September 2024 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine by Component Manufacturing Advertiser

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry S The

“Harnessing Data: The Key to Advancements in the Structural Building Industry”

Cover story by 4Ward Solutions Group

What can 4Ward Offer you?

CONSULTING

Develop a ROADMAP that guarantees a smart path forward.

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

Identify CAPABILITY GAPS to optimize your operations

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

4Ward

DESIGN

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

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

ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS

HIGH-END AUTOMATION

MODUCORE

SUPPLY CHAIN PRODUCTS SMART FACTORY DEVICES

A

Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: Articles, Ads, and Tales from The Advertiser

Joe Kannapell:

Wall Panel Technology, Part VI: Panel Equipment Innovations

Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: Experience High Output Roof Truss Production with a Roller Plant

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: Why Are So Many Companies Unknowingly Losing Millions?

Glenn Traylor: Are You Interpreting Member-toMember Gaps Correctly?

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. –LimTek Solutions: To Cull or Not to Cull (at the Saw)

MiTek Staff: MiTek to Showcase Innovative Solutions at BCMC | FS 2024

The Panels Plus Team Transform Your Production With Panels Plus

Carl Villella – Acceptance Leasing: Equipment Finance Companies to the Rescue

Ben Hershey – 4Ward Consulting: Harnessing Data: The Key to Advancements in the Structural Building Industry

John Holland – Paragon Innovation Through Legacy: Transforming Truss Design with Paragon

Greg Bates – West Fraser Insights and Innovations in Component Manufacturing

Thomas McAnally – The JobLine: Is Customer Service Still Important?

Geordie Secord – Design Connections: The JobLine in Canada, eh

MiTek Staff: Allowable Plate Embedment Tolerance

Karissa Louie – Simpson Strong-Tie: Celebrating Do What You Can Day: Our Partnership with ACE Mentorship

Joe Kannapell – The Last Word Material Handling Bunk-to-Table

Triad's proprietary (Patent Pending) Ai means:

•Your operatordoesn't wastetimetelling themachine whatkindofsubcomponentisbeingbuilt,

• ORwhatsizedimensionallumberisbeingused,

• ORwhatnailpatterntoswitchtoor toolgunstouse.

•Youcanswitchfrombuildingonetypeofsubcomponent toanother instantly!

•Just-in-time subcomponentsarenowareality -OR batchbuildsubcomponents--yourchoice!

Triad's unique outfeed conveyor:

• Cansendfinishedsubcomponentsinany oneof threedirections: Left, Right, orDowntheline.

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

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry S

New & Used Equipment

Saws

Sections

Inside

Truss Equipment

Panel Equipment

Trucks & Trailers

Misc. Equipment

Modular Manufacturing

Door | Stair | Window Equipment

Safety First

Calendar of Events

TheJobLine - Jobs & Candidates

Industry News

Published Monthly

Publisher Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.org

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

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

4Ward Solutions Group

Acceptance Leasing & Financing

Acer, Inc

Akhurst Machinery

All Points Technical Alpine

BuyMetrics

Clark Industries, Inc.

Eagle Metal Products

Eide Integrated Systems, LLC | ProCut, LLC

Element Equipment

Fitzgerald Group oist

HOLTEC USA

Hundegger USA

LimTek Solutions

MiTek

Panels Plus

Paragon

ROGworx Automation

Simpson Strong-Tie

Spida USA

The Hain Company

JobLine

Timber Products Inspection

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC

Triad | RUVO | Merrick Machine

Vekta Automation

Wasserman & Associates

West Fraser

Wolf X Machina

Wood Tech Systems

109,112,113,115,118,119,121,125

News of Interest and Advertising inquiries can be submitted to: anna@componentadvertiser.org

An Open Forum for many sources. Deadline 20th of each month. Articles, Trade Names, and Logos are the property of their respective owner or creator unless otherwise noted

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

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

Component Manufacturing Advertiser

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

Archive Copies Available On Line www.componentadvertiser.com

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

MAdvertiser F Forum

Articles, Ads, and Tales from The Advertiser

y July column, What’s in The Advertiser’s Forum?, reiterates that our monthly issues contain content that our authors and advertisers would like to submit, rather than designating particular topics or themes each month. But that doesn’t stop some themes from appearing!

Are You Ready for BCMC Milwaukee?

If it’s September, it’s time to talk BCMC! This year’s Building Component Manufacturers Conference will be held October 7–11 in Milwaukee, WI, and many of our advertisers will be there. To help you start making plans, you’ll find booth numbers in several of the ads, and we also have some articles and a press release that share additional details. Be sure to reach out directly to any of our advertisers if you’d like to learn more from them before, during, or after the show. And of course, if you’re not going to Milwaukee, you’re still welcome to contact all of our contributors!

Introducing “Truss Tales”

Savvy visitors to our website also will have noticed a new feature this year, Truss Tales. Created in the spirit of a blog, Truss Tales is a place for stories and posts on the truss and components industry. Joe Kannapell has posted several great tales there, including “Three-Generational Appeal of the Component Industry,” “Two Tales: Survival or Not in the Component Business,” and “I-Joists or Floor Trusses? Ask a Framer.” If you have any suggestions or requests for this venue, simply let me know.

Your Content, Our Forums

Whether you have a quick update, a long story, a fantastic photo, or something you would like to sell, The Advertiser will have a space for you. We welcome all relevant content, and we can help you as you spread the word. Thanks for reading!

Monet DeSauw FWA 500 Floor Web Cutter

• Push Button Powered Blade Angulations

• Single Push Button Setting for 2 Blades per Side

• Electronic Digital Readouts

• Backup Mechanical Indicators

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

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

• 60 Pieces per Minute

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

• Pneumatic Blade Brake on External Blade

• Dust Hoods

• Belt Waste Conveyor (under saw)

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

• Add $2,100 for Extra Set of Blades

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

FOBMO Call For Pricing

Linear Saw

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

• All Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

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

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

• Cut Long Scarfs by MultiPlunging

• Servo Positioning on Infeed, Angle & Outfeed Pusher

• Over Travel Protection

• Ink Jet Printer

• Lumber Optimization Program

• Belt Waste Conveyor

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase / 60 Amp

• Includes 5 Day Onsite Installation & Training

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

DeSawyer

2000 Automated Saw

• Touch Screen User Interface with Backup Mechanical Controls

• 3 Operating Modes: Auto, SemiAuto & Manual

• All 20 Axes of Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• Anti-Collision & Optimizing Programming

• Auto Calibration Productivity & Time Tracking

• Maintenance Diagnostics

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

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

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

• Pneumatic Blade Brakes on all 5 Blades

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

• Vibrating Waste Conveyor Under Saw

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Includes 4 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Add $2,900 for Extra Set of Blades

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

Call For Pricing FOB MO

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

Monet DeSauw DeRobo

Monet DeSauw

EZ-SET AUTO JIGGING EXCLUSIVE & PATENTED DESIGN

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

FEATURES / APPLICATIONS

• Capable of 100% On-Table Nail Plate Embedment

• Two Pucks Per Slot

• 24", 26", and/or 30" Spacing

• Compatible with all current major design software

• Multiple Simultaneous Layouts

By Joe Kannapell

Wall Panel Technology, Part VI: Panel Equipment Innovations

As automation and robotics are increasingly embraced, it makes sense to review examples of successful implementations from the pioneers of past systems. Interestingly, the first successful fully automated component assembly in the U.S. involved wall panels rather than trusses. However, in many ways, panel lines are more complicated than truss lines because they involve more steps. But, because the main component equipment manufacturers were primarily focused on selling equipment that used truss plates, they largely neglected panel equipment, and it fell to two proprietors of relatively small businesses to initiate the implementation of a fully automated panel production line.

Tommy Wood sensed that the time was ripe for a new generation of panel equipment, and amazingly, in the mid-1990s, he convinced travel-averse Gary Luttrell to go to Finland to see such a system in action. He also had to persuade Gary to spend over one million dollars for a single panel line, when Gary hadn’t spent that much on all his truss lines combined. But Tommy knew that Gary had earned the backing of his well-heeled owner, Fred Glaize. Nevertheless, being the guinea pig for the first such system in the U.S. would be a risky move for normally conservative Gary, especially because he had no ownership in the company he managed, Glaize Components of Winchester, VA.

This would also prove to be a stretch for the footloose Mississippian, as Tommy had to orchestrate the handoff of very sophisticated electronics to mainly wrench mechanics who would have to rely on a 4000 mile long maintenance pipeline to the Makron company in Finland. After all, in the mid-1990s, the term “programmable logic controller (PLC)” was unknown to 99% of the component world, and the insides of this (original) Makron cabinet would intimidate any maintenance tech. In addition, the Makron equipment was totally incompatible with any of Tommy’s existing equipment and significant effort was required to integrate it with his software. Nevertheless, he was undaunted, and he got Glaize’s order early in 1995.

Makron was highly motivated to succeed at Glaize, as they needed U.S. orders to replace those that had dried up from the recently defunct Soviet Union. This installation could be a gateway to a market many times the size of the European market. Fortunately, Makron had a long track record building advanced equipment for component building, including the automatic plate packaging technology still used by MiTek thirty years hence. Likely, they knew that they would have to adapt their systems to a dramatically different product, personnel, and production schedule and were committed to do it. However, they likely underestimated the differences between business on the two continents an ocean apart.

After several months, the equipment began arriving at Glaize, which was just outside the prosperous D.C. region’s housing market, and Tommy Wood began the difficult task of interfacing with Makron’s software. This became particularly challenging when Glaize discovered that the Makron methodology was based on building a finite number of standard panels, which could be recalled from stored files on their system. Of course, Glaize, like their peers, would be building an almost incalculable number of unique panels, delivered on demand to the Makron software, and from there to individual work stations. This would require considerable expertise, and involve use of the cryptic and costly Novell networking software, the only practical source during this early stage of personal computer adoption.

After the bugs were worked out, Gary became a strong advocate for Makron’s Extruder method of assembling walls, as would many component manufacturers in the future. Unlike conventional processes, wall parts were fed by a framer between top and bottom plates as they were automatically indexed forward. From there, the sheathing was manually tacked, and it was conveyed automatically through the stapling bridge and stacking process, eliminating most manual intervention and labor.

After a three-month startup, the Glaize line became operational and Gary became satisfied with the productivity, labor savings, and output quality, according to Scott Garber, who is still working at that plant (now a Builders FirstSource location). Building on their success at Glaize, Makron installed a system at Western Home Center in Cincinnati, which was featured on the BCMC tour in 1998. Shortly after seeing the Makron system at the show, Montgomery Truss & Panel in western Pennsylvania purchased a system, and ordered an additional one a few years later, as did several others.

Thanks to the entrepreneurship of Tommy Wood and Gary Luttrell, America’s first fully automated component production line was successfully deployed. And the fact that they did this 25 years ago should give confidence to those undertaking the process today. Certainly, the entire organization needs to be fully engaged, willing to learn, as Scott Garber did when having never seen a PLC before, and patient during the break-in period. Finally, as we will see next month, they and their suppliers must be willing to work together to reshape processes. Fortunately, many component manufacturers are headed down this path today, gradually raising our industry to the next level.

Next Month: A Deeper Dive into Automation

INTEGRATED AUTOMATED SOLUTIONS FOR MORE GROWTH

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

MiTek automated solutions are supported by:

Shortest automation lead time in the industry

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

Substantial investments to significantly increase manufacturing capacity since 2021

TheJobLine.com

Software Territory Sales Representative –Component ManufacturersJ15336

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

Advanced equipment for truss and wall components.

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

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

‘Set

& Forget’ With The Sheather 5 Gun 2 Saw

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

ONE TOUCH AUTOMATION PREVENTS SHINERS KEEPS UP WITH WALL EXTRUDER +

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

Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery

Experience High Output Roof Truss Production with a Roller Plant

Our robust Roller Plant streamlines the assembly of roof trusses –combining technology, precision, and efficiency to produce high quality trusses! Suitable for any roof truss factory, our Roller Plant is powerful, fast, accurate, and simple to operate with production numbers that will beat almost all other truss assembly methods.

The Spida Machinery Roller Plant

Our Roller Plant is used for quick and easy assembly of wood roof trusses. Precut lumber is placed into the jigging along with connector plates and then the Preset Roller travels down the length of the truss, rolling the connector plates into the lumber and creating a truss. This truss is then ejected and sent through the Finishing Roller to fully embed the connector plates.

Want to see more? Our website has an example of our Roller Plant solution that includes the following:

• Automated Truss System,

• Steel Roller Press Table,

• Preset Press (a.k.a. gantry head),

• Safety Scanners,

• Truss Ejectors and Receivers,

• Transfer Conveyors,

• Finishing Roller, and

• Exit Conveyors.

It’s elegantly designed and easy to operate – simply fill the truss bed up, press with one sweep of the gantry head, eject and repeat.

The comprehensive software in our Roller Plant solution is a standout feature, enabling automation and versatility. The Roller Plant is made up of several highly functional components with intelligent software and touch-screen controls, so you’ll notice the benefits immediately when you add this to your factory. This solution allows for multiple set-ups of trusses on the table, making it exceptionally flexible.

There are a number of options available too, to ensure the Roller Plant is a perfect fit for your truss manufacturing requirements – we work alongside you to make sure the Roller Plant is fit for purpose for you.

Watch our video to see an example of our Roller Plant in action: https://www.spida.com/us/products/ full-machinery-solutions/roof-truss-solutions#Video

Reap the Benefits of our Roller Plant

The Roller Plant is stacked with benefits including the following:

9 Cost effective (and with no requirement for high-price maintenance contracts).

9 Streamlined processes and efficiencies – with reduced set up times and no jigging time due to computercontrolled auto jigging, you’ll benefit from increased productivity and lower manufacturing costs.

9 Robust, heavy duty construction.

9 Ease of use – it’s simple to operate and requires minimal training. As soon as one truss is completed and moved to conveyors, you can start building the next truss.

9 Reduced manual handling – your staff will find it much easier on their bodies not having to lift bigger, heavy trusses and they will experience less worker fatigue. They can work productively and safely in their own environment.

9 Powerful, fast, and accurate.

A Roller Plant Solution Tailored to Your Needs

Our approach at Spida Machinery is focused on people first and machinery second. We listen to you to understand what your manufacturing pain points and challenges are, then recommend a solution that meets your needs – it is a solution that is right for you. So, wherever you are with your manufacturing journey, we’ll work with you to achieve the best outcomes.

• We partner with our customers throughout the whole process.

• Collaboration, layout, and installation – we’ll work closely with you discussing different options for machinery and factory layout to ultimately find the ideal solution for you and your factory.

• Training – whether your team is accustomed to this type of assembly method or not, we’ll train them on how to use the Spida Roller Plant and show them tips and tricks to get the most out of the solution. They will be up and running very quickly!

