December 2024 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine
A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing
Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry
The Industry-Leading Manufacturer of Panelized Wall Panel & Floor Cassette Equipment.
WOOD WALL FRAMING STATION WITH LOCATORS
The Framing Station with Locators is designed to hold the plates, subcomponents, and studs squarely in place for fastening to ensure quality panels every time. This model is ideal for companies that manufacture wood wall panels, such as off-site building manufacturers, manufactured home builders, and modular builders.
The Panels Plus panelized wall panel systems are more ergonomic than traditional construction methods and are developed at an ergonomic working height. This eliminates the need to continually kneel or hunch over to build wall panels.
A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing
Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: What We Learn Along the Way
Joe Kannapell: Wall Panel Technology, Part IX: More Panel Automation From American Suppliers
Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: Providing a Complete Customer Solution at Spida
Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: How Investment Bias Can Cost Your Company Millions
Glenn Traylor: What Should a Truss Builder Do About Wane in the Plated Area?
In Memoriam:
The Generosity and Genius of Sid Ketchum
Ed Lim – LimTek Solutions: Inspiration for Automation in 2025
Matthew Bobrowicz – Alpine: Paperspace for the IntelliVIEW Suite: An Integrated Plan Finishing Solution
Ed Serrano – Vekta: A Year of Growth and Innovation: Vekta Looks Back and Ahead
Marco Gagnon –
Element Equipment: What Equipment Does Your Future Hold?
Panels Plus Team:
Nailing Wall Panel Production with Panels Plus
Carl Villella – Acceptance Leasing: Maximize Your Tax Savings with Section 179
Bryan Shinn – Precision Equipment: A New Face and a New Product at Precision
Richard Pedde –Jax, The Wood Retriever: Following the Flow with JAX-UC
Thomas McAnally – The JobLine: How to Measure Your Design Team’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Geordie Secord – Design Connections: Finding Opportunities in the Mass Timber Movement
MiTek Staff: Hem-Fir (North) Allowable Design Value Changes
Emily Morris Frazier –Simpson Strong-Tie: Framing the Future: The Evolution of Moment Frames
Joe Kannapell – The Last Word: Rural Cousins in the Truss Business — Finding Their Niches
A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing
Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry S
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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.
Believe it at your own risk! Copyright 2008-2024
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.
BAdvertiser F Forum
What We Learn Along the Way
e it joy or tragedy, we learn a lot along the way. We learn to adapt, adjust, and plan where we can. Especially during unpredictable times, planning and adapting are key to managing the roller coaster, along with a good attitude and a desire to keep moving forward. We can’t change the destination, but we can moderate the journey.
Adapt As Best You Can
Unfortunately, those warnings about potential side effects that you hear during drug commercials are very real. For my sister battling ovarian cancer, one of the chemo drugs had the rare side effect of strokes. Yep, she had two last year, about six weeks apart, requiring two hospitalizations. The drug also caused internal bleeding, which has since required four more hospitalizations and remains an ongoing problem only mitigated by frequent blood transfusions. All of this has presented numerous hurdles that were never expected, but little adjustments and strategies along the way have helped make the situation more manageable.
For example, while spending days and nights with my sister at the hospital, one thing that really irked me was needing to drive home to bring in the mail! So, I soon learned – just have the post office hold it. I also switched all of my bills to online payments, so the delay in receiving paper mail is never a problem. These were simple adjustments that have removed burdens I don’t need.
Look for the Bright Spots
No one wants to spend countless hours receiving chemo or blood transfusions, but they’re better than the alternative! And, the times are best spent with a smile and a good attitude. In addition, we’ve gotten to know many nurses and support staff, sharing good conversations across the months with our new friends. This is not the path we would have chosen, but we’ve done our best to make the most of this journey. Wishing Everyone a Peaceful and Joyous New Year
Monet DeSauw FWA 500 Floor Web Cutter
• Push Button Powered Blade Angulations
• Single Push Button Setting for 2 Blades per Side
• 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
• 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.
Monet DeSauw DeRobo Linear Saw
Monet DeSauw DeSawyer 2000 Automated Saw
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 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 IX: More Panel Automation From American Suppliers
Handling studs and plates to build walls is easy, but handling oversized sheets of OSB and sheathed wall panels is not. Fortunately, two inventors in the Midwest have lightened the load.
Automated Sheathing Saw: Since he began his career at Monet DeSauw 30 years ago, David Ohnesorge has been tackling component plant automation. In 1995, he formed Production Conveyor Systems (PCS) and developed the Twin-Axis (X-Y) saw among other innovations. The introduction of this product was timely because many panel shops were transitioning from routing to piece-cutting sheathing around openings. As a result, sawyers had to deal with more complex and time-consuming cutting schedules, underscoring the need for automation. David recognized that sheathing cutting lists could be downloaded to a saw, as was being done increasingly with truss cutting lists. So, he adopted the basic mechanism of a table saw and added a crosscutting blade and a safety enclosure. At the same time, he virtually eliminated the risk of injury and provided for much-improved sawdust collection.
After selling PCS to MiTek, David and his current business partner, Jeff Radich, later developed the plate marking saw that powered BMC’s and now BFS’s Ready-Frame technology. Later still, they leveraged that expertise to design the Hornet plate-marking saw which they also sold to MiTek. In 2022, David and Jeff teamed up with software pro Jason Gregory to form ROGworx Automation, introducing the SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Saw in conjunction with Safety Speed Manufacturing. Like David’s X-Y saw, SpeedWorx downloads and optimizes cutting data, and now it supports Alpine and Eagle output in addition to MiTek’s. But unlike his X-Y saw, David adopted the vertical orientation of a conventional panel saw to expedite loading of OSB sheets, since he observed that sheathing must be carried vertically when taken from bunks of OSB to the saw. That also allows SpeedWorx to take advantage of gravity to better hold down panels, which increases the accuracy of cutting, while occupying a smaller footprint. Also unlike the X-Y saw, SpeedWorx moves the panel back and forth to enable faster cutting and better optimization.
Adding to the advantages of an automated panel saw like SpeedWorx is the reduction in the square footage of sheathing consumed compared with the sheathing wasted from routed openings. That savings is compounded when considering the larger windows in today’s homes and the high cost of insulated sheathing.
Automated Panel Stacking: Drew Fredrickson grew up in the component business, working for his dad Terry and his uncle Clyde at their plant, Truss-Pro’s Inc., which began operation in 1978. Having little capital, Clyde and Terry could only afford used machinery, and Clyde put his auto mechanics background to work fixing and rebuilding it. Thus began a long and fruitful period of improvising and inventing, which, in large part, enabled the success of the component plant.
Drew focused on improving wall panel operations and initially addressed the repetitive and labor-intensive task of nailing together the parts of subcomponents. Initially, he worked with used subcomponent assemblers from PCS and Triad but found they lacked the power and the speed that was required to apply highly dense nailing patterns, especially with wide dimension lumber and multi-ply members. Over a period of ten years, through eight versions and with the help of Clyde, Drew developed the highly successful and versatile Terminailer offered by Wood Tech Systems.
Throughout this period, Drew was concerned with the difficulty and the potential risk involved in stacking panels. Initially the plant employed a used PCS Smart Crane which included a large overhead structure and a separate stacking station that occupied a large footprint. As with the Terminailer, Drew began experimenting and arrived at the novel idea of stacking panels from the bottom up, or as Drew recounted recently, “like placing a playing card on the bottom of a deck of cards.” In 2018, Drew installed the first iteration in Truss Pro’s Rogers, MN plant, and in 2020, he installed a greatly improved version in their Britton, SD plant. The ProStack mechanism looks deceptively uncomplicated, but only because it was refined through the process of stacking thousands of linear feet of panels, including heavy 2x8 walls, and panels with overhanging sheathing. The actual operation involves arranging a full layer on the ProStack Infeed Conveyor, including layers composed of short panels or dunnage to facilitate forklift handling. Then the new layer is conveyed directly beneath the existing stack, and the yellow horizontal supporting plates are retracted, allowing the existing stack to rest directly on top of the new layer. And finally, the entire stack is raised, and the supporting plates are moved inward beneath the new layer.
The Result – faster and safer cutting and stacking made possible by the dedication of individual entrepreneurs, building upon their depth of experience with legacy technology. Even though Drew Fredrickson operated independently and 700 miles from David Ohnesorge, he greatly benefitted from working with David’s PCS inventions. And, of course, David had gained over twenty years of diverse machinery experience between his Twin-Axis saw and his SpeedWorx innovations. Both, though, had the persistence to continually adapt their inventions to the increasing complexities of the wall panel product. What innovations will come next? We’ll have to see what 2025 brings.
MORE VALUE FOR THE BUILDING INDUSTRY
As a dedicated partner to component manufacturers and the building industry at large, we were grateful for the chance to engage with customers, newcomers, and industry partners at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) | Framer Summit 2024
SCALE YOUR BUSINESS
For those unable to attend the show, we invite you to watch our recap video and explore downloadable content that showcases the best-in-class software, automated production equipment, scalable services, and more.
MII.COM/BCMC
Thank you to the partners who made this event possible!
EXTENDABLE TRUSS TRAILERS
Introducing the Simpson Strong-Tie ® EasyFrame automated marking system. A combination saw and printer, EasyFrame cuts detailed wall panel framing members that are pre-marked for fast, accurate assembly. Designed for efficiency, EasyFrame prints framing plans directly onto lumber, including locations of boards, connectors, wiring and more. It can be paired with a manual or automated saw, and features a blade enclosure for safety. Powerful software also lets you ensure precision and optimize material use. EasyFrame is supported by our installation and onboarding services, training and technical expertise. It’s a smart way to equip customers for wall panel jobs while setting your business apart. Add EasyFrame to your lumber sales area. To learn more, visit easyframesaw.com or call (800 ) 999-5099.
Our people focused approach means you’re integral to everything we do...
Design Philosophy based on Simplicity Expertise & Innovation
Reliable, High Quality Machinery
Market Leading Software & Automation
Global Manufacturing Capabilities
Local Responsive Service & Support Partner with us
Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery
Providing a Complete Customer Solution at Spida
Since Spida Machinery began over 40 years ago, we’ve consistently adapted to ensure our products meet market demands, grown our team and expertise, and focused on ways we can continuously improve. We’ve looked at ourselves and asked hard questions, identified areas that needed refinement, and most importantly really listened to the customer feedback we’ve received, both good and bad, and used this to help drive us forward to where we are today.
The last 12 to 18 months for us in America and Canada have been significant in regard to our growth and being able to work with our customers and provide them the complete beginning-to-end customer experience. Here are some of the changes we’ve put in place at Spida Machinery USA that have greatly benefited our customers.
Learning & Growing
The culture at Spida Machinery is all about continuous improvement, so for us to achieve this, we need to acknowledge what we may still need to learn. That allows us to identify and make changes in the future for the better.
As our team and level of expertise has grown, so too has our execution of efficient processes. We’ve learned from experience and we don’t make promises we can’t keep. With the knowledgeable people and the production schedules we now have in place, we’re very transparent with our customers throughout, so there’s no surprises.
Enhanced Expertise
We identified that providing our customers with the complete solution meant we needed more expertise on the ground in America – so that’s exactly what we’ve done! We’ve put the right people in the right place to allow us to offer this full customer experience to US and Canadian manufacturers.
In 2023, we introduced a new management structure to the Machinery Group in America, with Bevan Lines as Chief Executive Officer, Eric Cholet as Chief Financial Officer, and myself as Chief Customer Officer. Within this leadership team, we have extensive industry, technical, and product-specific experience, capabilities, and knowledge as well as comprehensive business management and financial acumen. Having this leadership team living and working in the US means they are readily available to support our team and our customers in real time.
We’ve also grown our internal capabilities, adding more expert staff to our design, production, and service teams in America, so that we can deliver to the needs of our local customers more efficiently.
Local Manufacturing & Stock Availability
For our manufacturing capabilities and stock availability in America, we’ve made great strides in the last 12 months in particular. Earlier this year, we moved into a new fit-for-purpose manufacturing facility in Jacksonville, Florida.
Our facility is over 33,000 sq ft with the space to expand as required. Not only are we busy building high-quality machinery for fabricators all over North America, but we also have a great amount of stock available, ready to go out the door when you need it!
The ability to respond to our customers’ machinery orders in a timely manner is important to us. In addition, a key area of manufacturing capability we’ve developed further in America is floor truss solutions. We design and manufacture on site, with our floor truss solutions helping with creating chords, assembly and pressing of webs and plates as well as at the end of the process with ejection and stacking of floor trusses. We took some of these products to BCMC recently too and the customer feedback was very positive. We’re excited to continue building relationships with customers in this space.
The Customer Journey We Provide
Our partnerships with our customers are integral to everything we do. We’ve worked extremely hard to ensure we can offer our customers the best experience from the first point of contact to long after we’ve installed their machinery.
When you partner with Spida Machinery, you are partnering with us, no third parties or outsourced contractors, but us.
We stay with you every step of the way! You’ll benefit from having us involved throughout your entire journey.
• Compiling Your Requirements – we listen to your pain points and manufacturing requirements, walk the floor in your factory, and ensure the piece of equipment or solution we recommend is fit for purpose. You’ll work with a Spida Account Manager from day one.
• Presenting Your Quote – we continue our conversation, make sure we have all the finer details for your order, and then provide a quote. Once you’ve approved the quote, we introduce you to our Spida Service Manager, who plays an important role in the process.
• Manufacturing & Testing – our expert team of in-house designers, engineers, welders, and machinery fabricators build your equipment. They also perform robust testing before the machinery goes out the door.
• Installing Your Equipment – we optimize the machinery in your factory. Our Spida Installation Team will come to your site to set up your machinery and do further testing to ensure it’s working as it should with your job files.
• Training Your Team – our experienced Spida staff will also train your operators on how to use the new machinery correctly, safely, and efficiently.
• On-Going Service & Support – our Spida Service Team are available for planned service runs as well as for ongoing support, machinery queries, parts, or software questions. We have a dedicated and responsive service team locally for our customers in the US and Canada.
We pride ourselves on our people-focused approach and the relationships we have with our customers. We encourage open communication and transparency, which is why you’ll be introduced to key Spida staff along the way so you always have someone at Spida you can talk to, run through ideas with, and who can answer any queries you might have.
Looking Forward
At Spida Machinery, we focus on continuous improvement. This means we continually review our own performance, really listen to customer feedback, and use this to drive us forward to provide a better service and product for our customers.
We feel confident that our accomplishments in the last year in the US and Canada have set us up for an even better 2025. With our experienced leadership team, enhanced expertise across our business areas, and the new facility offering increased local production and stock availability, your customer journey will be even more efficient and successful.
We welcome you to get in touch to learn more about how we’re providing a complete solution to fabricators in North America. Let’s have a conversation, and then you can decide if we’re the right fit for you and your factory!
ACTUALLY, WE CAN SAY QUITE A LOT WITH LASER ACCURACY.
To see meaningful labor savings, quality improvement and production gains, SL Lasers with their easy-to-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.
productivity of any
• Servo Driven Single Blade
• Automated Cutting with Software Download to Operator Console/ Computer
• 20' Capacity Loading Conveyor System
• Automated Infeed Wheel
• Automated Clamping & Positioning System
• Angle & Bevel Drive for Truss Cutting
• 20' Capcity Outfeed Table with Ink Jet Printer
• 6 Arm Storage Deck (adjacent to saw outfeed table)
• Waste Conveyor (under saw, waste/ small parts to the rear)
• Incline Waste Conveyor
Waste Conveyor (under outfeed conveyor)
Extra Programmed Computer
New L1 and L2 Belt
2 Extra Blades
4WARD’S SOLUTION FOR YOUR FACTORY
Rapid Development - New and existing manufacturing capabilities
Your Competitive Edge – Get your ideas, plans and products to market while reducing costs and enhancing operational flexibility
Virtual Development – Scale your factory in a virtual environment before physically building it
Operational Flexibility – Designed for your production needs allowing for greater adaptability
Customizable in Multiples of 16 SKUs Includes Touchscreen Computer (left end), Overhead Status
Displays (each side), Label Printer and Hundreds of Bins
Customizable Bin Exits
Plates Dispensed to Bins in Layers Based on Number of Joints per Truss
Plate Dealing Schemes: Left-Right, RightLeft, Top Joints then Bottom, Bottom Joints then Top, By Truss Table Quadrant, etc.
Build More Trusses On Your Million Dollar Tables
Distribute Truss Plates Around Every Truss Build
Table Just Like Dealing Cards
Speed Up Truss Build Crews, and Ensure Quality
Standardize Truss Plate Organization and Distribution With the Enventek Plate Dispenser
That’s How You Feed The Beast!
F1 Pit Stop Each Truss
Example of Bin With First/Single Layer of Plates
Add 16 SKU Modules
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.
How Investment Bias Can Cost Your Company Millions
It appears I may have opened a can of worms with my last article, “A Case Study for Transforming Profits Through Employment Practices.” The article was a summary of the session I led at BCMC, “Case Study —Building Material Supply & Truss Manufacturing.” The article mentioned that the equipment and employment practices of some roof truss component manufacturers (CM) are not the wisest. Although most of the feedback I received on the article was very positive, some readers were upset because the article did not align with what they thought were best practices.
Where do best practices ideas come from? — Let me state that all the information I provide my clients is not intended to promote me personally, as if I am trying to be the smartest person in the room or claim that my positions are all original ideas. On the contrary, my goal is to share the knowledge I have learned over more than twenty years spent with hundreds of clients, challenging all of them to determine whether their current practices are indeed the best. Over that length of time, don’t you think a person should have picked up best practices from all of these CMs? Suppose your profession was about learning and teaching lean principles backed by industrial engineering practices without playing internal company politics. Would you have made all the same decisions in your company? TDC’s best ideas come from combining all of the best practices that previous CMs have implemented and what I have brought into the conversation. At each consultation, TDC tries to find something new that can be added to the growing list of best practices. All of these best practices have been and are being proven daily.
