much more.

To round out critical services for builders, we will offer full estimating and design solutions for roof and floor trusses, wall panels, engineered wood floor systems, and cabinetry. With included on-site management, the Columbia location will also offer turnkey installation services for framing, windows, cement siding, cabinets, doors, and interior trim.

About Carter Lumber

Founded in 1932 in Akron, Ohio, private and family-owned Carter Lumber is the United States’ fifth largest professionally focused lumber and building material supplier. The company services its primarily professional builder customers through its more than 170 locations across 13 states. Carter Lumber operates under four uniquely branded divisions: Carter Lumber, Holmes Lumber Company, Kight Home Center and Kempsville Building Materials. For more information about Carter Lumber, visit https://www.carterlumber.com/

Brink Submits Price to Acquire Four Canfor Sawmills

September 24, 2024—Brink Forest Products Ltd., a pioneering value-added company celebrating its 50th year of operations in Northern British Columbia, has submitted an Addendum to its September 9th, 2024 Letter of Intent to acquire four sawmills from Canfor Corporation. This major step builds on Brink’s longstanding commitment to the region and its industries, following a previously submitted Letter of Intent. The sawmills, located in Bear Lake, Fort St. John, Vanderhoof, and Houston, represent a critical opportunity for Brink to protect local manufacturing jobs and sustain regional economies.

Brink Forest Products, part of the Brink Group of Companies, was founded by John A. Brink in 1975 as a small value-added plant with just three employees. The company has grown into an industry leader, operating across Prince George, Vanderhoof, and Houston, while maintaining over 400 direct jobs. For decades, Brink has been a passionate advocate for keeping value-added manufacturing in the regions where timber is harvested—a principle known as “appertancy,” which drives this latest acquisition effort.

“This acquisition is essential for Brink and the communities we’ve served for 50 years,” said John A. Brink, CEO and Founder of Brink Forest Products. “Canfor has been a strategic partner for over 30 years, and their sawmills are vital to the survival of our operations. With their impending exit from Northern B.C., we had to make a bold move or risk losing thousands of jobs that depend on this supply chain.”

The proposed acquisition comes amid significant challenges in B.C.’s forest sector, including government policy issues, high fibre costs, reductions in the annual allowable cut, and the damaging economic impact of U.S. softwood lumber tariffs (anti-dumping duties). These factors have led to the closure of 50% of B.C.’s sawmills and 75% of its value-added plants over the past 15 years. For Brink, the closure of Canfor’s remaining mills would threaten its supply of primary lumber, forcing the company—currently operating at only 50% capacity—into a precarious position.

To support the acquisition, and with Canfor’s agreement, Brink engaged Industrial Forest Service Ltd. (IFS), led by their President Rob Schuetz, to perform a detailed analysis of the renewable timber tenures associated with each of the four mills. IFS, widely recognized as global leaders in the forest industry, determined the fair market value of these assets and projected future volumes. Their analysis focused on two primary objectives which include establishing the future volume of replaceable tenure apportioned to each mill, as well as determining the fair market value per cubic meter of tenure in the current marketplace. Together, these elements formed the basis for the transaction value which Brink presented to Canfor

Brink’s commitment extends beyond economic concerns; the company has a longstanding relationship with First Nations and local communities in Northern B.C. Over the past 50 years, Brink has worked closely with these groups to ensure their interests are represented. The company is also actively engaging with First Nations, the United Steel Workers Union, and community leaders to explore new job creation opportunities that could arise from this acquisition. “This is not just about saving Brink Forest Products— it’s about preserving the livelihoods of thousands of families in Northern B.C.,” added Brink. “We are committed to staying here, investing here, and ensuring that these communities continue to thrive. I’ve been here for 50 years, and I’m not going anywhere.”

The Addendum to the Letter of Intent was submitted along with this press release, with the aim of forming a new corporate entity upon Canfor’s acceptance. Through this acquisition, Brink hopes to restore over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs in the region.