• Local supply, service, and support – our contact with you does not stop after the installation and training. We’re here for your ongoing needs with local supply, service, and support, and we are only a phone call or email away.

The Spida Roller Plant is far more than just a press – it’s a whole roof truss manufacturing system that will make a world of difference to your production numbers! If you’re looking for a robust, fast, accurate, simple to operate, and cost-effective solution to assemble trusses with inbuilt material handling, then please get in touch with one of our Spida Account Managers.

That'sallthetimeittakes todrillstudsforrunningRomexorotherelectricalwireinthewallpanels

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

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate

LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

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

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

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

Work Smar ter

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

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

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

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

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

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

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

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

● PlanSwift Lumber & Bldg Mat Takeoffs

● Truss & Wall Panel Design Staff

● EWP Layouts and much more!

www.AllPoints.Tech

Dave Walstad - Panama City Beach, FL

Cell - 941-713-4395

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

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

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

• Can use bottom OR top chord support

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

• manufacture as fixed length, arbitrary cut, and support

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

• No hanger required when top chord support

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Tom Hollinshed, Owner

Honest, Direct, and Unbiased Expert Advisement.

For over twenty years, TDC has consistently proven to be the go to expert for reducing costs and improving productivity in all areas. All this is achieved with no equipment vendor referral fees.

Willie Boyatt VP Operations, Whitley City, KY

"The market and competition is growing more challenging, and we must stay competitive. Our truss plant was struggling in several areas, so we hired Todd Drummond to come in and assess our truss operation to help get us a game plan together to improve our operation and help us develop a growth plan. This investment was well spent because we learned so much in just a short time. Todd walked us through the things we needed to change immediately, why we needed to change them, and things we would need to change or improve as we grow. After the consultation, we went right to work changing the things he recommended, and the results have been a huge value increase in our operations. Thanks, Todd."

A gain of only one net profit point would easily be more than 10x the TDC investment for most companies.

www.todd drummond.com todd@todd drummond.com (603) 748 1051

Why Are So Many Companies Unknowingly Losing Millions?

Millions of dollars are being lost by many companies that don’t recognize they have a problem — Does your LBM company have more than $50 million combined sales?

Quantified as a ratio of sales, according to Six Sigma case studies, the cost of poor quality, defined as waste, inefficiencies, and defects, can be as low as 5% to as high as 40% of sales. Most companies’ average loss from inefficiencies is about 20% of sales. But that term, “inefficiency defects,” is difficult for most people to comprehend as affecting their company in such stark terms. This article contains some straightforward examples and a solution to uncover these hidden losses; perhaps your company will gain millions of dollars.

To quantify the cost of inefficiency, let us use sales per year for individuals, such as salespeople and technical people like component designers.

Common sales output by groups for an LBM with $100 million in sales per year:

• Designer/technician = $2 million per year

• Salesperson = $5 million per year

Note that each defined sales volume will vary widely based on numerous factors, but let’s use these as a baseline for understanding and comparison. If each group is running at 100% efficiency, that means that it has no loss of time for any delays, errors, or problems, which is an impossibility. Here are typical examples of lost time measured by time per day that TDC finds the most common.

• Designer/technician looking for missing or current information, the lag time between projects from stop to start of the next, and work interruptions by salespeople and customers are easily an hour per day, equating to 12.5%. This inefficiency loss is at least $250k per year with just one hour of daily loss. Survey your design group to see how much time they waste, such as answering questions from salespeople about job information.

• A salesperson is not performing sales tasks but is instead trying to find critical information within the company to find essential information, such as the ever-changing delivery schedule, a requested quote, product information, or technical details from a designer or technician. Typical lost time on the phone or searching multiple apps on the computer per day is greater than two hours, which is 25% of the day, so 25% of 5 million = $1.25

Todd Drummond

million in potential gains. The amount of time most salespeople spend finding need-itright-now information is astounding for most companies. Survey your salespeople to see how much time they waste, such as finding up-to-date information within your company.

Just a very conservative loss of 10% for an LBM with $100 million combined sales is a minimum loss of ten million dollars — With these two examples, it is clear that any LBM with these common issues, which can be verified with honest discussion within these groups, easily has a greater than 10% loss of productivity. At $100 million in sales, this equates to over $10 million in unneeded costs and potential sales. Your group cannot obtain sales if they constantly struggle with the internal constraints of poorly developed processes.

Defaulting to phone calls and interruptions — The sales team is an excellent example of how all departments function. How do you get the information into the sales team’s hands without causing additional work on other people within the organization? The obvious way to reduce these examples of constraints is to develop a practical resource planning (ERP) system. However, most opt for an expensive ERP system as an addition to their existing accounting system, combining multiple vendor apps, or developing their own ERP system through various apps and vendors. The main problem with these systems is that the sales team finds them too cumbersome and relies on old methods of “quick” phone calls that interrupt others’ work within the company. Even after years of use, the default response from management is that they need more training and app development to improve the ERP system. At what point will management understand that no matter how much they invested, they made an error, and it is not working out how they intended?

Companies with recent mergers of differing systems are losing millions more — When different companies merge through acquisitions, the headache of combining differing accounting and ERP systems is simply mind-boggling. The inefficiencies within the whole organization using all the various systems are too numerous to describe, and most see them as self-evident. If you applied the Six Sigma rule to this, how many millions do you think are being wasted and unrealized? Larger corporations can lose millions per day simply because their ERP systems are so time-consuming to deploy to all the various new acquisitions.

Reduce cost and improve sales by millions — Many companies can easily reduce their cost and improve their sales by millions of dollars each year with an easy to deploy, use, and customized ERP system that even the older sales team members will use. This statement merits repeating. Reducing costs and improving sales by millions of dollars can be done with a best-in-class, easy-to-deploy, easy-to-use, and easily customized ERP system. Every department within a company should use an easy-to-use yet extremely powerful ERP system to improve productivity in all areas. For a great example, please see Maintaining Successful Project Management Communications.

Milwaukee, WI | October 7–11 | Booth 919

Exhibitor Education Sessions—Todd Drummond Consulting

Tuesday, October 8 — 2:00 PM- 2:45 PM

Transforming Profits Through Employment Practices — Room N206

Case Study — Building Material Supply & Truss Manufacturing

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

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

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

IntelliVIEW Suite Manage. Design. Build.

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

iCommand

Manage projects, customers, materials, pricing & inventory

iModel

Design truss layout & profiles

iDesign

Optimize material usage & engineer trusses

iPanel

Design wall layouts, panelize, bundle, break & stack

eShop

Maximize crew productivity & improve manufacturing efficiency

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

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

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

•

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

• 23 Axes

• Sets up in 2 to 15 Seconds

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

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

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

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

Hain Systems Framer

Safety Speed Cut Model 7000 Panel Saw

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

TElectrical

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

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

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

Details:

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

Dimensions:

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

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

Height: 12 inches

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

Depth: 12 inches

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Powder Coat: Industrial Gray

Dimensions: Height: 43”

Length: 16’ or 20’

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

Shipping Weight: 3000 lbs

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

Ensure your truss production runs at peak efficiency with our line of Field Service Solutions. From onsite repairs to equipment removal, installation, and operator training; we’ve got you covered. Our skilled technicians minimize downtime and keep your machinery in optimal condition. Need to expand or upgrade your line? We handle everything from material handling installations to table retrofits, ensuring seamless integration with your existing systems. Trust our dedicated team to keep your operations smooth, efficient, and ready for growth.

• High Performance Linear Feed Saw

• (does not bevel cut)

• Touchscreen Monitor

• Automated Infeed System

• Inkjet Printer

• Outfeed Conveyor System

• Waste Conveyor

• 240 Volt / 3 Phase / 100 Amp

• Air Requirements: 25 CFM at 100 PSI

• Excludes Dust Collector

• Video available upon request

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

Are You Interpreting Memberto-Member Gaps Correctly?

In a recent discussion with several very well-informed industry folks, it became clear to us that interpretation of member-to-member gaps may not be clear.

In particular, we need to take a closer look at Chapter 3 Quality Criteria for the Manufacture of Metal-Plate-Connected Wood Trusses of ANSI/TPI 1-2014 (National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction) and especially Figure 3.7-4 Wood Member-to-Wood Member Gaps.

The figure seems to be turning the focus on scarf cuts outside the plate zone, but unfortunately that focus neglects the real issue of member-tomember connections.

Why Gaps Matter

Gaps in member-tomember connections can result in movement of the joint and potentially related deflections not desired or intended in the design. If the joint is in tension for the design load case, this can change as the load case changes. An example would be when a truss is designed for snow, but its design also needs to consider wind where loading can occur as uplift. When a truss is designed, the software assumes that, where compression forces exist, the member to the adjoining member transfers the load and does not depend on the strength of the connector to resist collapsing the connector until the load settles to a point where it’s pushing the resisting member. If a gap is allowed to exist and the plate is not capable of resisting the compression forces, then the plate will buckle until the force is resolved by the pressure of pushing against the adjoining member. This is why member-to-member gaps are limited to 1/8”. It’s a compromise to perfect joints, which would depend on very accurate cutting and controls in the assembly of the truss, resulting in a potentially very costly truss.

ANSI/TPI 1-2014 Figure 3.7-4 Wood Member-to-Wood Member Gaps.

What Makes a Gap a Gap

Situation One: In the first figure, a connection is exaggerated in a way to illustrate this point. Member 1 cut against Chord 1 is not cut correctly, which results in an excessive gap and therefore non-compliance. In this illustration, the maximum 1/8” gap is exceeded, as indicated by the orange arrows. There is no significance to the fact the member touches on the left side within the zone of the connector – the connection related to this member is non-compliant.

Situation Two: In the same figure, the Member 2 member-to-member gap exceeds the allowable gap on the left side of the member, as indicated by the orange arrows, while the right side of the member is within the tolerance, as indicated by the red arrows. This member is also non-compliant.

Situation Three: In the next figure, Member 3 is cut incorrectly and does not come into contact with Chord 2, even though it is touching on the left in the plate zone. Regardless of the plate touching on the left, this member is non-compliant.

Situation Four: Also in the second figure, Member 4 is not pushed against Chord 2, resulting in a noncompliance due to excessive memberto-member gap, also indicated by the orange arrows.

Situation Five: In the final scenario in this figure, Member 5 is within the required gap against Chord 2, as indicated by the red arrows, but of course the entire joint will need to be reworked to correct the connection.

The Bottom Line

It is very important that ANSI/TPI 1 Figure 3.7-4 Wood Member-to-Wood Member Gaps addresses gaps greater than the 1/8” gap limit outside the plated area. But also important is the need to address gaps that may be effectively hidden under a plate. Whether readily visible or not, all member-to-member gaps should be taken seriously to avoid significant unintended consequences.

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

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

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

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

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

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

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

STRENGT

H IN LUMBER

*While supplies last

Building Trust. Creating Together.

Equipment Solutions for the Offsite Construction Industry

Timber Frame Wall Panel Line

CONSISTS OF:

• X-Frame Framing Table

• X-Square Squaring Table

• X-Multi CNC Bridge with Tool Changer

• X-Tilt Butterfly Table

LINE DETAILS:

• Panel Capacity: 40ft x 10ft

• Production Capacity: 800 houses / annually

• X-Floc CNC Insulation Bridge

• X-Square Squaring Table

• X-Multi CNC Bridge

• X-Square Squaring Table

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

• Capable of manufacturing standard wall panels and triangular panel trusses

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

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

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

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

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

Whirlwind Model 1000 Cut-Off Saw

• 5 HP Motor with 14" Blade

• 2 3/16" x 8 1/4" Capacity

• Pneumatic Blade Guard/Lumber Clamp

• Foot Pedal Control

• Dust Collection Outlet

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

• 1 Left Hand & 1 Right Hand Model Available $3,500 NOW $2,800 Each FOB NC Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Price: $229,900

FOB: ND

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

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

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

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

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

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

and Auto-Nesting and Auto-Nesting

AutoFill button for Maximum Material Utilization

Labels parts as they cut. (printer optional)

Easy manual cuts and re-cuts

Import files from most major design suites

Industry-first sheathing saw that cuts angles.

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

Minimal airborne dust, even while cutting gypsum.

To achieve greater gains in your offsite construction facility, consider the powerful thinking and automated component manufacturing products offered by House of Design. Our collaborative process ensures solutions uniquely suited to your needs, all created with an eye toward maximizing efficiency, precision, quality and safety. Whether it’s roof and floor preplating, floor truss systems, wall panel openings and framing or our automated material distribution systems and solutions for modular factory builds.

You’ll discover new ways to dramatically improve your process and throughput. From fully automated lines to modular cell applications, House of Design has the right solution for you. And if we don’t, we’ll create it. Contact the informative team representing us at Wood Tech Systems today to learn more.

2021 Powermatic Model 511 Panel Saw 2021 Powermatic model 511 panel saw.

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

$6,799 FOB AZ

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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

$18,630 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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

$8,499 FOB NY

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1982 SpeedCut MetraCut

Centerline Saw

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

$6,990 FOB WY

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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.

To Cull or Not to Cull (at the Saw)

Should we cull lumber at the saw? That is the question posed by Joe Kannapell, P.E. in The Last Word in the July issue, “Where to Cull Lumber.” As Joe discusses: “So where in the process should we cull lumber? To minimize touches, it can be done when the bands are broken on a fresh bunk of lumber.” He goes on to say, “A better method may be for a linear saw operator to observe each board on the live deck. The operator has the best vantage point from which to cull lumber, and he can do it while boards are cycling into the saw’s infeed.” However, Joe surmises, “having the saw operator manage your culling may run contrary to the ‘right the first time’ principle...”.

Whether it is a component saw or a linear saw, the sawyer always has the “last look” to re-crown or re-orient the lumber, and the sawyer also needs to check the work of the lumber picker to make sure the lumber size, length, grade, and piece count matches the order of the cutting list. If the sawyer has to cull any lumber, this will affect saw productivity by having to replace the culled lumber and will also result in ongoing extra effort to clear the saw area of culled lumber.

The first picture shows an overview of the Enventek Lumber PickLine consisting of the SmartConveyor feeding the saw and the PickLine lumber trough loaded with full bunks of lumber to efficiently feed the SmartConveyor. The lumber on the front deck is ready for the sawyer to have the “last look.” Culled lumber stays out at the Lumber PickLine, which can be dealt with more productively away from the saw. (Note the dense lumber storage shed in the first picture used only to replenish the bunks on the PickLine lumber trough. Lean Manufacturing Tip: Avoid using dense lumber storage for picking lumber, with or without a PickLine.)

An outdoor PickLine with dense storage is an easy upgrade decision backed up with an accelerated ROI as no roof is required and the PickLine itself sits on existing forklift paths.