Internal decision-making starts with what is considered “safe”
— Whichever plate or equipment vendor your company has chosen to partner with, your employees feel much safer calling upon them to make any equipment, software, or process upgrades. Why would someone risk their job and status by taking a risk with a maybe solution from someone other than the chosen vendor your company is already working with? For example, if your current vendor insists that board foot (BF) is a perfectly acceptable method for estimating roof truss assembly labor, might it be possible the software they are providing is incapable of using more sophisticated labor estimations other than BF? Your vendor’s advisement may be biased in some cases because the solution, software or equipment, they offer is all they can provide your group, regardless of what might be best for you.
Todd Drummond
For further explanation of BF versus time standards, see my previous articles:
• Better Than 10% Labor Savings Proven Method Endorsement by Scott Arquilla
• How One Wood Truss Industry Leader Uses Industrial Engineering Practices of Work Minutes to Excel
TDC does not receive royalties from any plate or equipment sales, so my advice is not influenced by the opinions of any other company’s vendors. That means that those companies may not always like what I have to say, but no malice is intended on anyone’s part. Each vendor has their strengths and weaknesses, and it is my job to provide your group with the most accurate information possible so that you can make the most informed decisions that lead to healthy profits for your company. And to answer the unspoken question, yes, TDC will advise a client to consider alternative vendors if your current vendor is incapable of implementing better solutions.
Invested bias can skew a decision-maker’s judgment — Once the decision-maker has invested large sums of money and time into an equipment purchase, there is little that can be said to sway their mindset and convince them they may have made an error. In my last article, “A Case Study for Transforming Profits Through Employment Practices,” I clearly stated that no roof truss roller gantry table should have more than two workstations feeding one finish roller. With millions of dollars invested in hundreds of roof gantry tables with more than two workstations across North America, how do you think many received this news? The same can be said about a two-person crew versus a three-person crew on a roof truss table. How many have allowed themselves to be so invested in the idea that BF per work-hour shows an apparent gain using two versus three assembly crews? Yet, in that same article, the numbers clearly show that two-person crews severely reduce the sales dollars produced by 1/3rd, and any perceived labor savings are lost, so in the end, there is an overall loss, not a gain. How do you think
this message was received by equipment vendors who convinced so many GMs that these commonly accepted practices were the wisest decisions? The same thing can be stated about roof truss robotic automation. What is being perceived as a worthy investment for robotic automation is undoubtedly being challenged by data by TDC. Some robotic automation is worthwhile, but millions of dollars are being invested in automation that is not in the CM’s best interest. Instead of looking at the situation superficially, however, TDC always recommends gathering additional data, whether it be automation for cutting, material movement, or assembly.
Rethink assumptions to ensure smart decision-making — Unfortunately, brand-new manufacturing facilities continue to be built incorrectly with the wrong equipment, layouts, and building configuration for maximum efficiencies and capacity with the ability for future growth. It is shocking to witness how many millions of dollars could have been saved if more time and unbiased advice had been offered and implemented initially. In the end, it is not about who is the smartest or who has the best idea. Perhaps what should be considered is that just like it is always wiser to spend a little more money on a well-written and thought-out blueprint to reduce costly errors for new buildings, which designers complain all the time about poorly drawn prints, perhaps a little more time and research should be invested before deciding what will be best-in-class new processes and equipment for your business.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” — JAMES 1:5
TDC is your best source for learning about proven and practical lean manufacturing best practices combined with industrial engineering principles to keep your company competitive. 20+ years for time standards (MM, RE, or SU) development and refinement for wood trusses. No one is better at providing your team with proven results for best-in-class practices. 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/
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.
New L-M Equipment
Verticut 2000 PET / Bunk Saw Station
The L-M Verticut 2000 is a true Precision End Trim (PET) saw that is capable of holding a 1/16th accuracy all day long. Made in the USA, the V2k comes equipped with a 15 HP 460/230 volt High-E three phase
TEFC motor driving a Double ended Premium “Stellite” inlaid saw bar with a spring loaded chain tensioner and an automatic oiler to lubricate the .404 pitch custom profile semi chisel saw chain.
Rather than a single pivot-point, the saw assembly is mounted on a mandrel box that is guided by cam followers on a steel frame that is raised and lowered by a hydraulic cylinder. A console with the saw controls moves with the saw assembly along a track positioned using a manual “V” wheel geared drive or optional Hydraulic drive
The V2k is unlike other imported systems that are basically a Portable Yard Saw on a cutting rack with a best cutting accuracy of +/- 1/8″ (meaning up to ¼” accuracy variance between units of lumber). The V2k from L-M provides +/- 40 thousands, assuring consistent PET precision from unit to unit.
Another advantage L-M has over the competition is their commitment to personal service with unlimited phone assistance and technical help. Their team has traveled the country working on crosscut saws for many years and they know their equipment inside and out. L-M is a familyowned business that prides themselves in doing the job right and building long term relationship that is vital to their business: “Built to last as long as our customers since 1946”.
Price based on configuration FOB OR
765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
• Servo Controlled Single Blade Linear Saw
• 7.5 HP Motor (230 Volt/3 Phase) with 20" Blade
• Touch Screen Computer
• Ink Jet Printer
• Powered Infeed Roller Tables & Outfeed Queue System
• (2) Manual Bunk Feeders (saw can be used with or without bunk feeders)
• Waste Conveyor (includes new belt which needs to be installed)
• 240 Volt / 3 Phase
• Motion Control Upgrade in 2018
• New Computer with Touch Screen in 2019
• T1 Axis Rod and Pillow Bearings replaced in 2023
• (4) T1 Linear Bearings replaced in 2023
• (4) Z1 Linear Bearing replaced in 2023
• (8) Be lt Drive Linear Bearings replaced in 2023
• Several Belt Drive Wheels replaced in 2023
• New Z1 Actuator in 2023
• Spare Parts: 2 White Drive Belts, Spare Power Cable, Rebuilt Z1 Actuator
• Video available upon request
BCE-MASTER
2003 Alpine AutoMill RS Component Saw, Model 344
Computer controlled saw sets up in 2 to 19 seconds and downloads from a network or by using a touch screen for ease of operation. Five-head automated component saw works in both automated (downloading files) and semi-automated control via touchscreen input. It has [23] axes of automated movement, enhanced diagnostics, auto management reporting. The RS cuts from 13″ to 20′ long material in size ranging from 2×3″ through 2×12″, includes [3] 18″, [1] 22″ and [1] 32″ blades with air brakes, shaker pan waste conveyor to incline scrap conveyor, one set of spare blades and any available spare parts. (Infeed conveyor needs electrical service). 480v/60Hz/3Ph power.
$17,997 FOB AZ
Wood Tech Systems
765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
Striebig Optisaw, model Optisaw Automatic (Type # 5164) vertical panel saw station, with angled frame supporting material being cut: Max. cutting height (vertical) 5′-4″, max. cutting length (horizontal) 15′-1″, max. cutting thickness 2.36″. Both vertical and horizontal analog measuring scales on frame. Cutting head manually rotates from vertically to horizontally for rip vs. cross-cutting, adjustable spacers for repetitive cuts, 5.25 HP saw motor, 9.84″ diameter blade, guide bearings for travel , push button controls, e-stop button and dust extraction hose (no vacuum included). Overall footprint of station 19′-1″ wide x 4′7″ deep x 7′-10″ height. Sold for $36,000 new. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
$14,490 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
2000 Alpine AutoMill Component Saw
2000 Alpine AutoMill model 343H, (5) blade component saw, cuts lumber from 2×3 through 2×12, from 18″ to 20′, 4-angle floor webs from 18″. Includes powered length and angulation, digital readouts, (1) 32″, (3) 18″ & (1) 20″ blade, shaker under-saw scrap conveyor, incline, PC with Windows 98 o/s, and outfeed conveyor. Decommissioned in 2018. Stored indoors. 480 volt ,3 phase electrical required.
$10,497 FOB ON Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
2022 Holtec Transcut II Bunk Saw with 20' Fixed Frame
• 10 HP Siemens Electric Motor with Starters (460 Volt / 3 Phase)
• Stellite Armored Guide Bar (63' effective cutting length)
• Stihl .404 Rapid Super Chipper Chain
• Resistance Based Chain Tension Assembly with Quick Chain Release
• 5 Liter Chain Lubrication Oil Tank with Automatic Lubrication using Electric Oil Pump
• Stabilization Bar/Frame
• Parallel Guide Bar Frame Assembly
• 20' Fixed Frame Assembly
• Operator's Platform with Stairs, Supports, Bases & Tracking Assembly
• Macrolon Shielding for Operator Platform
• Manual Rack-Pinion Wheel Adjustment for Length Setting
• Digital Length Measuring Device
$25,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
NEW!
New SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Station
New SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Station by Safety Speed Manufacturing- Reduce labor and operator fatigue by taking advantage of the SpeedWorx automated vertical panel saw. This one-person station cuts wood sheathing sheets up to 50-inches x 10-feet, and up to 2-inch thickness, using a fast 1-button cutting setup with CNC accuracy to 1/32 of an inch (0.03125″). The photos of raw materials illustrate the drastic reduction of scrap material thanks to implementing the Rogworx saw station.
Visual user interface makes choosing the job and sheet cutting order easy to determine. Files are downloadable allowing for minimum waste. Saw station reads WBX file format (Alpine) or EHX file format (MiTek) or CSV files with manipulation.
Automated sequencing of sheets provides optimum usage of each sheet. The cutting chamber changes from ri to cross-cutting automatically. All this in a very small machine footprint, so it can fit easily into your existing building.
Visual user interface with standard ‘Auto Fill’ feature makes choosing the job and sheet cutting order easy to determine. System offers full optimization and sequence panel parts looking ahead through the job based on your specification. The cutting chamber changes from rip to cross-cutting automatically. All this in a 100 square foot footprint, approximately 25′ long x 4′ deep, so it can fit within existing facilities.
Includes advanced dust collection. Integrated Printing for labeling parts is available as an option. 208-230V volts, 3-Phase, 25 Amp electrical required, 5 CFM at 100 PSI air required.
Price Based on Configuration FOB NM
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
What Should a Truss Builder Do About Wane in the Plated Area?
First, wane occurs often when lumber is manufactured and cut close to the outside of the timber, resulting in missing material or a bark area. This is done to increase the yield of the timber, which increases lumber manufacturer profits but creates some issues for lumber users. Prime grades limit wane severely, which results in a more expensive product for truss manufacturing because the lumber manufacturer is sourcing a much lower yield of nearly perfect lumber.
Given that cost-and-supply dynamic, can we afford to eliminate wane? The short answer is no. Unless you have clients that can afford the premium lumber, you will be utilizing lumber with wane in your operations.
So, what is the answer to our question posed in the title of this article – what should truss builders do when they have to deal with wane in the plated area? Because we are not going to throw out usable lumber, the answer is that a smart builder will adjust for the wane and, when practical, eliminate the wane by culling the part or piece.
To Adjust or To Cull
Approaching the problem of wane in lumber, the actual decision making can be approached in this order.
First, does wane exist? Yes or No. If No, then the lumber still needs to be checked to identify other potential defects. If Yes, then adjust the connector size to add additional tooth count to the connector plate. But, what if “adjusting” is still not a fix because the lumber just doesn’t “exist”? Can I adjust the connector plate size if the lumber is not present? The answer to that question is No.
So, how do you determine if the joint calls for lumber replacement? Sometimes this is not apparent until the truss is nearly assembled.
These two photos were taken of the same truss on two panel points. The connector plates were getting ready to be installed. Fortunately, before a commitment was made by plating the webs into the truss, the webs were recut and the very marginal materials were replaced.
Cantilever slider with heavy wane at the heel of the same truss.
Vertical web connecting to a bottom chord with excessive wane.
At this particular plant, much time has been spent educating the workforce and the plant is dedicated to making an ANSI/TPI 1-compliant product. As the production supervisor planted his face in his hands, my mind was rolling with ideas that would help keep this from happening. Without specific training, monitoring, and education on a constant basis, this sort of serious situation can happen. Of course, a good in-house program can improve and hopefully eliminate this from happening, but as I reflect on the many cases where this is found, I am confronted with the task of how we can explain the problem so that there’s an automatic action when this situation happens.
Here is my attempt to make this simple but important point.
Where wane exists, there is an embedment problem. It’s an air ball. No points scored!
Plating into the area of wane will result in an embedment gap. This gap should not exceed 1/32” if possible. See Table 3.7-1 Tooth Effectiveness. The following image illustrates this embedment issue.
The yellow area would be the depth of the embedment gap. Based on Table 3.7-1, it does not take very much to exceed the 1/16” zone, resulting in a 40% reduction in tooth effectiveness. Just a little bit more at 3/32” it’s a 60% reduction. Basically, in this area, tooth effectiveness is nonexistent. Graphically, this is shown in the illustration as the very top of the wood member, where the top of the curve is over 3/32”.
Does pounding down the plate into the wane area with a hammer improve the situation? Absolutely No. Each plate’s design depends on it being pressed flat.
The Bottom Line
As we’ve discussed in previous articles, Fabrication Tolerances helps us cope with defects. Setting your tolerance to a large number, for example 20%, doesn’t inoculate the builder from considering the impact of wane. Training is required to teach your truss builders to adjust smartly by judging the circumstances carefully. A good rule of thumb is this:
If the wane in the plated area is one-third to one-half of the face of the member, particularly in the plate area, a plate upsize is warranted. If the wane exceeds onehalf of the face, then the lumber should be culled.
It’s not simply black or white, however, so careful consideration is required if you want to push your lumber utilization.
An ANSI/TPI 1 3rd Party Quality Assurance Authorized Agent covering the Southeastern United States, Glenn Traylor is an independent consultant with almost four decades of experience in the structural building components industry. Glenn serves as a trainer-evaluator-auditor covering sales, design, PM, QA, customer service, and production elements of the truss industry. He also provides project management specifically pertaining to structural building components, including on-site inspections and ANSI/TPI 1 compliance assessments. Glenn provides new plant and retrofit designs, equipment evaluations, ROI, capacity analysis, and CPM analysis.
Glenn Traylor Structural Building Components Industry Consultant http://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntraylor
MSR WORKSHOP
— Bill Weber Cascade Mfg. Co.
•
• • 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.
TStop 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.
For all Roof, Floor, & Wall Panel Components; webs, chords, sliders & wedges - up to 4-boards high! ProDeck™ Lumber Infeed
Provide a steady supply of lumber to your saw. Accumulates & dispenses the lumber to the sawyer for processing.
Eliminate carts & reduce congestion. Optimizes material flow & delivers cut parts directly to your assembly stations.
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. The ProCut™ UC Linear Saw Series offers many variations to suit your plant & assembly line.
Memoriam In The Generosity and Genius of Sid Ketchum
By Joe Kannapell
George “Sid” Ketchum, cofounder of the Wood Truss Council of America (WTCA), and an exceptionally generous man, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024. Sid had a long and distinguished career in the truss business, beginning in 1973 when he took over PDJ Components, a lumberyard’s roof truss business in Chester, NY. Early in his tenure, Sid realized that the key to growing his small business was gaining knowledge from his peers, and that led him to become increasingly involved in the Component Manufacturers Council (CMC), which at that time was part of the Truss Plate Institute (TPI). Seeking to advance their collective knowledge and voice, in 1983, Sid joined with a small group of CMC members in creating WTCA as an independent association, despite considerable controversy. Later, he helped establish the New York Chapter of WTCA and was elected its President.
Under Sid’s leadership, the New York Chapter’s members came together and successfully countered restrictions on the use of trusses that were proposed by New York Fire officials. Sid was also active in the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association and was chosen its Man of the Year in 1999. And, all the while, Sid was fostering the growth of PDJ Components, detaching it from his lumberyard, and enabling it to become an important supplier in the Northeast, through good times and not so good.
While Sid gave much to the truss industry, his greatest impact was upon the people he worked with, both in his business and his community. One of his managers from decades ago, Jim Smith, recalled recently how both Sid and his wife Pam came down to the truss plant daily to greet and engage each worker in conversation, creating a warm family atmosphere at PDJ. That was how Sid treated everyone he encountered. And he was such a humble, giving man. We knew he was devoted to his family, but none of us who worked with him had any idea of the extent of his devotion to the needy (see his obituary for more on his good work as well as the Celebration of Life planned for December 15). Sid Ketchum truly lived for others, and in the process, he changed so many lives, including Jim Smith’s, mine, and so many more.
Inspired by ten years of intensive field experience and the ample and detailed feedback of numerous customers, we’re pleased to introduce the most advanced, most enhanced and high-performance Terminailer yet-Terminailer V.8. Drawing on invaluable time in the trenches closely evaluating Terminailer’s performance under varying conditions, our engineers have incorporated critical learning and insight to enhance simplicity, performance and operator control. Just part of what V.8 offers includes:
•Vastly enhanced operator control for even greater productivity
•A redesigned nail-feed supplying EverWin PN90-PAL industrial nail guns
•Simplified pneumatics featuring direct air-supply to all six nail guns
•Even more sub-component profiles for wall design flexibility
•Rugged durability with pharmaceutical grade assembly
Developed by people who know well the mechanics, safety considerations and business aspects of wall-panel production, Terminailer V.8 combines more enhancements & operator-friendly features than ever to take your productivity to the next level and beyond. Contact us to learn even more and to put the V.8 performance in motion at your facility.
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.
Edmond Lim, P.Eng. LimTek Solutions Inc.
Inspiration for Automation in 2025
After the wonderful success that was BCMC 2024, I decided to take a quick holiday…to Japan! Having never visited that fascinating country before, I was excited to see what I might find.
While waiting in line for the Ubako and Owakudani Ropeways, I found myself studying and being mesmerized by the simple automation used in their cable car system. It is a massive and impressive feat of engineering that is both simple and immense.
In fact, it gave me my “A-ha moment” when this reminded me of the ingeniousness of Larry and Dave Dalson of Enventek and all of the engineering they have accomplished.
From Enventek, we have achieved a lumber gripping auto feeding component saw, a chainfed Lumber PickLine, and now a Collated Plate Dispensing machine will help many truss fabricators squeeze out even more trusses.
While touring Japan, I was also impressed with so much beautiful architecture. Nothing will replace the charm of old-world craftsmanship, and building with wood can be a true art.
