September 2023 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine

All Things Being Equal, a Gain of Three Net Profit Points is a Low Bar for TDC. A Gain of Only One Point Would Easily be 10x the TDC Investment for Most Companies

All Departments Sales, Design, Manufacturing, and Admin

✓ Proven and Practical Process Improvement with Lean Manufacturing based on Refined Industrial Engineering.

✓ Increase Overall Productivity in all Departments. Not Just the Manufacturing Area.

✓ Achieve Real Labor Reduction Costs Per Sales Dollar.

✓ Reduce Mistakes and Improve Quality.

Equipment and Building Design Recommendations

✓ Material flow, Equipment, and Building Design.

✓ Unbiased with Absolutely No Referral Fees.

✓ Too Many Vendors have Suggested Costly Facilities and Equipment Choices with Significant Constraints that Could have been Avoided with TDC.

Time Standards Development

✓ Productivity Scheduling, Efficiencies Measurement, Productivity Incentive Programs, and Labor Cost Estimations.

✓ Units based on Work Minutes, R.E., or S.U

✓ See Article: A 1 Industries – Leader in Wood Truss Industries

Proper Productivity Incentive Programs for All Departments

✓ Based on Proven Industrial Engineering Practices

“…. Todd’s services included plant efficiency, design efficiency, better organization, man minutes per truss type, and more.

Just implementing a few of Todd’s suggestions will more than pay for his services in a short amount of time. …”

“….It was an investment well spent because I not only learned a completely different way to view labor metrics, but I came out of it with a completely different mindset on pricing, scheduling, and staffing. ….”

Brad Emmert—President Brazil, IN

Shane Soule President Bremen, IN

Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: Half Empty or Half Full

Joe Kannapell: Floor Truss Technology, Part IV: Second Generation Machinery

Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: Explore What Spida is Bringing to BCMC 2023

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: Component Manufacturing Should Not Be Operated as an LBM Supplier

Glenn Traylor: How Can We Understand Quality?

Ben Hershey & Mike Ruede Jr., 4Ward Solutions Group

Unleashing the Potential: Robotics in the Building Industry and Manufacturing

Tracy Roe: Eagle Metal Race to Indy for BCMC 2023

MiTek Staff: Scale Your Business & Profit

Alpine Team: Showcasing the Latest Innovations & Products at BCMC FS

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. –LimTek Solutions: Let’s Talk Shop at BCMC!

Ed Serrano – Vekta: Introducing the New Raking Wall Framer by Vekta

Carl Villella – Acceptance Leasing: Grow Your Business with Low Upfront Costs

Landon Boucher – MiTek: Job Site Success Begins with Good Communication

Frank Woeste – All Things Wood: “Person Loading” of Chords Without Structural Wood Sheathing

Thomas McAnally – The JobLine: Building Your Own Home – Part VIIManaging Inevitable Problems

David Huerta – Simpson Strong-Tie: From CEO to Legacy: Welcome to the Karen Colonias Research Lab

Joe Kannapell – The Last Word Seventy Years of Service

Publisher

Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.org

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

Distributed

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

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.

Copyright 2008-2023 Component Manufacturing Advertiser The Advertiser 7586 Becks Grove Road Freetown, Indiana 47235 no

in whole or

part without permission from the component manufacturing advertiser Archive Copies Availabl On Line www.componentadvertiser.com

Advertiser F Forum

Half Empty or Half Full

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

While sitting in my sister’s hospital room following her stroke, two very nice people from hospital security appeared. Using the security camera footage, they had tracked me from the hospital parking garage, walking through the night entrance, taking the elevators up to the third floor, and entering the ICU. Knowing I was wearing a floral shirt, they were going door-to-door and I was sitting in the fourth room they entered.

Good or Bad News

In the wee hours of the morning, a man had smashed my driver’s side window and pilfered items from our car. The joke was on him—we had nothing good to steal! The only thing “of value” he took was my sister’s prescription sun glasses—which will give him a tremendous headache unless he’s nearsighted too!

So, was this good news or bad news? To me, I was very impressed with how considerate and thoughtful the security personnel were to us. They were truly apologetic this had happened, and were concerned we would be upset. Knowing it was not their fault, I certainly was not mad at them, and I was very appreciative of their efforts to find and inform me.

We Get to Choose

To me, this story is not about a broken window and the cost to replace it. This is about meeting nice people under lousy circumstances. When I asked, security even provided me with some traffic cones, so after the car parked next to me left, we could keep that parking space empty and the mobile technician I hired would be able to replace the glass. That repairman was also very nice and did an amazing job of cleaning up all the glass so I could drive the car again!

I am thankful that these nice folks all treated me well and were able to help me. I am glad that my sister is doing well enough following her stroke that we have be able to resume her weekly chemo schedule. I’m sorry that I’m unable attend BCMC Indianapolis this September, but I remain connected to this industry via modern technology instead (and you can always reach me via email or phone). And, on the bright side, I don’t have to worry about delayed flights or lost luggage!

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 $4,200 for 12’ Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Add $1,900 for Extra Set of Blades

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase FOBMO

Call For Pricing

Monet DeSauw DeRobo

Linear Saw

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

• All Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup

Data

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

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

• Cut Long Scarfs by MultiPlunging

• Servo Positioning on Infeed, Angle & Outfeed Pusher

• Over Travel Protection

• Ink Jet Printer

• Lumber Optimization Program

• Belt Waste Conveyor

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase / 60 Amp

• Includes 5 Day Onsite Installation & Training

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

Monet DeSauw DeSawyer

2000 Automated Saw

• Touch Screen User Interface with Backup Mechanical Controls

• 3 Operating Modes: Auto, SemiAuto & Manual

• All 20 Axes of Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• Anti-Collision & Optimizing Programming

• Auto Calibration Productivity & Time Tracking

• Maintenance Diagnostics

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

• (1) 30” x 80 Tooth Blade (27 3/4”

Scarf on PAE)

• (4) 16” x 40 Tooth Blades (13 1/2”

Scarf on Centerline)

• Pneumatic Blade Brakes on all 5 Blades

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

• Vibrating Waste Conveyor Under Saw

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Includes 4 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Add $2,900 for Extra Set of Blades

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

Call For Pricing FOB MO

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

CONSIDERING EQUIPMENT? CONSIDER CLARK.

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

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

Floor Truss Technology, Part IV: Second Generation Machinery

By Joe Kannapell

Seeing floor trusses for the first time, Dick Rotto immediately pursued an order, even before he had a floor machine or the know-how to build floor trusses. He and his young crew at Trussway had many questions though, as did every CM taking on this intriguing new product. What kind of table would be optimal, the Truswal four-station model or the more compact one- or two-station machines that were coming onto the market? Would they select a vertical press or a roller? Decisions like these would be crucial in pursuing this business-doubling opportunity.

Watching a 50-foot truss being rolled in less than a minute convinced Rotto and many of his peers to select a roller, even though their supplier didn’t have a roller plate. Stopping and starting a vertical press on triple the number of joints as a roof truss was just too time-consuming. Trussway looked to Clary, just a few hours away, perhaps because of their well-regarded component saws, and that required using Clary plates for floor trusses, while maintaining a separate inventory of Gang-Nail plates for roof trusses. Clary’s Roll-A-Span was first offered with a single assembly zone, in which the top face of the truss was plated, then it was flipped in place, and the opposite face was plated. Lines of bolt holes were provided at regular intervals to facilitate depth and camber adjustments. This kick-leg, V-wheel driven machine can fit neatly against a wall as shown here, and its durability has been affirmed, as this 40-year-old machine was still running recently at Dominion Components in Virginia. However, its owner, Al Smith, paid meticulous attention to maintaining its kick legs, and took the time to redrill and tap bolt holes when they had been stripped. Later, Clary offered a two-assembly-zone machine in which the truss was flipped across the table like current machines. On either machine, installation was a challenge, as Mark Rolf recalled when his Trussway design team had to labor over a long weekend hammer-drilling and bolting down 2 x 50 feet of V-track and a dozen steel plates for the kick legs.

The word must have gone out that CMs were willing to switch plate suppliers to get into the floor business, because new machines were rushed to market by the longtooth plate manufacturers. One of these offerings was the HydroAir Beaver, which countered the faster speed of rollers with an array of advantages. Installation was a breeze, as the machine and its overhead plate rack clearspanned its 42-foot length, foreshadowing the design of future tables. Changing depth was greatly simplified by the provision of easily adjustable, extendable jigging. And splicing on the table eliminated the extra handling required with a separate splicing operation.

About the same time, Alpine introduced its System 42 Fabricator, which featured the same clear span design and a vertical pressing gantry. Shelter Systems was an early adopter of both this machine and the Beaver.

Entering the 1980s, a de facto standard had been established. Machines would be 40-foot long with two setups, capable of building 12” to 24” depth trusses, and trusses would be plated on one side and flipped over to be plated on the opposite side. Most machines featured two assembly zones, and the market was divided between roller and press applications. And while the design of floor truss machines in the next decades would continue along this path, some innovative features and variants would arise that greatly enhanced productivity.

Next Month: The Current Generation of Machines

Since 1970, Joe Kannapell has worked as programmer, Chief Engineer, Marketing Manager, and Sales VP for MiTek, plus 7 years at truss plants, retiring at the end of 2020.

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).

$13,149 Base, FOB MN. Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

THE NEWEST PANEL DESIGN PLATFORM AVAILABLE

TRUEBUILD ® LAYOUT WITH PANEL DESIGN FUNCTIONALITY WAS WRITTEN FROM THE GROUND UP TO DELIVER COMPLETE MODEL CONTROL TO PANEL DESIGNERS.

Learn More About Our W all Pan e l F u nctionalit y at Ea gle

BOOTH #1547 AT IWBC

SEPT 26-28

MANUFACTURING EVOLVED through digital vision

Optimize Your Facilities with 3D Modeling. See your entire plant clearly so you can make smarter decisions with our cloud-based 3D modeling software anywhere, anytime on any device.

• Identify wasted space and bottlenecks

• Design efficient workflows

• Plan future expansions with confidence

• Enable virtual tours and remote monitoring

• Uncover risks and drive continuous improvement

• Have cloud-based access to your facilities and assets on any device.

With a dynamic digital twin of your plant tied to your IoT systems, you can simulate scenarios, animate data, and optimize your facility and processes.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT 4WARDSOLUTIONSGROUP.COM BOOK YOUR 3D MODEL NOW!

Operational Excellence - Automation - Component Design - Workforce - Project Management - Moducore

Imagine using software that works the way you do.

Bring everything into view with Simpson Strong-Tie ® Component Solutions® software. Driven by customer input, it’s designed to support the way you actually work. CS Director™ streamlines project management and collaboration from quote to invoice. CS Truss Studio™ is an intuitive truss layout solution that designs components and specifies connectors and fasteners.

CS EWP Studio™ combines 3D layout, member design and material reporting for engineered wood products. Backed by our expert service and support, these open-platform tools integrate with popular industry systems and extensions, so you can move ahead with greater ease, control and efficiency.

Design, specify and manage with one software suite. To learn more, visit go.strongtie.com/componentsolutions or call ( 800 ) 999-5099.

Equipment Wanted!

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

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Goo seneck 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!

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

Terminailer XP

Price: $224,000

FOB: MN

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.

• Model 344F

• Automated via Download or SemiAutomated Via Touch Screen Input

• 19 Axes of Automation

• Sets up in 2 to 19 Seconds

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

• Waste & Incline Conveyor

• Extra Blades

• MANY Spare Parts (removed from 2nd AutoMIll Saw)

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Video available upon request $29,900 FOB MO

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• 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 Each FOB NC Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

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!

2006 Alpine AutoMill RS

The PieceMaker

Fast, accurate cutting for your manufacturing centre.

THE AUTOMATED LINEAR SAW EVERY TRUSS PLANT NEEDS

US fabricators agree they are loving the PieceMaker in their production facility. Full optimisation with the ability to look ahead panel by panel or job by job. Cuts standard and custom mitres, birdsmouths, raking plates and studs, low angles, long cuts, large timber sections and all your normal standard cutting.

With a short lead time to have installed in your factory, enquire about the PieceMaker today!

Explore What Spida is Bringing to BCMC 2023

By Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery

BCMC is more than a simple tradeshow — it’s a true opportunity to connect with your suppliers and discuss all of the manufacturing solutions that we can deliver for your company. When getting ready for BCMC, I want to make sure the fabricators attending the show are provided with some general insights into what the industry is moving towards in the future and how you can capitalize on our innovation over the past year.

This year, we are showing a Raked Wall Extruder and Frame Line that will speed up your wall line for both raking walls and common walls. By observing the machinery on display that’s working and producing both raked and common walls, you can gain insights into how to either shorten your lead times with current orders or gain more market share through better productivity on the floor. Our new machinery is designed to improve efficiency and increase productivity. Pay attention to features that streamline the processes, reduce setup times, automate tasks, and enhance workflow integration. All of these ideas can give you strength to optimize your own manufacturing process.

We also want to introduce you to machinery that enhances the quality of your own production. We have addressed issues such as precision, consistency, and reliability, so you can become the supplier of choice in a sea of suppliers throughout the country.

Our new introduction — an Automated Roller Plant Truss manufacturing line that will reduce operational costs and save on maintenance. We have developed this new technology to provide savings in your operations. By observing how intuitive this system is, you can be assured the level of training and skills required by your workforce diminishes, and the machinery will handle the intricacies needed to get your jobs done. Single or multiple truss set-up, this roller plant delivers in spades.

And of course, we will showcase the PieceMaker, the most cost-effective and intuitive Linear Saw on the market. Come and talk to the guys that sell or service these machines to understand, ask questions, and learn the best of our machinery from the experts. You can gain valuable insights and knowledge by attending one of the live sessions or talking with our team.

Don’t settle on a piece of equipment just because you’ve seen it before — come and explore the possibilities and talk to us about the current challenges you face in your plant today. Let’s actively explore the opportunities and help you make the most of your machinery purchasing decisions from BCMC 2023.

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 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.

2006 Alpine AutoMill SC

Automated Component Saw

• Model 348B

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

Screen Input

• 23 Axes of Automation

• Sets up in 2 to 15 Seconds

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

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Excludes Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw) and Live Deck (in fronnt of saw)

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Video available upon request

$38,900 NOW $32,900 FOB TX

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Component Saw

2001 Alpine AutoMill RS component saw, model 343H. Computer controlled saw sets up in 2 to 19 seconds and downloads from a network or by using a touch screen for ease of operation. Windows 98 operating system. Five-head automated component saw works in both automated (downloading files) and semi-automated control via touchscreen input. It has [23] axes of automated movement, enhanced diagnostics, auto management reporting. Cuts from 13″ to 20′ long material in size range from 2×3″ through 2×12″. Includes [3] 18″, [1] 22″ and [1] 32″ blades with air brakes and belt under-saw scrap conveyor. 480v/60Hz/3Ph power.

$28,997 FOB FL

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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). $10,099 Base, FOB MN.

New L-M Equipment Verticut 2000 PET / Bunk Saw Station

The L-M Verticut 2000 is a true Precision End Trim (PET) saw that is capable of holding a 1/16th accuracy all day long. Made in the USA, the V2k comes equipped with a 15 HP 460/230 volt High-E three phase TEFC motor driving a Double ended Premium “Stellite” inlaid saw bar with a spring loaded chain tensioner and an automatic oiler to lubricate the .404 pitch custom profile semi chisel saw chain.

Rather than a single pivot-point, the saw assembly is mounted on a mandrel box that is guided by cam followers on a steel frame that is raised and lowered by a hydraulic cylinder. A console with the saw controls moves with the saw assembly along a track positioned using a manual “V” wheel geared drive or optional Hydraulic drive

The V2k is unlike other imported systems that are basically a Portable Yard Saw on a cutting rack with a best cutting accuracy of +/- 1/8″ (meaning up to ¼” accuracy variance between units of lumber). The V2k from L-M provides +/- 40 thousands, assuring consistent PET precision from unit to unit.