Enventek Lumber PickLine

Indoor or outdoors, it is easy to see how an Enventek Lumber PickLine reduces the reliance on forklifts, resulting in ongoing and significant operating cost savings. Forklift operators should not be lumber pickers, and the use of lumber pickers is more cost effective than having to staff certified forklift operators. Teaching a lumber picker how to pick lumber using the PickLine’s WiFi-connected tablet can be accomplished in less than 30 minutes and anyone can do it, and anyone can be cross trained. The PickLine also has sensors to count each board as well as check the board length and board size against the picklist/ cutting list. Making sure the correct lumber grade is used is all on the lumber picker, and then the sawyer gets the “last look” as the final QC check.

An indoor PickLine with dense storage. A PickLine actually saves valuable floor space by not having to pick lumber from the dense storage and the PickLine simply uses existing forklift paths.

The benefits of upgrading existing forkliftfed saws with an Enventek Lumber PickLine are immediate. Within three (3) days of installation and training, the cost savings and valuable reclamation of saw idle time will be accomplished. (For an example, see my previous article, “A Weekend Install and a Packers Home Game.”)

Yes, any automated saw, be it linear or component saws, can be upgraded with a PickLine. For more on that, just check out my article from June, “Automation Elements That Can Benefit Any Size Truss Plant.”

The 250-foot Lumber PickLine we constructed in Green Bay, WI.

We can also consider the advice of another of my fellow authors in these pages, Glenn Traylor. As he has asked, “Where is Your Focus on Manufacturing?” Glenn reminds us to focus on quality manufacturing, and a PickLine feeding any saw will inherently improve the quality of lumber that reaches the saw, which will result in reduced re-cuts, which further reduces operating costs. As Glenn emphasizes, “Maintaining quality and focusing on Value should be your key objective. Improving quality starts with implementation of the ANSI/TPI 1 standard—and, with that process, you will improve proficiency and speed. Controlling wasted efforts and rework of product will reduce your costs too.” A PickLine will help maintain quality and keep your people focused on providing value, which begins at picking lumber (and at the tables).

The PickLine’s lumber trough is a natural quality control device to help handle variations in lumber quality as any board that gets “stuck” in the trough is just not fit to be utilized in a truss.

So boards that are too crooked will be culled at the PickLine. That will help you maintain fabrication tolerances, the importance of which Glenn also reminded us of earlier this year in “How Do You Determine Fabrication Tolerances During Design?”

Lumber is easily dropped into the lumber trough. If it gets stuck, it is too crooked and it is not fit for cutting.

So, to cull or not to cull is not the real question. Of course, you have to cull lumber. Whether you cull at the saw or not, however, can potentially make or break your production. Culling lumber out at the PickLine will boost saw productivity, which will also boost truss building productivity by reducing recuts. The question is really to forklift pick or to PickLine pick? To forklift pick means to pick lumber from dense storage, unless a short lumber pick area is created, which could be upgraded to an Enventek Lumber PickLine. If picking lumber with a forklift from dense storage, chances are lumber will have to be culled at the saw, slowing down saw production and resulting in wasted forklift travel back to the dense storage and then back to the saw to replace the culled lumber.

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

Forklift lumber picking from dense storage.

$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.

Wall assembly made easy.

Introducing the Simpson Strong-Tie ® EasyFrame automated marking system. A combination saw and printer, EasyFrame cuts wall panel or frame pack members that are pre-marked for fast, accurate assembly. Designed for efficiency, EasyFrame prints framing details directly onto lumber, including locations of studs, connectors, MEP and more. The automated saw comes with essential safety features, while powerful software ensures precision cuts. Plus, batching capabilities optimize material use — minimizing waste. EasyFrame is supported by our installation and on-boarding services, training and technical expertise. It’s a smart way to increase productivity, maintain high quality and build your business. Add EasyFrame to your production line. To learn more, visit easyframesaw.com 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

2013 Monet DeRobo Linear Saw

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

$64,995 Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

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

By MiTek Staff

MiTek to Showcase Innovative Solutions at BCMC | FS 2024

As a global pioneer in the building components industry, we’re looking forward to presenting our integrated solutions suite at the upcoming Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) | Framer’s Summit 2024. Our booth at the event will feature best-in-class software, automated production equipment, and service capabilities that empower component manufacturers (CMs) to scale their operations and profitability in an evolving market.

Innovative Solutions for Tomorrow’s Building Industry

MiTek is dedicated to innovating building practices with its advanced technologies, helping CMs overcome labor and market challenges, and ensuring they are equipped to meet future demands. Our company offerings are designed to boost efficiency and deliver exceptional customer value, providing a robust foundation for scalable growth.

Event Highlights

Join us to learn more about all of our extensive offerings that include the following:

MiTek® Structure with Integrated Truss Design: The benefits of transitioning to the latest MiTek Structure with Integrated Truss Design will be a focal point. We’ll discuss how this integration increases functionality and performance, streamlines workflows, enhances collaboration, and results in more efficient design processes.

Software Training Sessions: We’ll be conducting comprehensive training sessions for our CM software suite, including MiTek® Production and MiTek® Structure with Integrated Truss Design. These sessions will guide users through the functionalities and optimizations that these platforms offer. Space is limited, and attendees are invited to pre-register for sessions at mii. com/bcmc/training

Custom Plant

Layouts:

Our MiTek Solutions Architects will share insights into custom plant layouts that maximize plant efficiency and output through Plant Optimization Services.

Dedicated Services: Our MiTek Dedicated Services team will be available to discuss how their university-educated professionals seamlessly integrate with your CM staff to handle technical work tailored to changing needs. Discover how our scalable solutions can help propel your business forward by increasing capacity, reducing costs, and precisely meeting your deadlines.

Automation in Action: MiTek’s machinery will showcase the potential for increased plant efficiency and reduced labor dependency through reliable cutting, material handling, and assembling equipment, all powered by MiTek software.

• MatchPoint® Dir ectDrive™ System will be highlighted to showcase its customizable coordinated operation of multiple MiTek machines for unparalleled efficiency and speed.

Join us at BCMC to see the latest MiTek solutions, including the MatchPoint® DirectDrive™ Blade™ II system in action.

• Hornet II Saw will demonstrate precision cutting and labeling with softwaredriven optimizations that reduce waste and enhance productivity.

• RailRider® Pro will show its efficiency in floor truss assembly, ensuring a full plate embedment each pass.

• Cyber A/T® Saw will display its versatile, computer-controlled component saw with fully powered features and options for high-speed batch cutting.

• RoofTracker™ III will demonstrate its high-volume roof truss roller gantry that presses the top and bottom places in a single pass.

MiTek® Truss Validator™: And, we’re proud to announce that our Truss Validator tool has been selected as a finalist for the SBCA Innovation Grant. Attendees at BCMC can experience the MiTek Truss Validator during interactive demonstrations, which allow users to see the tool’s capabilities in action and showcase how it enables engineers and architects to confidently validate the feasibility of floor trusses in their designs. This recognition underscores MiTek’s commitment to advancing the building components industry through innovative solutions.

Connect with MiTek at BCMC | FS 2024

Don’t miss the opportunity to see innovation in action. Visit MiTek in booth 1519 at BCMC | FS 2024 for a firsthand look at how the company’s solutions are driving the future of the building components industry. For those who wish to explore deeper into MiTek’s offerings or cannot attend in person, sign up for additional information at mii.com/bcmc.

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.

Alpine

“For 40+ years we have trusted the Alpine name. Strong technical support, powerful software, and reliable equipment— our family has confidence in Alpine!”

—

Chase Barineau Vice-President Seminole

Trusses, Inc.

Used Hain Quick Rafter Cutter

• Reconditioned in December 2020

• Board Sizes: 2x4 and 2x6

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

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

• Angle Adjustment: Manual Rotation with Air Brake

• Air Supply: 90 PSI

• Carriage: Steel Rails with Steel Dual V Rollers

• Pedestal: 3/16" Formed Steel

• Saw Housing: 1/2" Billet Aluminum

• Covers: 10 Gauge (1/8" thick) Steel

• Fully Enclosed for Safety $12,500 NOW $11,500 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Work Smar ter

1993 MiTek Easy Set 4-Blade Component Saw

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

$8,990 FOB OH Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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

2Seconds

That'sallthetimeittakes todrillstudsforrunningRomexorotherelectricalwireinthewallpanels

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

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate

LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

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

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

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

Transform Your Production With Panels Plus

By the Panels Plus Team

Is downtime affecting your production efficiency and holding you back from reaching your full potential? At Panels Plus, we’re passionate about transforming the panelizing industry with durable and innovative solutions that boost efficiency and streamline operations. As a leading provider in the field, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest advancements and show you how they can benefit your business.

What We Offer

Quality Equipment: Increase productivity with our state-of-the-art machinery, built to the highest standards, ensuring precision, reliability, and durability in every operation.

Custom Solutions: Use tailored equipment to meet your specific needs and requirements. Whether you need specialized machinery for unique applications or modifications to existing equipment, we work closely with you to create the perfect solution.

Expert Support: Our team of experts is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way, from initial consultation to installation and beyond.

Visit our website to explore our full range of products and see how Panels Plus can help you achieve your goals. Our user-friendly site offers detailed information on our equipment, success stories from satisfied clients, and resources to help you make informed decisions.

And, if you’re in Milwaukee in October, be sure to visit the Panels Plus booth #1237 at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC)! We look forward to sharing more exciting developments and opportunities to help your business thrive.

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

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

New Monet DeSawyer ESC (Servo Controlled) Component Saw

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

$360,000 FOB MO

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

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

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

• Foot Pedal Operation

• Dust Outlet (excludes dust collector)

• 2015 TigerStop 24' Programmable Stop

• Automatic Positioning of Stop via Simple and Intuitive Controls

• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

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

Safety Speed Manufacturing Model 7400 XL Panel Saw

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

Carl Villella, CLFP President, Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service

Equipment Finance Companies to the Rescue

Many companies took advantage of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in 2021 by bidding on projects to rebuild the nation’s roads, bridges, ports, and broadband networks.

But the economic climate of 2021 when the bids were placed was much different than the economic climate of 2024, when the projects are now being implemented.

Higher inflation, labor shortages, and tightening credit are all taking a toll on the profitability of these projects, such that 17% of the 400 mid-sized construction firms surveyed with jobs awarded by the IIJA will actually lose money on their projects!

Equipment finance companies have come to the rescue for those companies looking for solutions from the pressure of rising costs and tighter credit.

When banks have pulled back, equipment finance companies continue to offer a reliable source of capital, enabling companies to keep their projects moving.

By offering a variety of flexible lending options, firms can unlock capital tied up in existing assets, providing much-needed cash flow to get them through a difficult period.

And equipment finance companies can deliver financing quickly and efficiently, without a lot of cumbersome paperwork.

So while the infrastructure boom provided plenty of opportunities, it is the equipment finance companies that are stepping in to provide the capital and flexible solutions that firms need to keep the infrastructure projects from grinding to a halt.

Can your company take advantage of the benefits that equipment financing, including working capital, can provide?

We invite you to contact us at 412 262-3225 to discuss your particular situation. We offer various types of financing programs that suit all types of borrowers and business scenarios.

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

ACER INC

· Simplified Re-Design

· Robust low maintenance

· No upper hold downs

· Electronic braking

· Auto feeding lumber

· Holds calibration

· Out cuts any linear saw

· Cut-by-Truss or Batch cut

• 3 3/8" Maximum Thickness

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

• 100 HP Arbor Motor

• 2 HP Feed Motor

• 7 1/2 HP Dust Collector

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

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

www.wasserman-associates.com

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

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

•

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

• 48" Throat

• Adjustable Rip Fence

• Overhead Holddown

• Automatic Chain Oiler

• Dust Outlets

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

To Hire?

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

2021 Oliver Upcut Saw with 16' TigerStop

• Oliver Model

•

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

By Ben Hershey

Solutions Provider & CEO

Solutions Group

Harnessing Data: The Key to Advancements in the Structural Building Industry

In the building industry generally and industrialized construction specifically, the utilization of data has become increasingly pivotal. This trend parallels the data-driven advancements seen in Formula 1, where precision, speed, and strategic insights derived from data have revolutionized the sport. (I’ll have more to say about Formula 1 in the next few paragraphs.) Increasingly, we find operations that are languishing because they are not taking advantage of the one thing we have a lot of: data. I am reminded of the Matthew McConaughey commercial depicting the road in the middle of a town that turns to gold, and his words: ... “if AI is the wild west, does that make data the new gold?”

The Role of Data in the Structural Building Industry

Data is a cornerstone of Industry 4.0 for structural building component and volumetric modular plants, influencing every aspect from design to production. Many parts of our industry heavily rely on advanced software and digital tools for planning, modeling, estimating, and ordering structural elements. This digital transformation ensures precision and efficiency, reducing errors and waste, much like the meticulous data analysis in Formula 1 that optimizes car performance and race strategies. One of the motivating factors for me in buying the software company Moducore and other data-related companies was recognizing the importance of data and how we use it in our operations.

So why talk about Formula 1? What does it have to do with modular and panelized structural components? One of my associates, Mike Ruede, Jr., who leads our automation and robotics solutions team, knew that I enjoyed racing, but he did not understand where it really was driven from. Back in the 1980s when I went to my first Indy and Nascar races, what impressed me the most was how much manufacturers were spending testing new ideas, products, etc. in the racing vehicle. The result? Much about the vehicles we drive today came from testing that was done on the racetrack. When Mike told me about a show on Netflix, Formula 1: Drive to Survive, I was completely impressed with how racing teams were using data — not just data collected at the race and then reviewed after, but data captured and used in real time. If this technology produces winning results on a lightningfast racetrack, imagine what it could do for your factory.

1. Design and Engineering Precision: The integration of data in the design phase allows for the creation of highly accurate structural elements. We now have the ability to render a structural design in 3D to ensure not only that it meets design engineering principles, but also that it is designed for optimal efficiency — both in the factory and in the field.

2. Quality Control and Assurance:

Data plays a vital role in quality control and assurance processes. Industry manufacturing plants use data to monitor and maintain the quality of materials and finished products. Digital quality control resources and regular testing protocols ensure that the components consistently meet the required standards, much like F1 teams continuously monitor car performance metrics to maintain competitive standards. As a reminder, if you are not already using the SBCA Digital QC program in your structural component operations, I encourage you to reach out to the team at SBCA or myself to tell you more. SBCA’s Digital QC streamlines your in-plant quality control by substituting traditional pencil and costly vellum paper with a tablet and app, enhancing speed and enabling easy access to valuable data for refining manufacturing processes and component quality

3. Operational Efficiency: Automation and data-driven decision-making enhance operational efficiency in manufacturing plants. For example, Builders FirstSource’s investment in automation has significantly improved their production capabilities and operational excellence. Their Villa Rica, Georgia plant, equipped with precision robots, exemplifies how data and automation can drive productivity and efficiency.