Over two hundred years ago, mass production was not necessary and craftsmanship ruled.
At the Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, these curving timbers are not a problem to solve but a natural feature that is showcased in the interior.
But in business, we need ways to automate and mass produce our products.
Trusses and components allow us to meet the housing needs of the current day. We can still showcase the beauty of building with natural wood, but we can also maximize our production processes, minimize our costs, and provide the products needed in modern society.
Our only limits are our imagination and a willingness to bring ideas to life in wood and steel.
As we look forward to 2025, let’s all consider what we have learned about construction and manufacturing processes from the past and present, and then start planning for what we would like to bring to life in the future.
When you’re ready to Feed Your Beast and see the efficient and effective systems of LimTek Process Organization Technology, please let us know! We 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
SAWS
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
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
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
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 NOW $40,000 FOB WI
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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.
By Matthew Bobrowicz, Alpine Product Owner
Paperspace for the IntelliVIEW Suite: An Integrated Plan Finishing Solution
Introducing Paperspace with IntelliVIEW Suite version 24.02 – This comprehensive plan finishing solution is seamlessly integrated within iModel, offering component designers a parallel workflow to the component layout. IntelliVIEW Paperspace features an intuitive user-interface, enabling designers to efficiently manage professional construction documentation.
User-Friendly Interface
The new Paperspace solution provides users the flexibility to use it side-by-side with the layout on the same or separate displays for a more efficient workflow. The intuitive – yet, familiar – interface empowers designers to create sheets of finished drawings quickly and simply. It also helps users separate the clutter of finished drawing details from component design layout.
Create Sheets in several common sizes, apply borders unique to the project and with your branding and information that matters. Save time by leveraging information already stored in the iCommand application to automatically populate the border template, it’s easier to stay focused on each project’s unique detailing.
Integrated plan finishing tool within iModel.
From the right panel, quickly view, scale, or modify the Viewport’s properties. The lower right menu also allows users to easily toggle between object snap (OSnap), orthogonal rawing (Ortho), and grid features.
A Set of Edit, Design, and Annotation Tools
Use Viewports to display different views of the design layout. Whether a single-story structure with a set of components or a multi-level structure, users have the ability to create a single Sheet with multiple viewports or dedicated Sheets for each level and/or product. Control each viewport with layer and property controls to tailor each sheet. When last-minute component design changes occur, the associated viewports in Paperspace will automatically update.
Manage the finer annotation details with a full array of familiar CAD tools along with rich text elements for a clean and professional finished drawing. Quickly draw CAD elements to create framing details, enclose critical notes, or insert leader lines to highlight key information at specific locations. The modern text interface allows users to enter detailed notes unique to the layout with professional font types, styles, and sizing.
Paperspace is a valuable, integrated solution within the IntelliVIEW Suite for component manufacturers to create professional construction documentation, with a simple, user-friendly interface. For more information, visit alpineITW.com.
Provides a set of basic tools for creating and editing objects to highlight important notes for builders, contractors, or installers.
DO SOMETHING BRILLIANT WITHOUT HAVING TO BANG YOUR HEAD AGAINST THE WALL.
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.
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.
New ways to equip you for success.
The business of construction has never been more challenging. That’s why Simpson Strong-Tie keeps working to develop new solutions. Focused on customers, we’re constantly exploring innovative ways to support component manufacturers. Our truss connectors have become the industry standard. Our design and management software streamlines operations. And now, with advanced, automated cutting equipment, we’re bringing even more powerful tools to sharpen your edge. From ultra-precise component machines by Hundegger to brilliantly simple cutting and marking technology with EasyFrame, we’re fully equipped to keep you moving ahead. Build your business with all the right components. 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
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
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
Holtec
By Ed Serrano Managing Director Vekta Automation
A Year of Growth and Innovation: Vekta Looks Back and Ahead
WARNING: the following text is not intended for consumption by oldschool fabricators and plant managers – especially those without a desire to evolve alongside new and developing technologies
However, if you are showing any of the following symptoms, you are advised to read on immediately:
• A sudden, sharp curiosity of automation and the potential to save you time, money, and stress
• An acute ability to perceive long-lasting industry change
• Lingering aspirations of success and achievement that you would like to retain
At Vekta, we are focused on finding solutions. Solutions that help you build the best frames and trusses possible – this is the crux of what we do, and we do it with the expertise that our longevity in the area affords us.
Invaluable feedback, insights, and support from our customers have been instrumental in our creation of new, groundbreaking solutions that are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in frame and truss manufacturing.
With plenty of recent integration experience on projects with existing product from third-party manufacturers, this year we gained an even greater understanding of the strengths and opportunities presented by a wide range of industry equipment and how to integrate a fit-for-purpose solution that optimizes our customers’ operations.
The industry trend of full plant automation has seen our bespoke Direct Delivery System (DDS) continue to prove itself as the gold standard in automated member delivery.
Our Real-Time Optimization (RTO) software has shifted the paradigm of how many plants work and how plant managers think, finally delivering a solution for just-in-time cutting that reduces waste and increases efficiency and productivity. We now have frame and truss plants that rely on a single operator for one, two, or three saws. We aren’t stopping there, with further rollouts of new software solutions planned for next year we are confident this change is just the beginning of a new era in frame and truss production.
In 2024, our PackFeeder material handling solution has continued to be the preferred choice for customers who want to save floor space but still need quick delivery of boards to the saw. Looking ahead, our Research and Development team has recently shipped our first stand-alone PackFeeder,
which will provide our industry-leading delivery solution to a wider market. This product takes another leap in showing our flexibility and dedication to our fabricators by delivering solutions that will not restrict future integration and innovation.
Perhaps the most anticipated product on the horizon in 2025 is Vekta’s revolutionary Raking Framer – a single-operator, heavily automated frame line capable of producing straight and raked wall frames quickly, safely, and efficiently.
We’re also excited to be bringing fresh ideas to traditional equipment lines with a focus on new products and features in our framing solutions range as well as new developments in automated truss delivery, stacking, and loading.
Looking toward the future, Vekta remains steadfast in its commitment to providing cuttingedge automation solutions that empower our customers and the wider industry to achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and success for years to come. By working closely with our clients, we’ll ensure that our solutions deliver maximum value and meet their evolving needs.
Furthermore, we’re dedicated to continuing our tradition of widely recognized excellence in customer service and support. Our Support team has continued to expand, with expert engineers all over the globe we can offer the best on-site and remote support possible.
As the holiday season draws near, we remain grateful for the feedback and encouragement of our customers, partners, and the entire frame and truss community. Together, we’ll continue to shape the future of manufacturing, building a more efficient, sustainable, and prosperous industry.
IntelliVIEW Suite Manage. Design. Build.
The industry’s most powerful integrated component design, engineering, and management software for steel and wood-framed structures.
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
• 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
Speed Cut Saw with Hain Measuring System
• Speed Cut Metra-Cut Centerline Saw
• 5 HP / 3 Phase Motor with 16" Blade Saw
• Saw Barrier Guard
• 22' Hain Powered Measuring System
• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands
$15,000 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates
800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.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
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.
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
By Marco Gagnon
What Equipment Does Your Future Hold?
With 2024 coming to a close, we look at the year that was and the years to come in equipment development. This past year saw our company bring out two new pieces of equipment in its product offering. These pieces were added to a line-up that already included our successful BCE-Gantry, BCE-Finish Roller, and BCE-Stacker
First, the BCE-Master 10/8 was introduced with the intent of providing assemblers more time for preparation with the automatic truss pressing process. Basically, the Master 10/8 offers a small assembly table, up to 40’ by 10’, so that assemblers can assemble the trusses which are then automatically pressed before ejection. This provides your team with time to prepare for the next truss to be assembled. The tabletop design has the same features that would be found on bigger gantry tables, thus making employee swapping from one table to another easy and effortless. Companies that introduced the Master 10/8 in their operations gained valuable employee time for assembly prep while the machine was pressing plates.
Second, Element Equipment was proud to release the highly awaited BCE-Floor Gantry System onto the market. Available for joists of up to 36’ long, this joist assembly system features a robust tabletop and air-operated jigging system. The floor gantry system offers fabrication of joists up to 26” in height and, with the simple flick of a switch, the design lets the user to switch from 2”x3” floor joists to 2”x4” and you are set.
Like all Element Equipment machines, these two new pieces were designed by a manufacturer with component building experience. Ergonomics and ease of operation are always top of mind during our equipment design and execution. In addition, using only easily available wear parts guarantees more up time and limits downtime for repairs or parts sourcing.
As we head into 2025, Element Equipment is looking to add to our equipment line-up. With current market conditions and employment availability, we aim to bring to market equipment that incorporates efficiency, ease of use, and more automation to complement existing product offerings and add to the line-up. Keeping with recent offerings, you can expect new additions to the line-up in both truss assembly and floor joist assembly.
Within the first or second quarter, we should see coming to market one new addition in the truss assembly world. This new equipment will help with the speed of assembly and provide a layer of quality control not available today — it’s currently in the testing stage, but stay tuned for release information on this winner.
For joist assembly, Element Equipment is coming out with a much-anticipated addition for the pre-assembly of floor joists — this machine is currently on the drawing board with production expected in early 2025 for release to market shortly after. Another addition to the line-up will be released later in the year that will provide a new and improved design of an existing machine to speed up assembly of joists. This piece of equipment recognizes the current employment situation within many companies and helps address your labor shortages.
Since entering the market in 2021, we at Element Equipment have always kept looking for additions to our equipment offerings that will add more automation to ease the pain of assembling building components. We are committed to innovation, and our drive to consistently add equipment sets us apart from our competitors. In 2025 and beyond, we will continue to develop new processes as we keep looking forward and finding ways to help component manufacturers expand their competitive advantage while providing a quality product to their customers.
In an ever-changing business landscape, adaptability is key. Our custom machinery solutions are designed with flexibility and scalability in mind. As your business evolves and your needs change, our machinery can be easily modified, expanded, or upgraded, providing you with a future-ready solution that grows alongside your success. We will continue to grow our company, and we invite you to grow with us.
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).
GOOSENECK ROLL OFF
TRUSS TRAILERS
By the Panels Plus Team
Nailing Wall Panel Production with Panels Plus
Imagine transforming your production process with reliable and innovative equipment. Dayspring Construction did just that, and we’re excited to share their success story with you.
The Problem
Dayspring Construction had a definite need to improve efficiency. The company was using a bridge nailer built in 1951 that was inaccurate and prone to breaking down. Consequently, hand nailing was required, which was a quality control issue and slowed their production process. Dayspring wanted a reliable and consistent bridge nailer as they built a dedicated line to construct sheathed wall panels.
The Solution
After seeing Panels Plus equipment at the BCMC show and hearing overwhelmingly positive industry feedback, Nathan Davis, the Owner of Dayspring Construction, decided to invest in our Squaring Table and Dual Beam Sheathing Station. Says Davis, “I looked at every piece of equipment out there and bought what I thought was the best equipment available. Reliability is important; I need equipment that keeps working. We have legal and contractual commitments and downtime screws us up.”
The Results
With Panels Plus equipment, Dayspring Construction significantly improved their production process. Davis describes his Panels Plus Squaring Tables and semi-automatic bridge nailers as the “point of the spear” as his crews build millions of linear feet of walls annually. They allow Dayspring Construction to increase their offsite work while providing the safety, accuracy, and consistency of Panels Plus equipment. Previously, every hand-nailed wall had to be inspected; now walls are spot checked, saving lots of man-hours. “The panels are clean and go together fast and consistently. Small labor savings across a 4- or 5-story building add up. On a system level, all the little benefits add up to a faster system and are maybe an extra building each year,” adds Davis.
When you’re ready to enhance your production safety, accuracy, and consistency, please contact Panels Plus. When it comes to equipment, We Nailed It.
face and one 1 1/2″ edge. Includes infeed, outfeed, scrap incline conveyor and vacuum option.
From Revolutionary To Standard
20 years ago, Eide introduced a revolutionary, state-of-the-art, 100% automated jigging system which set a new standard for the industry. WizardPDS® quickly rose to be the single greatest investment you can make to your truss assembly line. And it still is.
Over the past two decades, we’ve pushed the limits of automation by helping hundreds of truss manufacturers adapt and innovate the capabilities of their production. Redefining possiblities with our expanding options to upgrade and enhance your line. Our automated solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of your plant; from handling complex designs, jack truss production, and everything in between. Thank you to all who have trusted WizardPDS® to keep their lines at the cutting edge of technology. Here’s to 20 years of industry leadership and to a future powered by WizardPDS® automation.
The standard for today’s truss plants.
We bring the best together!
2004 System #1 Millard Lumber, Waverly Nebraska, still in operation today.
Double Jack Retrofit
Trackless Upgrades
Line Upgrades & Expansions Retrofit
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)
2021 CMF floor finish roller press for 3×2 and 4×2 floor trusses. Features 7-ft wide throat, with dual-sized rollers one half larger diameter rolls to press 3×2 material, the other half presses 4×2 material. Press includes 4″ diameter guide rollers, Dual (2) 5 HP drive motors, (2) safety bars, push button controls and e-stop button. Included are (19) 4″ diameter x 6-ft long, stand alone idler conveyors and (6) 6-ft long manual floor-truss stacking racks. 240 / 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
$29,997 FOB ON Wood Tech Systems
765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.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
HEAVY DUTY TRUCK ROLLER BED
CUSTOM BUILT TO THE SIZE YOU WANT FOR ALL MAJOR TRUCK BRANDS
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
IDLE & POWERED 14'
• 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
Carl Villella, CLFP President, Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service
How It Works
Maximize Your Tax Savings with Section 179
Don’t miss out on a significant tax break! The Section 179 deduction allows businesses to expense the cost of qualifying equipment purchases in the year of purchase, rather than depreciating it over time.
What Qualifies? A wide range of equipment can be eligible for Section 179, including:
y Machinery and equipment
y Computers and software
y Certain vehicles
How Much Can You Deduct? For 2024, you can deduct up to $1,220,000 in equipment purchases. Yes, it can be that simple. Section 179 allows you to write off the full expense of a business asset in the year you place the asset into service, and you can aggregate many business-asset expenses for the year, as long as they all have been put into use in 2024.
Why You Should Choose Acceptance Leasing and Financing
The team at Acceptance can help you take advantage of this valuable tax benefit by providing flexible financing solutions tailored to your specific needs. The programs we offer to borrowers have many advantages, including:
• Quick and Easy Process: Our streamlined application process and rapid approvals can get you the funds you need fast.
• Minimal Documentation: We require minimal paperwork to get you approved.
• Flexible Financing Options: We offer a variety of financing options to suit your budget and business goals.
• Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable team can help you navigate the Section 179 process and maximize your savings.
Don’t Wait! Time is running out to take advantage of the Section 179 deduction for 2024. Contact us today at 412262-3225 to learn more about how we can help you save money.
We are Acceptance Leasing and Financing Service, Inc. With over 30 years of experience, we are a trusted partner for businesses seeking equipment financing solutions. We’re proud members of SBCA and frequent attendees of the BCMC tradeshows. Let us help you grow your business and boost your bottom line.
Please note: This information is intended to provide general information and should not be construed as professional tax advice. It is recommended that you consult with a tax advisor to determine the specific tax implications of your situation. Also note that tax laws and regulations may change, so it is important to stay updated on the latest information.
$19,900 Each FOB IL
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.
$217,997 FOB AR
2005 Alpine RAM Easy-Rider Roof Gantry
2005 Alpine RAM Easy-Rider roof gantry model 756A, side-eject, 14′ x 70′ working length table, slotted steel building surface with (9) ejectors, (1) 6-ft long parking station, electrical supply cord runs in trough, and all available jigging hardware. Gantry head with 24″ diameter gantry roller, 7.5 HP drive motor with gearbox, operator riding platform with joy-stick control, and (2) safety bars. (8) stand-alone receivers included. No finish-roller or exit conveyor included. 230/460v, 3 phase, electrical required.
• 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
2003 Pacific Automation TR-14 Gantry Equipment
Side-eject system 14’X70′ working length includes Auto Roll TR14 gantry head with 24″ dia. Roller, and inverter drive. Featuring a total of (9) J-Slot (slotted-steel) tables with (7) skate-wheel ejectors and (10) skate-wheel receivers. System includes 170′ (85′ per side) track and base plates, 33 ejector covers, available J-Slot jigging hardware. No conveyor or final roller included. 230V 3Ph./25 Amp. Controls – 120v 1Ph (equipment available as soon as replacement equipment is installed in December ’24).
$109,700 NOW $98,997 FOB MT
By Bryan Shinn
A New Face and a New Product at Precision
When I joined Precision Equipment Manufacturing in May of this year as their new Sales Manager, I knew I had my work cut out for me trying to fill the shoes of the late, great Terry Metzger. Everyone has spoken so highly of Terry that I know I can’t replace him but I intend to live up to his reputation.
Now that I’ve been with Precision for 7 months, I have to say how impressed I am with this company and their product line. They’ve earned their reputation over the past two decades for manufacturing quality truss trailers that are built to last. Having spent 20 years as an advertising sales rep in the farming industry, selling to truck dealers, implement dealers, seed companies, etc., in person and by phone throughout the country, I’m well acquainted with the heavy equipment industry as well as the needs of customers who purchase it.
I’m very pleased to “show off” the latest addition to the Precision line – the 30’ Heavy Duty Truck Roller Bed. This new beast joins the cast of Standard (Fixed Length) 40’, 48’, and 53’ Roll Off Truss Trailers; 38’–53’, 42’–60’, 50’–70’, and 53’–80’ Extendable Roll Off Truss Trailers; and 26’, 32,’ and 36’ Gooseneck Roll Off Truss Trailers.
The 30’ Heavy Duty Truck Roller Bed is available in a 30’ configuration, but it actually can be made larger or smaller depending each customer’s needs. It will attach to virtually any Medium or Heavy Duty extended truck frame. Manufactured using the same parts and processes as our roll off truss trailers, you can count on this being a dependable, long-lasting investment to your fleet.