Another advantage L-M has over the competition is their commitment to personal service with unlimited phone assistance and technical help. Their team has traveled the country working on crosscut saws for many years and they know their equipment inside and out. L-M is a familyowned business that prides themselves in doing the job right and building long term relationship that is vital to their business: “Built to last as long as our customers since 1946”.

Price based on configuration

FOB OR

765-751-9990

2001 Alpine AutoMill RS

IMPROVE CONSISTENCY INCREASE EFFICIENCY

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

FLOOR CASSETTE STATION

The Panels Plus Floor Cassette Framing Station is designed to hold joists in a square position for fastening decking. This model can be stand-alone or integrated into a full production line. Dimensional lumber, I-joists, and open web floor truss configurations are all compatible with this floor cassette table.

The Panels Plus floor cassette system is developed at a lower working height, so fall protection is not required when fastening decking. The floor cassettes also pop up upon completion and can be rolled out or picked up with a crane for easier product transfer.

OUR POPULAR PANELIZING PRODUCTS

Call

Condition: New Location: MO

Component Manufacturing Should Not Be Operated as an LBM Supplier

As an industry veteran who has attended BCMC for many decades, I’m very pleased to be presenting an educational session on Tuesday, September 19th at 1:00 pm — Component Manufacturing Should Not Be Operated as an LBM Supplier.

In this session, I will call upon my 20 years of consulting services experience to share how component manufacturers can increase their profitability by correctly relating their operations to work minutes. In addition, I’ll address overall workforce development and how to attract, retain, and incentivize today’s employee pool.

Did you realize how different Lumber Building Material Supplier (LBM) and Wood Component Manufacturer (CM) operations are and that they should not be managed by the same methods? The management of the personnel, accounting, and other processes of CM operation is not and should not be managed with the same methodologies as an LBM. Regardless of whether a CM operation is tied to an LBM, too many CM operations operate as if they are an LBM, such as manufacturing and selling the wood trusses like lumber units. There is a considerable difference between selling a unit of lumber and manufactured wood trusses.

Food for thought:

 Independently owned CM locations average 10 net profit points more than LBM-owned CM locations.

o LBM operators often will state that they will sacrifice a few net profit points to capture additional sales of an entire project. However, their actual loss of what they perceive as a few points is inaccurate and is typically far higher than what they supposedly gained.

 Approximately 50% of CM operations owned by LBM companies have an abysmal and contested relationship between the LBM sales personnel and the CM operations, even after many years of operations.

Quote by a former owner of seventeen LBM locations with two CM locations:

“The CM comprised only 10% of the overall sales yet contributed about 30% of overall net profits. What the heck were we thinking about for our resources for the most bang for the buck? We were far too focused on what we were comfortable with, which were lumber sales, not the more profitable component manufacturing sales.”

Mark Manis, former owner of Wheelers in GA

Todd Drummond

Some interesting statistics:

 CM operations with a high employee turnover are operating at about 60% of their capacity.

o High turnover translates to having approximately 1/3rd of employees with 3 years or more experience, 1/3rd having 1 to 3 years, and the last 1/3rd is continuous turnover.

o High turnover will result in the loss of sales and net profits. Too many believe that more equipment is needed to solve all other ills that are actually a result of poorly trained and understaffed personnel.

 CM operations with poor employee practices are usually 10 net profit points below the prevailing market industry net profit averages, and those with the best employee practices are 10 net profit points above the general market industry net profit averages.

During this presentation, we will discuss what should be industry norms but are not. If your group is willing to walk down this path to information that may be new to you, then you may see your business in a whole new light.

 Work Minutes — When work minutes offer better pricing, scheduling, and effective incentive programs, why would you want to use other measurement units that are so inaccurate and provide a false measurement for wood trusses?

 Employee Demographics — Why are employee issues so different, and what can or must be done differently?

 Additional Considerations — Related topics will be included, such as why Just-In-Time is the number one lean tool that is misunderstood and misapplied.

 Q&A Session — Time permitting, we’ll conclude with Q&A, including what is new in the industry that people should know.

I hope to see you and your group this year at the BCMC show in Indianapolis, IN, on the 19th at 1:00 pm. And once you are on the exhibitor show floor, please drop by booth #905.

If you and your team wish to achieve more in less time, then there is no one better at providing your team with proven results for process improvement of 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 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 the manufacturing. Please do not take my word for 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

E-mail: todd@todd-drummond.com • Copyrights © 2023

IT’S ONE THING IN LIFE TO MAKE THE CUT. IT’S ANOTHER TO MAKE IT BETTER.

Designed for high-volume floor truss web output with even greater safety, the Monet DeSauw FWA-500 AC (for “automated controls”) offers the very latest in operator-friendly saw technology. Perfect for manufacturers running floor trusses in large volumes with variable web design, the 500 AC features automation for all blades, including the fixed cut-off blade for minimal waste. And without any need to open the saw motor cabinets, except for periodic service, you’ll benefit from enhanced safety as well. You might say that with the fully automated FWA-500 AC, Monet DeSauw has set a new standard. Again. Contact us today to discuss how this exceptional machine can positively impact your production goals.

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

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

LimTek Solu�ons Inc.

6021 Yonge St., Unit 1019

Toronto, ON M2M 3W2

Tel: (416) 888-4457

Edmond.Lim@LimTekSolutions.com

Edmond.Lim@LimTekSolu�ons.com

LimTekSolu�ons.com

2004 Mitek Cyber A/T Component Saw

• Frame #433 - December 2004

• Fully Automated 5 Blade Component Saw

• 1-32" and 4-20" Blades cut 2x4 through 2x12 up to 16' in Length

• Touch Screen Computer with Computer Upgrade in 2014 (Windows 10)

• Catcher Display Screen

• Belt Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Spare Blades & Parts

• 240 Volt / 3 Phase

• Electrical Transformer available at addition expense

• Excludes Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Videos available upon request $63,500 FOB MA

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. Call for pricing, FOB MO.

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

How Can We Understand Quality?

By Glenn Traylor

How can we understand quality? September brings your chance to find out! At BCMC in Columbus last year, our Timber Products Inspection booth gave all attendees the chance to test their skills and acumen for Quality Assurance. This year at BCMC in Indianapolis, we’re holding the competition again!

In booth #839, you will have a chance to inspect a truss just like your QA in-house inspector — which means that you can see if you have what it takes to evaluate ANSI/TPI 1 requirements.

We invite you to come by our booth, grab an inspection sheet, and see how you measure up. Prizes will be awarded for the best inspections, and a drawing will be held for any ties. In addition, you will be able to meet experts in the quality assurance world who will be able to answer your questions on wood trusses, wall panels, cold-formed steel trusses, and lumber grading. Come test your skills!

At the show, you can learn the following:

1. What is quality?

2. Why is quality important?

3. How can I measure quality?

4. What is important and what is not?

5. What is a critical joint? Aren’t they all critical?

6. Is there a difference between Precision and Accuracy?

7. Can I be too precise?

8. How can I determine if my quality meets the standards?

9. How does managing my quality reduce my risk?

10. How does engaging a third party help achieve the desired outcomes?

When it comes to building metal plate connected wood trusses, value can be measured in different ways. Sometimes it depends on the participant’s point of view and their involvement in the process. Come to the show and find out!

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

IF ONLY YOU COULD NAIL EVERYTHING IN LIFE THIS EASILY.

With a Terminailer XP, it takes only one person to drive between 30% and 70% of the framing nails in any given job . And all this nailing is done within a secure enclosure, so your people are protected from costly nailing injuries while eliminating literally millions of repetitive motions ( 4,001,398 repetitive motions to be exact , judging from the total nail count tallied recently on a two year-old Terminailer XP).

That’s a lot of nails successfully installed to be sure, and a lot of debilitating repetition your workers’ hands are spared, without any complicated training, software or lengthy setup time required.

Developed by people who know wall panel production, Terminailer XP boasts multiple repeat buyers, 20-plus machines performing exceptionally in the field and tens of millions of nails installed. Thoroughly field-proven, Terminailer is ready to drive greater productivity for you. Contact us today for more information.

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 FOB AZ

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

NEW!

2000 Automill 5-Blade Component Saw

2000 Timbermill model 343H, five (5) blade component saw cuts lumber from 2″ x 3″ through 2″ x 12″, lengths from 18 inches to 20 feet, including 4″ x 2″ four-angle floor webs from 18 inches. All powered movements, includes computer controls, (1) 30″, (1) 20″ and (3) 14″ blades, analog scales, shaker scrap conveyor, scrap incline and extra set of blades. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required. 90 PSI air required.

$24,997 FOB ON

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

REPRESENTATIVES

Monet FWA 500 Floor Web Saw

New, Monet five-head, floor truss web saw, cuts 4-angle, 4x2 floor truss webs from 16 inches and 90-90 blocks from 12 inches to four foot long maximum length. Features 10-board magazine feed, powered, fixed-quadrant angulation, manual carriage standard, shaker-pan scrap conveyor with short incline conveyor and cut-off blade. Option for longer carriage length, single-sided setup (shown in pictures, but not standard), dust hood and horizontal scrap conveyor 480 volt, 3 phase. Call for pricing, FOB MO.

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

Electrical Supply: 110 VAC

Motor: 1/4 HP, 110 VAC, Linear Actuator

Highly Accurate: +/- .010 Inches

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

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

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

Dimensions:

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

Height: 12 inches

Depth: 12 inches

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

4,001,398

That’s the total trigger count from all six nail guns combined on an installed Terminailer.® For a machine that was a little over two years old, that is a big number; a real tribute to the durability of the machine’s components and engineering.

Yes, that number represents a pretty darn impressive mechanical milestone to be sure, but what is really impressive is that human hands were saved from millions of repetitive motions and potentially costly nailing accidents.

With just a sole operator, Terminailer drives a whole lot of improvement in efficiency and output. This amazing sub-component assembler quickly and precisely drives 30% to 70% of the framing nails in any wall panel job—be it batch, or just–in–time production. All with no complicated training, software or set-up time required when switching configurations. Add increased safety and easy maintenance with off-the-shelf parts, and you can see why Terminailer should be driving greater productivity in your plant.

Put things together like never before.

Safety Speed Manufacturing Model 6400 Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing model 6400 vertical panel saw, 3 HP worm drive motor, 64 inch crosscut, 1 3/4" 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. 120 volt. Starting at $5,599 FOB MN.

Unleashing the Potential: Robotics in the Building Industry and Manufacturing

By Ben Hershey and Mike Ruede Jr.

This year, you can start your BCMC experience with an exciting panel discussion led by 4Ward Solutions Group that features four of today’s most significant robotics manufacturers: House of Design, Trussmatic, Brave Control Systems, and Randek. The panel discussion will take place Tuesday, September 19 th at 2 pm in room 143–145 at the Indianapolis Convention Center. Not registered for BCMC yet? Then go to https://bcmcshow.com

The landscape of industry and manufacturing is undergoing a profound transformation, powered by the relentless advancement of robotics and automation technologies. The integration of robotics into these sectors has proven to be a gamechanger, revolutionizing processes, optimizing efficiency, and unlocking new possibilities. The amalgamation of cutting-edge technology with traditional manufacturing has given birth to a new era, where robotics present an affordable solution for the building industry, and the term “smart factory” has become more than just a buzzword.

How will your operations meet the demands of capacity and labor shortages? This panel discussion will give you the chance to hear from our industry’s leading experts in robotics. Mike Ruede, Jr., 4Ward Automation Solution Expert, will moderate this discussion and share invaluable information for developing your unique strategy.

The Current State of Robotics in Industry

The use of robotics in building and manufacturing is no longer a distant dream; it’s a vibrant reality. From automotive assembly lines to complex construction sites, robots have found their place, delivering precision, consistency, and speed that often surpass human capabilities. The current generation of industrial robots is versatile, capable of handling intricate tasks that were once considered beyond the scope of automation.

Robotic arms equipped with sensors and cameras can perform delicate tasks such as placement of chords and studs, installation of sub-assemblies, and quality control with unparalleled accuracy. In the construction sector, drones are equipped with imaging technology to survey construction sites, monitor progress, and even assist in designing structures. Beyond efficiency, our industry will also reap major safety benefits available through robotics.

The Future Path of Robotics

As technology evolves, so does the potential. The future promises even more groundbreaking innovations. The concept of a lights-out factory, where production is entirely automated and operates without human intervention, is gradually becoming a reality. Robots can work tirelessly around the clock, reducing production times and maximizing output. As we drive our manufacturing forward to meet the needs of offsite manufacturing, we can utilize robotics to handle many of the additional processes, such as installation of MEP products into wall panels.

The reach of robotics extends beyond the conventional assembly line or construction site. Robots are finding applications in areas previously unexplored. Warehouses are embracing automated systems for inventory management and order fulfillment. Autonomous vehicles are enhancing material transport within factories, reducing human labor and improving efficiency

One of the most intriguing prospects is the integration of robotics with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). These immersive technologies allow workers to visualize complex tasks, receive real-time instructions, and even remotely control robots. This convergence of robotics and digital tools is redefining human–machine interaction and reshaping the way work is accomplished.

Discovering Metrics and Determining the Impact of Robotics

The introduction of robotics is not a mere change in tools; it’s a transformation of processes and dynamics. To move efficiently toward the next phase of this transformation, we must establish the right metrics. The clearer the goal, the faster the progress. Manufacturers and builders need to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that can accurately measure the impact of robotics on their operations. We as an industry have to fundamentally change our thinking around labor and how we track. The days of “labor-hours” and “labor-minutes” or “work minutes”, as some would say, is an archaic methodology that isn’t serving us well.

Metrics may include production efficiency, defect rates, downtime, energy consumption, and labor cost savings. These measurements provide concrete insights into how robots are optimizing processes and contributing to the bottom line. Regular analysis of these data points helps fine-tune the integration of robotics and aids in strategic decision-making.

Challenges and Considerations

When implementing robotics, setting clear goals is crucial. The goals should align with the overall mission of the facility and address specific pain points. These objectives could range from increasing production output, reducing errors, enhancing product quality, or even creating a safer working environment for human workers.

Collaborative robots, referred to as cobots, exemplify the human–robot partnership. These robots are designed to work alongside humans, complementing their skills and augmenting their capabilities. Cobots excel in scenarios where precision is essential, and repetitive tasks can be offloaded to machines, freeing up human workers to focus on higher-level tasks that require creativity and critical thinking.

While the potential of robotics in the building industry is vast, challenges persist. The initial investment in robotics technology can be substantial, encompassing costs for hardware, software, training, and integration. Companies must weigh these costs against the long-term benefits, such as increased efficiency, reduced labor expenses, and improved quality.

Integration is another hurdle that requires careful consideration. Adapting existing processes to accommodate robotic systems may entail temporary operational disruptions while employees move through the learning curve. However, with proper planning, training, and change management, these challenges can be mitigated, and the transition can be smoother.

Collaboration for a Robotic Future

Embracing the potential of robotics necessitates collaboration among industry leaders and technology developers. These stakeholders need to work in synergy to create an environment conducive to innovation and growth. And just as our individual panelists have done, so whole industries can advance the cross-pollination of ideas and solutions.

Most importantly, the integration of robotics is more than a technical shift; it’s a paradigm shift. It’s about reimagining how we create, build, and produce. The current state of robotics is impressive, but the future holds even greater promises. By setting clear goals, embracing challenges, and fostering collaboration, we can truly unleash the potential of robotics, revolutionizing industries and propelling us into a new era of manufacturing excellence. To find out more about this exciting panel discussion at BCMC, visit https://qrco.de/Unleash.