Data-Driven Innovations and Expansion

Industry manufacturers are experiencing rapid expansion and innovation, driven by data and digital advancements. Both legacy companies and new entrants to our industry are opening new manufacturing plants to meet growing market demands. These new plants utilize data to streamline operations, from inventory management to production scheduling, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of components.

Formula 1: A Model for Data Utilization

Formula 1’s reliance on data offers valuable insights into how our industry can further harness data for competitive advantage. In F1, teams collect and analyze vast amounts of data from sensors on the cars to make real-time decisions during races and optimize performance during practice sessions. This data-driven approach has led to remarkable advancements in car design, race strategy, and overall team performance.

Similarly, in industry manufacturing plants, data can be leveraged to optimize design processes, improve production workflows, and enhance supply chain management. By adopting a data-centric approach, companies can anticipate and mitigate potential issues, streamline operations, and deliver higher-quality products.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the integration of data offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges that the industry must address. Ensuring data accuracy and reliability is paramount, as decisions based on faulty data can lead to costly errors. I am reminded of the adage I heard early from my Dad, Don Hershey, when he was using an inventory computer in the 1970s about GIGO: garbage in, garbage out. Additionally, there is a need for skilled professionals who can analyze and interpret data effectively, translating it into actionable insights. Too many times we see our teams increasingly shellshocked by the volume of data that is coming at them. There are some who are trying to sell, for example, a singular labor-tracking model that has been used since the late 1960s and early 1970s, using the same data from plant to plant. But data is far more than a singular element; there is so much more than just labor. As an example, it is also necessary to capture several other data points around the same work cell in the plant to accurately determine where the labor is deployed not only in that singular work cell but the entire line. Another example would be that data analytics can be utilized to track inventory levels, monitor supplier performance, and forecast demand, enabling manufacturers to optimize their supply chain processes.

Moreover, the industry must invest in the necessary infrastructure and technology to collect, store, and process large volumes of data. This includes adopting advanced software solutions and automated systems that can handle the complexity and scale of modern construction projects. (I’m not writing this to make a sales pitch, but I do need to mention that Moducore provides customized solutions based on how we collect, interpret, and effectively use real data.)

Future Prospects

The future of the building manufacturing industry lies in the continued advancement and integration of data-driven technologies. As the industry embraces digital transformation, we can expect to see even greater improvements in efficiency, quality, and innovation. The parallels with Formula 1 are clear: Both industries thrive on precision, speed, and strategic use of data to maintain a competitive edge.

Indeed, data is an invaluable asset in our industry, driving advancements in design, quality control, and operational efficiency. By learning from the data-centric approach of Formula 1, our industry can continue to innovate and excel, meeting the evolving demands of the construction market, while ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance.

Ben Hershey is the CEO of 4Ward Solutions Group and former President of SBCA. Ben has owned and operated several component and building industry companies. 4Ward Solutions Group is the parent company of 4Ward Consulting Group, 4Ward Design & Labor Group, Moducore, and Innovative Offsite.

DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Elevate Your Wall Panel, Floor Truss or Roof Truss

Manufacturing with 4Ward Design Solutions’

Precision Component Design Services!

When you work with us, you get:

Speed and Scalability

Adjustable Hours

No Need for Training

Reduced Regulatory Burdens

Reliable Timelines

DESIGN

Excellence

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

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

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

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

2001 MiTek Peak-Up Stacker (A)

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

$19,900 Each FOB IL

2001 MiTek Peak-Up Stacker (B)

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

Prestage Tabl

Capabilities*

Wall Heights: 7' 11 ½" to 10' 3" - 12 ' 3" - 14' 3" or 16' 3"

Wall Lengths: 16', 20' or 24'

Pre-Stage Area: 16', 20' or 24' (matches wall length)

*Subject to change without notice

Why a Prestage Framing Table?

The new field-tested Triad PreStage Framing Table, designed and built with customer input, can bring increased productivity to your panel shop.

Triad's exclusive and unique design merges a pre-layout material-staging area with a fast and efficient framing station -- into a single unit that can assist with rapid throughput in your plant.

A powerful, built-in continuous track system lifts and conveys components and material to framers and then the finished panels to your next station.

Initial customer field production, from a Texas plant, has shown an average of 3600 linear feet per day (8 hr shift) of framed walls in their facility!

• 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

We create transformative website and app experiences

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

WOLF X MACHINA

www.wolfxmachina.com info@wolfxmachina.com

Alpine Floormaster floor truss machine with plate storage rack, endeject configuration, builtin splicer option and built-in camber. Tableguided gantry head (no rail) has 10 HP drive and double-80 LB chain. Builds floor trusses from 12″ to 24″ depths, to 40-ft long. Currently operated as a single-side machine, B-side requires pneumatic repairs to activate flip option, pop-up ejection, and clamping function. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$64,997 FOB OH

www.woodtechsystems.com

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

• Can use bottom OR top chord support

• Manufacture as a custom joist, chase opening, and

• manufacture as fixed length, arbitrary cut, and support

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

• No hanger required when top chord support

• Can be configured with large chase openings

• No proof loading required

By John Holland President/CEO at Paragon

Innovation Through Legacy: Transforming Truss Design with Paragon W

hat if the future of truss design isn’t just about developing better tools, but redefining the entire process from the ground up?

On August 15, we publicly announced Paragon — a product that will change the way trusses are designed and built. A product that took years of development, investment, and an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship. You may be wondering why it took so long, and why does it matter now more than ever?

Our family’s history in this industry runs deep from my grandfather’s revolutionary machinery designs to my father’s extensive industry leadership. When my grandfather started Clearspan Components Inc. in 1962, he wasn’t just building a business; he was laying the foundation for a legacy of innovation. He secured patents on the wall assembly process that is still in use today and developed a variety of unique machines not seen anywhere else in the industry.

My father, Daniel Holland, took that legacy of innovation to heart as he and the whole truss industry experienced the feeling of powerlessness during destabilizing market events like the recession of 2008, or the pandemic in 2020 that brought soaring material prices and supplier allocations. Fifteen years ago, Dan wrote the first line of Lisp code for a truss analysis prototype that would someday become Paragon. This journey has taught me that legacy isn’t just something you inherit; it’s a mission you must carry forward with passion and purpose.

Dan and John Holland

Not Without Challenge

Six months ago, we were on the brink of launching Paragon, poised to finally share with the world what we had been working on for years. But then, the unexpected happened—my father passed away, halting our momentum at a critical moment. It wasn’t just the loss of a key figure; it was a reminder of the countless challenges we have faced along the way. Suddenly, the finish line felt farther away than ever, and the doubts began to creep in. Could I overcome the loss of his leadership, wisdom, experience, calmness, friendship, and parenting, and still fulfill the vision we had set out to achieve?

I do know this—what hasn’t changed is our unwavering commitment to the vision that my father and I shared. Paragon was never meant to be just another piece of software—it was designed to be fundamentally different. We knew from the beginning that it wouldn’t be for everyone, nor would it meet every need. Instead, Paragon was built to challenge the status quo, offering a new approach to truss design that prioritizes openness, flexibility, and innovation. We’ve continued to refine and perfect the software by staying true to its core purpose: to provide a flexible, streamlined solution that empowers users to design trusses in ways that have never been done before. Through every challenge, this commitment to a different way of thinking has remained at the heart of Paragon, ready to make its mark on the industry.

Be Part of the Future

We’re on the cusp of something truly transformative, and we couldn’t be more excited for you to experience it firsthand. Paragon is here, and our beta waitlist is open for signups, offering you a chance to be part of revolutionizing truss design. We’ve poured years of innovation and dedication into creating the most open, accessible, and powerful truss design software the industry has ever seen. Explore our newly launched website, sign up for the beta waitlist, and see for yourself how Paragon can change the way you work. We’ll be at the BCMC and NCSEA conferences this fall, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit us in person and get a closer look at what we’ve built. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, the talented Paragon Team, and thank you Dan Holland for all that you have taught me through your faithful example... The journey is just beginning, and we’re thrilled to have each of you with us as we shape the future of truss design.

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

*Subject to availability

2007 Robbins Side-Eject Roof Truss Gantry

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

$263,997 FOB QC

BCE-MASTER

TruStance Portable Field Repair Press

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

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

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

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

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

$9,779 FOB MT

New House of Design Model AMD Pre-Plating Station

The House of Design AMD (Automated Material Delivery) pre-plating station is the heart of the automation configuration for roof or floor trusses. There are two robot arms enclosed within a 12 x 18-ft footprint, driven by your truss design software working in conjunction with the House of Design software, to receive cut material in-line and apply plates in the correct size and orientation. From this pre-plating station, there are many levels of automation that can be added to the station to further automate your truss assembly tables, or you can choose to deliver the completed boards manually. This station is operated by one person. You can choose to apply just the top plates to boards, or apply just chords or webs. Automation options include:

• Buf fer (conveyors) taking the plated material to the correct truss setup area for manual placement.

• Buffer (conveyors) taking the plated material to the correct truss setup area for automated placement.

• Both of these buffer options will work with existing roof or floor tables or in conjunction with a new roof table.

765-751-9990

Automation Without Limitations

Enhance your truss production with our advanced retrofit options, each equipped with the industryleading WizardPDS® automation. Known for unmatched speed and precision, WizardPDS® is the preferred choice across more table brands than all other systems combined. Whether you need full automation on your entire line or just a 40’ section, our line of Retrofits & Upgrades achieve similiar efficiency as the newest press lines in the industry! These automated options offer flexibility and breathes new life into any new, used, or discontinued line.

Your table, automated.

We bring the best together!

Line Expansions

Trackless Upgrades

Double Jack Retrofits

Two C-Clamp Presses with Unistrut Jig Table

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

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

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

• Electric Feed Rail

• Overhead Steel Beam

• Price is in US Dollars

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

Hydro-Air Mark 8 Truss Assembly System

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

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

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

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

16 Each - Magnetic Pedestals with Jig Hardware

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

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

Steel I-Beams & Columns to Support Mark8 Presses

Spare Parts

$48,000 NOW $40,000 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2007 Clark Industries

Horizontal Truss Stacker

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

www.wasserman-associates.com

The

Component manufaCturing

EMSI Field Repair Press

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

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

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

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

• 4 Bolt Flange Bearings

• Idle and Motorized Rollers

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

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

• 6 to 8 Week Delivery

By Greg Bates

TInsights and Innovations in Component Manufacturing

he component manufacturing industry, specifically of roof and floor trusses, is undergoing significant transformation. To delve deeper, we spoke with Todd Drummond, a seasoned expert and long-time consultant with extensive knowledge and experience in the field of truss manufacturing. You can listen to the full interview at strengthinlumber.com/trusstalk, and this article contains highlights from that conversation.

Industry Landscape

The industry today is facing a shift in market dynamics. A few years ago, demand outstripped supply, leading to a surge in production and expansion. However, with recent interest rate hikes and market uncertainties, supply is now outstripping demand, leading to a decrease in lead times and profit margins.

Driving Demand and Market Changes

New construction, particularly wood-framed buildings such as apartments, homes, and condos, remains the primary driver for trusses. However, changes in demographics and a shortage of skilled labor have led to an increased reliance on pre-designed components. This shift is evident in areas like Texas, where traditional hand-framed roofs are being replaced by prefabricated roof trusses.

“Building regulations and engineering requirements have become more stringent, necessitating the use of engineered trusses.”

By design, engineered trusses can meet specific load requirements, especially in regions prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Key Features and Benefits of Trusses

Roof trusses offer several advantages over traditional rafters. They provide an engineered system that accounts for varying conditions such as snow loads and wind, ensuring structural integrity and safety. Trusses are also more efficient in distributing loads, often eliminating the need for interior load-bearing walls, which allows for greater design flexibility.

The design process for trusses involves sophisticated software from major plate manufacturers like MiTek, Alpine, Eagle Metal, and Simpson Strong-Tie. These programs allow for precise 3D modeling and load analysis, ensuring that each truss meets the necessary structural requirements at the lowest possible cost.

Innovations in Truss Design and Manufacturing

While the basic principles of truss design have remained consistent, advancements in technology have improved the complexity and efficiency of designs. Automated saws and jig systems have significantly reduced setup times, making the production process faster and more accurate. The latest developments in robotics and automation are beginning to show promise, although they are not yet widely adopted due to their high cost and complexity.

In terms of materials, wood remains the most cost-effective and flexible option compared to steel and aluminum. Wood’s natural properties allow for easy handling and modification, while its inherent sustainability makes it a renewable resource ideal for construction. Machine-graded lumber is used in areas where higher strength is required, ensuring that each component meets the specific load demands of the structure.

Environmental and Market Trends

Environmental factors such as wind, snow, and seismic activity play a crucial role in truss design. The engineering programs used in truss design can account for these variables, ensuring that structures are built to withstand local conditions.

The market is also seeing a rise in the use of wall panels and floor trusses, driven by the same factors affecting roof trusses: a shortage of skilled labor and the need for pre-engineered solutions. These components are designed to fit together seamlessly, reducing construction time and ensuring structural integrity.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the component manufacturing industry is poised for further innovation, especially with the growth of automation and artificial intelligence.

“Automation and AI are expected to play a larger role, reducing the need for skilled labor and increasing productivity.”

Even so, the industry’s success will depend on broader economic factors, including housing demand, regulatory environments, and technological advancements.

Drummond emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to improving manufacturing processes. Companies must be willing to learn and adapt, embracing new technologies and methods while maintaining a focus on quality and efficiency.

The component manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, driven by changes in market demand, technological advancements, and environmental considerations. By staying ahead of these trends and continually improving processes, manufacturers can ensure their long-term success and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

Builders, engineers, component manufacturers, and contractors all count on West Fraser to supply their businesses and fuel their growth. The company’s focus on consistent quality, value, and managing a stable supply chain across North America underscores everything it makes and does for our valued customer base. For more information on how our products can meet your needs, please contact us at 916-276-7226 and/or gregory.bates@westfraser.com.

Equipment Solutions for the Offsite Construction Industry

X-COMBI | Complete Assembly Machine

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

• Full PC control with two 19” touchscreens

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

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

Framing Cladding Nailing

Stapling Drilling Routing Application of Breather Paper Nailing of Batten Gluing

X-FLOC | Insulation Blowing Machine System

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

• Full PC control with a 17” touchscreen

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

• Compatible with all insulation materials available on the market

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

Building Trust. Creating Together.

Industry-Leading Manufacturer of Panelized Wall Panel & Floor Cassette Equipment.