Mark my words – this a game changer for the truss industry. It will allow you to get into those tight spots that larger truss trailers can’t get into, and the fact that it can attach to virtually any Medium or Heavy Duty Truck on the market makes it very versatile. I don’t know of any truck bed on the market that has rollers on it. It definitely will allow truss manufactures to easily transport trusses and other building materials to jobsites not accessible with other trailers.
At Precision Equipment MFG, we use high-quality materials and have highly skilled, experienced workers, so our trailers are very well built. Our welding, powder-coating, and blasting processes ensure our trailers are on the road for a very long time. I’m also pleased to announce that we now have the option of having galvanized rollers on all of the truss trailers we manufacture.
If you’re ever in Fargo, ND, I hope you’ll come visit us! In the meantime, if you have any questions, please reach out to me at 800237-5161 or sales@precisionequipmfg.com.
$389,795 FOB PA
2021 MiTek 40-ft Auto-10 with Wizard PDS Automated Jigging
(Video available here.)
2021 MiTek 40′ Auto-10 with Wizard PDS® automated pin system (commissioned Jan. 2022). The Auto-10 features a fully integrated 50 Ton hydraulic press with a 10’x24″ pressing platten (overall Gantry width 14’10”). Gantry features 4-Wheel Drive, and an operator platform with joystick control that travels up to 4.5′ per second. The Auto-10 press is capable of handling 2”x4”-12″, 4”x2”, and it is further optioned for 6″x2″ material with no adjustment. No finish press required, this system features a HDPE plastic/steel T-slot tabletop and includes a substantial quantity of auxiliary T-Slot jigging hardware. This state-of-the-art production system features (18) Wizard PDS® @ 16″ O.C. spacing with 36 jiggingpins covering 24′ of automated setup. Set up capabilities are further enhanced by manual T-Slot positions on either side of the Wizardsetup area , System is complete with (5) electrical control boxes, all cabling and gearbox drive components, main control box, computer kiosk, and system computer. System sold for $442, 300 new.
Buyer must provide appropriate voltage/amperage: Auto-10 – 230v, 3Ph , Wizard – 208v, 3Ph, 40A (3-phase transformer included), 120v AC clean power supply to control computer. Professional installation by OEM representatives required.
1995 MiTek
Tracked Gantry with Spida FRP
1995 MiTek tracked roof gantry, 14′ x 95’ working length, end-eject, with floor mounted rail including two 7’-0” park stations (109’ overall length). One (1) MiTek gantry head with a 24″ dia. roll, riding platform, and pendant control. Gantry presses a production area featuring (12) 6′-4″ x 14′ slotted, 3/4″ steel-top tables with (12) ejectors. Includes a 2022 Spida Final Roller –15′, Model 69B0000-15. Dual 24” Diameter Rollers, 1” Wall Minimum Rollers, 4” Diameter Stub Shafts Supported By 4 Baffles, Spherical Roller Bearings, Twin 10 Hp Sumitomo Gear Motors, 20 HP Total, 1” X 4” Steel Support Frame, 32″ Working Height, 114’ Per Minute Fixed Working Speed, Front & Rear Emergency Shut Off Bar, Emergency Stop Button, Emergency Stop Interlock, Chain & Sprocket Guards, Integral Mechanical Brakes, Variable Frequency Drive, low hours, 480v 3ph (Mii Gantry: 230v/460v, 3 ph power), air required for lift outs.
$224,820 FOB IN
Tee-Lok Roller Gantry System
• Tee-Lok 14' Gantry Roller with Track on Floor
• 9 Each - 6'-0" x 13'-11" Steel Slotted Top Tables with Ejectors
• 7 1/2 HP Motor (460 Volt / 3 Phase)
• E xcludes: Inside Powered Exit Conveyor, Finish Roller and Outside Conveyor
• Add $39,500 for Reconditioned Klaisler 14' x 18" Finish Roller
$85,000 FOB AZ
Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
i ndu S try The
EXTENDABLE
TRUSS TRAILERS
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.
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.
By Richard Pedde
Following the Flow with JAX-UC
The flow of lumber through the plant is the lifeblood of a component manufacturing business, so taking steps to protect and improve that flow is essential for keeping your business healthy. This is an objective we took to heart when creating our JAX system.
With JAX, The Wood Retriever, a shop floor organizer, and the JAX-Universal Compiler (JAXUC), we have a complete material management system that will track your inventory in real time. The knowledge you gain will allow you to continuously optimize your plant operations.
For example, the Bunk Manager screen displays the entire bunk-to-saw material flow and yields better inventory management, optimized cutting, and control over material substitutions. The Bunk Manager can display 33 color-coded SKUs that are available for lumber picking. The fastest moving items are positioned close to one of the three lumber conveyors that service the saws. If a plant stocks more than 33 SKUs, bunks of the least-used materials can be stocked outside of JAX, near either end of the gantry line, so that they may be swapped into and out of JAX without disrupting JAX from picking in other safety-curtained zones.
In addition, the Bunk Manager screen shows the status of the saw shop, with quantities On Hand, In JAX, and Required
The diagram shows the following example for jobs in the queue:
• Job 241388 is the next to be picked, needing 12’ 2x4 #1 SYP
o On Hand: 5664
o In JAX: 91
o Required: 24
• Job 241388 was picked, using 7 18’ 2x4s and 8 2x10s
o This job is on the conveyor from JAX to the ALS saw.
Bunk Manager with 33 color-coded SKUs.
Having live displays of material levels on large screens in the production office alerts managers when SKUs need to be replenished. These screens also tell sawyers what batches are currently being conveyed to them and they advise truss designers of the optimal lumber lengths that they should use to splice truss chords.
Bunk Manager is a key management tool, but it is just one aspect of the entire JAX-UC software system. JAX-UC begins by reading batch cutting files and converts them to a common format. Then JAX-UC compares job requirements to available inventories. Finally, JAX-UC communicates movements to the Sage hardware. In fact, JAX-UC can automatically upgrade lumber when lower grades run out. In the process, JAX-UC is a visually rich, perpetual inventory system for a truss plant, enabling better control of the material that constitutes 40%–50% of the cost of a truss.
What’s best about this system is that you don’t have to change anything about the way you currently send cutting to your saws! In my plant, I have an Alpine ALS, a Monet DeSauw DeRobo, and a MiTek Blade, but JAX is happy to feed ANY saw. When you want to learn more about this great new system and JAX, the Wood Retriever, please reach out to me.
Increase Your Market Share by Adding Floor Truss Manufacturing
We have a range of products suitable for floor truss manufacturing and we offer floor truss solutions customized to your requirements too! Choose from side or end eject options to suit your operation and space.
Get in touch to learn more about adding floor trusses to your production line and how it could benefit your factory!
$300,795 FOB AZ
2004 Alpine Easy-Rider Roof Gantry System
Model 703D, side-eject, 70′ working length, (10) tables with continuous slotted-steel production surface, 24″ diameter gantry roller, elevated operator riding platform with joy-stick control, (10) ejectors, dual parking stations. Includes 2021 Alpine finish-roller model 725P, 14′-6″ length with 24″ dia. rolls. (11) exterior conveyor rollers, (18) inside conveyor rollers (9) powered / (9) idle, (9) skate-wheel receivers, electrical s/o cord feed and all available jigging hardware are included (two additional tables with wood tops included). Gantry: 240 volt, 3 phase, 22A electrical required. Final Roller: 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
Element
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.
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
TRUSS EQUIPMENT
• Gantry Roller (Steel Track on Floor)
• Steel Table with Kickleg Supports & End Stands
• Floor Truss Lengths to 40'
• Dual Clamping Jigs (Jig #1 up to 13", Jig #2 up to 24")
How to Measure Your Design Team’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Design teams are made up of people, and as we know, people can drive profits or create costly errors. When your design team is a mix of seasoned and newer individuals, and you add off-shore or subcontract service providers, understanding their individual skill levels becomes essential. Do you have experienced designers who keep making preventable mistakes? Or, do some of your 2+ year designers struggle to rise above tract or production home designs? The key to resolving these issues is testing and training.
Testing can include integrity assessments to gauge honesty and reliability, personality tests to evaluate cultural fit, and skills-based tests to measure what they know—and don’t know—about their assigned tasks and their potential for advancement. JobLine offers the latter (skills-based tests), and there are plenty of providers for the rest.
If you could only give one test to a truss designer or design manager, JobLine’s Truss Design Skills Evaluation would provide the most information for managing your design department or making a hiring decision. This test was developed by a team of industry experts—including technical support and engineering staff from multiple truss design software companies, as well as design managers, senior designers, and owners of truss companies already using some form of testing. Moreover, JobLine has continued to refine this skills evaluation ever since our first betatest in the mid-’90s. The result is a Truss Design Skills Evaluation that covers eight areas of skills and experience, with the average score providing the benchmark against which individual results are measured. This test measures
• Basic Skills
• Intermediate Skills
• Advanced Skills
• Truss Design Skills
• Truss Layout Skills
• Math Skills
• Truss Design Concepts
• Speed
• Years of Experience (two areas)
• Overall Score
Over the years, the evaluation has been revised to provide a wealth of information to employers when evaluating potential candidates and their team members. Thousands of individuals have taken it, and part of our measurement is to compare each test taker’s results to the industry average curve. The “Curve” shows how an individual’s nine skill/experience scores align with industry norms, helping us determine whether someone’s skills need improvement or if they have exceptional strengths in key areas that signal potential for advancement.
In addition, we’re currently developing a matrix that analyzes why specific questions could have been answered incorrectly. Sometimes, even experienced designers miss a basic-level question. Why they missed that question and, more importantly, which wrong answer they chose shows a trait. While the reasons assigned to wrong answers are subjective, they were assigned by highly experienced design managers who are familiar with our evaluation. Those subjective causes include Needs Basic Training, Lacks Attention to Detail, Rushing, or Missing Advanced Skills. While we can’t guarantee accuracy when using the new matrix, employers can opt-in to help us further validate the results.
Even designers with 5+ years of experience can do well overall, but their individual answers may indicate a gap in expertise, which could explain why they repeatedly make costly errors. Other times, someone may miss a question due to a lack of attention to detail—they might have selected a mathematically correct answer based on their assumptions but missed crucial information such as asymmetrical overhangs or heel heights. The wrong answer reflects rushing or neglecting details. The same question may have an answer that is an easy choice but absolutely wrong, indicating a lack of training.
What can you do with the information generated by the JobLine Truss Design Skills Evaluation? For starters, you should discuss any concerns with your design manager. Together, you can confirm whether the lack of a specific skill is causing issues and whether an improvement program should be implemented through internal training or online courses. If the evaluation shows above-average strengths in an otherwise average curve, you can consider the individual for further development and promotion. When evaluating a potential hire, you can use it as a tool, along with the resume or JobLine Candidate Profile, to evaluate competing candidates.
JobLine developed this test because we needed to verify the skills a candidate’s resume suggests. Early on, we experienced some disappointing failures when a candidate with many years of experience turned out to have the skills of a one-year designer, if that. For example, some individuals can manage to retain their job by excelling at designing tract homes or making minor changes to production builder plans, but that may not indicate deeper competency. Today, JobLine uses this evaluation to assess truss design candidates and show prospective employers how they measure up to the industry average. It’s given us a significant advantage in placing truss designers, and our employers expect to see this graphic in their presentation packages.
After almost 30 years, we’ve decided to offer this tool to the industry and have transitioned the evaluation to an online version. It provides the same testing and reporting capabilities as our legacy version and includes our “curve” graphic tools for identifying areas of strength and needing improvement. Although we will not be offering this service to individual designers at this time, starting in January 2025, we will offer this evaluation to industry employers for $145 per test. When you’re ready to measure your design team’s strengths and weaknesses, or if you would like more information, contact testing@thejobline.com or call 800-289-5627 x1.
NEW!
Terminailer
Price: $237,900
FOB: ND
The Terminailer all but shatters the stereotypical myth that sub-component 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, which reduces labor costs and other aspects of overhead.
The new Terminailer V.8 improves on the previous generation Terminailer in several key ways:
All new HMI/Software
• Siemens Pivoting HMI Touchscreen display to operate from either side
• On-screen tutorial for all menu items
Reengineered air system
• SMC “Soft–Start” Pneumatics
• Simplified air for control to all components: lift–cylinders, triggers, stop–gate, etc.
• Operator now controls functions such as process speed, nail spacing, nail patterns, etc.
• Simplified input commands
Nail Feed Complete Redesign
• All new frame to allow for redesigned nail coil placement with direct feed path
• EverWin PN90-PAL industrial tools now standard equipment
• New nail guides with spring-loaded tensioners
• Nail coils move with vertical travel of the nail guns
• Direct air supply to each nail gun for improved nailing performance
• All pneumatic elements are clearly labeled for EZ service and adjustment
• “Block–wheel” redesign for 3X increased applied force
• Approximately 1,200# of applied clamping force resulting in straighter finished
• Subcomponents from even the poorest lumber
• Larger doors for easier access to interior elements including coil–nail spools
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 its location can evolve as your shop evolves. With all of the nailing occurring in the closed main chamber, nail injuries and nail location misfires 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!
240 volt, 1-phase, 30 (full load) Amps, 60 Hz electrical required. 50 SCFM @ 120 PSI air required. Net weight 7,000 lbs.
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).
Eject
Travelmatic Model 1450 Double Jig System 100 ton hydraulic gantry with 15 HP motor, and two stage pump. Drives on four 8″ dia. steel wheels with two individual hydraulic motors on two drive wheels running on 60# crane rail. Gantry speed up to 300 fpm. (2) 7″ x 5″ hydraulic cylinders. Pressing platten 24″ x 14″, 2″ thick steel. Includes (10) 14′ x 3′ 5″ tables with 1/2″ thick drilled and tapped steel tops. 5 ejectors included. 240v, 3 phase, 100 amp power.
$87,990 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
• 14'-6" x 18" Diameter Rollers
• 10 HP Motor (240 Volt / 3 Phase)
• Front & Rear Safety Bars
• Video available upon request
$23,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
• 14' x 24" Diameter Rollers
• 208/230/460 Volt - 3 Phase
$38,900 FOB FL
Auto-Roll model is a 16 foot throat final roller with 24 inch diameter rolls powered by (2) 5 HP motors, 1 inch wall thickness, ¾” x 3” steel frame, 3 inch continuous shaft supported by four baffles and uses push-button controls. Includes dual-safety bars and chain and sprocket guards. Also includes 7 powered roller conveyors and 10 idler roller conveyors. 230 volt, 3 phase electrical service.
$44,990 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
2022 EstiFrame Wall Panel Processing Station with Container Housing
$148,995 FOB AZ
2022 EstiFrame Technologies model 120-016-ECA24-MP-TDM wall panel processing saw: EasyCut Angle 24 saw with 16’ material capability on the infeed side to a 10’ outfeed accumulation area (Right material IN to Left cut material OUT). Features a high-resolution inkjet printer, with optional top-down printer. EstiFrame utilizes an angulating upcut 24” saw blade that cuts up to 4 boards that can be optimized, pushed, cut, and printed on all at the same time. 0° +/- 76° cut angles. Capable of material sizes from 2×4 to 4×16; 6×14; and 8×8, including EWP square cut at 90°. Operator controls via a Dell computer utilizing a 24” touch screen display that works with all major design platforms. Software license is transferable with one-time payment direct to OEM. Includes (1) spare blade and all available spare print cartridges.
This state-of-the-art wall panel saw is installed in a modified 40’ high-cube (HC) shipping container with roll-up steel doors on three sides for ease of access and ventilation, including easily-stowed heavy-duty sun-fabric overhangs. Housing is completed with a high-efficient vacuum system including internal cleaning blade & remote control fob, electrical panels, air tank and a window a/c unit. 480 volt, 3 phase/120 VAC electrical required.
• 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
Excludes: Installation/Training and Annual Technical Support Fee EQUIPMENT FINANCING available from Fidelity Leasing
$249,000 - FOB AZ
Design Connections Finding Opportunities in the Mass Timber Movement
In my previous article, “Making the Most of Mass Timber,” I discuss what mass timber entails and why it may not be a good add-on for your existing light-frame component business. Even so, component manufacturers (CMs) need not be completely shut out of the benefits of the burgeoning mass timber market and the expanded use of wood in previously steel and concrete dominated markets.
The Benefits of Hybrid Mass Timber Construction for CMs
Mass timber, particularly glulam and cross-laminated timber (CLT), is quickly becoming a favorite in both residential and commercial construction. These materials are not only strong and versatile but also have a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional concrete and steel. Hybrid mass timber construction is an innovative approach to building that combines traditional wood framing – wall panels, light-frame wood trusses, EWP – with engineered mass timber elements like CLT and glulam beams. This construction method is gaining momentum, not just because of its environmental advantages but also due to the significant benefits it offers to various stakeholders in the building industry, including light-frame component manufacturers. This hybrid model allows for the best of both worlds: the speed and cost-effectiveness of light-frame components combined with the structural strength and aesthetic appeal of mass timber. By understanding the role hybrid mass timber plays in the broader construction market, CMs can tap into new opportunities and diversify their offerings.
Combining Strengths
For light-frame component manufacturers, one of the key benefits of exploring hybrid mass timber construction is the opportunity to diversify their market. Hybrid mass timber construction might include mid-rise buildings such as hotels, apartments, offices, or other occupancies. A recent plan I saw was for a six-story building with first floor commercial occupancy and five floors of apartments above with prefabricated light-frame wall panels, glulam structural frame, CLT and EWP floors, and a wood truss roof. Component manufacturers looking to benefit from mass timber’s popularity should be looking to align themselves with one or more mass timber producers so that they can supply the light-frame components. I would suggest having discussions well before any specific project is on your radar to establish confidence in your ability to be a part of the supply team.
Speed and Efficiency in Construction
Use of prefabricated light-frame components is a natural fit for hybrid mass timber construction. High-quality wall panels and trusses will work well with the precision and structural requirements of hybrid mass timber, and CMs are already skilled in interpreting engineering drawings to produce the products needed on site.