4Ward Solutions Group

www.4wardconsult.com 623-512-6770

ben@4wardconsult.com

Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service, Inc. www.acceptlease.com 412-262-3225 cvillella@acceptlease.com

Inc. www.acerinc.com

507-864-2220 sales@acerinc.com

Akhurst Machinery www.akhurst.com 888-265-4826 sales@akhurst.com

Advertiser Directory

LimTek Solutions limteksolutions.com 416-888-4457 edmond.lim@limteksolutions.com

MiTek USA www.mitek-us.com 800-325-8075 customerservice@mii.com

Panels Plus www.panplus.com 866-726-7587 tkaasa@panplus.com

Paragon www.paragontruss.com 423-225-2331 salessupport@paragontruss.com

ROGworx Automation www.ROGworx.com 707-333-4507 sales@ROGworx.com

Simpson Strong-Tie www.strongtie.com 800-999-5099 web@strongtie.com

Spida Machinery USA www.spida.com 866-647-7771 sales@spida.com

The Hain Company www.thehaincompany.com 530-295-8068 sales@thehaincompany.com

Timber Products Inspection

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Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC. www.todd-drummond.com

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Triad | Merrick Machine

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800-568-7423 ext 133 LowellT@merrickmachine.com

Vekta USA www.vektausa.com

907-230-8276 info@vektausa.com

Wasserman & Associates

www.wasserman-associates.com

800-382-0329

sales@wasserman-associates.com

West Fraser www.strengthinlumber.com 916-276-7226 gregory.bates@westfraser.com

Wolf X Machina www.wolfxmachina.com info@wolfxmachina.com

Wood Tech Systems, Inc. www.woodtechsystems.com 765-751-9990 info@woodtechsystems.com

Senior/Lead Designer 24-0902-1

Posted on Monday, September 02, 2024

Employer:

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A Manufacturer of Structural Wood Components is seeking a Lead/Senior Designer

This in-house position must possess the ability to use computer design software to design, estimate and bid component systems; for rapid sales growth, shop production and placement plans to enable accurate jobsite installation. 5 skilled designers are on staff and the company seeks leadership.

Compensation and benefits shall be superior for the right candidate with the abilities outlined above, a strong work ethic and the commitment to accomplish the company objectives.

Interested??? Have questions???

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More Details here: 24-0902-1

Truss Designer J15339

Posted on Thursday, August 01, 2024

Employer: Client Confidential

We seek Truss Designers to join our client's team and support their New England office. In this role, you will design various truss products, focusing on floor and roof trusses for single-family custom projects. Experience with MiTek software is highly desirable, and panel experience, while not required, is a valuable asset.

Truss Designer J15312

Posted on Thursday, August 01, 2024

Employer: Client Confidential

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Central Florida, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, their location offers a picturesque setting with abundant lakes, perfect for boating, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts. (Iused to live there and know it is truer) If you appreciate the balance between work and the great outdoors, you've found the right place.

Our client, located in Florida, is

seeking two Truss Designers. Remote is acceptable if you live in Florida, Alabama, or Georgia as they are able to offer benefits if you live in one of these three states.

Truss & Wall Panel Designer 20-1130-1

Posted on Friday, April 12, 2024

Employer: Woodhaven Lumber

Located in central coastal NJ is a growing truss and wall panel manufacturer looking for an experienced truss & wall panel designer. The ideal candidate would be local to our central NJ market, but remote design is also a possibility. Previous experience with the Mitek suite of software is a plus.

We offer a competitive salary, paid holidays, paid time off, medical/dental/ life/disability insurance, 401k and profit sharing.

Software Territory Sales Representative – Component Manufacturers J15336

Posted on Monday, April 08, 2024

Employer: Client Confidential

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I design & layout roof trusses, floor trusses, I-Joists and EWP from PDF plans and specifications for pricing. Also engineering using MiTek, and uploads to Management or MBA. Once sold and field measurements are provided, I can update the project and clean up the layouts and trusses to be ready for the shop. Most of my projects are single family tract and custom, but I have also done several small apartments, hotels, assisted living centers, and other commercial projects. I have 2+ years experience and scored above 6 years on JobLine's Skills test. References are available. Email Tom contracttrussdesign@gmail.com

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TheLastWord

BCMC Hits & Misses

Some surprises are in store at the BCMC Show this year, especially the stunning news that the biggest robotics maker won’t be there and won’t be showing up anywhere. But, the demise of House of Design (HoD) wasn’t because of their equipment, which worked serviceably (for more on that topic, see my recent post on Truss Tales, “What Can We Learn from the Demise of House of Design?”). This anomaly should not deter BCMC attendees from examining the proven automation solutions on the Show floor. But in order to be successful, buyers must have an automation driver in their shop, like Brian Hunter, Keith Fell, or Gary Luttrell (see this month’s Wall Panel Technology, Part VII on page 10 and last month’s “Wall Panel Technology, Part VI: Panel Equipment Innovations” for those stories).