4Ward Solutions Group is the innovative solutions provider for the building industry, that keeps your business at the leading edge of technology, manufacturing processes, and more. Ben Hershey is the CEO of 4Ward Solutions Group and their affiliated companies. A Past President of SBCA and owner of multiple manufacturing, distribution, and software companies, Ben and his team have provided unparalleled solutions for more than 30 years. Mike Ruede, Jr. is the Automation Solutions Expert for 4Ward and their affiliated companies. Mike’s expertise in automation and robotics within offsite manufacturing and LBM industries offers immense value to organizations seeking enhanced efficiency and productivity.

Race to Indy for BCMC 2023

The word is out — component manufacturers design faster, reduce costs and waste, and build more with our trailblazing TrueBuild® software suite and connector products. Now, are you ready to learn more about what Eagle has to offer? If so, come see us at BCMC!

Our industry’s #1 event of the year, the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) that is now combined with the Framers Summit (FS), is being held the week of September 18 in Indianapolis, IN. The week will be jam-packed with educational opportunities, social events, industry meetings, and of course the biggest collection of exhibitors on a trade show floor specifically tailored to our industry.

Importantly, BCMC provides ample opportunities for everyone to participate in both group activities and face-to-face meetings. Golf, 5K, biking? We’ve got that. Happy hours and celebratory dinners? Absolutely. How about educational sessions? Yes, and they’ve even scheduled additional sessions provided by exhibitors before the show floor opens. And, how big is the show floor? It’s 65,000 sq ft!

For this one great week, we are all a part of the family that we call the structural building components industry, so please join me, my fellow BCMC Committee members, my co-workers, and my friends at the show.

And, if you’d like to schedule a personal session with Eagle Metal, please let us know. Or, simply drop by Booth #701. See you in Indy!

By Traacy Roe

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

saw featuring stroke limiter and locking turntable for setting angles. Cuts angles from 10 to 160 degrees, cross-cut maximum depth of up to 6 inches, with scarf cuts of up to 26 inches long. Saw features a 7.5 HP, 3 phase electric motor, with direct drive of its 17inch diameter blade. Saw frame is tubular steel construction. Includes (2) 16-inch wide x 10-ft long conveyor & cowling for dust extraction. Decommissioned in January of 2023. 230 volt, 3 phase electric required. $16,897 FOB CO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

2019 Mitek Auto Deck (for Mitek Blade Saw)

SAWS

2020 Spida Apollo Pull Arm Saw 2020 Spida manual Apollo pull arm

$124,990.00 NOW $69,990 FOB SD Available March 2022

2006 Koskovich Omni Miser WFA with WoodRunner Lumber Retrieval

Servo controlled angulation axis of movement for cutting and making wall frame (square & angle cut) components. , “D” Print option (both faces, one edge). Includes 5 HP, 3450 RPM, arbor motor, computer monitor, console, 220/440v 3 Ph, spare blade. The WoodRunner Air Pick automated lumber retrieval system includes a single picking head with 10 bunks and 2 magazines. Includes manuals, all available spare parts and spare servo cards, and WoodRunner software source code. Available March 2022.

Scale Your Business & Profits

By MiTek Staff

As a component manufacturer, you enable better building. As a partner to CMs across the country, MiTek does the same — from advanced design software and automated production equipment to innovative and integrated technologies that lead to a more profitable and stable future for your business.

MiTek solutions give CMs the efficiency to rise above labor and market challenges, so you’re always ready to meet demand head-on. Let’s lay the foundation to scale your success.

Engineered Products: Floors and Walls

Access a full range of engineered components to deliver solutions that transform how your customers build.

At this year’s Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) in Indianapolis in September, you’ll be able to see our floor and wall production solutions, with informational videos and collateral to help you understand their advanced features.

Walk around our floor cassette to better understand messaging and promotions we’re using with builders to drive business to you.

Software

Maximize productivity with industry-leading structural design and operations management software. Speak to one of our experts at the several software demo stations* we will have set up to learn about solutions that help you improve your business.

CM Software Suite:

• MiTek Structure

• MiTek Production

• MiTek Management

• MiTek Supply

*Additional, focused training sessions available for truss design.

Automated Solutions

Increase plant efficiency and reduce labor requirements.

Learn more about how integrated automation solutions can completely amp up your business. See our machinery set-up, in-person, with informational videos to learn about their advanced features and how these machines can work together in a connected MatchPoint DirectDrive system.

Services

Expand your capabilities in design, estimating, and more without adding staff.

Speak with our Solution Architects and hear more about their process to recommend a custom plant layout that maximizes your efficiency, through our Plant Optimization Services.

Discover how our Dedicated Services team operates like a member of your staff without the overhead, adding skilled expertise to your capabilities.

Training Sessions and More

This year at BCMC, we are offering free training sessions in Structure with Truss Design so you can experience the benefits and ease-of-use of this software.

In addition, visit us in booth #1103 learn how to use the most powerful structural modeling, editing, and estimating functionality in the industry.

Additional drop-in education sessions are available in-booth on both days of the show. See our Training Schedule on the next page.

Training Schedule

Tuesday, September 19

8:00 – 10:00am –OR– 12:00 – 2:00pm:

SE Training:

Roof + Floor Trusses

Length: 2 Hours

Presenters: Warren Railton/Steven Morgan

Skill Level: Designers who use 20/20 software

Description: In this session, we will review the advantages of switching to MiTek Structure with Truss Design. Prepare to elevate your truss design process to unmatched levels of efficiency and creativity. Discover the endless possibilities that MiTek Structure offers for your roof and floor truss designs. During this session, you’ll dive into our roof and floor truss design features inside Structure. Experience the ease of learning our software, as similar commands used in plan view are seamlessly integrated into elevation view design.

Wednesday, September 20

9:30 – 11:00am

MiTek Production:

Comprehensive Production Management

Length: 1.5 Hours

Presenters: Doug Snow/Steven Morgan

Skill Level: Attendees who use ShopNet, MVP, or Cybersort software

Description: Join us for an exclusive session where we uncover the power of MiTek Production—a cutting-edge platform designed to revolutionize how you work with roof, floor, and wall components. We will showcase configuring a saw and table on the fly during this session. Each user attending will get the opportunity to walk through the lifecycle of a project in a hands-on exercise and witness the seamless integration of MiTek Production with the MiTek Suite.

12:00 – 12:30pm

MiTek Structure “Top Gun” Design Challenge

Length: 30 minutes

Presenters: Kate Jordan/Steven Morgan

Description: This fun, 30-minute session is open to any designer who wants to compete for a “Top Gun” award for the most efficient MiTek Structure software user at BCMC 2023! Register early to reserve your seat and compete against your peers for bragging rights.

12:45 – 1:45pm

Truss Libraries

Length: 1 Hour

Presenter: Steven Morgan

Skill Level: Designers who use Structure to design trusses for production

Description: Join us for an exciting session to review the game-changing benefits of utilizing MiTek Structure’s Truss Libraries. Our session will delve into roof and floor truss designs, providing real-life examples demonstrating the seamless integration of Truss Libraries in MiTek Structure. From linking identical truss designs to multiple models to effortlessly modifying webbing and splicing on the fly, you’ll master the art of Truss Libraries with ease.

Thursday, September 21

9:30 – 10:00am

Use a Model to Drive Truss Design

Length: 30 minutes

Presenter: Steven Morgan

Skill Level: Designers who use MiTek software

Description: Elevate your design workflow with MiTek Structure: precision, efficiency, and accuracy combined! As the truss design landscape evolves, embracing cutting-edge software like MiTek Structure is necessary. See how utilizing MiTek Structure becomes essential to elevate your estimating and production work to new levels. Join us to discuss the advantages of incorporating modeling software into your daily design process.

10:00 – 10:30am

Top 10 Structure Features

Length: 30 minutes

Presenter: Steven Morgan

Skill Level: Designers who use MiTek software

Description: MiTek Structure is a powerful layout, design, and 3D modeling application. MiTek releases new Structure software features quarterly, but most users don’t add these features to their method of completing jobs. Join us for this enlightening session reviewing top features designers and techs say are necessary when designing daily.

Visit mii.com/bcmc for more information, our BCMC events schedule, and to register for any training sessions. Be sure to visit us in booth #1103 to see hands-on displays and how MiTek’s integrated solutions help you deliver more value to your customers.

Visit

• Sources for MSR Lumber

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

• Educational Resources

Find helpful information for current and potential MSR lumber users.

• NEW! Design Values Comparison Tool

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

“Lumber buyers don’t often have access to truss design software to easily determine the allowable substitutions that may inform their purchasing decisions in a meaningful way. This tool helps with that and provides valuable information about species substitution, which is becoming more common in today’s market. It’s a one-stop shop.”

—George

Hamilton, MSRLPC Board & Website Committee Member

Custom 3-Arm Infeed Decks

Two custom-built powered infeed decks, 3-arms each, 12′ x 12′ footprint each, touchpad controls and chain conveyors.

One deck has a 5 HP drive and the other has a 10 HP drive. 480 volt, 3-phase electrical required.

10 HP price is $7,993 & the 5 HP price is $6,993.

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

$14,099 Base FOB MN

2005 Alpine Speed Cut Saw with Speed Cut Express

• Alpine Metra-Cut Saw (5 HP-3 Phase) with 16" Blade

• Speed Cut Express Automation with Touch Screen Computer

• Automated Stop and Automated Saw Angulation as Directed by Truss Design Software

• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

• Saw Barrier Guard $19,900 NOW $16,900 FOB ND

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2006 MiTek Cyber A/T Component Saw

2006 MiTek Cyber A/T Component Saw. Frame #521, Fully automated five-blade component saw, cutting performed by 2-16″ x 7 HP, 2-20″ x 7 HP, 1-32″ x 13 HP. Windows 7 PC in enclosure for fully automated or manual part input, all powered movements, cuts 2×3 thru 2×12 plus 4×2 lumber. Lengths cut from 14″ to 20 feet. Minimum 4-angle cut 22″ (17″ in manual mode) Belt scrap conveyor included with short incline (approx 4′). Includes skate wheel outfield conveyor and optional “Catcher Display”. Includes all available spare blades, spare parts, and manual with schematics. 2480v, 3ph power required.

765-751-9990

$89,990 FOB VA

www.woodtechsystems.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).

NEW!

New

Monet DeWall 90/90 wall panel marking saw is a computer numeric controlled wall panel saw with touch screen user interface. Cuts and marks up to 2 boards at a time using 2x4 through 2x8 or cuts and marks one board at a time. Call for pricing, FOB MO

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

By the Alpine Team

Showcasing the Latest Innovations & Products at BCMC FS

Exhibiting in booth 410 at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference and Framers Summit (BCMC FS) on September 20–21 in Indianapolis, Alpine will be highlighting the latest advances designed to make component manufacturers more profitable and competitive. There will be four stations providing live product demonstrations showcasing designer efficiency, software performance enhancements, and new tools to empower customers to manage data.

Alpine Director of Software Development, Rick Tilelli, explains: “interacting with customers and industry experts, as well as showcasing our new products and features, makes this show an annual highlight. Our software team’s mission is developing solutions that deliver value, enabling our customers to be more efficient, more profitable, and more competitive. We can’t wait to unveil our exciting new software innovations and improvements at BCMC FS 2023.”

IntelliVIEW Suite 2023 Highlights & New Tools

Load Areas is a powerful new tool in iModel (version 23.02) designed to enhance and simplify the tedious, 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.

The Visibility Manager is a new feature that provides designers with enhanced layout performance in iModel, and users can experience up to 80% faster navigation with large multi-family plans. With the ease of a click, designers control the visibility of the layout elements – showing or hiding only needed objects and annotations.

The new Visibility Manager feature in iModel

iCommand IntelliSheets takes business management to the next level. Introduced in 2022 to create custom job lists, track progress, and share live reports easily with different users, the 2023 Series incorporates production data, additional editing capabilities, as well as improved security controls.

STITCHER Software Reimagined

“In partnership with our customers, we continue enhancing our innovative STITCHER Software ensuring we deliver designer efficiency,” adds Rick Tilelli. The new interface and workflow provide an easier ramp-up for new users. Driven by customer feedback, these enhancements deliver even more value to STITCHER, which is allowing designers to improve efficiency by 75% or more. Time spent on drawing review and entering the building envelope can be reduced to a minimum with STITCHER software.

Alpine Equipment

The new STITCHER interface and workflow takes designers from drawing review to building envelop to 3D model like never before

“As the industry moves toward increased automation, Alpine is at the forefront of this effort, delivering quality and safety-oriented solutions that increase machine uptime and productivity,” said Vennor Hackshaw, Business Unit Manager at Alpine. Alpine will be providing live demonstrations to showcase the Alpine Linear Saw (ALS) and AutoSet Plus Tables.

Leading the industry in board-feet-per-hour, and operable by a single sawyer, the Alpine Linear Saw (ALS) 4.0 reduces labor costs and material waste while improving the bottom line. Live demonstrations will highlight its cutting versatility, automatic marking, material waste reduction capabilities, and much more. The ALS also improves safety by keeping the operator clear of dust and moving parts. See it in action!

With set-up in less than 25 seconds, the AutoSet Plus Table sets industry benchmarks in truss production efficiency and accuracy. This computercontrolled system is easy to learn, use, and maintain. The automated steel pucks help workers maintain a consistent workflow, with higher accuracy, and reduce employee fatigue.

Sneak Peak – And Private Demos

For a sneak peak, Alpine will also provide a preview into the future development of the PaperSpace Tool and IntelliSheets Cloud version – both available later this year – at booth 410. To book private software and product demonstrations now, email info@alpineitw.com.

Design and build faster than ever.

From plans, to walls, to panels, and everything above. Introducing a new level of design tools, built from the ground up.

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.

$349,900 FOB MO

New ways to equip you for success.

The business of construction has never been more challenging. That’s why Simpson Strong-Tie keeps working to develop new solutions. Focused on customers, we’re constantly exploring innovative ways to support component manufacturers. Our truss connectors have become the industry standard. Our design and management software streamlines operations. And now, with advanced, automated cutting equipment, we’re bringing even more powerful tools to sharpen your edge. From ultra-precise component machines by Hundegger to brilliantly simple cutting and marking technology with EasyFrame, we’re fully equipped to keep you moving ahead.

To find out more about our entire line of innovative solutions, stop by our booth at BCMC, September 18–22.

“We’ve been using MSR pretty much since day one when SCS was founded in 1987. It’s a crucial element for roof and floor trusses, especially with today’s challenging designs for residential and commercial construction. By using MSR, we reduce the overall fiber required for the design of our products. For example, a top chord on a roof truss might require 2x6 if only #2 is available but that can often be replaced with a 2x4 in MSR.”

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. Members enjoy reliable market data and opportunities for education, networking and online marketing.

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

—Dave Kipp, Structural Component Systems (SCS), MSRLPC member

Let’s Talk Shop at BCMC!

At BCMC 2023 Indianapolis, let’s talk shop and start planning your next incremental process re-organization or complete plant makeover. From simple process improvements to extreme plant makeovers, we have the expertise, proven solutions, technology, and field personnel to get the job done on time and within budget.

It’s all good news this year at BCMC – our lead times are “back to normal” as we have ramped up production, and we have added impressive installation resources in WR Industrial and Tyrone Olson Equipment Services. Let’s talk about moving saws and adding a PickLine short term. Free up valuable plant space by feeding lumber to your saws from the outside with a Lumber PickLine. Long term and depending on budget, let’s prepare for a future double PickLine. Sometimes machinery needs to be moved and sometimes machinery needs to be modified to Feed the Beast!

In fact, you can take a break and come work out in our booth too. Yep, that’s the crew from Structural Wood Corporation, Waddington, NY at last year’s BCMC, with a little on-site friendly competition.

Or, you might win a prize! Jewel Mast of Midland Truss, Inc. was last year’s grand prize winner. Shown in the photo (left to right) are me (Ed Lim, LimTek Solutions), Jewel Mast of Midland

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. LimTek Solutions Inc.