Joining the Movement
Hybrid mass timber construction is not just a passing trend—it’s a revolution that is reshaping the way we think about building materials and construction methods. For light-frame component manufacturers, this shift presents a significant opportunity to diversify their product lines, meet sustainability demands, improve manufacturing efficiency, and position themselves for future growth. By adopting hybrid timber solutions, manufacturers can become key players in the green building movement while enhancing their competitiveness in an evolving market.
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
The Industry-Leading Manufacturer of Panelized Wall Panel & Floor Cassette Equipment.
INTERIOR HAND FRAMING LINE
The Interior Hand Framing Line is ideal for customers that want to manually fasten wall panels by hand. This line is also compatible with those using plate-marking saws. This production line features Subcomponent Tables and Roller Conveyors and is a non-clamping line.
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
IBS Tilt Table
• 16' Length Capacity
• 7' to 12' Wall Heights
• Hydraulically Powered (3 Phase)
• Video available upon request $22,500 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
New 2022 Triad Mobile Framing Table
• 2022 Triad Mobile Diamond Quad Framing Table (never used)
• Wall Lengths up to 16', Wall Heights from 6'-9" to 10'-3"
• 2 Tool Dollies with Senco FP752XP Nail Guns
• Stud Locators at 16" and 24" Centers
• Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyors
• Squaring Stops
• Telescoping Hitch System (pivots out of the way when framing)
• 4 Down Riggers
• Not DOT certified (to be shipped to the jobsite and moved around)
• Video available upon request
$79,500 FOB HI
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.
DO SOMETHING BRILLIANT WITHOUT HAVING TO BANG YOUR HEAD AGAINST THE WALL.
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.
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
PNEUMATIC
The Panels Plus Tilt Table allows operators to easily access both sides of the wall panel. It offers an ergonomic design that pneumatically tilts the panel for easy access to either side of the wall panel. The Tilt Table is compatible with both wood and light-gauge steel wall panels.
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
This model can be stand-alone or integrated into a full production line.
BENEFITS
• Ergonomic design
• Single person operation
• Provides working access to either side of wall panel
Consider the BENEFITS of Membership
The MSR Lumber Producers Council (MSRLPC) represents the interests of machine stress rated lumber producers in the manufacturing, marketing, promotion, utilization, and technical aspects of MSR and MEL lumber. Suppliers, customers, and professionals may join as Associate members to enjoy:
• Online Marketing
• Networking Opportunities
• Reliable Market Data
• Education
“There is no question that the MSR Lumber Producers Council meetings are worth your time to attend. The information you will receive from the guest speakers and members of the Council is unparalleled!”
—Sean Kelly,
Automated Products Inc.
• Model SRDE6.5 Stock Reel
• Model RS35-4-12" Roller Straightener
• Model FR5-12 Feed Roll
• Hydraulic Press System with Three Feature Dies (36" Feeds)
• 22' Powered Entry Conveyor
• M odel 420 STR Rollformer (10 Forming Stations)
• Roll Tooling
• Beck Automation Controller
• Citronix CIJ Ink Jet Printer
• 3 5/8" and 6" R-Stud
• Coil Inventory
• Refer ence Uploaded PDF for Additonal Details & Layout
By MiTek Staff
THem-Fir (North) Allowable Design Value Changes
he National Lumber Grading Authority (NLGA) is the grading agency having authority over establishing lumber design values for Hem-Fir (North) lumber and conducting ongoing testing to verify the design values. The NLGA follows inspection and grading rules approved by the American Lumber Standard Committee Board of Review.
Hem-Fir (North) species includes the following species:
• Amabilis Fir
• Western Hemlock
Recently, the American Lumber Standard Committee Board of Review approved a reassessment report from NLGA with respect to Hem-Fir (North) lumber. The reassessment report recommended reducing some of the allowable design values with reductions roughly falling within the range of 5% to 15%. The table [see next page] shows current and reassessed design values. Highlighted cells indicate the magnitude and percentage of the design values that have decreased.
What Does This Mean?
The implementation date for this revision is April 1, 2025. The American Wood Council (AWC) will issue an addendum to the 2024 NDS Supplement when the new design values become official.
Component Manufacturers that use Hem-Fir (North) lumber will need to prepare for the impending changes. Components may be impacted by these changes. Members that once worked with the current values may now need to change when using the new lower design values. Please note Hem-Fir (North) lumber is different than Hem-Fir lumber and are regulated by two different grading agencies. The reductions listed here do not affect Hem-Fir lumber.
For additional information, or if you have questions, please contact the MiTek Engineering department.
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
Fit for purpose manufacturing facility in Jacksonville
We’ve expanded our global manufacturing capabilities with a new facility in Jacksonville, Florida. Our customers in America and Canada now benefit from even greater, local responsive service and support.
• 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.
$71,993 NOW $59,000
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.
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
By Emily Morris Frazier
Framing the Future: The Evolution of Moment Frames
The Earliest Moment Frame Connections
Approximately 150 years ago, steel framing revolutionized how buildings were constructed.1 The proportionately strong material compared to its weight and size led to larger and taller “high-rise” buildings. Initially rivet and angle connections were used to achieve the beamto-column attachment. Steel structures that used this system appeared to perform very well after earthquakes in the early 20th century in California (1906 San Fransisco, 1926 Santa Barbara, 1933 Long Beach, etc.). Advancements in connection design led to fewer pieces by incorporating bolts and welding. By the 1960s, welded moment frames gained popularity, and their use became more widespread especially in seismically active regions due to the engineering community’s belief that steel moment frames would behave in a ductile manner. But then, in the 1994 Northridge and 1995 Kobe earthquakes, the unanticipated damage due to fracturing of the welded joints between the moment frame beams and columns created a crisis of confidence around the structural engineering world. Often the fractured joints showed no outward damage, even though the building was visually out of plumb, leading to difficulty in identifying the fractured joints.
Why Are Prequalified Connections in the Code?
After the 1994 Northridge earthquake, it was observed that welded steel moment frame connections were not performing as expected.2 Widespread damage prompted a closer review of the connection details used for both special moment frames (SMFs) and intermediate moment frames (IMFs). This review highlighted the need for drift (± 0.04 rad for SMFs, and ± 0.02 rad for IMFs) to occur without significant loss in strength in the frames; and in order to ensure consistency, this performance requirement must be demonstrated through large-scale qualifying cyclic tests. The first prequalified connections were introduced in the year 2000 via FEMA 350: Recommended Seismic Design Criteria for New Steel-Moment Buildings. In the early 2000s, AISC assembled a panel of knowledgeable people to create the Connection Prequalification Review Panel (CPRP), which had the responsibility of qualifying IMF and SMF connections. Connections that met these performance requirements were included in the first version of AISC 358 Prequalified Connections for Special and Intermediate Steel MomentFrames for Seismic Applications, which was released in 2005. But how did we get here?
1 See also Structure Magazine, February 2019, “Welded Steel Moment Resisting Frames” by Ronald O. Hamburger, S.E., and James O. Mailey, S.E.; and FEMA 354/November 2000, “A Policy Guide to Steel Moment-Frame Construction” by SAC Joint Venture (SEAOC, ATC, and CUREe).
2 See also SteelWise article, November 2016, “What’s New with Prequalified Connections?” by Michael D. Engelhardt, Ph.D., and Margaret A. Matthew, P.E.
The First Code-Approved Moment Frame Connections
In the late 19th century, construction began to become more sophisticated as cities became more densely populated. The buildings that were once constructed of masonry and concrete began to grow vertically to use land more efficiently and still accommodate the growing population. The Home Insurance Building, constructed in Chicago in the 1880s, was the first steel moment frame building and is often considered the first skyscraper. In 1927 the first Uniform Building Code (UBC) was published to act as a guide and create consistency for the booming construction industry. While the 1927 UBC included steel moment frames, the code leaned heavily on the newly created American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). AISC was created in 1921 and released the first edition of the Specification for Structural Steel Buildings in 1923, but the design requirements were minuscule compared to today’s building code requirements.
As the design of steel moment frames matured, engineers in different areas of the country found success in different detailing strategies. For wind-governed regions, frames that were stiff and non-yielding were desired, with the focus on strength of the members and connections. In seismic regions, frames with higher ductility were desired to dissipate the sudden cyclic forces acting on the frame. The differences in detailing and design coefficients vary greatly between moment frames in wind regions (primarily ordinary moment frames, or OMFs) and moment frames in seismic regions (IMFs and SMFs).
Current Prequalified Connection Types and Brief Summary
Prequalified connections come in a variety of configurations, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and no one connection will be universally appropriate for all applications.3 Design engineers must evaluate the parameters and preferences most appropriate for each project, although it’s likely that they’ll develop general preferences based on common design considerations, cost, and fabrication and erection complexity. Prequalified moment connections can be simplified into weakened beam or stiffened beam connection types, often based on strong-column, weak-beam philosophy. AISC 328-22 Prequalified Connections for Special and Intermediate Steel Moment Frames for Seismic Applications includes the following weakened beam types:
• Reduced beam section (RBS)
• Welded unreinforced flange-welded web (WUF-W)
• ConXtech ConXL
3 See also FEMA 354/November 2000, “A Policy Guide to Steel Moment-Frame Construction” by SAC Joint Venture (SEAOC, ATC, and CUREe).
Formation of Plastic Hinge Zone
• SlottedWeb (SW) and the following stiffened beam connections:
• Simpson Strong-Tie® Yield-Link® moment connection (YLMC)
• B olted unstiffened extended end plate (BUEEP)
• Bolted stiffened extended end plate (BSEEP)
• Bolted flange plate (BFP)
• Kaiser bolted bracket (KBB)
• SidePlate
• Double-Tee
• DuraFuse Frames
With the Simpson Strong-Tie Yield-Link moment connection (YLMC), the energy dissipation and yielding occurs in the connection allowing both the beams and columns to remain elastic throughout the seismic cycles.
Simpson Strong-Tie Yield-Link Moment Connection (YLMC)
The current International Building Code (IBC) meets life safety standards, meaning that after a major event (earthquake, windstorm, etc.) the building will not collapse, allowing the occupants to escape.4 For densely populated areas, this standard saves lives during and immediately following the major event. However, it has the potential of leaving thousands of people unhoused and without water. In high seismic regions, policymakers have been calling for “better than code,” with the aim of shortening or eliminating the time between the major seismic event and reoccupancy so functional recovery can begin almost immediately. Functional recovery for infrastructure systems is defined as restoration of the system’s services needed to allow users to resume most of their pre-earthquake activities. The Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) uses the following definition as spelled out in a white paper published in December 2019: Functional recovery is a post-earthquake state in which capacity is sufficiently maintained or restored to support pre-earthquake functionality.
The YLMC dissipates energy through the yielding section of the moment connection links, allowing the gravity connections between the beams and columns to remain in place. This maintains life safety while allowing for repairs to the lateral system that do not require shoring, shortening the timeline for reoccupancy after an earthquake.
As the bolted, yielding, replaceable Yield-Link moment connection demonstrates, Simpson Strong-Tie is continually developing connections and systems to aid in the construction of safer, stronger, more resilient structures.
Yield-Link® Moment Connection (Integrated)
The article, Framing the Future: The Evolution of Moment Frames, appeared first on Simpson Strong-Tie Structural Engineering Blog. To sign-up to receive the Engineering Blog in your inbox, go to seblog.strongtie.com/subscribe.
4 See also Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) White Paper, December 2019, “Functional Recovery: A Conceptual Framework with Policy Options.”
-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
Used - 2014, R157 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer
Tandem Axles | Air Ride Suspension : Air Operated Load Control, Air Operated Pin Locks | Mesh Between Rollers | Beaver Tail | Strap Locks and Winches | LED Lighting | 11.4 Ton Self Contained Power | (1) Heachache Rack
$29,900 NOW $17,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com
Used - 2014, R156 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer
Tandem Axles | Air Ride Suspension : Air Operated Load Control, Air Operated Pin Locks | Mesh Between Rollers | Beaver Tail | Strap Locks and Winches | LED Lighting | 11.4 Ton Self Contained Power | (1) Heachache Rack
$29,900 NOW $17,500 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
Hydraulic Front End Sliding Tandems Roller Locks
Winches and Straps
Headache Rack
Tool Box
Several cross member have rust holes and need to be replaced
$12,500 Each or $24,000 for Both Trailers Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
$19,900 NOW $11,900 FOB PA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
Used - R158 Roll -Off Precision Trailer Tandem Axles | Air Ride Suspension: Air Operated Load Control, Air Operated Pin Locks | Mesh Between Rollers | Beaver Tail | Strap Locks and Winches | LED Lighting | 11.4 Ton Self Contained Power | (1) Heachache Rack | Available in October Call for Pricing Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com 2008 JDH Heavy Duty Stretch Roll-Off Trailer We recently put a new stretch trailer into use at our operation and are looking to sell our other trailer.
• Hydraulic Lift
• Sliding Tandems
• Spring Suspension
• Roller Locks
• Winches & Straps
• Headache Rack
• Tires & Brakes are Good
• DOT is current $22,900 NOW $18,000 FOB AL Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
SIDE-
10,000 Lb Tandem Axles (Dual Wheels). 26,000 GVWR. Deliver Trusses Vertically. Stretch from 18' to 38'. Raise Loads Hydraulically. Air Brakes. $6,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
2005 JDH Trussmaster 48' Roll-Off Trailer
• Hydraulic Front End
• Sliding Tandems
• Roller Locks
• Headache Rack
• DOT is not current
• Additional photos & video are available upon request
2 Available at $23,900 NOW $21,000 Each Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 36-51 ft Stretch Trailer (OR-1)
1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 36′51′ – Lakeside trailer features 5th-wheel connection, sliding tandem axle, locking rollers and hydraulic lift neck. Current DOT inspection September 2023. 50% brakes and 50% tire tread remains. 26,000 GVWR $28,997 NOW $24,997 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
Alpine Lumber Carousel
Alpine lumber carousel, model LCA 7000, 29-ft diameter footprint, (7) lumber stages, holds lumber up to 18′ in length (when overhanging adjacent stage). Includes 3 HP electric motor driving a self-contained hydraulic pump unit, toggle control, steel tubing construction, urethane-coated wheels with guards, steel base plates and center pivot assembly. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
$7,997 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
EMSI Teeter Cart
Width – 46” / Length – 73” / Load Capacity – 2850 pounds / Pneumatic tires – 14.5 inch / Maximum utility in truss plants, panel plants, and lumber yards / Quick Assembly by bolting parts together / All hardware is supplied / Upright 2 x 4’s not supplied / Medium duty tires rated at 1500 lbs each are included. Call for Price
Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.
612-521-9193
www.eidemachinery.com
Used - Quincy
NEW GALVANIZED STEEL STRAPPING
1 1/4" wide x .035 thick. $95 per coil. $1,900 per skid (21 coils). FOB PA. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
AMI Industrial Floor Carts
AMI's industrial floor trucks (material carts) are designed of hardwood construction, fitted with space-age phenolic, roller-bearing wheels, and ball bearing swivel casters for strength and durability. AMI's phenolic wheels resist shock without chipping. They are non-sparking, non-marking, and can be operated continuously between -50℉ and 260℉. They are unaffected by grease, oil or debris on your shop floor.
Series "B" AMI Industrial Floor Truck
Our swivel casters are precision built with perfectly aligned raceways. All cold-form parts are made to exacting tolerances from heavy-gauge steel, and are hardened for severe service and long wear. Series B-4 carts include four casters, one at each corner, to prevent "tri-cycling" of long lumber loads.
2005
(For Repair or Parts)
6 detection zones to locate missing plates. Horn & zone lights indicate missing plates. 12" to 60" adjustable height from floor. 110 Volt / 1 Phase. New control panel switches & lights in 2014. Needs circuit board repair or replacement and new tower light. Includes 4 extra detection zone boxes.
$2,500 NOW $1,500 FOB NE
Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
Hain 20' Powered Measuring System Adapts to Any Saw. Left or Right Hand Operation. Feet & Inches System (Stops at 12” Centers) or Inches System (Stops at 10” Centers). Motor: 1/4 HP Linear Actuator (110 Volt). Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4” Aluminum Extrusion. Stops: Jig Bored Steel. Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum. Optional Lengths from 5’ to 60’. Optional Gang Stop. Add $890 per 10’ Section of Heavy Duty Roller Conveyor with Stands $8,990 Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
Sweed Scrap (Band) Chopper with Stand
1/2 HP Motor (115/208-230 Volt)
$1,900 NOW $1,750 FOB NE. Wasserman & Associates
800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
Standard Models Available Max Load Weight (lbs.)
2748 27" x 48" Series "B" & "C" 2500
3248 32" x 48" Series "B" & "C" 2500
3260 32" x 60" Series "B" & "C" 2800
3660
4000
*Other models and sizes are available on request. FOB NC. Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
Koorsen Connector Detector
ACTUALLY, WE CAN SAY QUITE A LOT WITH LASER ACCURACY.
To see meaningful labor savings, quality improvement and production gains, SL Lasers with their easy-to-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.
productivity of any
New ASI Ink Jet Plate Marker
• Automated Wall Panel Parts Cutting & Marking as directed by Wall Panel Design Software Output
• 20' Roller Conveyor with Servo Motor Controlled Length Stop/Plate Pusher
• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor
• 24" Lenovo Touch Screen Computer (Windows 11 Pro OS)
• ASI Bas ic L Plate Cutting/Marking Operating Software
• 4 Head Ink Jet Plate Marker (marks 2 plates on edge)
FC Curtis CA Series Compresso FC Curtis model E-15 two-stage, piston drive, air compressor with dryer and 80 Gal. horizontal storage tank, 175 PSI, and 5 HP drive motor. Sold for $4,200 new. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
$2,495 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
• 110 Volt / 1 Phase
• Includes Onsite Installation & Training
• Excludes Saw & Dust Collector
• Approximately $50,000 USD with DeWalt Sliding Miter Saw including Freight, Customs Brokerage Fees & Installation
• Other Saw Options Include: Existing Saws, ASI Radial Arm Saw, Lauderdale Hamilton Up Cut Saw & Vista Angle Boss Saws
• Video available upon request
Hain 210" Powered Measuring System
• Powered (1 Phase) Measuring System
• Inches System (21 Stops at 10" Centers)
• 15' Roller Conveyor with Stands $6,225 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com
Electrical Supply: 110 VAC
Motor: 1/4 HP, 110 VAC, Linear Actuator
Highly Accurate: +/- .010 Inches
Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4 Aluminum Extrusion
Stops: Jig Bored Steel
Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum
Internal Components: Hardened, Ground and Polished Steel and Billet Aluminum
Dimensions:
Length: 5 feet (60”) to 60 feet (720”)
Height: 12 inches
Depth: 12 inches
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.