The Platinum Series Automated Sheathing Station is the most automated sheathing station that Panels Plus offers and reduces the amount of time an operator needs to be hands-on during the sheathing process. This sheathing station is driven using MiTek Software and completely fastens sheathing to studs, blocking, headers, and sill plates to ensure quality panels every time. This model can be a stand-alone unit, or integrated into a larger system. Various sizes and configurations are available.

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

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

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

• Swing Gates at Both Ends of Squaring Table

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

• Simple Touchscreen Controls

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

• 2 Paslode Nail Guns with High Load Coil Tray

• Auto Sheathing Bridge Return

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

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

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

2021 Triad Router Bridge & Portion of V-Track

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

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

A dverti$er Component manufaCturing

TheJobLine.com

Truss Designer Central Florida

J15346

Our client, a private, single-location roof and floor truss manufacturer for the local single-family custom and small multifamily market, is seeking an on-site truss designer. The ideal candidate can hit the ground running using MiTek software. Besides the normal day-to-day duties of a normal truss designer, the employer is looking for someone who can create an overall design department process, including standards and specifications, to provide consistent design results across all designers, internal, remote, and contract. If you are someone who can set up standards in the software and in writing, Advancement to Design Manager is possible

$32-38hr DOE plus benefits, PTO, 401k, Health Ins. Relocation assistance is negotiable

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

Fitzgerald Group, LLC

A Note to Our Customers

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

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

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has sent their condolences. Your support has been deeply appreciated. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Janeene and Randy Fitzgerald

719.528.5445 www.FitzGroup.com

HANDLE BAR ROUTER

The Handlebar Router is a low-cost option for those who don’t want to purchase a routing bridge.

The Handlebar Router is used in conjunction with the Squaring Station and Combo Station. Two operators hold the handlebars on either end to cut out rough openings. The extended control arm allows operators to reach panel edges without having to climb on top of the panel.

This product features a 3.25 HP router with a plunge bit. The Handlebar Router has router power control on both ends, so both operators are able to turn the router on and off.

Visit our website at www.panplus.com for more details!

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

Wall Panel Lift

* 8’- 12’ Wall Height

* 1,000 LB Capacity

* Easy Adjustment

* Hoist and Crane Sold Separate

Handle Bar Router

* 8’ - 12’ Wall Height

* 2 Person Operation

* 3 ¼ hp Production Router

* 120 Volt /1 Phase/15 Amp

Lay-Up Tables

* 10’ x 10’ Working Area

* Lift & Extend Rollers

* Squaring Lip

* Nail Tray

Skate Rollers

* 15’ Standard Length

* Adjustable Height

* Sturdy Stands

* Custom Lengths Available

$13,900.00

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

New Component Table with Skatewheel Conveyors

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

$13,900 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• 8' to 12' Wall Heights

• 1,000 Lb Capacity

• Weight: 120 Lbs

• Excludes: Electric Hoist & Freestanding Bridge Crane

$1,950 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

New Panels Plus Wall Panel Framing Equipment

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

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

765-751-9990

ProStack Wall Panel Tilt In-Feed Conveyor

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

$37,525 FOB ND

ProStack Wall Panel In-Feed Conveyor

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

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

New Wall Panel Lift

By Thomas McAnally TheJobLine.com

Is Customer Service Still Important?

In the past, businesses prided themselves on exceptional customer service, especially in addressing warranty claims and service lapses promptly and effectively. Unfortunately, recent years, particularly since COVID, have seen a significant decline in this vital aspect of business.

Take, for instance, my experience this summer. My brand new 2024 six-figure truck’s air conditioning failed in late June with 1,500 miles on it. What should have been a minor issue turned into a nearly two-month ordeal due to a lack of parts. Ford claimed it was a widespread problem, affecting thousands of vehicles, yet production continued unaffected. This raised a crucial question: If one of the largest automakers in the world can’t prioritize resolving such a major issue quickly, who can? The answer lies in a troubling trend— increased demand means profits take precedence over customer satisfaction. This shift not only erodes trust but also risks long-term customer loyalty.

A similar scenario played out with my 2023 home standby generator. A simple massive oil leak diagnosis led to a frustrating cycle of delays and bureaucratic procedures, all to minimize costs at the expense of timely service. After nearly two months, the generator was finally fixed, but the damage to my perception of the brand was already done.

These experiences highlight a critical point: customer service should never be an afterthought. It’s not just about fixing problems; it’s about maintaining trust and building lasting relationships. When businesses prioritize customer service, they demonstrate a commitment to their customers’ satisfaction and well-being. This, in turn, fosters loyalty and positive word-of-mouth, which are invaluable in today’s competitive market.

Customer service is the backbone of any successful business. It’s the difference between a one-time sale and a lifetime customer. In an age when many companies are focused on cost cutting and efficiency, those that prioritize genuine, effective customer service will stand out. They’ll not only meet but exceed customer expectations, turning potential issues into opportunities to reinforce their brand’s value.

In my opinion, businesses that excel in customer service will always have an edge. They understand that every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen relationships, build trust, and ultimately drive long-term success. Younger generations who came of age during COVID may not have the same expectations I have, but they are also not as loyal as my generation. The difference may be as simple as our experiences and expectations, and the company’s gambling on not needing the older generation’s business. A company may feel that their current customer service levels are adequate, but that will only be true as long as demand means they don’t have to invest in customer loyalty. To me, it is not just about addressing immediate needs—it’s about securing a prosperous future.

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

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).

• 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

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

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

• 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

$40,997 FOB CA

Used Triad G2 Wall Assembly Equipment

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

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

Design Connections

The JobLine in Canada, eh

Since I began my column here in July 2022, you’ve gotten to know me as a truss and component designer who happens to live in Canada. Over the months since then, I’ve focused on many design considerations, including “Cost-Saving Measures and Memorable Debacles,” “Preventing Truss Collapses,” and “You Want the Trusses to Support What?”.

As I mentioned in my first column, I got my start in the wood truss business building trusses for Kent Trusses as a summer student between university semesters. At that time, I had no idea I had fallen into an industry that would become my life’s work for nearly 40 years and counting. But in addition to my “day job” as a designer, I’m also the Senior Recruiter for The JobLine in Canada. That’s a job I also take very seriously, and I’d like to share more about why I took on that role.

In Canada’s truss and component industry, companies have traditionally been hesitant about engaging recruiters, especially those based in the U.S., for several reasons. Recruitment practices from south of the border often seem out of touch with the distinct needs of Canadian businesses. In Canada, there’s a greater emphasis on thorough vetting and ensuring a long-term fit, making it clear that just a résumé and a cheerleader recruiter don’t cut it. This is where TheJobLine.com’s Canadian division stands out, offering a recruitment process tailored to the values and expectations of Canadian employers.

One major reason for the reluctance to work with U.S.-based recruiters is their limited understanding of the Canadian market. American recruiters may not fully grasp the nuances of Canadian labor laws, cultural expectations, and the specific hiring challenges across our diverse provinces and territories. This disconnect can lead to poor candidate matches and potential legal missteps, ultimately costing time and resources.

TheJobLine.com’s Canadian division addresses these issues with a Canadian recruiter who understands the Canadian job market. As your recruiter, I am not some distant contact—I’m a professional deeply integrated into your business’s hiring strategy. This local approach ensures

that we focus on finding the right fit for your company, not just filling vacancies quickly. Our goal is always to find a winning, long-term match for the candidate and employer.

Our candidate evaluations are another area where TheJobLine.com excels. In Canada, where thoroughness in hiring is essential, our detailed applications are not a formality but an important part of the process. They offer an in-depth look into each candidate’s experience, skills, and personality, similar to a first interview, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of the role. This comprehensive approach gives employers confidence in their hiring decisions, reducing the risk of turnover and fostering long-term success.

Moreover, our truss designer testing is a key feature that sets us apart, particularly in the construction industry. Precision and expertise are critical in this field, and our testing quantifies a candidate’s abilities in ways a résumé simply cannot. Our database includes the results of thousands of skills evaluations completed by candidates from across North America. This objective assessment provides a clear picture of a candidate’s strengths, helping employers build a skilled and efficient team.

Unlike traditional U.S. recruitment models, which can sometimes feel predatory, TheJobLine. com offers a transparent and collaborative approach. We’re not just about placing candidates— we’re about being a partner in your hiring process, helping you find the best talent to drive your company’s success.

In summary, while Canadian employers have had valid reasons to avoid traditional recruiters, TheJobLine.com’s Canadian division offers a tailored, effective alternative that truly meets the needs of Canadian businesses. Give me a shout (705-816-4759) if you would like to discuss how JobLine’s Canadian division can help fill your hiring needs.

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

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

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

2019 Hornet Plate Marker

• Hornet Model MC-19 (Chop Saw)

• Aut omated Wall Panel Parts Cutting & Marking as directed by Wall Panel Design Software

• Length Stop/Plate Pusher with Roller Conveyor

• Infeed Roller Conveyor

• T ouch Screen Computer (Windows 10)

• Cut Builder Automation Controls

• Ink Jet Marker

• Bosch Glide Miter Saw

• Excludes Dust Collector

• Lightly Used

manufaCturing

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. For additional information Click Here

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

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

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

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

2015 JLG G10-55A Telehandler Lift

• 10,000 LB Capacity

• 55' Lift Height

• 4 Wheel Drive

• 3 Way Steer

• 72" Fork Carriage

• 60" Pallet Forks

• Foam Filled Tires

• Cummins QSB 4.5 Turbo Diesel

• 4,350 Hours

$59,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2007 Freightliner Day Cab Truck

• 2007 Freightliner Business Class M2 112 Day Cab Truck

• Caterpillar C13 Diesel Engine

• 10 Speed Manual Eaton-Fuller Transmission

• Air Ride Suspension

• Tandem Rear Axles

• 350,000 Miles

$16,000 FOB OH Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2006 Tri-Star Gooseneck Roll-Off Trailer

• Bed Length: 23'-6"

• Overall Length: 32'-6"

• GVWR: 14,000 Lbs

• Split Locking Rollers

• 2 Rollers on Gooseneck

• Battery Operated Hydraulic Tilt Bed

• Electric Brakes

• Gooseneck or 5th Wheel Adapter Connection

• Out of service appoximately 2 years

$15,900 NOW $13,500 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

1993 JDH Trussmaster 48'-70' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Fixed Tandem

• Spring Suspension

• Roller Locks

• Winches & Straps

• Headache Rack

• Tires are Good (less than 5,000 miles on tires)

• DOT is Current

• Video available upon request

$19,900 NOW $16,900 FOB IN Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2013 Freightliner Truck with Used 42' Roll-Off Trailer

• 2013 Freightliner Cascadia (Single Axle, Day Cab)

• 424 HP Cummins Diesel Engine

• 10 Speed Manual Transmission

• 543,000 Miles

• L ate 1990's 42' Step Deck Roll-Off Trailer

• Electric over Hydraulic Tilt Bed (can also be operated with wet kit)

$34,900 FOB IN

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2001 JDH Trussmaster 48'-70' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Hydraulic Lift

• Sliding Tandems

• Spring Suspension

• Roller Locks

• Headache Rack

• Tires look a little dry

• DOT is not current

$28,900 NOW $24,900 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

1997 ASI/Haulin 42'-60' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Hydraulic Lift

• Sliding Tandems

• Spring Suspension

• Roller Locks

• Winches & Straps

• Headache Rack

• Tires & Brakes are Good

• DOT is current $22,900 FOB AL Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2000 Haulin 36' Truss/Panel Roll-Off Trailer

• Bed Length: 36'

• GVWR: 26,000 Lbs

• Battery Operated Hydraulic Tilt

• Electric Brakes

• Locking Rollers

• Trailer Inspection is current

• One location needs steel plate/weld repair (reference photo)

$19,900 NOW $17,500 FOB PA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2004 Pratt 53' Roll-Off Trailer Hydraulic Front End Sliding Tandems Roller Locks

Headache Rack

The Tool Box is damaged DOT is not current Additonal photos & video are available upon request $24,900 FOB GA 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 Each Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

• Paccar MX-13 / 12.9L / 405 HP Engine

• 249,300 Miles / 5,566 Engine Hours

• Auto Transmission

• Engine Brake

• 12,000 Lb Front Axle / 22,700 Lb Rear Axle / 34,700 Lb GVWR

• Air Trac Air Ride Suspension

• 148 Inch Wheelbase

• Dual Fuel Tanks

• Tires are Very Good

1995 Pines 45' Chip Trailer

• Modified by LMI TENN

• 8" Floor Cross Members

• Reinforced Roof

• 22.5 Tubeless Tires

• Sl iding Tandem Axle (for weight distribution) (FOB PA) $9,900 Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2004 Pratt 53' Roll-Off Trailer Hydraulic Front End Sliding Tandems Roller Locks Headache Rack The Tool Box is damaged DOT is not current Additonal photos & video are available upon request

$24,900 FOB GA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

2003 JDH TRUSSMASTER SIDEOFFLOADING TRUSS TRAILER

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

2001 Moffett M5500 Forklift

2001 Moffett M5500 forklift features 48″ forks with side shift, 12′ maximum lift height, 5,500 lb lift capacity and has 2,440 hours on it. Kubota 4 cylinder Diesel engine and Hydrostatic transmission.

$24,990 NOW $19,890 FOB OH Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2000 Haulin 36' Truss/Panel Roll-Off Trailer

• Bed Length: 36'

• GVWR: 26,000 Lbs

• Battery Operated Hydraulic Tilt

• Electric Brakes

• Locking Rollers

• Trailer Inspection is current

• One location needs steel plate/weld repair (reference photo) $19,900 NOW $17,500 FOB PA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Reconditioned Lakeside 36'-51' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Self-Contained Hydraulic Front End

• Sliding Tandems

• Roller Locks

• Headache Rack

• New Axles (Undercarriage)

• New Wheels, Tires & Brakes

• New Hydraulic System

• New Wiring & Light Sockets

• Sandblasted & Epoxy Painted

• DOT is Current $40,000 NOW $29,900 FOB ME 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 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

1993 Wabash 48-ft Roll-off Trailer

1993 Wabash model T-30 roll-off trailer, 48-ft long, 60% tire tread remains, 60% brakes remaining. Includes locking rollers, hydraulic lift, sliding axle, headache rack and ABS brakes. GVWR 68,000 lbs.

$14,997 FOB QC

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

By MiTek Staff

Allowable Plate Embedment Tolerance

Oftentimes, MiTek engineers are asked what plate embedment tolerance is allowed for metal connector plates in wood trusses.

Chapter 3 of the ANSI/TPI 1 (National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction) addresses the tolerance for metal connector plate tooth embedment into the wood members. Per section 3.7.7.2.4: “Tooth embedment gap is defined as the distance between the underside of the embedded Metal Connector Plate and the surface of the Wood Member. Tooth embedment gap shall be measured through the slot opening of the Metal Connector Plate, with an accuracy of 0.01 in.”.