Truss, and Larry and Dave Dalson of Enventek.

So if you have not already figured things out and placed your order, come to Indianapolis with your plant layout and production requirements and we will help you figure it out.

Our process organization solutions can be used individually to your benefit depending on your plant constraints. Many truss plants have made the leap of faith turning things completely upside down to get the full in-line truss production efficiencies of our complete system from Picking Lumber right through to PlantOne TVs over truss build tables for a “Fully Loaded RetroC.”

Lumber PickLines are very popular right now. We can feed any automated saw, including all the major linear saw brands and all types of component saws, with the saw operator on the stationary side or on the movable carriage side.

Let’s talk shop. Bring us your current plant layout and we’ll have a look at your satellite image to see how we can help you optimize your operation. I’ll be in the Enventek booth

#711 – which is easy to find in the middle of the show floor (beside Eagle Metal). See you there!

HSF Hain Systems Framer

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

The 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:

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

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

Height: 12 inches

Depth: 12 inches

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

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Powder Coat: Industrial Gray

Dimensions: Height: 43”

Length: 16’ or 20’

Width: Adjustable

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.

theHAINCOMPANY 6125 Enterprise Drive, Unit 9 | Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530.295.8068 | sales@thehaincompany.com

Machinery. Parts. Service.

Maintaining and maximizing productivity is necessary for successful component manufacturers. This could involve a simple and affordable solution to keep a line running, material handling systems to keep things moving, or a necessary investment made to replace or introduce a new line or technology to your plant.

Eide Machinery Sales has been in the Wood Product and Fabrication Industries for over 96 years; serving the Component Manufacturing Industry since the beginning. Your business is our business and we’ve built a successful reputation building and strengthening relationships with our customers through proper placement of the right equipment, parts, service, and support.

Trackless Table Conversion

2018 Clark Mini Barn Press

2018 Clark Mini Barn Press, builds rigid frames for sheds from 8 foot to 14 foot spans, to 3′-6″ height. Builds mansard and rafter shapes. Includes (5) track mounted heads with 8″ x 10″ platens, material clamps, 10 HP hydraulic power unit with manifold for air and fluid, ball valve controls, mounting track and all available jigging. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$19,997 FOB TX

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

NEW!

Horizontal

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

WESCANA FLOOR TRUSS MACHINE

• 7' x 40' Table with 3/4" Steel Table Top

• Two 5' Park Sections

• Tr uss Depths from 12" to 26"

• Truss Flip-Over Arms

• Side or End Ejectors

• Built-In Cambe r for Clamping on Both Sides

• Air Cylinders Under Table

• 2 Control Valves for Clamping

800-382-0329

• 1 Control Valve for FlipOver Arms

• 1 Control Vlave for Ejectors

• 24" Diameter x 1" Wall

Thickness Roller

• 10 HP / 3 Phase Gear Motor

• Front & R ear Emergency

Shut-Off Bars

• Joystick Control

• 2' per Second Travel Speed

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

Pacific Peak Up Stacker

Used-as-is Pacific Automation 60’ peak up stacker / (4) lift arms with indexing heads / Adjustable pop-up platform / Target for triggering stacking cycle / Powered truss conveyor as shown / Center rolls can be moved to unload from top chord side / Control panel with auto and manual stacking mode.

$13,950

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

Component manufaCturing

2007 Clark Industries

Truss Stacker

By Ed Serrano Managing Director VektaUSA

Introducing the New Raking Wall Framer by Vekta

Vekta is known in the industry for our market-leading Razer V5 Linear Saw, but it’s our culture of innovation that defines our unique product and systems solutions.

Today, Vekta’s current system technologies range covers many of the manufacturing processes involved in producing Frames and Trusses for the component manufacturing industry:

• Material Handling – Stacking lumber on the infeed side of the manufacturing process, then the automatic selection and transfer of the materials ready for cutting with no manual intervention required,

• Cutting & Printing – Various types of lumber can be automatically optimized, leaving less waste, and each individual component can be labeled by printing its positiondependent information on each side of the cut members in real time,

• Innovative Conveying – Utilizing technology that has significantly improved worker safety, performance, efficiency, and consistency; conveying each component at high speed to its final destination and then using automated stacking of the end product, thereby removing hazardous material handling tasks.

Even so, one area within component manufacturing is still highly labor intensive and challenging, and it has received little attention from automation companies. That is, until now – Raking Wall Frames!

Getting Over the Raking Wall

A raking wall, where the height of the wall changes as you progress along the wall, presents unique challenges for prefabrication. By definition, every stud in the raking panel is a different length. Accurate positioning of the stud is made difficult due to the swelling of the lumber impacting the position of the stud. These problems are not nearly as profound in the more common parallel wall panels. Previously, raking walls have been deemed too complicated for cost-effective automation, with framing solutions being focused on the less-complicated parallel walls. The raking wall frame has remained an entirely manual assembly process. However, with the increase in popularity of raking walls, and with most parallel wall framing lines focused on volume rather than output-perman-hour efficiency, Vekta’s R&D team decided it was time the industry saw some fresh innovation in this space!

The Vekta Raking Framer is an automated solution that caters to both parallel and raking frames. Its modular design allows customers to select the most cost-effective version for their specific needs at a particular point in time. Our objective has been to develop a solution that reduces or eliminates the number of times an operator needs to touch the lumber.

How the Vekta Raking Framer Works

• The process starts with the operator loading raw uncut lumber onto the automated loading areas – for stud and noggin/blocking (optional) components.

• The operator then places the top and bottom plates in the starting position, checks to ensure there are enough screws and nails loaded, and simply hits “start” on the operator console.

• The machine then lines up the top and bottom plates for the first stud while simultaneously cutting the stud (and noggin/blocking if applicable).

• The stud length is cut to the nominal length, compensated for any measured swelling in the top/bottom plates, while the nog length is cut to compensate for any stud swelling – ensuring that the overall height and width of the frame are exactly right.

• If a noggin is required, it is nailed to the cut stud before the stud–noggin combination is inserted into the frame at the correct position – without any operator intervention.

• The stud is then nailed and/or screwed to the plates and the panel is indexed forward to the next stud location.

• Multiple screws/nails can be fastened at various positions, i.e., the positions and quantities are adjusted automatically.

• Verification sensors are used to confirm all nails/screws are fastened correctly.

• Meanwhile, the second stud–noggin combination is being cut/nailed and made ready for insertion.

• If noggins/blocking is used, the center gun nailer will nail off the second stud to the first noggin/blocking – it caters to both inline and offset noggins.

• The center gun nailer is also capable of holding and nailing off overs and unders to the sills, etc., essentially automating and optimizing the framing workflow

The Bottom Line

The machine can handle parallel, raking, and stepped frames – the design intent is to reduce the amount of labor needed to build a frame while simultaneously creating a better overall product than could be framed in a traditional manner by subcomponent makers.

Modular in design, the system can be ordered with just the core raking framer system or with automatic subcomponent makers. It is capable of screwing and/or nailing studs to the plates.

The innovation of the Vekta Raking Framer resulted in Vekta being awarded the inaugural 2023 SBCA Innovation Grant against 27 other submissions from the industry. To learn more about the Raking Framer and other Vekta framing solutions, visit booths #1600 and #1602 at BCMC Indianapolis in September. We can’t wait to show you what innovation actually looks like!

$37,900 NOW $29,900 FOB Ontario

• Wall Lengths to 12'

• Wall Heights to 40'

• Powered Height Adjustment

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

• Adjustable Squaring Stop

• Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyors

• Stud Locators at 16" and 24" Centers

• Center Support Bar with Stud Locators

• Excludes Tool Doilies

• Price is in US Dollars

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

2022 Triad 24' Framing Table with 12' Trident Panel/Router Bridge

$229,500

NOW $199,500

TRIAD GENERATION 3 FRAMING TABLE

Lengths to 24'

$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.

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

Powered Height Adjustment (6'-9" to 12'-3" wall heights)

Stud Locators at 16" and 24" Centers

Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyor

Trident Tool Dollies with Senco Nail Guns

TRIAD TRIDENT 12' PANEL/ROUTER BRIDGE

Touch Screen Programmable Fastener Spacing

Joystick Control Bridge Auto Return

Single Laser Pointer

Tilt Tool Bar (for Sheathing Seams)

Auto Sizing Plate Fire (for Top & Bottom Plate)

Senco Nail Guns

Router Motor & Extra Router Bits

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

3 Custom Skatewheel Conveyor Tables (10' x 10, 8' x 10' and 6' x 10')

Triad Wall Panel Lift

2 Triad Material Carts

2 Triad Tree Carts

Extra Senco Nail Guns & Parts

Shipping, Installation & Training is available at additional cost.

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

New PROSTACK II WALL PANEL STACKER

Call for Price

Developed for commercial wall panel production facilities this is the remarkable ProStack, fully automated wall panel stacker. The ProStack II relieves 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 feet in height. The ProStack automatically centers each layer including multiple wall segments on the same layer, and the ability to “create” fork lift pockets for ease of loading in your yard or on the build site. It can stack left, right or center-justified. 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. 208 volt, 3 phase, 45.3 full Amp load electrical required. No air required. Footprint is 26′-5″L x 19′-3″W.

ProStack II can operate with you existing powered conveyors or select optional matching conveyors:

ProStack Wall Panel Tilt In-Feed Conveyor: System can tilt wall panels (12’W x 16’L) to approx. 75º for working access to install blocking, windows, or inspection/repair of “shiners” on sheathed wall segments. System utilizes hydraulic power from an existing ProStack wall panel auto-stack system.

Powered In Feed conveyor section, Chain drive under top and bottom plate for access to inspect sheathing fasteners – 12’W x 16’L, adjustable working height from 28” to 34”.

Powered Out-Feed conveyor section, full-width, HD roll-top for easy access to banding operation. 12’W x 16’L, adjustable working height from 28” to 34”. Here are some of the features of the ProStack Wall Panel Stacker:

• Wall Length Max – 16’

• Wall Height Range – 8’ to 12’

• Material 2×4″ through 2×8″

• Total Weight capacity – 6,000 lbs.

• Total stack Height Max – 6’

• This unit stacks on-center

• System is able to stack on-center layers that have multiple wall segments

• Siemens® HMI touch-screen controls

• Full manual override controls via HMI

• Speed – 45-60 seconds per wall layer

• NO overhead components = no overhead hazards or annual inspections

2007 Panels Plus Combo Table with Multi-tool Bridge

2007 Panels Plus Combination Table, allows you to frame, square and sheath wood wall panels on one,16 foot long table x 12 foot framer for wall heights from 6′-9” to 12’4”. Builds both 2×4 and 2×6 walls. Clamps wall prior to nailing. Table includes push button controls, color-coded stud locators at 16 inches & 24 inches o.c. spacing, squaring stops, motorized telescoping arms, skatewheel ejectors and powered tool bridge. Sheathing nailing bridge includes powered travel, joy-stick & key pad controls, air manifold, manual fine tuning, tilt and seam nailing. No tools or mounts included. 30 CFM at 120 psi air required, and 120 volt, 1-phase electrical required.

PANEL EQUIPMENT

New Component Table with Skatewheel Conveyors

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

$12,500 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.

$8,250 FOB TX

Wasserman

• Manual Height Adjustment (7'-0" to 9'-3" wall heights)

• Tool Dollies with Senco Nail Guns

• Stud Locators

• Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyor

• 1" Stroke Air Clamps

• Tool Box

$14,900 FOB VA

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

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.

uilding

Wasserman & Associates

Wall Panel Line Accessories

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

* Gun Holster And Nail Tray

Skate Rollers

* 15’ Standard Length

* Adjustable Height

* Sturdy Stands

* Custom Lengths Available

$1,950.00

$3,000.00

$12,500.00

$3,000.00

Grow Your Business with Low Upfront Costs

Carl Villella, CLFP President, Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service

Investing in new, or even used, equipment can be a game-changer, but the upfront costs can be daunting. Many vendors are requiring a 50% deposit with the order, even though lag times for delivery of the equipment can run up to nine months or longer. That means your cash outlay that could be used for a number of important expenses, not to mention for any unexpected emergencies, is locked up.

Financing through Acceptance Leasing and Financing allows you to preserve working capital. Instead of paying for equipment upfront, financing allows you to spread the cost over a period of time and write off the interest expense. This means that you can allocate your cash towards other business needs such as marketing or hiring new employees, buying lumber in good market conditions, or buying plates.

There are other benefits as well. With financing, you have the flexibility to choose the terms and payment options that best suit your business needs. Numerous financing plans exist that you can take advantage of. For seasonal businesses, minimal payments can be made in the “off” months of your business cycle to protect you from your particular market swings, with a 90-day delay for the first payment. We also offer a “Cash Plus” option, so that in addition to the equipment being financed, a cash amount (up to $25,000) for any purpose can be added.

We hope that you will give us a call at 412 262-3225 to learn more about the programs and options open to you. Don’t let upfront costs prevent you from growing your business. Explore commercial equipment financing options and unlock your growth potential today. We look forward to hearing from you.

We are Acceptance Leasing and Financing Service. Established in 1992, we pride ourselves on our Certified Leasing and Financing Professional designation. We are a member of SBCA and a frequent attendee of the BCMC tradeshow. We can provide financing for any new and, regardless of age, used equipment (some limitations for used trucks and trailers apply).

•

PANEL EQUIPMENT

2021 Triad Router Bridge & Portion of V-Track

•

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

The Generation 3 Framing Table has adjustable 20’ long walls. With just a push of a button, the width adjustment clamp is activated to clamp and square all components. The Generation 3 Framer features a wider table top, designed with the framer in mind. Our new Anti-Slip Surface allows the operator to work on a comfortable and safe surface.

Call for Price

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

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

New Panels Plus Floor Cassette Framing Station

Price: $Call for pricing

FOB: MN

IBS Tool Bridge & Router Bridge

IBS multi-tool bridge with (24) tool stations. Bridge features auto-return, button controls and laser guide mount. Fits up to 12′ nominal rail centers. IBS router bridge features (1) router, laser guide mount and lever-switch button controls. Fits up to 12′ nominal rail centers. Sold as a pair. Includes all available floor mounted, v-rail. Both bridges missing laser sub-assembly. 120vac, 120psi air.

$15,975 NOW $5,995 FOB UT

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

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.

New Wall Panel Lift

• 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

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.

Generation 3, Used 2018 Triad Framing Table

“Alpine’s industry-leading

and production

today’s market. Alpine’s commitment to the industry is second to none!”

— Bill Weber Cascade Mfg. Co.

Triad 12 ft Gen II Sheathing

Bridge & Track

Triad Generation II nail tool bridge with 60 ft of v-track, refurbished by Triad in 2021. Maximum panel height clearance 12′-3″. Includes locations for (3) tool mounts along the middle beam, top & bottom plate tool mounts, tilt-tool option, joy-stick controls, power bridge return, e-stop button, all available Paslode tool mounts, manual and all available spare parts. 120 volt, 1 phase electrical required. 100 PSI air required. $75,971 NOW $25,000 FOB CO

Job Site Success Begins with Good Communication

By Landon Boucher Director, Business Design

My favorite place to meet with a customer is on the job site. Always has been. I started in this industry approximately 20 years ago as a young truss salesman for UFP in Southern California. My training consisted of building trusses in the yard, creating estimates, and completing engineering packages with our design team. I enjoyed all of it, but the last part of my training was, hands down, my favorite: providing on-site field services to repair damaged or mis-installed trusses and wall panels.

Looking back, I wasn’t good at any of those tasks. As the first few months of my career passed, I knew I needed to add more direct value to my customers beyond the general knowledge I picked up during my new hire training. My company had great value: great support staff, on time deliveries, responsive customer service, etc. But my value as the new guy was limited.