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
Alpine Lumber Carousel
• 7 Bunk Capacity (up to 12' Lumber)
• Pushbutton Control Station
• 10 HP / 3 Phase Motor
• In working condition when removed in August 2023
2017 Hain Sub-component Nailer SCN5 Hain SCN sub-component nailing station. This model SCN5 will eliminate cumbersome setup. There are no length limitations and the machine will work in “Just-In-Time” or “bulk” production plants. The setup is instant with a multiple position switch to assemble 2×4 & 2x6 corners, channels, trimmers, king jack stud, double-studs, or to any other configuration desired. The fully enclosed SCN is easy to maintain and filling the nail gun is simple and accessible. The machine is computer designed and is efficiently built using the highest quality materials. The pneumatic logic and advanced circuitry makes the machine accurate and failsafe. With easy adjustments and a one touch operation using a foot pedal, you will experience a dramatic increase in your productivity while working safely and can be producing sub components. Includes (2) Paslode model F350S stick-nailers with extended magazines, 10 foot long heavyduty infeed and outfeed roller conveyors with legs, skate-wheel outfeed transfer arms. 125 PSI air required (No electrical required).
$13,997 FOB AZ
Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
SL-Laser Model ProDirector 7 Projection System
Improved model ProDirector 7, green-color laser projection system from SL-Laser. Projects roof truss, floor truss and wall panel design images accurately onto building surface for faster setup and fabrication times. New employees are productive more quickly, with less training required. Each laser head provides 21′ projection length (at 15-foot ceiling heights). New model PD7 projector heads are smaller in size than previous models, have diodes that are easier than ever to swap out and maintain, and project an even clearer line onto the building surface.
System includes projector heads, cables, mounting hardware for attachment to customer’s structure, factory installation, training, and options for computer controls. Works with each connector plate manufacturer’s design software. Modular nature of the laser heads allows for easy future expansion of system length. 120 volt, 1 phase.
FOB NC Wood Tech Systems
765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
New Monet Power Deck Infeed Decks
Heavy-duty, 5-chain feed system to bring material to the infeed of the component saw. 16′ wide x 20′ long x 36″ high. Transfers 6′ to 20′ lumber lengths. Option for 6-arm Power Deck available at an additional cost. Features auto-feed advance, foot pedal override forward and reverse, variable speed control, double bearing construction, softstart and soft-stop and e-stop cable. Base price shown. 480 volt, 3 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. (Prices start at $31,000.)
Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
2002 Atlas Copco Rotary Screw Air Compressor
• Model GX11FF
• 15 HP Rotary Screw Air Compressor (230/460 Volt - 3 Phase)
• 13,443 Hours
• 51.7 CFM at 128 PSI
• 80 Gallon Tank
• Built-in Air Dryer does not work
• Includes separate 2012 Pneumatech AD-50 Air Dryer (1 Phase)
$4,250 FOB TX Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
2021 All Lift Stand-Alone Jib Crane
2021 All Lift 3-Ton floor mounted jib crane with 18-ft span, 16-ft reach and 10′-6″ working height, with a 360° rotating boom, this heavy-duty jib crane can provide service to large areas. All Lift jib cranes feature a heavy wall structural steel pipe mast with a 78″ diameter reinforced base plate, allowing for continuous alignment and minimal deflection. The rolled steel I-beam features a tapered flange for smooth trolley travel, and safety end stops at both ends of the boom. (must be mounted on a 4′ deep cement foundation with rebar). System includes an electric 3-Ton capacity hoist with a trolley connecting to a Panels Plus panel lift with 12′ wall height capacity. New, this complete system costs approx. $25,000 (with “soft costs” that included freight and install, approx. $30k total). 230 volt electrical required.
$19,997 NOW $11,995 FOB AZ
Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.co
2016
5-Bay
Ranger LRS, with (4) Magazines
2016 Ranger LRS designed to fit the MiTek Blade linear saw, includes (5) lumber carts, (4) lumber magazines, overall beam length of 50-ft with end column supports, footprint of 50′ x 52′. Pick head is screw-type. Includes light-curtain perimeter beam, operator’s console, perimeter safety fencing and rails for carts.
$81,995
2021 Triad Floor Cassette System
TRIAD GENERATION 3 FRAMING TABLE
Lengths to 76'
Powered Width Adjustment (6'-9" to 18'-3")
Joist Locators at 16", 24" and 19.2" Centers
Accommodates 2x8 through 2x12 Lumber, LVL, I-Joists & Open Web Floor Trusses
TRIAD STUD STITCHER WITH MATERIAL BRIDGE
Programmable Touch Screen
3 Tool Mounts on Each Side (Excludes Nail Guns)
Bridge Auto Return
4,000 Lb Capacity Material Bridge (joists, studs or drywall)
$339,000 NOW $289,000 FOB CO
TRIAD TRIDENT NAIL BRIDEG WITH ROUTER Programmable Touch Screen
3 Tool Mounts with Tilt Capacity (Excludes Nail Guns)
Router Mount (Excludes Router Motor)
Auto Sizing Plate Fire
Bridge Auto Return
Accommodates Horizontal & Vertical Decking
Needs replacement sensors
208 Volt / 3 Phase
New price was $481,488
Installation is available at additional expense
Champion Valve Plus Compressor
2023 Atlas Copco Compressor in Container Housing
2023 Atlas Copco type G7FF rotary screw compressor with internal dryer and external tank. Compressor capacity is 145 PSI, has a 10 HP motor, external air tank includes bleed valve and manual output valve. System comes contained in a custom shipping container with locking entry door, thermostat controlled electric fans, throughwall induction vent grills, interior lighting, electrical panel and utilities for a second compressor. Container size is 8′ width x 10′-6″ long x 8′-8″ height. Hours as of 19 September ’24 were 986. 480 volt, 3 phase / 120VAC electrical required.
$34,490 FOB AZ
Wood Tech Systems
765-751-9990
www.woodtechsystems.com
Champion Valve Plus – Reciprocating twostage compressor, model 7.5–V80E, with Eaton controls, 7.5 HP motor, 80 gal vertical tank, rated for 22 cfm @ 175 PSI. 208/230/ 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.
$2,495 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
2023 Triad Flow Through Component Nailer
• Assembles Trimmers, Partition Leads, Corners, Headers, Ells, Jack Studs
• 10' Infeed & 10' Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands
• Excludes Nail Guns
$19,900 FOB ON Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329
www.wasserman-associates.com
• 2 Each - 35' Span Gantry Bridges with 1 Ton Harrington Electric Hoists
• 20' Height
• Internal Electric Bus Bar (eliminates festoon system) $45,000 FOB AZ
MEP Racks
Overall, MEP racks are an essential component in modular construction, contributing to faster, safer, and more efficient building processes.
As you know, Triad MEP Racks (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing racks) are used in modular construction to streamline and organize the installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Here are some key functions and benefits of MEP racks:
Efficiency: By organizing the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems into a single, coordinated rack, installation becomes more efficient. This can lead to significant time savings on the construction site.
Space Optimization: MEP racks are designed to optimize the use of space within a building. They allow for the systematic placement of pipes, conduits, and ducts, reducing the need for additional adjustments and rework.
Coordination: MEP racks ensure better coordination among the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, reducing conflicts and interference between them. This coordinated approach helps in avoiding is.sues during installation and operation.
Safety: Making use of MEP racks in a controlled environment reduces on-site risks, such as accidents and exposure to hazardous materials, leading to a safer construction site.
Quality Control: Manufacturing MEP racks off-site allows for stringent quality control measures, ensuring that all components meet the required standards before being installed in the building.
A higher-end MEP Rack: 8 wall bays - 9 hydraulic work platforms (each 72 feet long)
2020 MiTek Canada Autoroll Splicer
2020 MiTek Canada Autoroll – Roll-splicer type with 2-button operation, air supply quick disconnect with air gauge, 10-ft idler roller infeed and 20-ft idler roller outfeed. Splices 2×3 and 2×4 lumber. Includes (5) racks for storing spliced lumber. 575 volt, 3 phase electrical required. 90 PSI at 5 CFM air required. $25,997 FOB ON
• Automated Big Red Tool Carriage with Four Large Coil Nail Guns
• 8' Home Table, 32' Column Capacity Assembly Table & 4' End Table
• Pop-up Conveyor for Column Removal
• Column Planer (top edge) with Chip Collector
• (5) Conveyor Stands with Automatic Column Stacker
• Column Stacking/ B anding Cart with
Flanged Wheels & Floor Track
• Finger Joint System with Jib Crane, Electric Hoist, Vacuum Lifter, Mobile Scissor Lift, Mobile Lumber Pusher, Finger Joint End Press & Chip Collector
• L ightly Used (approximately 200 columns since installation in Summer 2021) $195,500 FOB ND 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com
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
If you want an Independent Guide that has your bottom-line results as the #1 priority, Call Me. If the salesman will do - we'll talk later...
Also, don't let Financing Deals influence your best solution. FitzGroup can arrange – Zero down & No payments for 90 Days!
Please be assured that your investment with any of our selected partners will not cost one penny more with the Fitzgerald Group as your purchasing contact. In addition, you will receive the full advantage of our Partner Relationships and Services NOT offered elsewhere.
• 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!
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
• 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 MSRLPC website is a
to make informed purchasing decisions as well as those exploring design optimization with MSR Lumber. Check it out!
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
A PRIL 30 — MAY 2
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: Mercer Mass Timber
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!
Safety Meeting Topics
From State Fund CA.
Noise - Hear Today Gone Tomorrow
Most workers take good hearing for granted. Hearing loss can happen so gradually that it can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Then, even a hearing aid may not help. Some assume hearing loss is the unavoidable result of getting older, yet most hearing loss is due to noise over a lifetime. While loss of hearing may result from a single exposure to a noise or explosion, such traumatic losses are rare. Most cases of hearing loss begin gradually in frequencies slightly above that of human speech and then subtly spread to lower and higher frequencies. Hearing loss can disrupt job performance, cause stressrelated problems, increased heart rate, fatigue, irritability, tension and lead to unnecessary accidents or injuries on the job.
The workplace can be very noisy. Both the amount of noise and the duration of exposure determine the ability to damage hearing. Workers may be exposed to noise from many sources: equipment, vehicles, or tools, to name a few. Any of these things can damage hearing when exposure accumulates over extended periods of time. How can you tell if work is too loud and may be causing hearing damage? It’s too loud if:
Hoy Puede que Oiga, pero Mañana No
La mayoría de los trabajadores presuponen que tienen buena audición. Pero la pérdida de la audición puede ocurrir de manera tan gradual que a menudo éstos no se dan cuenta hasta que es demasiado tarde, cuando ya no es posible solucionar el problema ni siquiera usando audífonos. Algunos piensan que la sordera es el resultado inevitable de la vejez, aun cuando la mayoría de los casos de pérdida de la audición se debe a la exposición continua a ruidos, y no al pasar de los años. Si bien la pérdida de la audición puede ser el resultado de una sola exposición a un ruido o explosión, este tipo de traumatismo es poco frecuente. La mayoría de los casos de pérdida de la audición comienza gradualmente, afectando la gama de frecuencias ligeramente superiores a las de la voz humana, y más tarde expandiéndose a las frecuencias por encima y por debajo de la mencionada gama. La pérdida de la audición puede afectar el rendimiento del trabajo, ocasionar problemas relacionados con estrés, aumentar el ritmo cardíaco y causar fatiga, irritabilidad y tensión, los cuales conducen a accidentes y lesiones innecesarias en el trabajo.
En ciertos casos, el lugar de trabajo es muy ruidoso. Tanto la cantidad de ruido como la duración de la exposición determinan la probabilidad de las lesiones auditivas. Los trabajadores pueden estar expuestos a ruidos provenientes de muy diversas fuentes, como por ejemplo, equipos, vehículos y herramientas. Cualquiera de estas fuentes de ruido puede afectar la audición si la exposición se acumula sobre largos períodos. ¿Cómo se puede determinar si el ruido en el trabajo es demasiado intenso y puede ocasionar lesiones auditivas? El ruido es demasiado intenso si:
• Usted tiene que subir el tono de voz para que lo oigan.
• No puede escuchar a alguien que habla a menos de 2 pies (60 cm) de distancia a un tono de voz normal.
• Escucha sordas y apagadas las voces a su alrededor tras abandonar el área ruidosa.
• You have to raise your voice to be heard.
• You can’t hear someone less than two feet away without shouting.
• Speech around you sounds muffled or dull after you leave a noisy area.
• You have ringing in your ears after exposure to noise. What can employers do to prevent their workers from developing hearing problems?
Good planning can prevent problems caused by excessive noise exposure. Noise reduced at its source should be the first consideration. Employers should invest in noise-controlled equipment. When purchasing, employers can ask vendors if there is a "quiet" model or a noise-reducing option, such as enclosed or acoustically lined vehicular cabs and equipment. Work schedules can be adjusted so that exposure to high noise levels does not occur for the entire work day. This allows a noise recovery period to be part of the work shift. Equally important is the use of personal protection devices, such as ear plugs and ear muffs. Employers should provide training on the protection devices available and the effects of noise on hearing if workers do not use the protection. Training should include the fit, use, and care of any hearing protection device.
Employers can’t always prevent noise, but they can lessen the chance of workers experiencing hearing loss by having them follow established safety procedures and enforcing the use of proper hearing protection. Don’t risk losing a worker’s hearing on the job. Silence may be a great thing, but not when its permanent.
• Le zumban los oídos después de haber estado expuesto al ruido.
¿Qué pueden hacer los empleadores para evitar que sus trabajadores sufran problemas auditivos? Una buena planificación puede prevenir los problemas causados por una excesiva exposición al ruido. La principal preocupación debe ser reducir las fuentes de ruido. Los empleadores deben invertir en equipos que emitan un nivel de ruido moderado. Al realizar las compras de los equipos, los empleadores pueden preguntar a los proveedores si existe un modelo "silencioso" o una opción reductora de ruido, como por ejemplo, cabinas de vehículos y equipos cerrados o con revestimiento acústico. Los turnos de trabajo pueden ser ajustados de manera que la exposición a los niveles de ruido intensos no ocurran durante toda la jornada laboral. Así, parte de la jornada se utiliza como período de recuperación tras la exposición al ruido. De igual importancia es el uso de dispositivos de protección personal, tales como tapones y protectores para los oídos. Los empleadores deben ofrecer capacitación sobre el uso de dichos dispositivos y sobre las consecuencias a nivel auditivo que pueden sufrir los trabajadores de no usar este tipo de protección. La capacitación debe incluir la colocación, uso y cuidado del dispositivo de protección auditiva.
Los empleadores no siempre pueden impedir el ruido, pero sí pueden reducir la probabilidad de que los trabajadores sufran la pérdida de la audición, haciéndoles seguir los procedimientos de seguridad establecidos y exigiendo el uso de dispositivos de protección auditiva apropiados. No se arriesgue; un trabajador podría perder la audición a causa del ruido en el lugar de trabajo. El silencio a veces es muy agradable, pero no cuando es permanente.
The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should
are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to
implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies
CalENdar of EvENts
DECEMBER 2024
December 5 Truss Manufacturers Assoc. of Texas (TMAT) Chapter Meeting Austin, TX
December 11 BLD Connection Conference—2024 Nebraska La Vista, NE
December11–12 LBM Expo 2024 Uncasville, CT
December 18 SBCA – Arizona Chapter Meeting & Topgolf Glendale, AZ
JANUARY 2025
January 13–30 University of Minnesota Annual Institute for Building Officials Brooklyn Ctr, MN
January 14 BLD Connection Conference—2025 Wisconsin Wisconsin Dells, WI
January 20–22 Metal Construction Assoc. (MCA) Winter Annual Meeting Cape Coral, FL
January 22–24 AGC—The Construction Assoc. Safety & Health Conference Jacksonville, FL
January 28–29 BLD Connection—BizCon North 2025 St. Cloud, MN
FEBRUARY
2025
February 5–6 Bldg Mat Suppliers Assoc (BMSA) Learning Exchange & LBM ExpoHickory, NC
February 18–19 BLD Connection—BizCon South 2025 Altoona, IA
February 20 IDEAS Show 2025 King of Prussia, PA
February 20–22 Orgill 2025 Spring Dealer Market New Orleans, LA
February 24–26 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Leadership Summit 2025 Washington, D.C.
February 24–26 University of Texas Building Professional Institute (BPI) Houston, TX
February 24–28 EduCODE 2025 Las Vegas, NV
February 25–27 Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Convention Las Vegas, NV
February 25–27 National Assoc. of Home Builders (NAHB) Intl. Builders Show (IBS) Las Vegas, NV
MARCH 2025
March 2–4 Multifamily Executive (MFE) Leadership Summit Vail, CO
March 4–6 Ace Hardware Spring Convention San Antonio, TX
March 5–6 2025 Lean Summit Atlanta, GA
March 5–7 Southeastern Lumber Mfr Assoc (SLMA) 2025 Spring Meeting & ExpoSavannah, GA
March 6–8 Lumbermens Merchandising Corp (LMC) Annual Meeting Phoenix, AZ
March 10–12 LBM Advantage 2025 Annual Buying Show Lake Buena Vista, FL
March 10–13 North American Wholesale Lumber Association (NAWLA) University of Innovative Distribution Indianapolis, IN
March 11–13
CalENdar of EvENts
Structural Building Components Assoc. (SBCA) & National Framers Council (NFC) Open Quarterly Meeting (OQM) Charleston, SC
March 13–14 American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) Design & Build North Myrtle Bch, SC
March 16–18 True Value Reunion 2025 Denver, CO
March 18–20 National Hardware Show 2025 Las Vegas, NV
March 21–23 Do it Best Spring Market Orlando, FL
March 25–27 Atlantic Builders Convention (ABC) 2025 Atlantic City, NJ
March 25–28 2025 Global Forest Investment Conference Luxembourg City, LUX
March 26–27 PA Housing Research Center (PHRC) Housing Conference Harrisburg, PA
March 27–29 JLC LIVE Residential Construction Show Providence, RI
Don’t see your event? Increase attendance and participation by listing your industry focused events here! E-mail details and event web-link to Anna@componentadvertiser.org. We can’t guarantee space for all events, but all industry related events will be added on a space available and interest to our reader priority.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
NEWs
Simpson Strong-Tie Joins VCWF’s Hands On Tools Mobile Construction Training to Build Paradise, CA, Home
November 5, 2024, Pleasanton, Calif. — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, partnered with Valley Contractors Workforce Foundation (VCWF), the nonprofit arm of the Valley Contractors Exchange, to raise walls for a new home in Paradise, CA, on October 30. In 2018, the Camp Fire burned down 95% of Paradise and was the deadliest fire in California history.