The teeth are 100% effective if a tooth embedment gap is equal to or less than 1/32 in. (Table 3.7-1 Tooth Effectiveness). ANSI/TPI 1 permits a reduction to be taken for teeth that are not fully embedded. If the tooth embedment gap is between 1/32 in. and 1/16 in., the teeth are 60% effective. If the tooth embedment gap is between 1/16 in. and 3/32 in., the teeth are 40% effective. The teeth are 0% effective if the gap is greater than 3/32 in.

Per section 3.8 of ANSI/TPI 1: “The repressing of partially embedded Metal Connector Plates to improve embedment shall be permitted for plates that were not fully embedded at the time of fabrication.”

Per section 3.9.3 of ANSI/TPI: “When a Metal Connector Plate is installed in the connection area of lumber that contains tooth holes from a previously installed plate and where the wood is otherwise undamaged, Metal Connector Plate Teeth shall be considered 50% effective.”

For additional information, or if you have questions, please refer to ANSI/TPI 1 or contact the MiTek Engineering department.

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

Time To Hire?

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

MISC.

Big Red II Column Laminator Produces 3-ply and 4-ply 2×6 and 2×8 laminated columns from 4 ft. up to 34 ft. long. Equipped with four nail guns – two mounted on each side. Clamps horizontally and vertically to ensure straight columns. It is operational, but will need some repairs.

$49,990 FOB BC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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)

• 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

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.

A dverti $ er

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

$11,900 FOB Manitoba Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.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

MISC.

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

5-chain feed system

bring

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

2017 L-M Double End-Bump Rollcase Station

2017 L-M Double End-Bump Rollcase. This unit serves an integral part of precision package cutting. The heavy duty steel fabricated main frame of the Rollcase is assembled with 10 bed rolls, machined from 5″ steel pipe. All ten (10) rolls are driven together with RC80 roller chain. Back up rolls are also mounted on the main frame to align the package squarely to the bumping surfaces. A hydraulic 40 gallon power unit delivering 20 GPM is used to power bed rollers that are driven to pound the package of lumber against a reinforced steel face, to flush up one end which either eliminates or reduces end trims. A variable speed drive allows for precision control during the bumping process. Includes 15 HP electric motor, motor starter, strainer, relief valve, return filter and all available accessories at the hydraulic unit. 230/460 volt, 3 phase electric power required.

$34,997 FOB OH Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.co

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

Used Teeter Carts

Triad 20' Power Chain Conveyor

• Foot Pedal Control

• 2 Pairs available at $7,500 Each Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

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

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

FOB NE. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2008 Genie GTH-1056 Telehandler

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

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

RUVO MODEL 1300 DOUBLE END DOOR TRIM SAW

$4,250 FOB PA

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Dotul Door Stop Stitcher Click Here for details

$4,900 NOW $3,600 FOB GA

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Trucks & Trailers

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

Builders Automation

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

controller manages the

adjacent to the door machine

approximately (30) seconds per

By Karissa Louie

WCelebrating Do What You Can Day: Our Partnership with ACE Mentorship

e’re thrilled to announce another successful Do What You Can Day, our annual companywide event dedicated to giving back to our communities. This year, we’re especially excited about our partnership with the ACE Mentor Program of America, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting the construction industry and inspiring the next generation of professionals.

Making a Difference, One Kit at a Time

Our branches across the US, including Pleasanton, CA; McKinney, TX; Stockton, CA; Riverside, CA; Columbus, OH; and Gallatin, TN, came together to assemble mentor kits for ACE Mentor Program volunteers. These kits will be instrumental in presentations to high school students interested in pursuing careers in architecture, construction, or engineering (ACE).

Our Employees’ Voices

We’re proud of how our team has embraced this yearly event. Here’s what some of our employees have to say about Do What You Can Day and our partnership with ACE Mentorship:

Cecelia Salas and Jenny Moreno working on their Ace Mentor kits

Simpson Strong-Tie Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Engagement Annie Kao, an ACE Mentor board member, discusses our new partnership with Ace Mentor and her vision for our company’s growing outreach to customers, industry associations and community organizations. The focus is on expanding the talent pipeline for the construction industry through training. View the video at https://youtu.be/0ItdWy1Ednw

Simpson Strong-Tie Branch Engineering Manager Rachel Holland sat down with Senior Outreach and Social Impact Manager Desiree Aquino to discuss our new partnership with Ace Mentor and the purpose of the kits we built on DWYCD. View the video at https://youtu.be/ shi212Ys4sY.

Looking Ahead

Do What You Can Day is more than just an annual event — it’s a reflection of our core values and our commitment to making a positive impact in our communities. As we look forward to next year’s event, we continue to take inspiration from the enthusiasm and dedication of our employees and partners.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, to the ACE Mentor Program for their invaluable work, and to all those who continue to embody the spirit of giving back throughout the year.

Remember, in the words of Barclay Simpson, “Look for small ways to give back every day. Help out your neighbor, make time for others, do what you can.”

Together, we can make a difference, one day, one kit, one student at a time.

The article, Celebrating Do What You Can Day: Our Partnership with ACE Mentorship, appeared first on Simpson Strong-Tie Building Strong Blog. To sign-up to receive the Building Strong Blog in your inbox, go to https://blog.strongtie.com/.

Annie Kao at Do What You Can Day

Pleasanton, California office on Do What You Can Day

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

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort

115 S. 2nd St.

Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Hotel Deadline: March 31

2025 WORKSHOP

Wednesday, 4/30

Golf Outing

Social Hour

Independent Dinner Thursday, 5/1

Educational Sessions

Tour

Hosted Dinner Friday, 5/2

Educational Sessions Roundtable

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

—Ross Harter, Drexel Building Supply, Wrightstown, WI

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

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

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

—Sean Kelly, Automated Building Products, Marshfield, WI

Safety First!

Meeting Topics

From State Fund CA.

La seguridad y la drogadicción o el alcoholismo no se mezclan

Safety and Substance Abuse Dont Mix

Drug use and alcohol consumption are normally considered personal issues. They only become an employers concern when they affect safety and worker performance. Drug and alcohol abuse cost employers through high absenteeism and sick pay. Abusers hurt themselves and their families if they lose their job as a result of their actions. If they are fired or cannot function on the job, the company loses the services of an experienced worker. Those under the influence of drugs or alcohol cause friction in the work group, lower morale and work efficiency, use poor judgment that results in bad decisions, and give the company a poor public image.

Certain times of the year individuals should be especially aware of their alcohol and drug consumption. In the winter months when the days are dark and dreary, some people experience a sense of depression or seasonal affected disorder (SAD). They may turn to drugs or alcohol in the mistaken belief it will relieve the symptoms of the disorder.

The holiday season, with increased social gatherings or added financial stress, leads some people to misuse drugs or alcohol, especially during this year of millennium celebration. Those who over-consumed alcohol or drugs yesterday and are hung over today may feel out of sorts, still trying to recover, and may not give all their attention to the safety aspects of their job. Their judgment and safety performance becomes impaired and the likelihood of an accident or injury to themselves or coworkers increases.

Sometimes a personal or health problem persists. In most cases, the problem gets resolved. But if it is not resolved some people turn to alcohol or drugs. Even some prescription drugs can interfere with job performance. The individual cannot think clearly or becomes distracted. This can lead to accidents. Irresponsible consumption of drugs or alcohol not only jeopardizes the safety and health of the worker and coworkers but it can impact the employers business and affect the future of all families involved.

El uso de drogas y el consumo de alcohol se consideran generalmente asuntos de índole personal. Éstos solamente incumben al empleador cuando afectan la seguridad y el desempeño del trabajador. La drogadicción y el alcoholismo tienen un costo elevado para los empleadores por ser causas del ausentismo laboral elevado y de las ausencias por enfermedad con goce de salario. Los drogadictos y los alcohólicos se lastiman a sí mismos y a sus familias si pierden sus trabajos como resultado de sus acciones. Si se les despide o si no pueden desarrollar las funciones del trabajo, la empresa pierde los servicios de un trabajador con experiencia. Aquéllos que se conducen bajo la influencia del alcohol o las drogas causan fricción en el grupo de trabajo, bajan la moral y la eficiencia en el trabajo, utilizan el mal juicio que resulta en malas decisiones, y dan una mala imagen pública a la empresa.

Durante algunas épocas del año, las personas deben estar especialmente conscientes de su consumo alcohólico y de drogas. Durante los meses de invierno, cuando los días son opacos y lúgubres, algunas personas padecen de algún tipo de depresión o de síndromes estacionales (SAD, por sus siglas en inglés). Ellos pueden optar por consumir drogas o alcohol con la falsa esperanza de que eso les aliviará los síntomas del trastorno.

La época de las fiestas de fin de año, con un mayor número de reuniones sociales o de mayor tensión nerviosa por problemas económicos, conduce a muchas personas a excederse en el uso de drogas o en el consumo de alcohol, especialmente este año de celebración del nuevo milenio. Todos aquellos que consumieron alcohol o drogas en exceso ayer, y tienen resaca hoy, pueden sentirse faltos de coordinación, aún tratando de recuperarse y quizá no le presten completa atención a los aspectos de seguridad que su trabajo requiere. Su juicio y desempeño seguro se verán seriamente disminuidos y aumentará la posibilidad de que ellos o sus compañeros de trabajo sufran accidentes o lesiones.

Algunas veces los problemas personales o de salud persisten. En la mayorìa de los casos, el problema se resuelve. Pero si no se resuelve, algunas personas recurren al alcohol o a las drogas. Incluso algunos medicamentos recetados pueden interferir en el desempeño del trabajo. La persona no puede pensar claramente o se distrae. Esto puede llevar a accidentes. El consumo irresponsable de las drogas o del alcohol no solamente pone en peligro la seguridad y la salud del trabajador y sus compañeros, sino además, puede repercutir en las actividades empresariales del empleador y afectar el futuro de todas las familias involucradas.

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

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

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

CalENdar of EvENts

SEPTEMBER 2024

September 6 – 9 Do it Best Fall Market 2024

September 9 – 11

September 9 – 13

September 9 – 14

September 11 – 15

September 17 – 19

September 18

September 18 – 19

Indianapolis, IN

True Value Fall Reunion 2024 Orlando, FL

North American Wholesale Lumber Assoc. (NAWLA) Fall Wood Basics Peachtree, GA

International Manufacturing Technology Show – IMTS 2024 Chicago, IL

National Assoc. of Home Builders (NAHB) Professional Women in Building Weekonline

Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assoc. (NELMA) 91st Annual MeetingRockport, MA

Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assoc. (SLMA) 2023 D.C. Summit Washington, D.C.

Offsite Construction Summit Denver, CO

Lumbermens Merchandising Corp (LMC) Leadership Summit Austin, TX

September 18 – 20 Gulf Atlantic Building Products Expo – The Main Event Orlando, FL

September 23 – 25

Lumbermens Assoc. of Texas (LAT) 137th Annual Convention & Expo Arlington, TX

September 23 – 27 Southern Pine Inspection Bureau (SPIB) Fall Training Week Pensacola Bch, FL

September 24

Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) Forest Products Forum Portland, OR

September 25 – 27 Construction Suppliers Assoc. (CSA) Conference & Tradeshow Miramar, FL

September 26 – 28 United Hardware Fall Buying Market Rochester, MN

September 30 –

October 2 Multifamily Executive (MFE) Conference Las Vegas, NV

October 1 – 3

October 3

OCTOBER 2024

National Assoc. of Home Builders (NAHB) Fall Leadership Meeting San Antonio, TX

BLD Connection 2024 Sunflower Shootout Golf Outing Manhattan, KS

October 5 BLD Connection 2024 Whiskey & Wine Outing Des Moines, IA

October 7 – 11

Building Component Manufacturers Conference and Framer Summit (BCMC | FS) Milwaukee, WI

October 9 – 10 ProDealer Industry Summit 2024 Savannah, GA

October 9 – 11 Zonda’s Future Place Irving, TX

October 9 – 11 United Hardware 2024 Fall Buying Market St. Cloud, MN

October 9 – 11 West Coast Lumber & Building Materials Assoc. (WCLBMA) 2024 Annual Convention Monterey, CA

October 14 – 15 Midwest Building Suppliers Assoc. (MBSA) 2024 MBSA Connect Detroit, MI

October 14 – 16 University of Texas Building Professional Institute (BPI) of Texas—Central Texas Austin, TX

October 16 – 18 Builder Connections Arlington, TX

October 16 – 18 LBM Strategies Conference Costa Mesa, CA

October 20 – 31 International Code Council (ICC) 2024 Annual Conference, Expo, and Committee Action Hearings Group A Codes Long Beach, CA

October 22 Zonda’s Q4 Housing Market Forecast online

October 22 – 24 NAFCD + NBMDA 2024 Annual Convention New Orleans, LA

October 23 – 23 Lumbermens Merchandising Corp (LMC) Expo Philadelphia, PA

October 30 –

November 1 METALCON 2024 Atlanta, GA

October 30 –

November 12 Orgill Winter Online Buying Event online

CalENdar of EvENts

NOVEMBER 2024

DECEMBER 2024

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

• Al Coffman

• Jean Hart • Curt Holler • Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor • Elliot Wilson

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

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

Truss Designer J15348

South

Remote Wall Panel Designer J15344

Southeast

Senior Truss Designer - J15342

Mountains

Truss Designer - On-site - MiTek Florida J15346

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15303

Florida or remote

Outside Sales - Truss/Lumber J15345

Southeast

Remote Truss Designer J15313

New England

Truss Designer J15339

New England

Assistant Truss Plant Manager J15311

Central Florida

Truss Designer - MiTek - Remote or OS J15312

Florida, AL, or GA for Remote

Project Coordinator J15272

Remote Wall Panel Designer - J15304

Remote - Eastern US

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15228

Florida

Truss Designer J14165 Carolinas

Implementation and Support Specialist J15306

100% Remote - Northeast

Truss Designer - MiTek - Remote or OS J15312

Florida, AL, or GA for Remote

Senior Truss Designer - J15342

Mountains

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

Truss Designer J15339 New England

Mass Timber Sales/Business Development-J15338

Central Ontario

Mass Timber Engineer-J15337

Central Ontario

Truss Designer-J15334

Southern Alberta

Senior Truss Designer-J15335

Southern Alberta

Truss Design/Estimating Manager J15332

Texas

Mass Timber Business DevelopmentJ-15330

Eastern North America

Mass Timber Business DevelopmentJ-15331

Western North America

Assistant Truss Plant Manager J15311

Central Florida

Senior Truss Designer - J15294

Western Ontario

Truss Designer-J15293

Western Ontario

Design Manager - J15295

Western Ontario

Outside Sales - Wall Panels, EWP & Trusses - J15321

Eastern Ontario

Senior Truss Designer-J15300

Eastern Ontario

Truss Design Supervisor-J15325

Central Ontario

CFS Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer J5323

Midwest

EWP Designer-J15283

Eastern Ontario

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

EWP Designer - J15314 BC

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Production Builder Market J14107

Remote Indiana

Truss Designer-J15299

Eastern Ontario

ID: C10122

Designer/Design Manager - Truss

Relocation: Iowa

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

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

ID: C18604

Truss Designer - Remote (MiTek)

Relocation: Alberta

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

ID: C18698

Wall Panel Designer / Modular Designer

Relocation: Georgia

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

ID: C10968

Senior Wood Truss Designer - Part Time

Relocation: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, REMOTE

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

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

Compensation: Based on employee or 1099 status.