I decided to spend as much time as I could with the most experienced field repairman. He let me borrow his tools and allowed me to get to work learning how to fix trusses. I still wasn’t very good at it, but I earned his respect and, more importantly, the respect of my customers. One of them even invited me to his office to learn how to read plans. This only further added to the value I could bring to my customers, including on the job site.

Throughout my career, I’ve held onto the lessons I learned during that foundational stage. One of my key responsibilities with MiTek involves engaging with the Design, Make, and Build communities to develop tools and resources that enable efficient utilization of off-site construction methodologies. In this role, I take every opportunity to be on site and see the products and services we provide in partnership with our CM customers on display. Not a single thing we do at MiTek would be possible without our customers and their customers.

On a recent site visit in Northern California, I decided to snap a few quick images with my cell phone. The images show how effective our PosiStrut floor truss system is in shallow depth applications, even when running a high volume of utility lines through the open web area. This project consists of 716 apartment units within 4 floors on 4 different buildings. Known as “The Sevens,” it used the

11-7/8” deep Posi (Model PS12i). The project was designed using an I-Joist system, but, not long before construction was set to begin, Palisade Builders and their sub-contractor, Ciara Construction, requested a change to Top Chord Bearing Posi-Strut floor trusses. This required connecting different parts and people in the construction process together to work toward a shared goal – something that is part of the MiTek DNA. We were able to provide the proper guidance to all members of the project team, both as partners and as subject matter experts.

Through discussions with TCA Architects and DCI Engineers, we uncovered a need to develop a new ICC-ES Listing Report (ESL-1388) to achieve a fire-rated assembly equivalent to what was originally accounted for in the design. Each team acted swiftly and was successful at meeting the needs of each stakeholder of the project to make this change from I-Joist to floor trusses within the right timeline. Thankfully this project team was able to rely on the capable hands of an experienced Component Manufacturer in Reno Truss. From design of the trusses to fabrication and delivery, each step was handled with precision and attention to detail with a key understanding of the customer’s needs. Like many of our capable CM customers, they delivered.

As we enter September, the project is nearing completion. I have been privileged to hear firsthand from several members of the team what their impression of this experience – switching from an I-joist to an open web solution like Posi-Strut – has been.

To me, it’s the words of Palisade Builders that sum it up best: “We are all about efficiency! That is why we use MiTek. Their Posi-Strut floor truss system seamlessly integrates structural support with space for MEP services, revolutionizing the way these essential elements are installed. This innovative design allows for efficient routing of electrical wiring, plumbing systems, and HVAC.”

Couldn’t agree more. To learn more about how you can add value to your customers with floor trusses, send me a note at landon.boucher@mii.com.

Our Table Presses offer supreme versatility & functionality

The Mini 8 and Mini 10 are ideal for the frame & truss industry. With a 40t pressing head, the ability to press any truss, hip, jack or other pressing requirement is an absolute breeze!

Key features available include:

TABLE TOP OPTIONS: A plastic slotted table top with weg-it jigging or a steel top with 5.9” centred holes that accommodate bolt on truss jigging. Mini 8 ride on at ground level, 8ft wide / Mini 10 at table level, 10ft wide – Both can have Floor Truss Jigging as an optional extra.

Get in touch today, and learn how you can be more productive with the Mini 8 or Mini 10.

SINGLE BEAM SHEATHING STATION

The Single Beam Sheathing Station offers flexibility in fastener spacing both in the field, on seams, and while stitching the top and bottom plates. This Sheathing Station fastens sheathing to wood wall panels to ensure quality panels every time.

BENEFITS

• Ergonomic working height

• Flexibility with fastener spacing

• Fastens consistently and accurately

• Reduces the risk of “shiners”

$26,977 NOW $14,997 FOB MD

Triad / Viking Wall Equipment

Triad squaring table with two bridges and one Viking power conveyor. Either bridge fits on the squaring table. Builds from 6′-9″ to 12′-3″ tall wall panels to 16′-0″ long. Triad squaring table, model G2SHSQ, has powered clamp / unclamp controls on either end of the fixed side of table.

Triad nailing bridge, model PSTT, has (24) tool mount locations with Paslode tool mounts, auto return and bottom plate laser sight mount. Changed by owner from staple tools to nail tools. Router bridge is manual travel. Viking powered conveyor 23 ft long with support platforms alongside both chains. Forward powered drive only. Foot pedal controls for drive motors. 120 volt, 1 phase electrical required. 100 PSI air required.

The Universal Infeed Deck from Acer Always Innovating

 Dual elevators receive 2 boards at once from dual-head Rangers

 Improved design increases throughput

 Auto crown scanning and board flipping is standard

 Smooth stacking mechanism for stacking saws

The Ranger Retrieval System is compatible with linear saws from Alpine and Vekta.

The Universal deck is available to suit each of these saws , with appropriate height and saw feed mechanism , as well as stacking and non -stacking variants .

Choose the Tornado M500 for efficiency

This Linear Saw automatically feeds, cuts, prints and ejects wall frame components - handling 20ft lengths, stacked 3 high.

SPEED ACCURACY EASE OF OPERATION INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY +

Boost your output with the Tornado M500, the most cost-effective addition to your plant.

HSF Hain Systems Framer

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

The 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:

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

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

Height: 12 inches

Depth: 12 inches

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

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.

theHAINCOMPANY 6125 Enterprise Drive, Unit 9 | Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530.295.8068 | sales@thehaincompany.com

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.

ALLTHINGSWOOD

By Frank Woeste

“Person Loading” of Chords Without Structural Wood Sheathing

The National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction, ANSI/TPI 1-2022 has been updated to require a design load check that accounts for a Person Loading of a roof truss chord without structural wood sheathing. As discussed in the ANSI/TPI 1 Commentary, this loading requirement is “intended to represent the occurrence of a person on the bottom Chord of a truss,” not the roof man-load in ASCE 7.

The Person Loading requirement language from ANSI/TPI 1-2022 is given in Section 6.2.2.5:

“6.2.2.5 Person Loading

In addition to any load cases required for the applicable end use, each roof Truss spanning 18 feet (549 cm) or more shall be designed for a single concentrated load at the mid-point of any Chord panel that is not sheathed with structural wood sheathing. This concentrated load shall be 300 lbs. (1335 N) and shall be applied concurrently with dead load. It shall not be applied concurrently with any other load. The load duration factor for this load case shall be 1.6 or less.”

Consensus Process for Updating ANSI Standards

ANSI has specific requirements to create or update a standard. The committee must be balanced, meaning certain percentages are required to be Producers, Users, and General Interest members. Specifically, no one interest group can outnumber the other two interest groups. Revisions to an ANSI design standard is an evolutionary process that involves consensus of a committee, with public input, that deems the change is needed for various justifiable reasons, such as product performance and safety.

The Person Loading revision is an example of the evolutionary nature of ANSI design standards. In the mid-1990s, I used the Purdue PPSA2 program to analyze a 4/12 W-Truss, 2 ft. on-center with a maximum span of 30-5-0 using 2x4 No.2 Southern Pine chords. A man-load, which at that time was 250 lbs., was placed at the center of one of the bottom chord panels in addition to the truss design dead load. The analysis revealed that the 10-ft. lower chord panel was overstressed.

As a member of the WTCA Engineering Committee, I suggested a prescriptive rule to limit the maximum span of a 2x4 bottom chord panel to 8-ft. as a safety concern for a person that might stand on a truss chord panel. However, a consensus on this proposal at that time was not reached by the committee.

My “story” is an example of how the consensus process works and at times may be slow. While serving on the 2022 TPI 1 revision committee, I was pleasantly surprised when a Person Loading was proposed. As the following example will demonstrate, a 10-ft. chord panel that is not sheathed with structural wood sheathing can produce an overload when subjected to Person Loading.

Person Loading Stress Analysis Example

The ANSI/TPI 1 revision that includes a Person Loading offers a good example of a member subjected to combined bending and tension stresses (ANSI/TPI 1-2022, Eq.E7.3-10 and 11).

W-Truss and Load Analysis Assumptions:

1. W-Truss, 4/12, 2-ft. on-center

2. 2x4 No.2 Southern Pine, Top and Bottom Chords

3. Span = 30-ft.

4. Loading, 20-10-10 (completed structure)

5. 300-lb. concentrated load mid-panel

6. Load Duration Factor (LDF) = 1.6

The first lower chord panel was analyzed with a 300-lb. concentrated load applied mid-span as depicted in Figure 1.

Figure 1. A 300-lb. concentrated load applied at mid-point of the first panel. Design dead load only was applied, and duration of load factor was 1.6 (10 minutes).

Under the design dead load and the Person Loading, the panel axial load (T) was 1,715 lbs. and the mid-panel bending moment at the 300-lb. load was 7,990 in.-lb. The equation for calculating the strength of a member subject to bending and tension stress (Eq. E7.3-10) is given by

f t /F′ t + fb/F*b ≤ 1 where

f t is the design tension stress in the member, F′ t is the adjusted allowable tensile strength, fb is the design bending stress in the member, and F*b is the adjusted allowable bending strength.

For the example problem,

f

t = T/A = 1,715 lbs./(1.5 in. × 3.5in.) = 327 psi ,

fb = M/S2×4 = 7,990 in.-lb./3.06 in.3 = 2,611 psi .

For a solid-sawn member in which structural wood sheathing is not attached, the repetitive member increase, Cr, equals 1.10 for both bending and tension [ANSI/TPI 1-2022, 6.4.2.1(b)]:

F′ t = F t × LDF × C r = 675 psi × 1.6 × 1.10 = 1,188 psi ,

F*b = Fb × LDF × C r = 1,100 psi × 1.6 × 1.10 = 1,936 psi .

Substituting the number into the combined stress equation, the result is

f t /F′ t + fb/F*b ≤ 1

327/1,188 + 2,611/1,936 = 0.28 + 1.35 = 1.63 > 1 .

For the truss first panel, the combined stress index indicated a 2x4 No.2 was overstressed by 63% and inadequate with respect to strength.

The equation for calculating the lateral stability of an unbraced member (Eq. E7.3-11) subject to bending and tension stress is given by fb – f t ≤ F′b

where F′b is calculated by multiplying F*b by a stability factor, CL, that is always less than 1.0. The purpose of the stability check is to guard against the “twisting” potential of a member when the compression edge of the lumber member is not fully braced. For this case, it’s not necessary to calculate CL as the 2x4 No.2 member was already overstressed. Thanks to modern wood truss industry software, the requisite truss design checks are a matter of selecting the proper “buttons.”

Why Person Loading Matters

ANSI/TPI 1 Person Loading involves important safety concerns. As such, I encourage component manufacturers (CMs) to educate truss technicians on the importance of implementing the Person Loading check as required by ANSI/TPI 1-2022 before the standard is referenced in the applicable building code. The use of a revised and updated design standard is generally accepted by registered design professionals and regulatory officials, plan reviewers, and other officials.

Historically, some component manufacturers have limited panel lengths based on experience, performance, and good judgment. The ANSI/TPI 1-2022 update provides a consistent method to check panel length for a Person Loading and eliminates “rules-of-thumb” or “prescriptive rules” for limiting panel spans. The Person Loading provision applies to all chord grades, sizes, species, specie groups, and Multi-Species and Country Grade-marked lumber (as per the 2018 National Design National Design Specification® (NDS®) for Wood Construction Supplement).

As the only wood truss design standard referenced in the U. S. building code evolves, it is encouraging to see the truss industry stakeholders work together to reach an ANSI consensus on a wide range of updates and changes that strengthened the standard with respect to truss engineering, quality, performance, and construction and public safety.

Frank Woeste, P.E., is Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech and a wood construction consultant. Frank, along with his colleagues, has developed and presented continuing education programs for more than 30 years. He is a member of the ANSI/TPI 1 Project Committee for revision of the truss design standard and the AWC Wood Standards Design Committee, and serves as the ALSC Consumer Representative (Alternate). Comments are welcome and can be sent to fwoeste@vt.edu.

“We’ve been using MSR pretty much since day one when SCS was founded in 1987. It’s a crucial element for roof and floor trusses, especially with today’s challenging designs for residential and commercial construction. By using MSR, we reduce the overall fiber required for the design of our products. For example, a top chord on a roof truss might require 2x6 if only #2 is available but that can often be replaced with a 2x4 in MSR.”

—Dave Kipp, Structural Component Systems (SCS), MSRLPC member

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. Members enjoy reliable market data and opportunities for education, networking and online marketing.

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

2003

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 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

1995

• Modified by LMI TENN

• 8" Floor Cross Members

• Reinforced Roof

• 22.5 Tubeless Tires

• Sli ding Tandem Axle (for weight distribution) (FOB PA) $9,900

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2007 Freightliner Truck with Hiab Knuckle Boom Crane

• 2007 Freightliner M2 Flatbed Truck (168,000 Miles)

• New Tires in 2022 ($12,000 Value)

• Hiab 322E-7 Hipro Crane (FOB WA) $89,000 NOW $75,000 800-382-0329 | www.wasserman-associates.com

(IN) $36,500

2013

36' Gooseneck Roll-Off Trailer

• 10,000 Lb Tandem Axles with Dual Wheels

• Self Contained Hydraulic Lift

• Manual Pin Locks on Rollers (some pins need new springs)

• Two Gooseneck Rollers

• Winches & Load Straps

• Electric Brakes

• Tires are Good

• Safety Inspection is Current

• Price in US Dollars

$19,500 FOB ON

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

• Model 36DR (36' Bed Length)

• Tandem 10,000 Lb Axles with Dual Wheels

• Electric over Hydraulic Brakes

• Hydraulic Bed Tilt

• Locking Rollers

• Ex tra Rollers on Gooseneck (for longer than 36' loads)

• Diamond Plate Floor

• Winches & Straps $24,500 NOW $20,500 FOB ME Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

• 21,700 Lb Capacity

• 15' Mast with 182" Lifting Height

• 4' Forks with Side Shift & Fork Positioner

• Heated Cab

• 3,800 Hours

• Rebuilt Engine in Late 2022

(New Perkins Longblock, Compressor, Compressor Gear & Water Pump)

• Used less than 200 hours since engine rebuild

• Was used to load 70'+ long truss packs and post frame building packages

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

JDH TRUSSMASTER SIDEOFFLOADING TRUSS TRAILER

Pines 45' Chip Trailer

2001 Moffett M5500 Forklift

2006 Stoll 36' Gooseneck Roll-Off Trailer

Toyota Model T2300D Forklift

Precision Equipment

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

2007 Precision Equipment 46'-64'

Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Self-Contained Hydraulic Lift

• Sliding Tandems

• Air Pin Roller Locks

• Roller Brakes

• Headache Rack (not seen in photos)

• Air Ride Suspension

• 6 Tires are 50%+, 2 Tires are 25%-

• The battery box and control box are rusted & need replaced along with some sheet metal between rollers

$24,900 NOW $19,900 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

MISC.

Used Steel Material Carts

Total quantity of (54) steel material carts feature C-channel construction, with 4 caster wheels each: 2-fixed, 2-swivel allowing for maneuvering. Quantity of each size: (21)

3’x5′, (10) 3’x5′ heavier duty, (10) 3’x6′, (8)

3’x7′, (4) 4’x4′, & (1) 4’x7′, Configuration of frame and wheel size may vary.

$300 ea. FOB OH

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

New

Video Here

$3,499 FOB CA

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

MISC.

EMSI

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

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

1 1/4" wide x .035 thick. $159 per coil. $2,950 per skid (21 coils). FOB PA.

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

2022 Powermatic Dual Bag Dust Collector. Industrial dust collector, dual-bag, 1800 CFM with 6″ port. Includes supply of 6″ flex hose. System has 10 Cu. Ft. capacity. 3HP, 3Ph, 5 amp, 460/V with onboard starter.

$5,497 FOB VA

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.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

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.