Members of the Simpson Strong-Tie executive and senior leadership teams and other employees joined the Hands On Tools Mobile Construction Training (HOT MCT) instructor, trainees and VCWF staff on Wednesday, October 30, to build a new home for a long-time Paradise resident. The company also donated $10,000 toward the house build.
The build enabled Simpson Strong-Tie to demonstrate its commitment to two of its social impact pillars: Home Building and Repair and Construction Trades Education. The company is working with organizations across the country to actively engage and recruit more individuals into the trades as a career.
“Working side by side with young people who are learning a trade through the Hands On Tools Mobile Construction Training program was a rewarding experience for us,” notes Simpson Strong-Tie CEO Mike Olosky. “And the opportunity to put up the walls for a new home in Paradise, which was devastated by the Camp Fire, was very moving and inspirational.”
“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Simpson Strong-Tie,” said VCWF Executive Director Melissa Crick. “It is because of the support of organizations like Simpson Strong-Tie that we can continue rebuilding homes and communities while training the next generation of construction rock stars. Huge thanks to the Simpson Strong-Tie team for making our work possible.”
To learn more or get involved with the Hands On Tools Mobile Construction Training program, go to https:// vceonline.com/hands-on-tools/
NEWs
Simpson Strong-Tie Adds Three New Concealed Connectors for Mass Timber Glulam Columns
November 14, 2024, Pleasanton, Calif. — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, introduces three new connections for mass timber glulam columns: the MCT™ for column-tocolumn installations and the MCB™ and MCBS™ for column-to-foundation installations. Each offers a concealed connection for architectural aesthetics and fire protection.
The MCT mass timber column tie connects two columns together while allowing the vertical download to be transferred by column-to-column bearing. Its universal design allows the same connector to be used on a wide range of column sizes and is compatible with the Simpson Strong-Tie line of concealed beam hangers (CBH™, ACBH™, SCBH™, HSKP™), making it ideal for use in post-and-beam-style construction.
The MCB and MCBS mass timber column bases provide standardized connections between glulam columns and concrete foundations or supports. Of the two connection types, the MCB is the most economical option for use in conditions where a standoff between the column and the concrete is not required. Conversely, the MCBS provides the highest download capacity for a given column size and can be used where a standoff is required. Examples of when its use may be preferred include conditions where the top of the column’s foundation is located below the slab on grade or where additional separation between the wood and concrete is desired architecturally or for moisture protection.
“The new MCT, MCB and MCBS concealed connectors bring strength, simplicity and versatility to mass timber construction,” said Michael Weinert, senior product manager of Mass Timber and Offsite Construction for Simpson Strong-Tie. “Like our other mass timber solutions, these connectors can help build mass timber projects faster, easier and stronger than ever.”
For more information, visit go.strongtie.com/gcc.
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.
NEWs
Post-Election Economic Outlook
Posted November 14, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.
NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz recently provided the following economic overview in his bi-weekly newsletter Eye on the Economy.
The dramatic election victory for President-Elect Donald Trump and congressional Republicans reshapes the outlook for the housing sector and the overall economy. For example, equity/stock markets loved the result, expecting an improved regulatory environment and significant — if not, total — extension of the 2017 tax reform policies.
However, the bond market has deep concerns, with investors dumping bonds and pushing the 10-year Treasury rate from 3.6% in mid-September to near 4.3% at the end of last week. Bond investors are concerned about possible inflationary impacts from a larger federal government deficit and a move to tariffs.
And while the incoming Trump administration has been clear that deportation will be used to deal with illegal immigration, the scope and scale of this policy is unclear. It remains a significant wildcard for the economic outlook, with potential impacts on housing demand, labor supply and border issues. Greater clarity on all of these policy issues will be gained as Trump names key officials to staff his new administration in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, the rise in long-term interest rates has had a direct impact on the mortgage market. Counter to most forecasts, including NAHB’s, the average interest rate for a 30-year mortgage has increased from below 6.1% in mid-September to almost 6.8% last week. While this represents a significant hit to housing affordability, macro conditions remain solid. U.S. GDP expanded at a 2.8% annualized growth rate in the third quarter, albeit lower than the 3% rate from the second quarter.
The labor market is showing signs of strain. After some of the most significant job market data revisions in more than a decade, October job growth totaled a meager 12,000 in part because of major hurricanes and labor strikes. The unemployment rate was steady, at a low 4.1% reading. Home builders and remodelers lost 5,300 jobs in October as residential construction activity slowed, particularly in the apartment development sector. Over the last year, residential construction has added just 44,500 jobs. The total number of open, unfilled construction jobs declined to just 288,000 in September — another sign of weakening demand for construction labor.
We will get a reading of single-family builder confidence in just under a week, which will help get a sense of how builders are viewing market conditions over the next six months. Apartment developers continue to report mixed sentiment regarding the market. The latest NAHB Multifamily Production Index decreased four points from the previous quarter to a weak reading of 40, indicating more apartment builders are facing poor market conditions. However, the third quarter reading was two points higher than a year ago, suggesting the multifamily construction market could potentially stabilize later in 2025.
But the multifamily outlook, along with other housing and economic indicators, contains more uncertainty until the election results are finalized and what policies Trump intends to pursue at the start of his second administration.
NEWs
October New Home Sales Down on Higher Rates
Posted November 26, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.
Steadily rising mortgage rates coupled with ongoing affordability challenges kept many potential home buyers on the sidelines in October.
Sales of newly built, single-family homes in October declined 17.3% to a 610,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. The pace of new home sales in October is down 9.4% compared to a year earlier. October new home sales are up 2.1% on a year-to-date basis.
“The decline in new home sales highlights the pressures on prospective buyers who are navigating tighter budgets and higher borrowing costs,” said Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “The drop also reflects a slowdown in buyer activity amid broader economic uncertainty.”
“Higher mortgage rates, up 60 basis points in October per Freddie Mac, and elevated home prices continued to worsen affordability challenges,” said Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, NAHB’s assistant vice president for forecasting and analysis. “Despite these headwinds, which also include increased material costs for builders, new construction remains a vital part of the market, especially in areas with low existing home inventory.”
A new home sale occurs when a sales contract is signed, or a deposit is accepted. The home can be in any stage of construction: not yet started, under construction or completed. In addition to adjusting for seasonal effects, the October reading of 610,000 units is the number of homes that would sell if this pace continued for the next 12 months.
New single-family home inventory in October remained elevated at a level of 481,000, up 8.8% compared to a year earlier. This represents a 9.5 months’ supply at the current building pace. Completed, ready-to-occupy inventory is up 52.6% to a level of 116,000, compared to a year ago. However, that inventory type remains 24% of total inventory.
The median new home sale price in October edged up 2.5% to $437,300 and is up 4.7% from a year ago.
Regionally, on a year-over-year basis, new home sales are up 35.3% in the Northeast and 15.9% in the Midwest. New home sales are down 19.7% in the South and 1.3% in the West.
Builder Confidence Moves Higher as Election Uncertainty is Lifted
Posted November 18, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.
Builder sentiment improved for the third straight month and builders expect market conditions will continue to improve with Republicans winning control of the White House and Congress.
Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 46 in November, up three points from October, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today.
“With the elections now in the rearview mirror, builders are expressing increasing confidence that Republicans gaining all the levers of power in Washington will result in significant regulatory relief for the industry that will lead to the construction of more homes and apartments,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “This is reflected in a huge jump in builder sales expectations over the next six months.”
“While builder confidence is improving, the industry still faces many headwinds such as an ongoing shortage of labor and buildable lots along with elevated building material prices,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “Moreover, while the stock market cheered the election result, the bond market has concerns, as indicated by a rise for long-term interest rates. There is also policy uncertainty in front of the business sector and housing market as the executive branch changes hands.”
The latest HMI survey also revealed that 31% of builders cut home prices in November. This share has remained essentially unchanged since July, hovering between 31% and 33%. Meanwhile, the average price reduction was 5%, slightly below the 6% rate posted in October. The use of sales incentives was 60% in November, slightly down from 62% in October.
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 sub-indices were up in November. The index charting current sales conditions rose two points to 49, the component measuring sales expectations in the next six months increased seven points to 64 and the gauge charting traffic of prospective buyers posted a three-point gain to 32.
Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast increased four points to 55, the Midwest moved three points higher to 44, the South edged up one point to 42 and the West held steady at 41.
HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS (formerly housingeconomics.com).
Residential Building Wages Grow at Unprecedented Rate
Posted November 7, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.
Wages for residential building workers grew at a fast pace of 9.9% in September, following a robust 10.8% gain in August. These year-over-year growth rates in the past four months were unprecedented in the history of the data series since 1990. After a 0.3% increase in June 2023, the YOY growth rate for residential building worker wages has been trending higher over the past year.
The ongoing skilled labor shortage in the construction labor market and lingering inflation impacts account for the recent acceleration in wage growth. However, the demand for construction labor remained weaker than a year ago.
As noted in the latest Eye on Housing JOLTS blog, the number of open construction sector jobs fell from a revised 328,000 in August to a softer 288,000 in September. Nonetheless, the ongoing skilled labor shortage continues to challenge the construction sector.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics report, average hourly earnings for residential building workers1 was $33.51 per hour in September 2024, increasing 9.9% from $30.50 per hour a year ago. This was 19.2% higher than the manufacturing’s average hourly earnings of $28.12 per hour, 14.7% higher than transportation and warehousing ($29.21 per hour), and 8.1% lower than mining and logging ($36.46 per hour).
1Data used in this post relate to production and nonsupervisory workers in the residential building industry. This group accounts for approximately two-thirds of the total employment of the residential building industry.
INdustry NEWs Statistics Canada: Investment in Building Construction, September 2024
November 20, 2024 – Investment in building construction rose 2.1% to $21.6 billion in September, following a 0.2% increase in August. The residential sector increased 2.9% to $15.2 billion in September, while the non-residential sector edged up 0.3% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 6.7% in September.
On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction increased 1.6% from the previous month to $13.0 billion in September and was up 3.1% on a year-over-year basis.
Ontario drives growth in residential building construction
Investment in residential building construction was up 2.9% (+$433.4 million) to $15.2 billion in September. Increases were recorded in seven provinces and three territories, led by Ontario (+$232.1 million).
Single family home investment rose 4.0% (+$271.1 million) to $7.0 billion in September. Monthly gains were observed in seven provinces and two territories, led by Ontario (+$141.1 million). Investment in multi-unit construction increased 2.0% (+$162.4 million) to $8.2 billion in September. Increases in Ontario (+$91.1 million), Quebec (+$57.8 million) and Alberta (+$45.4 million) were moderated by decreases in six other provinces.
Non-residential investment edges up in September
Investment in non-residential construction edged up 0.3% (+$19.0 million) to $6.4 billion in September. The industrial component increased 1.3% (+$18.3 million) to $1.4 billion.
Commercial construction investment grew 0.4% (+$12.5 million) to $3.2 billion. Monthly increases were recorded in three provinces and one territory, with Ontario (+$19.4 million) leading the gains. These increases were tempered by decreases in seven provinces and two territories. Institutional construction investment decreased 0.6% (-$11.8 million) in September after reaching a record high in August. The decline was partially offset by gains in five provinces and one territory, led by Saskatchewan (+9.8% to $40.2 million).
Third quarter summary
Investment in building construction was $63.8 billion in the third quarter, up 1.7% from the previous quarter. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.5% in the third quarter.
Investment in residential building construction rose 2.2% to $44.7 billion in the third quarter, marking the fifth consecutive quarterly gain. The multi-unit component increased 4.5% to $24.3 billion, while the single-family homes component edged down 0.4% to $20.4 billion. Investment in the non-residential sector edged up 0.6% to $19.1 billion in the third quarter. Increases in the commercial (+1.0% to $9.6 billion) and institutional (+1.0% to $5.4 billion) components were partially offset by the decline in the industrial component (-0.8% to $4.1 billion).
For more information on construction, please visit the Construction statistics portal. For more information on housing, please visit the Housing statistics portal.
UFP Industries Announces Third Quarter Results
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Monday, October 28, 2024 – UFP Industries, Inc. today announced third quarter 2024 results including net sales of $1.65 billion, net earnings attributable to controlling interest of $100 million, and earnings per diluted share of $1.64.
“Our third quarter results were impacted by softer demand and broad-based pricing pressure which reduced our revenue and profit margins. We are managing through these ongoing challenges by operating more efficiently, aligning our overhead with lower demand levels and eliminating unnecessary costs. I am confident our teammates will respond appropriately to the changing economy while enhancing the pursuit of our strategic priorities. While we expect conditions to remain challenging as we move into 2025, we are well positioned to capitalize on opportunities when markets recover and remain on track to achieve our longer-term profitability targets,” said Chairman and CEO Matthew J. Missad.
“When the economy slows, it also creates opportunities to obtain more appropriate pricing on strategic acquisitions; invest in new products, automation and technology; and pursue organic expansion. We plan to leverage our strong balance sheet and free cash flow generation to pursue growth initiatives that drive ROI and expand our market share, while pursuing share buybacks when our stock is at an attractive level.”
“Finally, I want to give special thanks to our teammates in the southeastern U.S. for their dedication and perseverance after the recent hurricanes. Despite their own storm-related personal challenges, they worked long hours to make sure our customers were taken care of. They embody the UFP culture by also caring for their neighbors and communities and helping the UFPI Foundation identify charities to support in the hardest-hit communities where we operate. I am proud to be on their team.”
Third Quarter 2024 Highlights (comparisons on a year-over-year basis except where noted):
• Net sales of $1.65 billion decreased 10 percent due to a 3 percent decrease in organic unit sales and a 7 percent decrease in selling prices. The price of Southern Yellow Pine (SYP), which comprises approximately two-thirds of our lumber purchases, decreased 21 percent and contributed to the decrease in our selling prices.
• New product sales of $119 million were 7.2 percent of total sales compared to 7.6 percent in the third quarter of 2023. Many products that were considered new products in 2023 were sunset and not included in 2024 totals.In 2024, we also increased the margin threshold for new products, resulting in certain product lines no longer meeting our growth and margin requirements for the purpose of being categorized as new products.
• Net earnings attributable to controlling interests of $100 million represents a 26 percent decrease from last year.
• Adjusted EBITDA[1] of $165 million represents a decrease of 21 percent while adjusted EBITDA margin declined 140 basis points to 10.0 percent.
Builders FirstSource Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results
IRVING, Texas, November 5, 2024--Builders FirstSource, Inc. today reported its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024.
Third Quarter 2024 Highlights – All Year-Over-Year Comparisons Unless Otherwise Noted:
• Net sales were $4.2 billion, a 6.7% decrease, driven by lower core organic sales and commodity deflation, partially offset by growth from acquisitions and one additional selling day.
• Gross profit margin percentage decreased 210 basis points to 32.8%, primarily driven by ongoing MultiFamily and core organic normalization.
• Net income decreased 36.9% to $284.8 million, or $2.44 per diluted share compared to $3.59 per diluted share in the prior year period, which is a 32.0% decline in net income per diluted share. Net income as a percent of net sales decreased by 323 basis points to 6.7%.
• Adjusted EBITDA decreased 23.0% to $626.5 million, primarily driven by lower gross profit, partially offset by lower operating expenses after adjustments. Adjusted EBITDA margin declined by 310 basis points to 14.8%. Adjusted EBITDA margin has remained in the mid-teens or better for 14 consecutive quarters.
• Cash provided by operating activities was $730.0 million, up $80.5 million compared to the prior year period, while free cash flow increased 18.0% to $634.7 million, compared to $537.8 million in the prior year period.
• The Company repurchased 0.9 million shares of common stock at an average price of $176.73 for $159.7 million, inclusive of applicable fees and taxes.
As previously announced, Dave Rush is retiring as President and CEO of Builders FirstSource, effective November 6, 2024, after 25 years of dedicated service. Mr. Rush will remain on the Board of Directors and continue as a special advisor to ensure a smooth transition. “I’m proud of our resilient third quarter performance as we maintained a mid-teens EBITDA margin by leveraging our distinct competitive advantages and differentiated business model,” commented Rush. “Our six acquisitions during the third quarter reinforce our commitment to investing in value-added products to enhance our margin profile. I am confident in our ability to execute our strategy and drive long-term growth.”
“It has been a pleasure to serve alongside Dave, and I’m grateful that he will continue to be involved moving forward as an advisor and Board member,” commented Peter Jackson, incoming CEO. “I want to thank the Board for their confidence in Pete Beckmann and me to drive the BFS strategy, which will continue to be focused on growing value-added products and services, driving operational excellence, investing in digital solutions and innovation, and continuing to build our high-performing culture. Disciplined capital allocation is a true competitive advantage that creates shareholder value through opportunistic share repurchases and acquisitions that set us up to drive long-term growth. As a trusted partner to homebuilders, we are helping solve industry pain points with our best-in-class product portfolio and scale, industry-leading digital solutions, and an exceptional team dedicated to customer service. I am confident that we are well positioned to take advantage of the many opportunities in front of us.”
Visit the Builders FirstSource website for the complete press release.