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

ID: C10186

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

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

ID: C10853

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

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

Compensation: $120k+

ID: C18549

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

ID: C18426

Remote Truss Designer

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

Delaware, Conneticut, California, Arizona, Alaska

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

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

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

ID: C11370

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

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

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

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

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

Compensation: Open??

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

Designer: Truss/Panel, Wood/Steel, BIM

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

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

ID: C18370

Plant | Location | General ManagerTruss/Panel

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

ID: C10507

Senior Management - Truss/Panel/ Lumber/Installed Services

Relocation: USA - Western

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

A dverti $ er

doing it!

ID: C11834

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

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

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

ID: C18387

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

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

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

ID: C18449

Estimator | Designer - Truss, Panel | Prior carpenter

Relocation: Ohio, Pennsylvania

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

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

ID: C12414

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

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

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

ID: C18430

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

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

ID: C18412

Plant | Production | Operations Manager - Truss/Panel

Relocation: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida

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

Managed the master schedule based on

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

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

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

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

Quality Assurance – WTCA/TPI

ID: C18367

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

Relocation: Utah

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

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

ID: C18365

Intermediate Canadian Remote Truss Designer - Sapphire Relocation: Ontario

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

ID: C15958

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

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

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

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

ID: C15995

Truss Designer - MiTek

Relocation: Florida

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

ID: C18277

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

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

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

ID: C18250

Remote Senior Light Gage Steel Truss/ Panel Designer.

Relocation: Texas

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

ID: C17230

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Sapphire

Relocation: Newfoundland

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

A dverti $ er

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

ID: C16152

Mega-Multifamily General Manager

Relocation: Florida

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

ID: C11781

Truss Design Manager

Relocation: New York

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

ID: C15999

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

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

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

ID: C15857

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

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

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

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

ID: C10810

Designer/Inside Sales - Truss Relocation: Virginia

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

Compensation: $45k+

ID: C15679

LGS Truss & Panel PE

Relocation: USA - Eastern, USA - South

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

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

ID: C14490

General Manager | Operations Manager | Turn Around

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

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

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

ID: C11976

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

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

ID: C11895

Designer - Truss/I-Joists, EWP

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

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

ID: C10324

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

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

family, and light commercial.

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

NEWs

Alpine Showcasing the Latest Innovations & Products at BCMC 2024

Glenview, IL – Alpine is excited to exhibit at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) in Milwaukee on October 9–10, 2024. Exhibiting at booth 337, Alpine will highlight the latest innovations designed to make component manufacturers (CMs) more profitable and competitive. Live product demonstrations will showcase productivity enhancements and tools that empower designers.

Alpine Software

“We are committed to leading the industry with innovative solutions that drive our customers’ competitiveness and profitability,” said Rick Tilelli, Director of Software Development at Alpine. “In close collaboration with industry leaders, we continue to modernize our software platform with advancements, ensuring Alpine products are shaped through customer-back innovation. This strategy ensures the delivery of technological solutions that meet the evolving needs of component manufacturers. Empowering our customers to maintain a competitive edge – to Build More.”

The Alpine Team welcomes the opportunity to share the new IntelliVIEW Suite 2024 Series highlights with attendees.

Paperspace is a new integrated plan finishing tool in iModel that streamlines the process of creating construction documentation. Designers are able to prepare component layout plans with a set of CAD and annotation tools to communicate key placement information and project details.

Load Areas is a powerful new tool in iModel designed to enhance and simplify the repetitive and time-consuming process of applying special load conditions. It allows designers to input truss loads within a defined region accurately and simultaneously, saving valuable time and effort.

IntelliVIEW Cloud provides browser access to existing IntelliSheets, job details, and more. Access live data on the move for more efficient communication with customers and partners.

An enhanced integration with BEDC’s ROME provides seamless access to jobs through iCommand while working with a third-party design service, Building Engineering and Design Co (BEDC). This allows CMs to leverage the relationship of a design service while maintaining the convenience and efficiency of the comprehensive set of job management tools within iCommand.

Alpine Equipment

Alpine is committed to optimizing plant operations to ensure productivity as well as safety for component manufacturers. BCMC will mark the debut of the next generation of the Alpine Linear Saw and advanced safety features for the Alpine RollerPress. “While maintaining the accuracy and reliability our customers have come to expect with the Alpine Linear Saw, we are now introducing enhancements focused on maximizing board footage per shift, improving the handling of small components, and preventive maintenance capabilities,” said Vennor Hackshaw, Equipment Business Unit Manager. There will be live equipment demonstrations, offering attendees a firsthand look at the latest advancements.

INdustry NEWs

The unveiling of the Alpine Linear Saw (ALS) 5.0 introduces a new generation of performance. The live demonstrations will highlight the latest innovations, including a new automated doublestacking infeed, improved cutting capacity and speed, a small component delivery system to the outfeed, enhanced printing capabilities, and waste minimization. The ALS also features a new user-interface, cut optimization, and maintenance dashboard. These innovations help streamline the production process. See it in action and watch the sawdust fly.

The new safety options for the Alpine RollerPress help ensure a safer plant environment as well as productivity. Available as a factory option or retrofit to select models, the new configurable guarding options, light curtain technology, and small component handling solution were engineered with worker safety in mind.

With set up in less than 25 seconds, the Alpine AutoSet Plus Table sets benchmarks in truss production efficiency and accuracy. This computer-controlled system is easy to learn, use, and maintain. Automated steel pucks help workers maintain a consistent workflow with higher accuracy and reduced assembler fatigue.

Book Your Private Demo

Email info@alpineitw.com now to book your private software or product demonstrations. An opportunity to see the Alpine technology in action and how it can add value to your business – Build More.

About Alpine

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

Maximize cutting capabilities with the Alpine ALS 5.0 featuring single and double stacking.

NEWs

Simpson Strong-Tie Cuts Deeper into the Truss Business with Acquisition of Monet DeSauw Inc.

August 6, 2024 – Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, today announced that it has acquired Fulton, Missouri-based Monet DeSauw Inc., a leading manufacturer of large saws used in the fabrication of trusses within the US and Canada.

Since 1992, Monet DeSauw has been building a variety of quality saws ranging from simple push-button operation to topof-the-line servo-driven, automated saws. Much like Simpson Strong-Tie, Monet DeSauw attributes their success to its tremendous employee culture. Working closely with their customers, Monet DeSauw listens to their ideas and builds reliable products based on industry requirements. Their goal is to provide customers with the latest technology and best-quality products available by understanding their needs of on-time delivery, fast and reliable support, and dependable maintenance.

“We’re so pleased to welcome Monet DeSauw to the Simpson Strong-Tie family,” said Ryan Kaelin, Simpson Strong-Tie senior vice president market development – construction solutions. “This acquisition is another demonstration of our commitment to offering our component manufacturing customers advanced equipment and software, providing complete solutions for this important industry segment.”

“We have grown our company into a first-class Component Manufacturing equipment and services provider,” said Kevin Troesser, founder and president, Monet DeSauw Inc. “We are excited to join the Simpson StrongTie team to further our offerings and look forward to future opportunities to grow with our customers and the industry.”

Monet DeSauw products will have a presence in the Simpson Strong-Tie booth when the company exhibits at the 2024 Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC), October 7–11, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

NEWs

Simpson Strong-Tie Announces Promotion of Scott Lang to Vice President, Market Development — Residential Digital Solutions

Pleasanton, CA, August 15, 2024 – Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has promoted Scott Lang to the newly created role of Vice President, Market Development for Residential Digital Solutions. In his new position, Lang will refine customer segmentation and develop market strategies for expanding the company’s residential digital solutions, including spearheading new initiatives and creating innovative strategies that cater to customer needs and broaden market reach.

Lang has worked with Simpson Strong-Tie for seven years, most recently serving as technology sales manager for National Builder / Pro Supply, where he consulted with the top 30 homebuilders, helping them understand how the company’s proprietary builder solutions software and services combine with industry-standard systems to realize significant gains in efficiency. His extensive career experience includes a range of sales management roles at several construction software solution providers.

“I am very excited to step into this challenging role for Simpson Strong-Tie. My experience and industry knowledge combined with a world-class support system will drive our growth in digital solutions and contribute to our 2030 Goals,” Lang said.

“With his eight years spent as a software writer, 10 years of experience in the homebuilding industry and many years of selling software solutions, we know that Scott will thrive in this new role,” said Noah Daniels, Senior Vice President, Market Development for Digital Solutions. “As the company works toward our 2030 Growth Plan goals, Scott’s background, knowledge and experience will help us achieve a competitive edge in the markets we serve.”

Lang has a bachelor’s degree in computer and electrical engineering from Purdue University.

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

Builder Confidence Moves Lower as Market Waits for Rate Cuts

Posted August 15, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders

Reprinted with permission.

A lack of affordability and buyer hesitation stemming from elevated interest rates and high home prices contributed to a decline in builder sentiment in August.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 39 in August, down two points from a downwardly revised reading of 41 in July, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the lowest reading since December 2023.

“Challenging housing affordability conditions remain the top concern for prospective home buyers in the current reading of the HMI, as both present sales and traffic readings showed weakness,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “The only sustainable way to effectively tame high housing costs is to implement policies that allow builders to construct more attainable, affordable housing.”

Almost three-quarters of the responses to the August HMI were collected during the first week of the month when interest rates averaged 6.73%, according to Freddie Mac. Mortgage rates declined notably the following week to 6.47%, the lowest reading since May 2023.

“With current inflation data pointing to interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve and mortgage rates down markedly in the second week of August, buyer interest and builder sentiment should improve in the months ahead,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz.

The August HMI survey also revealed that 33% of builders cut home prices to bolster sales in August, above the July rate of 31% and the highest share in all of 2024. However, the average price reduction in August held steady at 6% for the 14th straight month. Meanwhile, the use of sales incentives increased to 64% in August from 61% in July, and this was the highest level since April 2019.

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. The HMI index charting current sales conditions in August fell two points to 44 and the gauge charting traffic of prospective buyers also declined by two points to 25. The component measuring sales expectations in the next six months increased one point to 49.

Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast fell four points to 52, the Midwest dropped four points to 39, the South decreased two points to 42 and the West held steady at 37. HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS (formerly housingeconomics.com).

Summer Housing Slowdown Continues

Posted August 16, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

High interest rates for construction and development loans as well as ongoing challenges regarding labor shortages and higher prices for many building materials continued to slow the building market this summer.

Overall housing starts decreased 6.8% in July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.24 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the lowest pace since May 2020.

The July reading of 1.24 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. Within this overall number, single-family starts decreased 14.1% from an upwardly revised June figure to an 851,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate. However, on a year-to-date basis, single-family starts are up 11.4%. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, increased 14.5% to an annualized 387,000 pace.

“The decline in new home construction mirrors our latest builder surveys, which show that buyers remain concerned about challenging affordability conditions and builders are grappling with elevated rates for builder loans, a shortage of workers and lots, and supply chain concerns for some building materials,” said Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and custom home builder from Wichita, Kan.

“Better inflation data points to the Federal Reserve moving to cut interest rates possibly as early as September, and with interest rates expected to moderate in the months ahead, this will help both buyers and builders who are dealing with tight lending conditions,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz.

On a regional and year-to-date basis, combined single-family and multifamily starts are 1.3% lower in the Northeast, 5.1% lower in the Midwest, 5.4% lower in the South and 5.1% lower in the West.

Overall permits decreased 4.0% to a 1.40 million unit annualized rate in July. Single-family permits decreased 0.1% to a 938,000 unit rate. Multifamily permits decreased 11.1% to an annualized 458,000 pace. Looking at regional data on a year-to-date basis, permits are 1.1% higher in the Northeast, 3.2% higher in the Midwest, 0.3% lower in the South and 4.1% lower in the West.

Single-family homes under construction fell back to a count of 653,000—down 4.1% compared to a year ago. The number of multifamily units under construction fell to an 886,000 count—down 13.2% compared to a year ago. The number of multifamily units under construction is now the lowest since July 2022.

Residential Building Wages See Fastest Growth in More Than Five Years

Posted August 8, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

The housing industry’s ongoing skilled labor shortage and the nation’s lingering inflation continue to spur accelerated wage growth. Residential building workers’ wage growth increased in June at its fastest year-over-year rate since December 2018.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, average hourly earnings for residential building workers* was $32.28 per hour in June 2024, up from $29.62 per hour one year ago.

Compared to other industries, the average hourly earnings amount for residential building workers in June was:

• 16.2% higher than the manufacturing industry ($27.79)

• 10.6% higher than the transportation and warehousing industry ($29.18)

• 11.1% lower than the mining and logging industry ($36.33)

However, demand for construction labor is weakening as interest rates remain elevated. The number of open construction sector jobs notably declined to 295,000 in June. Nonetheless, the ongoing skilled labor shortage continues to challenge the construction sector.

NAHB Economist Jing Fu originally provided this analysis in the Eye on Housing blog

* Refers to production and non-supervisory workers in the residential building industry. This group accounts for approximately twothirds of the industry’s total employment.

Surprise Lift for New Home Sales in July

Posted August 23, 2024 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Sales of new homes rose unexpectedly in July, following significant revisions in the previous months’ data.

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in July rose 10.6% to a 739,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from significant upward revisions in June, 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 July is up 5.6% from a year earlier. After the notably higher revisions for the May and June data, new home sales from January through July of 2024 are up 2.6% in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

“Despite the monthly bump in new home sales data, higher rates continue to sideline buyers as housing affordability challenges remain,” said Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “The only sustainable way to ease high housing costs is to implement policies that allow builders to construct more attainable, affordable housing.”

“While mortgage rates moved lower in July, the Census estimated gains for new home sales do not match recent industry survey data including the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index which showed weakness in the current sales index,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “The Census estimate of new home sales is often volatile and subject to revisions and it is possible that the July estimate for sales will be revised lower next month. NAHB is forecasting gradual improvements for the home building sector as the Fed eases monetary policy and mortgage interest rates trend lower.”