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 36" x 60" Series "B" & "C" 2800

3672 36" x 72" Series "B" 4000

4072 40" x 72" Series "B" 4000

3696 36" x 96" Series "B" 4000

4896 48" x 96" Series "B" 4000

*Other models and sizes are available on request. FOB NC.

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.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

Used Teeter Carts

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

"B"

Hain Company Micro Mini Measuring System

Koorsen Connector Detector

NEW GALVANIZED STEEL STRAPPING

2022 Powermatic Dual-Bag Dust Collector

Teeter Cart

Building Your Own Home – Part VII Managing Inevitable Problems

By Thomas McAnally TheJobLine.com

We are in month seven and have managed to maintain the schedule, give or take a week. At this stage, I am spending a lot of time walking the site, crawling around the attic, down in the crawlspace, and everywhere else, looking at work and asking questions. In addition, I am watching the schedule like a hawk, constantly checking in with subcontractors to ensure they will be here as scheduled. There is a lot I don’t know, but I am finding the pros are willing to take enough time to make sure I understand what they are doing and why. Most of what I have caught has been easy to redo, such as taping seams between flashing and building wrap to keep water out of the house, making sure the workers are meeting our specifications and not cutting corners, and knowing enough about the code from my past life that I caught several mistakes that would have been expensive fixes. On top of that, I am the unofficial Safety Inspector. “Get off that top rung,” “wear your safety glasses when cutting metal,” and “where is your fall protection?” are a few of the comments I’ve made to the crews.

The outside is done and doesn’t look much different from last month. That’s because the majority of the work is now inside. Electrical, mechanical, and HVAC rough-ins are done. I did all of the low voltage and technology wiring, and that had to be done before insulation and drywall. Insulation was interesting. We went with a 2-1/2” closed cell spray foam in the walls and R49 blown in for the attic. The crawl space walls and band board were encapsulated with 3” of closed cell spray foam. The crawl space will be considered a conditioned space. While the insulators did a great job, we had an issue with foam overspray getting on the window and door frames. They will remove it once the drywall folks are gone and most of the dust settles.

The latest catch wasn’t as easy to resolve, or so I thought. The builder jammed the plywood together at the peak, leaving no 2” air space to vent the attic to the ridge cap. I didn’t notice it until I was installing a 6,000 CFM whole-house attic fan in the attic. I joked with the builder saying he needed to get that cut back before the fan came on and blew the roof off. He had a crew here in 3 days, and they cut all the ridge seams back. He apologized and said it shouldn’t have been that way. It’s fixed. It’s all good, but we will see when the fan comes on.

Some of the things I’ve learned during this build is that it is foolish to count on your memory and think you won’t want to know what is inside the walls someday. The electrician suggested I take pictures of every wall and ceiling and ensure I get the critical areas, like the panel box. That way, when I need to add or fix something, I will know where it is and where not to cut, nail, or poke. You would think, after as many commercial buildings as I have built, I would know that. Done and in the cloud!

When I started thinking about this month’s article, the first thing that came to mind was a potential disaster we averted. The drywall company’s project manager didn’t order the drywall before vacation. When he returned, he couldn’t get anything delivered until the last day on the schedule, September 1st. Adding three weeks to the schedule wasn’t an option, and I asked the company owner for help. He came out, measured the job himself, and then ordered drywall to go in a week earlier than we had planned. Then, they started hanging drywall the next day. That’s customer service! I had to give him a week’s extension in return, but it saved me having to push out several trades three weeks. We should make it up with the other trades, if possible, as Beth wants to be in the house by Thanksgiving.

As you can see in the image of the future office of The Advertiser, drywall is in, and it will be primed right after Labor Day. With drywall scheduled to be primed and done by September 8th, we are on to other interior work like floors, doors, and trim. That will take most of September and a little of October. Cabinets will be built, and we will start ordering finish items and appliances.

The potential for real scheduling issues is just around the corner. Delays affecting flooring, interior trim, cabinets, countertops, custom shower, and paint can require subs to move out to their next available slot, which can be months away. So, the hardest part of the management process now is to make sure everyone does what they say they will do and support them as much as I can to be sure they can complete their work in the time allocated. It’s give and take and working together. I am lucky that most of these contractors know each other and will work together to help keep everything on track.

Still pretty much on schedule! Next month: Are we there yet?

VEKTA P3 Printer

The Vekta P3 printer is used to print position-dependent information onto the cut members in real time.

The VEKTA P3 PRINTER is designed specifically with the need of the Frame & Truss industry in mind. The Vekta P3 Printer delivers accurate, high-quality printing including all the information you want without slowing down your saw.

The Vekta P3 printer is by far and away the most capable print system for the timber frame and truss industry in the world!

Vekta worked with the intellectual property of HP to build a custom print system specifically for the industry. The Vekta P3 was designed from the ground up, allowing Vekta to continuously increase the amount, type and format of data that can be printed onto the cut timber components.

And with every new version of Vekta software, additional printing capability is being added to the system.

MISC.

Scrap Incline

20′ belt scrap conveyor with 8′ incline, 2′ wide. 240v, 30 amp power.

$22,490 - FOB CA

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2002 Atlas Copco Rotary Screw Air Compressor

• Model GX11FF

• 15 HP Rotary Screw Air Compressor (230/460 Volt - 3 Phase)

• 13,443

New SL Laser Projection System

New, 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. Each laser head provides 21' projection length (@15 foot ceiling heights). Includes system computer, cables, mounting hardware for attachment to customer's structure, factory installation, training and choice of green or red laser. 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

• 18 HP Spindle with 5 Position

Typewriter Tool Changer

• X, Y and Z Servo Axis

• Q-CORE Controller (THM Version 8.73 - Windows7)

• Reads NC Files via Network or USB

Flash Drive

• 5' x 20' Fixed Table

• Roller Hold Down

• Program Side Fence

• Auto Tool Length

• Auto Lubrication

• Excludes Dust Collector

• The seller was cutting OSB Sheathing and 1 1/4" TimberStand Stair Stringers

• Video available upon request $29,500 FOB MN

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2003 Thermwood C53DT CNC Router

2021 Triad Floor Cassette System

$339,000

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)

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

Generation 3, Used 2018 Triad Framing Table

The Generation 3 Framing Table has adjustable 20’ long walls, with wall heights from 6’9” to 14’3”. Studs are placed between color-coded stud locators. With just a push of a button, the width adjustment clamp is activated to clamp and square all components. The Generation 3 Framer features a wider table top, designed with the framer in mind. Our new Anti-Slip Surface that allows the operator to work on a comfortable and safe surface.

Call for Price

Eide Integrated Systems, LLC 612-521-9193

By David Huerta Senior Lab Manager

From CEO to Legacy: Welcome to the Karen Colonias Research Lab

As the current lab manager of the newly renamed Karen Colonias Research Laboratory, I’m proud to share what our lab does and what Karen meant to us.

Our lab is responsible for testing new and existing connector, fastener and Truss plate products in support of our product development teams. The lab is accredited to over 20 ASTM Standards and Acceptance Criteria. We routinely test existing products, prototypes, and construction applications, using a variety of equipment not only on individual components but also on full assemblies. Additionally, we focus our research on corrosion, wood assemblies including mass timber, and concrete. Our lab boasts state-of-the-art computer and testing equipment such as MTS TestSuite software, environmental chambers, and a materials lab capable of evaluating products at a microscopic level.

Karen Colonias was instrumental in leading us to become innovative. She joined Simpson Strong-Tie in 1984 as an engineer in the research and development department, where she was responsible for the design and testing of new products and code development. At the renaming event, I was able to present Karen with a memento from her engineering days, a framed print of her original handdrafted production drawing of an HD5A along with her first patent for that product.

Simpson Strong-Tie CEO Mike Olosky at the ceremony

David Huerta presenting Karen Colonias with a framed print of her original hand-drafted production drawing and patent

While managing the Engineering department, Karen always looked to hire EWPs, or Engineers with Personality. Karen genuinely cared about all of us, not just professionally but personally, wanting everyone in the department to grow in their careers and be successful. Her leadership and vision were key in shaping our lab and creating a culture of innovation.

In honor of Karen, we’ll continue to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what is possible.

The Karen Colonias Research Laboratory will always be a testament to her legacy, and we are proud to carry on her work.

The article, From CEO to Legacy: Welcome to the Karen Colonias Research Lab!, appeared first on Simpson Strong-Tie Structural Engineering Blog. To sign-up to receive the Engineering Blog in your inbox, go to seblog.strongtie.com/subscribe

Copyright © 2023 Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc. All Rights Reserved

The unveiling of the newly renamed Karen Colonias Research Lab

Jeremy Gilstrap, Annie Kao, Karen Colonias, and Mike Olosky

Jeremy Gilstrap, Annie Kao, Karen Colonias, and Mike Olosky

Wescana Jack Press & Table

35 Ton Hydraulic Press with 14" Wide Platen Press Roof or Floor Truss (4" Maximum Opening)

Steel Frame Table with 1/4" Steel & 1" Plastic Top Slotted Jigging at 12" Centers | Joystick Control

7.5 HP / 3 Phase (208/230/460/575 Volt)

6' x 25' Table & 8' x 25' Table Available

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

Door } Stair } Window Machines

BAM Door Loader, Model 2001

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

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

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 hollowcore, from 6-ft to 8-ft heights. Electronic, programmed controller manages the loading process. Loader positions the door stacks adjacent to the door machine infeed to save effort of the operator. Pneumatic motor and heavy-duty drive train provide dependable continuous use. Cycle time approximately (30) seconds per loaded door slab.

$4,900 NOW $3,600 FOB GA

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

www.woodtechsystems.com 765-751-9990

Footprint approx. 10′ x 10′ x 11′. Weight 2,000 lbs. 120 volt, 1 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. 120 PSI at 20 CFM (1/2″ ID line min.) air required.

Price Based on Configuration

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

Safety First!

Safety Meeting Topics

From State Fund CA.

Types of Injuries

How Workers Get Hurt

Accidents can happen anywhere and at any time. Many workplace accidents and injuries can be prevented if workers know the causes of accidents and they are taught how to protect themselves to avoid injury. Although no one wants to get hurt at work, there are four major causes for injuries on the job.

Back injuries

The number one cause of on-the-job injuries is physical overload. These injuries are cause by lifting (too heavy a load or lifting improperly), straining, overreaching, bending, and twisting. To protect your back against injury, learn and use proper lifting techniques, never bend or twist while lifting or carrying, and whenever possible, use a mechanical aid or get help with the load from another worker.

Hitting or striking against

The second most common cause of worker injury is being hit by or hitting against an object. The best way to protect against these accidents is to be alert to the potential hazards and to use appropriate protective equipment (hard hats, eye protection, gloves). Be aware of your body and the space around you. Give yourself enough clearance when passing by or ducking under equipment or going through a passageway.

Falls

To avoid injuries from falls, be sure that your footing is firm and wear slip-resistant soled shoes. Watch where youre walking. Dont walk backward to direct equipment or leap from one level to another. Make sure you can see over the load you carry and that walkways are well-lighted and clear of obstacles. Clean up spills or grease spots and use handrails when walking on stairs.

Machine Accidents

The fourth major cause of on-the-job injury is machine-related accidents, that is, getting caught by moving machine parts. When working around any moving equipment (a machine that rotates, slides, or presses) always use safety shields, guards, and lock-out procedures. Only work on a machine that you have been trained to use. Never wear jewelry or loose-fitting clothing that could get caught in the moving equipment.

Be alert to the hazards you face on your job and learn what you should do to protect yourself against accidents and injuries and follow your companys established safety guidelines.

Cómo se Lesionan los Trabajadores

Los accidentes pueden ocurrir dondequiera y en cualquier momento. Muchos accidentes de trabajo pueden prevenirse si los trabajadores conocen sus causas y se les enseña cómo protegerse para evitar lesiones. Aunque nadie desea sufrir una lesión en el lugar de trabajo, dichas lesiones se deben a cuatro causas primarias.

Lesiones de la espalda

La causa número uno de lesiones en el lugar de trabajo es la sobrecarga física. Estas lesiones son ocasionadas al levantar objetos (cargas demasiado pesadas o levantamiento inadecuado), realizar un gran esfuerzo físico, intentar realizar demasiadas actividades, o al doblar o torcer la espalda. Para evitar lesiones de la espalda, aprenda y emplee técnicas adecuadas de levantamiento, nunca doble o tuerza la espalda al levantar o transportar objetos, haga uso de dispositivos mecánicos o pida ayuda a un compañero de trabajo.

Golpes contra objetos

La segunda causa más común de lesiones en el lugar de trabajo son los golpes contra objetos. La mejor forma de protegerse contra estos accidentes consiste en mantenerse alerta en torno a los peligros potenciales y usar el equipo de protección apropiado (cascos protectores, protección para los ojos, guantes). Esté consciente de su cuerpo y del espacio libre alrededor suyo. Mantenga una distancia prudencial al agacharse o desplazarse por debajo de los equipos, o al pasar por pasillos de dimensiones reducidas.

Caídas

Para evitar las lesiones debidas a caídas, apoye bien los pies sobre el suelo y use zapatos con suelas antirresbalones. Camine con cuidado. No camine de espaldas ni salte de un nivel a otro. Compruebe que lo que lleva cargado no le obstaculiza la visibilidad, y que el camino esté bien iluminado y sin obstáculos. Limpie los derrames o manchas de grasa y use los pasamanos al caminar por escaleras.

Accidentes con máquinas

La cuarta causa más común de lesiones en el lugar de trabajo la constituyen los accidentes con máquinas, es decir, accidentes que se producen al ser atrapado por las piezas móviles de una máquina. Cuando trabaje cerca de cualquier equipo móvil (máquinas rotativas, cintas transportadoras o prensas) use siempre protectores de seguridad, cubiertas y procedimientos de bloqueo. Sólo use las máquinas para las cuales haya recibido capacitación. Nunca tenga puesto joyerías ni ropa holgada que puedan prenderse en un equipo en movimiento.

Manténgase alerta sobre los peligros a los que está expuesto en su trabajo, aprenda qué debe hacer para protegerse contra accidentes y lesiones, y siga las pautas de seguridad establecidas en su empresa.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

September 5 – 7

September 6

September 8 – 11

September 11 – 12

September 11 – 14

September 14

September 18 – 20

September 18 – 22

September 19

September 19 – 21

September 19 – 21

September 19 – 22

September 20 – 22

September 22

September 26

September 26 – 28

September 27 – 28

September 27 – 29

September 28

October 4 – 6

October 8 – 10

Calendar of Events

SEPTEMBER 2023

National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) 11th Annual Building Innovation Conference

Washington, D.C.

Zonda’s National Housing Market Update online

Do it Best Fall Market

Timber Off-Site Construction Conference

Indianapolis, IN

Melbourne, VIC, Australia

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

Offsite Construction Expo—Denver

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

Denver, CO

Arlington, TX

Building Component Manufacturers Conference and Framer Summit (BCMC | FS) Indianapolis, IN

Structural Building Components Assoc. (SBCA) 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner

Indianapolis, IN

National Assoc. of Home Builders (NAHB) 2023 Fall Leadership ConferencePalm Springs, CA

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

Lumbermens Merchandising Corp. (LMC) 2023 Leadership Summit

Columbus, OH

Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assoc. (NELMA) 90th Annual MeetingRockland, ME

Structural Building Components Assoc. (SBCA) Board Meeting

Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) Forest Products Forum

Multifamily Executive (MFE) Conference

Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) Industrialized Wood-Based Construction (IWBC) Conference at Greenbuild

Indianapolis, IN

Portland, OR

Dallas, TX

Washington, D.C.