NEWs
Do it Best Successfully Completes Purchase of True Value
Transaction creates the world’s largest network of independent home improvement stores
November 22, 2024, FORT WAYNE, IN – Do it Best announces the successful acquisition of True Value, a longtime competitor with a legacy brand that benefits both organizations. This monumental transaction represents a transformative milestone for Do it Best, True Value, and the entire independent hardware industry.
The acquisition brings significant assets to Do it Best, including inventory, brand rights, and paint manufacturing facilities. By acquiring these key resources, Do it Best is poised for substantial growth and increased capability to support independent retailers and bring operational stability to current True Value retailers, along with investment in the iconic brand.
Reflecting on the accelerated journey that began on October 14, Do it Best CEO Dan Starr acknowledged the hard work and dedication required to complete the acquisition.
“This has been a challenging process,” said Starr. “However, the shared commitment from our team and the True Value team has made today possible. We are now proud to be the world’s largest cooperative in our space, and that positions us to make a real difference for all our store owners.”
Starr confirmed that True Value will operate as a separate subsidiary, allowing Do it Best to maintain high-quality service while carefully integrating True Value’s operations. He emphasized this approach ensures a smooth transition and continued reliability for both Do it Best members and the newly welcomed True Value retailers.
“We’re excited to welcome True Value retailers and associates into the Do it Best family,” Starr added. “Our commitment to championing the independent retailer is at the heart of everything we do, and I know our True Value team joins us in this mission. This acquisition is about ensuring our collective success, now and in the future.”
The acquisition is expected to be transformational for Do it Best, with a long-term vision that goes beyond growth for its own sake. By leveraging new efficiencies, deepening vendor relationships, and integrating key assets, Do it Best aims to position the expanded cooperative for long-term success.
“This is a generational opportunity that will shape the future of our cooperative and our industry,” said Starr. “We’re focused on taking our time to get it right. We ask for patience as we integrate True Value and help everyone grow and achieve their dreams.”
About Do it Best
Based in Fort Wayne, IN, Do it Best is the only US-based, member-owned comprehensive and fully integrated hardware, lumber, and building materials buying cooperative in the home improvement industry. With annual sales of nearly $6 billion, Do it Best serves thousands of member-owned locations across the United States and in more than 60 other countries. For more information, visit doitbestonline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
Nation’s Best Acquires Burns Do it Center
Adds to store count in the Southwest
November 1, 2024, DALLAS, Texas – Continuing its rapid growth, Nation’s Best has acquired Burns Do it Center in Clovis, New Mexico, bringing its total location count to 64, and its second in the State.
“Burns Do it Center is known for its friendly and knowledgeable customer service, catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors,” says Tina Green, regional vice president of operations at Nation’s Best. “This beautiful, 30,000 sq. ft. store boasts a diverse product mix with broad appeal, as well as High Plains, an on-site gun shop. We couldn’t be happier to welcome them to the Nation’s Best family.”
Originally founded in 1888, Burns Do it Center is a one-stop shop serving a community of 40,000 people. Known as “so much more than a hardware store,” their extensive plumbing department has experts ready to help. With a wide array of products across multiple categories, they’re able to assist customers with any type of project. Their design center features top flooring brands and a wide selection of cabinetry to complete a bath or kitchen remodel. Green adds, “Currently, Burns Do it Center offers convenience lumber, but we see an opportunity to grow the store’s offerings even further. We will consider adding a more robust selection—a full lumber and building materials operation to draw more contractor business.”
Owner and longtime industry veteran James Burns will stay on, including the rest of the Burns Do it Center and High Plains gun shop staff. As part of Nation’s Best strategy, Burns Do it Center and High Plains will maintain operations under its existing names. Its teams will continue overseeing company operations alongside Nation’s Best, providing the strategic and financial support necessary to drive optimal growth and profitability. Nation’s Best will also lease back the property from Mr. Burns, an approach they’ve found favorable to both parties. “We’re very excited to work with the Burns team and offer them the rich benefits we’re known for,” says Green.
About Nation’s Best
Nation’s Best Holdings, LLC was founded in 2019 and currently owns and operates a growing number of locations across the United States. Nation’s Best is committed to identifying and acquiring best-in-class independent home improvement stores to ensure their continued relevance as vibrant community resources. To learn more, visit nationsbest.net.
84 Lumber Honors Veterans Day by Contributing to Veterans and Military Organizations
EIGHTY FOUR, Pa. (Nov. 8, 2024) – In observance of Veterans Day 2024, 84 Lumber, the nation’s leading privately held building materials supplier, is proud to support organizations dedicated to assisting military members and their families. This year’s initiatives reflect 84 Lumber’s commitment to honoring the service and sacrifices of veterans, both within the company and throughout the nation.
“As a company that believes in supporting, honoring, and hiring our military veterans, 84 Lumber is honored to give back in ways that are meaningful and supportive,” said 84 Lumber owner and CEO Maggie Hardy. “These initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to giving back to those who have or are serving to defend our freedom and our nation.”
Highlights of 84 Lumber’s contributions include:
• Donation of Operation Appreciation shirts – 84 Lumber will donate 100 of its Operation Appreciation shirts to veterans receiving care at the Pittsburgh VA Hospital, where they will be distributed on Nov. 11, 2024.
• Presenting Partner of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ Military Appreciation Game – 84 Lumber is the presenting partner of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ Military Appreciation Game on Monday, November 11, 2024.
• Supporting Operation Gratitude’s care packages – The company will contribute 250 custom-branded yo-yos to Operation Gratitude’s November 2024 care packages, helping Americans express appreciation to military and first responders. Since 2003, Operation Gratitude has delivered over 4 million care packages.
• Providing 100 U.S. flags to Fisher House Foundation – Continuing its partnership with Fisher House, 84 Lumber will donate a U.S. flag to each Fisher House facility, which provides free lodging to the families of veterans receiving medical care. A personalized thank-you card will accompany each flag.
• Contribution to Operation H.O.M.E. – 84 Lumber is proud to donate $10,000 to Operation H.O.M.E., an organization that reunites military members with their families during the holidays. This donation will allow five soldiers to return home and spend the holidays with loved ones.
• Honoring veteran associates – 84 Lumber will recognize the service of three veteran associates.
• 84 Lumber Guests on the Builder Nuggets Podcast – 84 Lumber’s Director of Multifamily Homes Jason Hinsken – a U.S. Marines veteran, and the company’s Director of Talent Acquisition Joe Jena, will guest on the Builder Nuggets Podcast, scheduled for release on Nov. 5, 2024, as they discuss hiring veterans and how veterans can make the best employees.
These initiatives reflect 84 Lumber’s appreciation for the dedication of service members and their families, honoring their contributions this Veterans Day.
INdustry NEWs US LBM Foundation Golf Tournament Raises More Than $2.75 Million
Funds raised will benefit a variety of causes nationwide, supporting veterans, children-in-need and storm impacted communities
FRISCO, Texas, October 29, 2024--The US LBM Foundation, the charitable nonprofit organization of US LBM, one of the nation’s leading distributors of specialty building materials, raised more than $2.75 million at the eighth edition of its charity golf tournament, which was held at the Omni PGA Frisco outside of Dallas on Oct. 22.
The funds raised by the tournament will support several organizations, including the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program, which builds specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans. In attendance at this year’s event were three recipients of R.I.S.E homes, retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Nick Kimmel, retired U.S. Army Captain Jake Murphy and retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Patrick Scrogin, whose R.I.S.E. home outside of Chicago was built earlier this year, in part with support from US LBM and the US LBM Foundation.
Additional recipients of funds raised by the golf tournament include the United Heroes League, which provides children of military service members access to youth sports, the David Foster Foundation, which promotes and supports organ donation for children in need, and Team Rubicon, which provides immediate and long-term disaster response aid to cleanup and rebuild storm impacted communities.
Since it was established in 2013, the US LBM Foundation has donated more than $5.5 million to support charitable organizations across the country.
“At US LBM, we’re proud to help build communities every day, and we’re equally proud of the community of giving we’ve been able to build with the supporters of the US LBM Foundation and our golf tournament fundraiser,” said US LBM President and CEO L.T. Gibson. “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our partners, which lets us continue to make a positive impact on the lives of so many, including our veteran heroes, children-in-need and people impacted natural disasters.”
The US LBM Foundation
The US LBM Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in communities across the United States. The Foundation was established in 2013 by US LBM, a leader in the building materials industry, to help fulfill the company’s mission of giving back in the communities where it operates. The US LBM Foundation supports causes and organizations through financial and in-kind donations that address critical community challenges, including economic development, housing, health care and human services. For more information, visit uslbmfoundation.org
About
INdustry NEWs
Bliffert Lumber’s Pink Truck: A Colorful Journey Supporting Local Breast Cancer Patients and Cancer Research
It’s not every day that you spot a pink flatbed truck cruising down the road, but “Pinky,” the Bliffert Lumber pink truck, is more than just a vehicle—it’s fulfilling a mission. For every mile it travels, twenty cents goes toward supporting local breast cancer patients and vital research.
The journey began in 2019 when Bliffert Owner Eli Bliffert and Manager Chris Hegeman decided to expand the company’s commitment to breast cancer awareness. “Bliffert has had a partnership with Susan G. Komen for quite some time, but we wanted to help more and make a unique difference in our community,” said Hegeman. “The idea of having a truck that serves a greater purpose came up, and we reached out to Lakeside International Trucking to see if they could help.”
Lakeside International Trucking was able to help Bliffert Lumber bring that vision to life. In addition, the trucking company agreed to contribute a donation match up to $2,500. “When we first learned about Bliffert’s commitment to the Susan G. Komen organization, we knew we had to get involved,” said Lakeside International Trucks Director Cassidy Sommer. “Over the past five years, our collaboration has not only raised awareness but has also united our community in the fight against breast cancer.”
Since hitting the road, the pink truck has helped Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks raise $21,547. This year, they proudly presented a $6,060 check to Susan G. Komen. “We are so humbled and appreciative of the support provided by these two generous local businesses,” says Komen Wisconsin Executive Director Nikki Panico. “Their big pink truck is absolutely a community hero!”
This year, Bliffert Lumber also developed an employee-driven donation campaign to help raise funds. “We had a total of 33 team members sign up to participate in the More Than Pink Walk, and another 45 contributed funds toward the campaign,” shared Bliffert’s Marketing Communications Specialist Eloissa Heigl. Unfortunately, the 2024 walk was canceled due to inclement weather. Nevertheless, Bliffert’s team was able to contribute an additional $2,770 in employee and community donations.
According to Development Director Robin Luther, Komen’s work in the community is only possible because of the businesses, organizations, teams, and individuals who join in the local fight against breast cancer. “We can’t overstate our appreciation for the long-term support Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks have provided to Susan G. Komen in Wisconsin. Their enthusiastic fundraising, team building, and sponsorship combine to make a meaningful impact in our community.”
While Breast Cancer Awareness Month ended on October 31st, Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks will continue to have Pinky travel throughout Wisconsin year-round. “This is just what we do at Bliffert. We love our community, and we want to give back,” explained Hegeman. “Breast cancer has affected many of us. We’re proud to give back and encourage the community to do the same if they are able.” Community members interested in supporting the Susan G. Komen Foundation can learn more by contacting Robin Luther at rluther@komen.org.
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
Under the direction of the Design Manager, the Structural Designer at FrameTec is responsible for creating structural designs and project estimating for Camp Verde, AZ Operations (FrameTec Alpha). You will be part of a team of Structural Designers responsible for the complete design of structural framing components (wall panels and trusses), lumber and hardware estimates and turnkey framing bids. You will be part of the team that creates the front-end design and quoting process for FrameTec Alpha, including estimating, pre-construction coordination, value engineering and quality control. This position requires both technical design and estimating.
General Manager - Truss Division 24-1002
Posted on Wednesday, October 02, 2024
Employer: Honsador Truss
Manages 3 Truss locations throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Responsible for the branch business results, including sales, profit margins, inventory, expenses and ultimately the profitability of the branches. Directs and coordinates activities of the organization to obtain optimum efficiency and economy of operations and maximize profits by performing the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors.
Senior/Lead Designer 24-0902-1
Posted on Monday, September 02, 2024
Employer:
Con-Tech Building Components
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???
Contact Keith Parker at 612: 239. 1089
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 & 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
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. If career growth is important to you, we not only know how to help you with that, it’s what we love to do.
Attention Off-Shore Designers
Place your ad here In the Hiring Zone
Subcontract Designers Available Section
Single Contract Designers Only
List your Contract Design Service Here Contact
Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.com
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
Employer to Candidate Direct Hiring No Recruiting Fees!
Post your Opportunity... Candidates respond directly to you! For Additional Information Contact: twm@componentadvertiser.org or Call 800-289-5627 x1 For Rates and Posting, visit our website: www.componentadvertiser. com/Hiring-Zone
Maximize production with integrated off-site technologies
Increase the productivity of your component manufacturing operation with the latest off-site solutions and prefabrication technology. From software that manages many aspects of your business to machinery that maximizes your output, MiTek is committed to the growth of your business and the industry. Together, we’re unlocking the power of off-site construction. Together, we are innovating to meet the needs of an evolving market. Are you ready to maximize productivity of your operation? Talk to a MiTek Representative to get started.
MII.COM/CM
Joe Kannapell, P.E.
DTheLastWord
Rural Cousins in the Truss Business
— Finding Their Niches
uring the challenging 1980s, gutsy cousins Larry Rogers and Dickie Vail tackled truss plant ownership. Larry put his savings on the line in 1981 and with an SBA loan began Rogers Manufacturing Co. (RMC), not far from where he had worked in northeast Louisiana. Dickie relied mostly on backing from his partner, John Coker, and with financing from a Savings and Loan (S&L) began Coker-Vail Components (CVC) in 1984, not far from the oil fields of south Louisiana.
CVC initially thrived on the apartment work that sprang from skyrocketing oil prices and was later supercharged by lenient S&L lending practices. Even though oil prices had begun drifting downward in 1981, they remained stubbornly high. Then, with little warning in early 1986, Saudi Arabia drastically increased their oil shipments, tanking prices and disrupting oil-related construction activity, including much of CVC’s business.
While the oil shock subsided somewhat in the late 1980s, an even greater shock rocked the entire construction industry, and devastated CVC’s apartment customers. The speculative lending that financed the massive over-building of houses and apartments had turned into the financial collapse of the S&L crisis. With thousands of completed units standing empty, and thousands more in the pipeline, new residential construction and even some work in process was halted. After Dickie had expended multiple 100-hour work weeks trying to sustain his business, he finally realized what none of us in the oil belt wanted to realize, that few if any housing units would be needed for the next several years. But, when CVC’s customers began sending them blueprints for out-of-state projects, Dickie saw that deliverance could be at hand in the bountiful markets around Washington, D.C. So, that was where CVC and many of us decided to go to find work.
After enduring the excruciating pain of losing all their Hammond, LA property to bankruptcy, Dickie and John Coker moved 1000 miles east to Virginia to start anew. They selected a location where costs were reasonable and that was close to multiple pending apartment projects like Hammond had been. They scraped together enough funds to secure a lease on an 8500 sq. ft. building in a rural suburb of Richmond, VA and bought only a minimal amount of equipment. Since they couldn’t afford equipment to build roof
trusses, they resorted to handmade wood tables, which would considerably increase labor effort and burden them with large outlays for nails. However, Dickie was able to quickly fill the plant with orders from former customers who had emigrated from Louisiana. I became a regular floor truss customer of Dickie’s in 1989 before I purchased a floor machine for my plant which was an hour away, and I witnessed a beehive of activity.
Larry Rogers also felt the impact of the sharp decline in housing starts during the 1980s but, as he recalled recently, he had survived this period by constantly diversifying his business. That included reaching further geographically to supply government-subsidized single family housing, commercial projects, some agricultural work, and out-of-state apartments. Fortunately, he was able to recruit Glenn Edwards, a sales pro with 15 years of industry experience, to spearhead this effort. Glenn was able to secure multifamily work as far away as Nashville and Indianapolis, enabling Larry to double the size of his facility.
These intrepid truss plant owners from rural Bastrop, LA faced much improved economic conditions as they began the 1990s. However, there was trouble in the East. The apartment developers from Texas, like the ubiquitous Trammel-Crowe, who had been loyal to Dickie, were barraged with bids from major apartment-oriented truss companies. Trussway in Fredericksburg, VA, for example, was a well-oiled, Dick Rotto-driven machine only an hour from CVC. Just as close was the highly competitive Truswood plant owned by Richard Watts. Dickie had little chance of success when his crews were shooting nails into topside plates to hold trusses together, manually flipping them, nailing bottom side plates, and hand feeding them through finish rollers. Not only was this a laborious process, but the cost of nails grew to be thousands of dollars per month. To keep up with the dizzying pace set by builders was nearly impossible. And payments from CVC’s customers were often held back, when funds were needed to pay workers and suppliers. Finally, in the fall of 1990, a totally exhausted Dickie ran out of cash, driving him into his second bankruptcy and near despondency. In retrospect, however, Dickie realized his failures had been a Godsend. In his mad dash to survive, he had strayed from his Faith, and he believed God had humbled him. So, he proceeded to dissolve Coker-Vail Components, and instead turned back to his family and prayed for his deliverance.
Fortunately, Dickie didn’t have to wait long for his redemption. While trying to sell some of his equipment, Dickie inadvertently met Carroll Shoffner, a surprisingly unassuming man. Shoffner owned more than a dozen truss plants, and normally wouldn’t have talked with Dickie, but was looking to expand into Dickie’s former market area. Impressed with Dickie’s determination in the face of adversity, Shoffner hired him as a salesman, restarting his career in a capacity for which he was well prepared.
Meanwhile, Larry Rogers had managed to significantly diversify his sales, enabling him to double the size of his facility by 1992. Then, in 1994, Derek Moody, a mechanical engineering graduate, just happened to drive by RMC while in the process of moving back to his hometown of Monroe, LA. Fortuitously, Derek had just completed a two-year stint in Alpine’s Florida engineering office and was open for opportunities with a hometown truss plant. When Derek approached him, Larry asked him why he wasn’t already working at RMC and hired him immediately. Having a good staff and having had good success with out-of-state work, Larry decided he needed to have a plant closer to the source of that work.