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 July reading of 739,000 units is the number of homes that would sell if this pace continued for the next 12 months.

New single-family home inventory in July ticked lower to a level of 462,000, down 1.1% from the previous month. This represents a 7.5 months’ supply at the current building pace. While this reduced level of months’ supply is above the commonly used balance measure of 6, the measure of total home inventory is lower. Given a lean level of resale inventory, total home inventory (new and existing) is near 4.5, which remains low.

The median new home price was $429,800, up 3.1% compared to last month, and a 1.4% decrease from this time last year.

Regionally, on a year-to-date basis, new home sales are up 5.4% in the Northeast, 22.1% in the Midwest and 6.1% in the West. New home sales are down 2.4% in the South.

Parr Lumber Co. Announces its Newest Lumber Yard in Rochester, WA

August 23, 2024—PARR, one of the largest building-material suppliers in the nation, announced the acquisition of Rochester True Value Hardware & Lumber in Rochester, Washington, which will be its 25th lumber yard.

Located on seven acres just off of I-5, PARR Lumber Rochester will service a broad area that includes Olympia and Centralia. PARR will retain eight mostly long-tenured team members as part of the acquisition.

The location was founded in 1972 and expanded in 1992 to include a hardware store. Four of the seven acres are in use, leaving room for expansion. As part of the acquisition, PARR plans to implement its customerfocused sales model, improve delivery services, automate purchasing and inventory processes, and increase offerings.

“We are committed to providing our customers with everything they need for their build projects throughout the Pacific Northwest without compromising our legendary service through teamwork,” said Mike Howell, CEO PARR. “When this opportunity came along, we were excited as it fills a need to better support the South Puget Sound market. Plus, the fact that it’s a second-generation, family-owned business resonated with us.”

PARR has grown considerably from its start as a single lumberyard to one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected brands. Since its inception in 1930, PARR has expanded its supplies and solutions beyond lumber to supplying builders with everything they need through five different divisions across 47 locations: PARR Lumber, PARR Design Centers, PARR Windows, PARR Door & Millwork and PARR Truss.

About PARR

Parr Lumber was founded in 1930 when Dwight Parr Sr. purchased a small lumberyard in Vancouver, Washington. With personal effort and unwavering dedication to serving his customers and local community, Dwight built Parr Lumber into the brand it is today. PARR is family owned and operated and supports multiple nonprofit organizations that help with family and housing.

Thomae Lumber to Change Name to Mead Lumber

The Montana building material supplier will continue the legacy it started in 1982

August 13, 2024—Thomae Lumber, a cornerstone of the Billings and Laurel, Montana, business community since 1982, proudly announces its official name change and rebranding to Mead Lumber, effective August 15, 2024. This change marks a significant step in unifying Mead Lumber’s identity under one brand while maintaining the high standards of service and quality that customers have come to expect.

Started in 1982 in Billings and Laurel, Montana, by Paul Thomae, Sr., Thomae Lumber quickly established itself as a leader in the central Montana area, known for its commitment to customer satisfaction. In 2007, the company was acquired by Mead Lumber, a leading building materials supplier, with 53 locations in nine states.

In 2023, Mead Lumber underwent a comprehensive rebranding effort, aiming to add consistency to all the business units under Mead Lumber. This renaming initiative reflects the company’s dedication to delivering a cohesive brand experience.

Despite the name change, customers can rest assured that the core values and high standards of service will remain unchanged. The same team that has served the community for decades will continue to do so with the same level of dedication and expertise.

“Rebranding as Mead Lumber allows us to align more closely with our identity while continuing to provide the exceptional service our customers have come to rely on,” said Dave Anderson, President and CEO of Mead Lumber. “We are excited to embark on this new chapter in Billings and Laurel, and look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with our community.”

To celebrate this milestone, Mead Lumber will hold a series of renaming events scheduled for August 15, 2024. The festivities will commence at 10:00 AM at the Laurel, Montana, location, with a ribbon cutting, presentation of a plaque recognizing the history of Thomae Lumber, and refreshments. There will then be a similar ceremony at 3:00 PM at the Billings, Montana location.

About Mead Lumber

Mead Lumber is a 100% Employee Owned company that has become one of the leaders in the building materials industry, ranking in the top 12 nationally for companies serving Professional Builders. Mead Lumber now has 53 locations in Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming, including six truss and wall panel manufacturing plants and a countertop manufacturing facility. Mead Lumber specializes in providing a complete line of materials to builders and homeowners including lumber, building materials, trusses & wall panels, millwork, kitchen cabinets and countertops, siding, decking, windows, doors and hardware.

NEWs

US LBM Acquires South Florida Building Products Distributor

National building materials distributor acquires L.D. Mullins Lumber Company

RIVIERA BEACH, Fla, August 1, 2024 -- US LBM, a leading distributor of specialty building materials in the United States, has acquired L.D. Mullins Lumber Company, a building products distributor serving builders and remodelers in South Florida.

Founded in 1946, Mullins Lumber is located in Riviera Beach and will operate as part of US LBM’s Raymond Building Supply. With this acquisition, US LBM now operates 18 locations in Florida. Scott and Lev Mullins, who have led the organization since 2005, will continue running day-to-day operations.

“The entire Mullins Lumber team is looking forward to the great opportunities our partnership with US LBM will generate for our associates, customers and the community,” said Scott Mullins.

“South Florida continues to be a growth market for new construction, and the addition of Mullins Lumber and their great team allows us to augment and expand our operations and support for builders in the area,” said US LBM President and CEO L.T. Gibson.

The JIAN Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to Mullins Lumber Company

About US LBM

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

US LBM’s Professional Builders Supply Teams Up with Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County

Professional Builders Supply recently partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County (BGC) for a day of giving and celebration, which included a facility tour, a snow cone party, and a $10,000 donation to support BGC’s programs.

August 2024--At Professional Builders Supply, US LBM’s division serving builders in North and South Carolina, giving back to the community is more than just a value—it’s a way of life. That’s why the team was thrilled to partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County (BGC) for a day filled with fun, connection, and meaningful impact!

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County play an essential role in the community, operating eight clubs that serve around 4,000 kids. Their mission is to help young people reach their full potential. Through afterschool programs and summer camps, BGC provides a safe, supportive environment where kids can learn, grow, and just be themselves. The focus on academic success, healthy living, and character-building aligns perfectly with PBS’s commitment to community service.

Earlier this month, PBS welcomed the BGC team to their Morrisville location for a day to remember. The event kicked off with a $10,000 check presentation, but the excitement didn’t stop there. PBS gave the BGC staff and enthusiastic club members a behind-the-scenes tour of their facilities, followed by a snow cone party that brought smiles all around. Gage, one of the club members, summed up the experience by saying it was “the best day of his life” and proudly declared that he would “never take off his PBS hardhat.”

Congrats PBS on the awesome way you’re giving and building your community!

Knowing that their contribution will help BGC continue its life-changing work is a source of immense pride for the entire team. This day served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that community partnerships can have, and PBS is already looking forward to future opportunities to collaborate with BGC. PBS stands with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County, committed to making a real difference in the lives of these incredible kids. With days like this, they’re building stronger communities and creating a brighter future for everyone involved.

The AWC Secures $6 Million EPA Grant and Launches 2024 LCA Survey to Strengthen Industry’s Environmental Data

The AWC is continuing its efforts to strengthen the wood product industry’s sustainability data collection efforts through the launch of its yearly Life Cycle Survey and a recent grant from the Environmental Protection Agency. Last month, the AWC was notified that it had been selected for a $6 million grant from the EPA that will further support the industry’s transparency efforts.

The EPA grant, which was funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), will help fund continued development of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Product Category Rules (PCRs). With a focus on reducing embodied carbon in the built environment, the grant will fund a variety of projects over a five-year period including developing an EPD generator, a funding mechanism to support mills as they develop their own EPDs, and programs to help educate AEC firms on whole building life cycle assessments.

The EPA grant will join other AWC efforts, like the Life Cycle Survey, that work to ensure the sustainability story of wood products is data-backed and meets the needs of the market. Providing precise carbon impact data is necessary to be credible with the design community and is becoming the industry standard for material specification.

This year’s Life Cycle Survey launched August 1, and for the first time, the survey is open to non-AWC member companies and mills. This expansion is funded by the Wood Innovations Grant the AWC received last year and will further strengthen the survey’s data and subsequent life cycle assessments (LCAs) and EPDs produced.

Last year’s data is currently being used to develop regional EPDs for a range of structural wood products, including softwood lumber, softwood plywood, OSB, LVL, and glulam. These geographically specific EPDs are helping meet the growing market and regulatory demands for transparent environmental performance reports.

We encourage all U.S. mills to take part in this year’s survey as your responses directly impact and strengthen our industry’s data and further demonstrate that U.S. wood products are truly the leader in environmentally friendly, low-carbon building materials. The data from the survey will continue to demonstrate the industry’s commitment to transparent data collection and set the standard for EPD transparency. The Life Cycle Survey is open to all SLB investors. If you would like to participate, contact Anna Ostrander at aostrander@awc.org

AWC Releases Industry’s First Regional Softwood Lumber EPDs

LEESBURG, VA, August 19, 2024 – The American Wood Council (AWC) has released regional industry average Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for the U.S. wood products industry. Historically, the industry average has been nationwide in scope. AWC has heard and responded to the market’s request for more granular data. The new, third-party verified EPDs demonstrate the sector’s continued commitment to radical transparency in describing the sustainability of U.S. wood products.

The U.S. wood products industry has published numerous EPDs over the past decade, however, all previous EPDs have been North American in scope. With growing market interest in localized EPDs and an enhanced ability to capture mill data through the online data collection platform AWC has developed, the new regional EPDs provide consumers and regulators with robust, current, data-based indicators of the industry’s environmental footprint.

EPDs have been completed for three U.S. regions of softwood lumber production: Pacific Coast, Inland Northwest and South. An EPD for the North/Northeast region is forthcoming in early 2025. AWC worked with the Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials (CORRIM) to develop these EPDs, which were then submitted to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) for third-party verification.

“These regional EPDs are a game-changer for our industry and demonstrate the sector’s responsiveness to market demands. They directly address the growing consumer and regulatory interest in data surrounding the environmental impacts of U.S. wood products and demonstrate the U.S. industry’s commitment to radical transparency. The new EPDs are something the entire U.S. wood products industry should be proud of,” said Rachael Jamison, Vice President of Sustainability and Markets at AWC.

EPDs are just one of the data-centered projects AWC is currently leading. AWC and CORRIM are also preparing to update engineered wood products EPDs for the U.S. wood products industry. Additionally, AWC’s expanded Life Cycle Survey is open for the 2024 collection cycle, marking the first time the data collection platform has been available to all U.S. mills, not just AWC member companies. The Survey, which collects mill-level data from nearly 1,000 wood products mill in the United States, is the foundation of the industry’s EPDs.

About AWC

The American Wood Council (AWC) represents 87 percent of the structural wood products industry and the more than 450,000 men and women working family-wage jobs in mills across the country. From dimension lumber to engineered wood products, we champion the development of data, technology, and standards to ensure the best use of wood products and recognition of their unique sustainability and carbon-reduction benefits. We are leaders in providing education to the design, code and fire official communities who view AWC as a trusted and credible resource. www.awc.org

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ATheLastWord Material Handling Bunk-to-Table

dding the last links to the chain of material handling – bunk-to-saw and saw-to-table –is intricately executed by Hundegger at Sunpro’s major expansion in St. George, Utah – and it’s cool! Yes, here in the northeastern-most part of the Mojave Desert, the Clyde Companies have built a facility worth working in. This plant has joined the burgeoning ranks of the wider and larger truss plants that I began discussing in The Last Word last month, “The Rise, Fall, and Rise of Big Truss Plants.” While that article focuses on saw-to-table material handling, this one looks more closely at the entire bunk-to-table handling process.

Hundegger has refashioned its heavy timber handling technology to perform the easier task of 2x lumber processing, centered on its TURBO-Drive saw. The saw’s infeed is synchronized with Acer’s RangerRS and the outfeed with the Hundegger delivery system. On both ends, the implementation is feature-rich, taking into account the capability to assemble and cut a stack of four boards, while separating them to feed an assembly line truss-by-truss. And, in the process, the workflow and optimization is controlled by Hundegger’s CAMBIUM® CCM software, which also monitors the inventory of Acer’s lumber carts.

Sunpro takes advantage of RangerRS’s full range of options to feed the Hundegger most efficiently. On two of their three lines, the Hundegger is positioned in the center of the array of lumber bunks (Optional Center Feed) shortening delivery time to the saw. All three lines have two independent picking heads (Optional Dual Delivery) which also expedite delivery time. And upon arrival at the saw infeed, boards are crowned (Standard Crown Orientation), and up to four boards may be stacked (Optional Stacking). On the exit end of the Hundegger is an ingenious unstacking and separating table, that divides cut parts truss by truss, and automatically sends them down a conveyor to an infeed separating conveyor. These extensive features ensure that the Hundegger is operating with maximum efficiency.

Also increasing the efficiency of the plant is the way Sunpro has protected both machinery and people from the environmental extremes in St. George. During July, the average high temperature is 102°, although at noon on July 8 when I visited, the outside temperature topped 106°. Yet, I never felt warm in the plant due to the extensive measures taken, the most impressive of which was the provision of rooftop evaporative coolers. Often called swamp coolers, they work in arid climates by passing outdoor air over water-soaked filters, evaporating the water and absorbing heat from the air, thereby cooling it. In St. George, like most desert cities, the humidity is very low on the hottest days when cooling is needed most. To deliver the cooler air to the plant floor, large high-volume low-speed fans are spread across the ceiling. This works well because the Sunpro structure itself is a high bay, Class A building, well insulated and totally enclosed when overhead doors are closed. A secondary benefit of the enclosure is to eliminate intrusion by airborne particulates (sand), which are driven by wind gusts that exceed 20 mph on most days in St. George. (If we had this building when I worked in Phoenix, we could have transferred workers from our Chicago plant, which Don Hershey was never able to do successfully).

Sunpro is to be commended for their unprecedented investment in the desert truss plant of the future, which takes material handling to the next level. As I mentioned last month, their 5-bin Hundegger Ejection Cross Conveyor system serves a 100 ft long truss line. Accommodating this system requires a great deal of floor space, and Sunpro’s three truss lines are housed in 300 ft wide building.

Even so, the Sunpro model is not limited to the desert, and their bunk-to-table configuration is applicable to any market, as is evidenced by Clayton Homes in Tennessee, Drexel Building Supply and Automated Products in Wisconsin, BFS in Texas, and many more to come.