Florida Building Material Alliance (FBMA) 2023 Trade Show & ConventionOrlando, FL

Midwest Building Suppliers Assoc. MBSA CONNECT

OCTOBER 2023

ProDealer Industry Summitt 2023

International Code Council (ICC) 2023 Annual Conference and Expo

October 9 – 10 Future Place 2023

October 11 – 13

October 12

October 15 – 17

October 16 – 18

October 18

October 18 – 20

October 23 – 25

October 24

November 1 – 3

November 5 – 7

November 6 – 8

LBM Strategies 2023 Conference

Mid-America Lumbermens Assoc. (MLA) Sunflower Shootout

NAHB Building Systems Housing Summit

Builder Connections 2023

Offsite Construction Expo—Berkeley

METALCON 2023

LBM Advantage Fall Planning Conference

Fort Wayne, IN

Kansas City, MO

St. Louis, MO

Tampa, FL

Charlotte, NC

Manhattan, KS

Washington, D.C.

Arlington, TX

Berkeley, CA

Las Vegas, NV

Boston, MA

Zonda’s Q4 Housing Market Forecast online

NOVEMBER 2023

Design-Build Conference & Expo

Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Assoc. (STAFDA) 47th Annual

Convention & Trade Show

Lumbermens Merchandising Corp. (LMC) 2023 Expo

National Harbor, MD

San Antonio, TX

Philadelphia, PA

November 7 – 10

November 8 – 10

November 10

November 13 – 15

November 13 – 15

November 13 – 15

November 15

November 15 – 17

November 16

February 20 – 22

February 26 –

March 1

February 27 – 29

Calendar of Events

National Council of Structural Engineers Assocs. (NCSEA) Structural Engineering Summit

North American Wholesale Lumber Assoc. (NAWLA) Traders Market

Mountain States Lumber & Building Material Dealers Assoc. (MSLBMDA) Brew Fest

Affordable Housing Finance (AHF) Live Summit

Autodesk University (AU) 2023

Anaheim, CA

Columbus, OH

Denver, CO

Chicago, IL

Las Vegas, NV

University of Texas Building Professional Institute (BPI) of Texas—Central Texas Austin, TX

Offsite Construction Expo—Atlanta

RESNET 2023 Building Performance Conference

Atlanta, GA

San Diego, CA

Zonda’s National Housing Market Update online

FEBRUARY 2024

LBM Advantage 2024 Annual Buying Show

EduCode 2024 Conference & Exhibition

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) International Builders Show (IBS) 2024

Orlando, FL

Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas, NV

Don’t see your event? Increase attendance and participation by listing your industry focused events here! E-mail details and event web-link to Anna@componentadvertiser.org. We can’t guarantee space for all events, but all industry related events will be added on a space available and interest to our reader priority.

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

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.

NEW!

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration

765-751-9990

BAM Stair Wedge Saw

Big Sky Living in Montana!

Truss Designer. MiTek software. Experience required: 2+ years. Components include: floor trusses, roof trusses and wall panel experience is a plus. Markets include lumber yards, single family, single family custom, and light commercial. Work Schedule: average 40-45 hours a week or more if interested.

Compensation hourly, plus overtime, and base pay from $22 to $28hr+-. ($45k-70's) Yr.+-) depending upon experience, monthly bonus based on production output/errors. Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, retirement programs, and ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Relocation is open to negotiation. Low cost of living. EOE (Equal Opportunity Employer). J15235

Not a remote job but who wants to work remote when the office is in Montana?

See

visit: www.thejobline.com

STRICTLY

HIRING NOW!

Remote Truss Designer

MiTek - J15228

Our client in Florida is looking for Remote Truss Designer NOW, before the end of the year! Work remote, or in an office location in Florida. They need ONE Basic or Intermediate level Remote Truss Designer. Fantastic benefits, compensation is very competitive, and they use MiTek software. Remote is an option if you have a home office and remote experience, or you can work in office. They may consider someone without remote experience, just depends on the skill level. Fantastic benefits, compensation is very competitive, and they use MiTek software. I can't say more about this opportunity here.

Compensation can be estimated based on your experience and skill 45 hours per week average.

Overtime hours are usually available. Call/email for details

See what we can do for YOU!

visit: www.thejobline.com

email: mail@thejobline.com

STRICTLY

Remote Truss Designer J14203

Indiana

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15303

Florida or remote

Truss & Wall Panel Designer J15226

Northeast

Remote Truss Designer - Mega-Multifamily

J15302

Central time zone

Hybrid Remote Truss Designer - Single

Family J14212

Remote or in office (IN)

Senior Mega-Multifamily Designer J15301

Northern California

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15228

Florida

Truss Sales & Design - Truss/Framing

Packages J15245

Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma

Residential Order Tech J15232

South

Truss Designer J15250

South

Truss Designer J15251

South

Truss Designer J15285

New England

Truss Designer J15286

Indiana

Truss Designer J15290

Ohio or Hybrid Remote

Truss Designer J14136

South

Truss Designer J10629

MO

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Production

Builder Market J14107

Remote Indiana

Truss Designer J14165

Carolinas

Truss Designer-J15300

Eastern Ontario

Truss Designer-J15299

Eastern Ontario

Roof & Floor Truss Designer - Alpine

J15297

Colorado

Director of Operations - Truss/Panel J15298

Georgia

Truss Designer - MiTek J15296

Northern California or Northern Nevada

Inside Sales J15289

Northern California or Northern Nevada

Agricultural & Commercial Truss Specialist-J15292

Southern Alberta

Design Manager - J15295

Western Ontario

Senior Truss Designer - J15294

Western Ontario

Truss Designer-J15293

Western Ontario

Regional Mega-Multifamily Truss Designer

J15287

Southeast

Commercial/Mega-Multifamily Truss Designer J15277

Nashville, TN

Wall Designer-J15284

Eastern Ontario

EWP Designer-J15283

Eastern Ontario

Truss Designer-J15282

Eastern Ontario

Lead Designer-J15281

Central Alberta

CFS Truss Designer J15269

Remote or in the Midewst

Truss Sales & Design - Truss/Framing Packages J15279

TN

Senior Project Manager - Mass Timber J15276

B.C.

Project Superintendent U.S. - Mass Timber J15273

U.S.

Project Superintendent Roaming - Mass

Timber J15274

North America

Chief Estimator/Precon Manager - Mass

Timber J15271

BC

Project Coordinator J15272

TN

Truss Designer - MiTek/Multifamily J14173

Texas

Remote Senior Truss Designer - Truss J15266

South

Senior Truss Designer - Truss J15218

South

Truss Designer J15235

Montana

Mega-Multifamily Project Manager J15229

South/Southeast

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: C13437

Remote Truss Designer | In Office Truss Designer | Design Manager Relocation: Ohio

If it is big, bad, ugly, or worse, I can handle it. I've done layout and profile work in autocad w/ some home brewed scripting, and ArchiCAD. Custom residential, a few track builders that had 3 base models and many options to track, some multi-family, and large commercial projects. Software: MiTek, AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Truswal, Simpson, Eagle and others. Quick to pick up new software.

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: 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

Available Candidates

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 Manager - Truss/ 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 doing it!

ID: C11929

Location/General Manager - Truss/I-Joist/ Beams/EWP

Relocation: USA - ALL States

Schedule all production. Schedule all deliveries. Purchasing. Set company pricing. Invoicing. Receiving. Developed a system for outside sales staff to turn in truss orders. Designer. Primary duties: design, layout, and cutting/production documents. Secondary duties: checking others work, scheduling, customer service, inside sales, and training. Software used: Non-MiTek, AutoCAD, and CAD - Other. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, EWP, and hardware. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multi-family, light commercial, and agriculture. My

volume is $150k+- a month. Designed 1.25 million in 2012 for production. This total doesn't include quotes and is considerably less than my capability considering all other job duties.

ID: C18454

Remote Designer | Mega-Multifamily | Single Family Custom

Relocation: Minnesota

12 Years' experience. Create Estimating models for bids. Study blueprints for inconsistencies, collaborate with Design Manager and Sales to determine if more information is needed, design and engineer trusses, create a detailed truss layout to set trusses in the field, and provide support until project is successfully completed.

Mega-Multifamily, Multifamily, Single Family Custom. MiTek Sapphire and CAD. Tested low end of Senior Designer range.

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: C18459

Remote Wall Panel Designer | Wall Panel Designer

Time To Hire?

Available Candidates

Relocation: Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario

8 Years' experience as a wall panel designer. Uses HSB CAD, AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit. Everything from Single family custom to multifamily and modular.

ID: C18468

Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer

Relocation: Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah

Designer, truss and wall panel, MiTek, AutoCAD, iLevel, almost considered a senior designer. In addition to design, was responsible for training new designers. Also has iLevel, Open Joist 2000 experience. Wall panel design experience is in AutoCAD and later in Sapphire. Started in the industry in sales, then wall panel design, added truss, and I-Joist. 7 years' experience in truss design, 3 in wall panel, 10 in I-Joist design. Will consider relocation to indicated areas only. Will consider remote.

$26-28 hr.

Builder Confidence Falls on Rising Mortgage Rates

Posted August 15, 2023 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders

Reprinted with permission.

After steadily rising for seven consecutive months, builder confidence retreated in August as rising mortgage rates nearing 7% (per Freddie Mac) and stubbornly high shelter inflation have further eroded housing affordability and put a damper on consumer demand.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes in August fell six points to 50, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today.

“Rising mortgage rates and high construction costs stemming from a dearth of construction workers, a lack of buildable lots and ongoing shortages of distribution transformers put a chill on builder sentiment in August,” said NAHB Chairman Alicia Huey, a custom home builder and developer from Birmingham, Ala. “But while this latest confidence reading is a reminder that housing affordability is an ongoing challenge, demand for new construction continues to be supported by a lack of resale inventory, as many home owners elect to stay put because they are locked in at a low mortgage rate.”

“Declining customer traffic is a reminder of the larger challenge that shelter inflation is up 7.7% from a year ago and accounted for a striking 90% of the July Consumer Price Index reading of 3.2%,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “The best way to bring housing inflation down and ease the housing affordability crisis is to enact policies at all levels of government that will allow builders to construct more homes to address a nationwide shortfall of approximately 1.5 million housing units.”

The August HMI survey also revealed that rising mortgage rates are causing more builders to use sales incentives to attract home buyers. After dropping steadily for four months (from 31% in March to 22% in July), the share of builders cutting prices to bolster sales rose again to 25% in August. The average decline for builders reducing prices remained at 6%. And the share of builders using incentives to bolster sales was 55% in August, higher than in July (52%) but still lower than in December 2022 (62%).

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

All three major HMI indices posted declines in August. The HMI index gauging current sales conditions fell five points to 57, the component charting sales expectations in the next six months declined four points to 55 and the gauge measuring traffic of prospective buyers dropped six points to 34.

Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast increased four points to 56, the Midwest and South were both unchanged at 45 and 58, respectively, and the West edged down a single point to 50. HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS (formerly housingeconomics.com).

The Importance of ICC’s Offsite Construction Standards

Posted August 14, 2023 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

In September 2021, the International Code Council (ICC) created offsite construction standards, marking an historic shift in the perceptions of modular and systems-built construction. As home building evolves, such advancements not only recognize progress in residential construction, but also set the stage for future developments.

The ICC is known globally for its commitment to maintaining safe and sustainable environments. With the introduction of these offsite construction standards, the council recognizes the changing dynamics of the residential construction industry.

Offsite construction — which involves the process of planning, designing, fabricating and assembling building elements away from their final installed location — has seen a steady rise in popularity. Benefits such as reduced construction time, less waste, fewer site disturbances and higher quality from controlled environments are likely reasons for this growth.

However, like all innovative methods, offsite construction needs a set of standards to ensure its consistent quality and safety. The ICC’s offsite construction standards provide guidelines and benchmarks for professionals in the field, ensuring that all offsite construction projects meet a certain level of excellence and safety.

NAHB recently passed a resolution acknowledging and supporting these standards. This move underscores the industry’s collective commitment to ensuring that offsite construction is efficient and held to the highest safety and quality standards.

ICC Vice President of Innovation Ryan Colker will provide a detailed dive into how the standards impact designers, manufacturers, builders, product and service providers in the systems-built housing industry during NAHB’s Building Systems Housing Summit, Oct. 15–17, in Washington, D.C. Discover how the ICC is working with industry partners to provide states and local municipalities with a universal standard for offsite construction projects in their jurisdictions.

Register today to attend the Building Systems Housing Summit

New Home Sales Increase in July Despite Higher Mortgage Rates

Posted August 23, 2023 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders

Reprinted with permission.

Low existing inventory and solid demand more than offset rising mortgage rates and elevated construction costs to boost new home sales last month.

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in July increased 4.4% to a 714,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in June, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. The pace of new home sales in July was up 31.5% from a year ago.

“New home sales were solid in July because of an ongoing housing deficit in the U.S. and a lack of resales stemming from many home owners electing to stay put to preserve their low mortgage rates,” said Alicia Huey, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder and developer from Birmingham, Ala. “But builders are still confronting many challenges, including rising mortgage rates, supply chain issues for electrical transformers, a dearth of skilled workers and elevated construction costs.”

“Despite this monthly uptick, new home sales will likely weaken in August as higher interest rates price out prospective buyers,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “Mortgage rates increased from 6.7% at the start of July to above 7% in August.”

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 714,000 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 was 437,000, up 4.8% compared to a year ago. This represents a 7.3 months’ supply at the current building pace. A measure near a 6 months’ supply is considered balanced. Of the total home inventory, including both new and resale homes, 31% of homes available for sale are newly built.

The median new home sale price in July was $436,700, down roughly 9% compared to a year ago. Pricing is down both due to builder incentive use and a shift towards building slightly smaller homes.

Regionally, on a year-to-date basis, new home sales are up 5.0% in the Northeast, 1.0% in the Midwest and 3.5% in the South. New home sales are down 8.1% in the affordability-challenged West.

Single-Family Starts Edge Higher in July but Rising Rate Concerns Persist

Posted August 16, 2023 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders

Reprinted with permission.

A lack of existing inventory and solid demand helped offset rising mortgage rates and push single-family production higher in July, even as builders continue to grapple with elevated construction and financing costs as well as a lack of skilled labor.

Overall housing starts increased 3.9% in July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.45 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

The July reading of 1.45 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. Within this overall number, single-family starts increased 6.7% to a 983,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate. Singlefamily starts are also 9.5% higher than a year ago. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, decreased 1.7% to an annualized 469,000 pace.

“With many home owners choosing to stay in their existing home to preserve their low mortgage rate, demand for new home construction pushed up single-family starts in July even as builders continue to struggle with increased uncertainty stemming from rising rates,” said Alicia Huey, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder and developer from Birmingham, Ala. “Builder sentiment has shown that higher mortgage rates are contributing to a decline in buyer traffic, and rates need to stabilize to prevent the housing market from slowing.”

“Total permits declined 13% compared to a year ago, indicating that builders are slowing construction activity as housing costs rise,” said Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, NAHB’s assistant vice president for forecasting and analysis. “In fact, multifamily permits are at their lowest three-month moving average since December 2020, another sign that the market is cooling. In order to bring down shelter inflation, which accounted for 90% of the overall inflation rate last month, we need to enact policies that will allow builders to boost the nation’s housing supply.”

The number of single-family units under construction is down 16.9% compared to a year ago at 678,000. Meanwhile, the number of apartments under construction increased to 1 million, the highest total on record.

On a regional and year-to-date basis, combined single-family and multifamily starts are 17.6% lower in the Northeast, 13.8% lower in the Midwest, 9.4% lower in the South and 16.7% lower in the West. Overall permits increased 0.1% to a 1.44 million unit annualized rate in July. Single-family permits increased 0.6% to a 930,000 unit rate. Single-family permits are also up 1.3% compared to a year ago. Multifamily permits decreased 1% to an annualized 512,000 pace, the lowest level since October 2020. Looking at regional permit data on a year-to-date basis, permits are 24.2% lower in the Northeast, 20.3% lower in the Midwest, 15.4% lower in the South and 21.6% lower in the West.