In fact, over the years we’ve seen numerous notable introductions of automated equipment at BCMC Shows. Even if specific innovations didn’t succeed, they often presaged the equipment that most plants employ today. All resulted from the hard work of intrepid entrepreneurs, at least one of which is still innovating today, and the following are a few examples.

Fiasco to Triumph: In 1982, Truswal brought the first vertical truss assembly machine to the third BCMC machinery show in Louisville, KY. Imported from Canada with great expectations, this was to be the first machine to crank out trusses at the show. Just before the show’s opening, Truswal techs laid the lumber and metal webs into the mechanical monster, hit the start button, and the plated truss was hurled out the end of the machine, ramming into the side of the booth next door. Luckily no one was hurt, and the machine was never cranked up at that Show or anywhere else to my knowledge. Yet, the next year, Truswal redeemed themselves when they rolled out the Roll Splicer, which became one of the most successful inventions of all time (see my Truss Tales post, “The Little Machine That Could”).

A Draw Between Linear Saws: In 2002, two innovative linear saws faced off at BCMC in Columbus, OH. On one side of the aisle was Jim Urmson’s TCT and on the other was Alpine’s ALS, two saws that would change the trajectory of cutting truss parts, but from opposite angles. Urmson was the lone inventor who developed his TCT on the floor of the truss plant he ran, Mountain Truss. Jim was self-taught, mainly through his hobby of building and racing motorcycles. Jim built his TCT to cut small truss parts that couldn’t be cut on a component saw. After tinkering for more than a year and when Jim satisfied himself that he had a productive machine, he offered it to surrounding truss plants within driving distance of his location. When these plants began raving about the TCT’s effectiveness, Jim followed their advice to exhibit at BCMC.

Alpine caught wind of their plate customers’ successes with their TCTs and quickly realized its potential. Rather than develop a “me too” machine, they conceived a saw that would expand upon the TCT’s capabilities, cutting every conceivable truss part. They went into a crash development program with their best machinery experts, while leaning heavily on their automation suppliers, and produced an early prototype at the last possible minute before the show

So, on the show floor Jim set up his well-proven saw opposite Alpine’s concept-of-a-saw. However, that’s when showmanship took center stage. For the very first time, and to great effect, Alpine actually cut wood during BCMC. Naturally, crowds were drawn to Alpine’s side of the aisle, marveling as Alpine’s Dave McAdoo cut near-perfect 36” scarf cuts, a feat no automated saw had ever achieved. As a result, Alpine booked immediate orders for their concept of a saw that had never run in a truss plant. Contrarily, Jim’s pioneering innovation attracted little attention, and he received no orders at BCMC.

For the next year, Alpine rushed to work out the bugs they discovered on the Show floor and, later, placed another prototype into a truss plant for testing. Ultimately, they settled on a marketable design. During this period Jim began ramping up his production and, mainly through word-ofmouth, was soon receiving all the TCT orders he could manage. Alpine, though late to the party, also scaled up their production, and before long, there were a hundred TCTs and ALSs operating in truss plants, and imitators were arriving too.

Late Bloomer: In 1988, Alpine brought the AutoSet table to BCMC in Nashville, TN, arguably the greatest truss jigging innovation yet conceived. While the AutoSet was highly praised by many Show attendees, including notables like Dick Rotto, CEO of Trussway, the consensus was that it was much too expensive. Jerry Koskovich followed suit ten years later with his JetSet, which was basically the same mechanism but utilizing two stacked screws in each channel. Then in 2004, Clyde Fredrickson moved two screws beneath the table, thereby protecting them, producing the Wizard to great success. But even such a winning mechanism, which is found in hundreds of plants today, took 15 years and many iterations before it was ready for primetime.

BCMC Lessons: After 40+ years of BCMC Shows, and many dozens of equipment displays, I believe that the best success comes from boldly showing new concepts. It’s all the better if they have met the test of time in a working component plant, but even the concepts that aren’t yet proven can make an impact. In any case, even if they are serviceable when demonstrated, the buyer needs to ensure that the seller has the means to refine and adapt the equipment over the long term.

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