Simpson Strong-Tie Introduces New Code-Listed Ledger Connector for Faster, Stronger Installation of Prebuilt Stair Cassettes

Pleasanton, Calif., August 8, 2023 — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has introduced the Simpson Strong-Tie® SCLC stair cassette ledger connector, a code-listed solution for safer, more efficient installation of preassembled stair cassettes to floor cassette headers.

As offsite construction and the use of factory-built building components continue to help improve productivity and efficiency in both commercial and residential construction, specifiers and contractors have sought a value-engineered means of installing prebuilt stair cassettes that can be assembled and installed faster than field-built stairs, providing trades with fast, safe access to higher floors on projects.

Installed on the floor cassette header in the factory using common nails, the SCLC is jobsite-ready for stair cassettes to be lowered onto the connector and then quickly fastened with Strong-Drive® SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, helping reduce onsite labor costs and keep time-sensitive projects on schedule.

“Offsite modular construction provides building projects with a solution to labor challenges and quality control on the jobsite,” says Randy Daudet, Group Product Manager — Mass Timber/Offsite Products. “The use of prebuilt stair cassette components is one of the ways modular techniques keep projects moving fast. The new SCLC ledger connector provides construction crews with speed and safety in the installation of strong prebuilt stair cassettes so projects stay on track.”

Manufactured in the US for easy sourcing and delivery, the SCLC can be installed in conjunction with the LSCZ stair stringer connector and is galvanized for protection against corrosion. Custom fastener tabs provide greater strength and stiffness per screw, and the solution offers ample fit-up tolerance for superior alignment.

For more information on the new stair cassette ledger from Simpson Strong-Tie, visit go.strongtie.com/SCLC

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.

UFP Industries Announces Second Quarter Results

Grand Rapids, Mich., August 2, 2023 – UFP Industries, Inc. today announced second quarter 2023 results including net sales of $2.04 billion, net earnings attributable to controlling interest of $151 million, and earnings per diluted share of $2.36.

“I want to thank the hard-working employees of UFP Industries for delivering another strong quarter. Their focus on innovation, efficiencies, and value-added solutions has helped us improve our gross margins, even as lower pricing and volume resulted in decreases in our top- and bottom-line results,” said Chairman and CEO Matt Missad. “The positive changes in our business mix and operating structure are producing better performance when compared to previous downward cycles in our business. Our strong cash-flow generation and balance sheet are allowing us to continue to invest in operational improvements and growing the business through new products and acquisitions, all while returning value to our shareholders. On July 26, 2023, the Board approved a 20 percent increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.30 per share and increased the share repurchase authorization to $200 million.” Second Quarter 2023 Highlights (comparisons on a year-over-year basis):

• Net sales of $2.04 billion decreased 30 percent due to a 22 percent decrease in prices and an 8 percent decrease in organic unit sales.

• New product sales of $184 million decreased 9 percent, largely due to lower lumber prices that the company passed on to customers. New product sales as a percent of total sales rose to 9 percent from 7 percent in 2022.

• Diluted EPS of $2.36 represents a 27 percent decrease from last year.

• Adjusted EBITDA of $234 million decreased 27 percent; adjusted EBITDA margin rose to 11.5 percent from 11 percent in 2022.

Capital Allocation

UFP Industries maintains a strong balance sheet, with $424.9 million in net surplus cash (surplus cash less interest-bearing debt and cash overdraft) on July 1, 2023, compared to $190.7 million in net debt at the end of the second quarter of 2022. The company had approximately $2 billion of liquidity as of July 1, 2023. The company’s return-focused approach to capital allocation includes acquisitions, capital expenditures, dividend payments and share repurchases.

UFP Construction

Net sales of $550 million, down 44 percent compared to the second quarter of 2022, due to a 26 percent decrease in selling prices and an 18 percent decrease in organic unit sales. Gross profit was $137.2 million, down 40 percent, largely due to normalizing market pricing and a decrease in volume as a result of a decline in housing starts and industry production of manufactured homes. Gross profit margin improved to 25 percent from 23 percent in 2022.

For more information, view the complete press release online.

UFP Industries, Inc.

UFP Industries is a holding company whose operating subsidiaries – UFP Packaging, UFP Construction, and UFP Retail Solutions –manufacture, distribute and sell a wide variety of value-added products used in residential and commercial construction, packaging and other industrial applications worldwide. Founded in 1955, the company is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., with affiliates in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. UFP Industries is ranked #403 on the Fortune 500 and #149 on Industry Week’s list of America’s Largest Manufacturers. For more about UFP Industries, go to www.wfpi.com.

Alpine & BEDC Announce Strategic Partnership

To provide Alpine customers with a trusted third-party design solution

August 28, 2023, Glenview, IL – Alpine, a leading provider of industry solutions for component manufacturers, and Building Engineering & Design Company (BEDC), provider of design services, are pleased to announce they have entered into a strategic partnership to provide a cost-effective solution to help component manufacturers (CMs) scale their business quickly.

Finding skilled truss designers to support growth can be a challenge. John Croll, Alpine Director of Solutions Delivery, explained “as a trusted partner in the component manufacturing industry, this is an important strategic alliance that enables our team to confidently introduce a highly skilled, accurate, and reliable third-party design service to our customers. When CMs need to scale their design resources up quickly and affordably – BEDC leverages Alpine software as well as its own technology to get the job done.”

BEDC helps make all types of design projects faster and more accurate. “I’m excited about this strategic partnership” said BEDC’s Chairman, Jonathan Reid. “BEDC is now bringing the benefits of its large-scale design service facility supported by patented AI technology exclusively to Alpine’s customers across US and Canada. And these customers are already seeing strong benefits through increasing quote volumes and job win rates.”

“This will help our customers with designer recruitment, training, and quality control,” added, John Croll, “all backed by Alpine training.” BEDC provides solutions that optimize the design process. CMs can expect the following:

• Cost-effective solutions without long-term contracts

• Dedicated design team comprised of degreed civil engineers

• Experienced U.S. based quality assurance team

• Production quality designs tailored to customer expectations and specifications

• Fully transparent relationship treated as a partnership with customers

This partnership further demonstrates Alpine’s commitment to supporting its customers’ growth potential. For more information, please contact your local Alpine Sales Representative or email info@alpineitw.com.

About Alpine

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

About BEDC

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

International Code Council and Modular Building Institute Introduce Offsite Construction Credential of Learning Achievement

CLA provides both building safety professionals and manufacturer quality assurance personnel with an opportunity to learn and apply knowledge and skills on the different forms of offsite construction and how codes and standards apply to modular and other offsite projects

August 7, 2023—The International Code Council and Modular Building Institute (MBI) have joined forces to release a new Offsite Construction Credential of Learning Achievement (CLA) to help to bring much-needed consistency to the offsite construction sector.

The ICC/MBI Offsite Construction CLA provides both building safety professionals and manufacturer quality assurance personnel with an opportunity to learn and apply knowledge and skills on the different forms of offsite construction and how codes and standards apply to modular and other offsite projects.

The Surging Popularity and Advantages of Offsite Construction

Offsite construction has experienced a surge in popularity due to its numerous advantages that address the evolving needs of the construction industry and communities around the world. As communities struggle with the affordability and availability of housing and the construction industry at large is dealing with workforce availability, offsite construction offers a solution.

Offsite construction can take many forms and is regulated differently depending on the strategies and processes used. Increasing deployment of offsite construction requires a broad understanding of its forms and regulatory approaches. The Code Council and MBI have collaborated to develop ICC/MBI Standards 1200 and 1205 to help bring consistency to the offsite construction approvals process. They recently launched a campaign to support the adoption of the standards nationwide.

Improving consistency within the sector can help deliver much-needed housing and other building types through the production of high-quality and reliable structures. Ultimately, consistency will pave the way for sustainable growth, standardization and a more competitive and reputable offsite construction industry as a whole.

To receive the CLA individuals complete courses on ICC/MBI Standards 1200 and 1205 and complete an assessment on the Proctored Remote Online Testing Option (PRONTO) platform. In addition to the Offsite Construction CLA assessment, PRONTO offers over 100 exams, which are available 24/7.

View the path to achieving an offsite construction CLA online. Learn more about the Code Council’s unique credentialing opportunities on specific technical subjects online Learn more about offsite construction online

International Code Council Earns Accreditation to Develop Canadian National Standards

Contributing to the development of Canadian standards underscores the International Code Council’s mission to advance global building safety

Washington, D.C., July 12, 2023 – The International Code Council is the latest standards-developing organization (SDO) to receive accreditation from the Standards Council of Canada (SCC). As a global leader in providing building safety solutions, the International Code Council joins a select group of organizations that contribute to the development of National Standards of Canada for the benefit of Canadians.

“This accreditation by SCC marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide our stakeholders options and enhance our ability to achieve our mission of safety, sustainability and affordability through building science,” said International Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “It reinforces our commitment to providing the information, tools, and resources that our members rely on, building safety professionals turn to, and the public trusts.”

The International Code Council has an established presence in Canada, with three provincial building associations having chapter status and many Canadian building safety professionals participating in Code Council membership councils and accessing Code Council training. The ICC Conformity Assessment Group also has a long history of activity in Canada, facilitating North American harmonization and market access efforts for manufacturers, testing laboratories and other facilities through the accreditation of the ICC Evaluation Service to certify product listings to Canadian standards.

Additionally, the organization has increasingly collaborated with Canadian standards developers to create harmonized standards in areas of mutual interest, including the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) to update and publish the CSA ICC 805 Rainwater Harvesting Systems Standard. The International Code Council also works closely with Accessibility Standards Canada to develop national accessibility rules for buildings based on the ICC A117.1-2017 Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

“We are thrilled to welcome the International Code Council as our newest accredited SDO,” said Elias Rafoul, SCC Vice-President, Accreditation Services Branch. “By accrediting organizations like the International Code Council, we ensure that industry, government, and consumers are provided with standards that meet their specific needs. Our accreditation program, guided by internationally recognized best practices and Canadian principles, guarantees equal access, diverse representation, and transparent development processes.”

About the International Code Council

The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

About the Standards Council of Canada

Since 1970, the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) has helped make life safer, healthier, more prosperous and sustainable for people, communities and businesses in Canada through the power of standardization. SCC works with a vast network of partners nationally and around the world, acting as Canada’s voice on standards and accreditation on the international stage, including as a member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). As the country’s leading accreditation organization, SCC creates market confidence at home and abroad by ensuring conformity assessment bodies meet the highest expectations. In all these ways, SCC opens a world of possibilities.

Utah Enhances Building Safety Statewide with Adoption of 2021 International Codes

Utah has adopted the 2021 International Codes, taking a significant step toward ensuring the safety, efficiency and resiliency of its communities

Washington, D.C., July 21 2023 – The International Code Council commends the state of Utah for adopting the 2021 International Codes® (I-Codes). This adoption of the latest I-Codes, effective as of July 1, 2023, will ensure the safety of Utah residents and workers and standardize building regulations and practices statewide.

The adoption of the 2021 I-Codes is made possible through the passage of House Bill 532. This legislation, with certain statewide amendments, requires the adoption of the Code Council’s 2021 edition of various codes, including the International Building Code® (IBC) with Appendices C and J. Additionally, the bill covers specific provisions of the International Residential Code® (IRC) along with Appendices AE and AQ, International Plumbing Code® (IPC), International Mechanical Code®, International Fuel Gas Code® (IFGC), commercial provisions of the International Energy Conservation Code®, International Existing Building Code® (IEBC) and International Swimming Pool and Spa Code®.

To strengthen fire safety measures, Utah has enacted House Bill 409. This legislation repeals Tall Wood Buildings of Mass Timber Construction Incorporated as part of the state Construction Code. In its place, House Bill 409 adopts the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code® with relevant amendments.

“We applaud the state of Utah for prioritizing the safety and sustainability of its communities by adopting the most up-to-date I-Codes,” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “Utah joins the ranks of the expanding group of states taking the lead in leveraging building safety as a tool to protect its citizens and buildings for years to come. The Code Council hopes other states will follow suit to ensure the safety and resiliency of their communities.”

Other states demonstrating a commitment to the latest standards in building safety by adopting updated building codes include Colorado, which recently adopted the 2021 IPC, IFGC and the plumbing provisions of the IRC; and Illinois, which recently passed SB2368, requiring that all jurisdictions in the state adopt the 2021 IBC, IRC, and IEBC.

About the International Code Council

The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

West Coast Lumber Enters Structural Component Manufacturing Category With Acquisition of Stone Truss

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--West Coast Lumber (“WCL”), the regional lumber and building materials supplier launched by Building Industry Partners in 2022, announces the acquisition of San Diego-based Stone Truss, a 30-year-old designer and manufacturer of roof and floor truss systems. WCL currently serves customers throughout Southern California via four locations in Agoura Hills, Bakersfield, Camarillo and San Diego.

The acquisition marks WCL’s entry into the structural component manufacturing category and an evolution of its product offering. The transaction also comes within days of WCL’s announcement of Jason Walsh joining the company’s leadership team as Vice President of Component Manufacturing. “Between the acquisition of Stone Truss and Jason joining our team, we are making significant strides with our expansion strategy,” said Joe Lawrence, CEO of WCL. “These advances ensure that we can deliver a wider range of solutions to meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

Founded in 1986, Stone Truss specializes in the custom design, cutting, and manufacturing of wood roof trusses and wood floor trusses for residential, commercial, and other applications. The company will continue to operate from its North San Diego County manufacturing facility and has near-term plans to increase its production capacity. Stone Truss owners Richard Thomas and Charlie Signorino will remain with the company, offering continuity for customers and employees. Stone Truss employees will have the opportunity to benefit from WCL’s people-focused practices, including its employee equity plan.

“We are proud to have the highly skilled and talented Stone Truss team join the growing WCL family,” said Maged Diab, Director at BIP. “For three decades, Stone Truss has built a reputation as a forward-thinking, customer-centric company that takes care of its people. Their commitment to service, innovation, and their employees are fully aligned with WCL. We plan to grow the Stone Truss business meaningfully over time and will be looking for great additional talent to join us.”

“We are excited to join WCL and to be part of Stone Truss’ next phase,” said Thomas. “We believe that this deal provides new opportunities for our team members and expanded services for our customers.” “Richard and I, as well as our dedicated and experienced staff, look forward to working with Joe, Jason and the entire WCL team,” said Signorino. “We are eager to hit the ground running and build upon our strong culture of providing our customers with the best products, services, and solutions.”

WCL is actively seeking opportunities to invest in component manufacturing companies and partner with business leaders in the category along the West Coast, Arizona, and Nevada.

About West Coast Lumber

West Coast Lumber is a regional lumber and building materials supplier formed in 2022 by Building Industry Partners, the leading private equity firm in the U.S. building supply industry. Its four locations serve customers throughout Southern California. For more information, visit westcoastlumber.com and follow West Coast Lumber on LinkedIn.

Nation’s Best Acquires Another Texas Home Center — Strengthens Foothold in State with Cain Hardware & Lumber

August 1, 2023, DALLAS, Texas – Nation’s Best, one of the fastest growing home improvement companies in the US, announces their acquisition of Cain Hardware & Lumber. This addition brings the total number of locations in the state to 19.

Started alongside his father in 1974, Paul Cain and his wife Penny have grown the home center to become a one-stop destination for the area’s home improvement shoppers. With a fully stocked lumberyard, a strong hardlines assortment, and the region’s largest paint store, Cain Hardware & Lumber was an attractive acquisition for Nation’s Best.

“We’re always looking to grow with best-in-class stores,” said Chris Miller, President & CEO of Nation’s Best. “When the Cains were looking to retire and transition the business, this was an easy decision for us. They’ve mastered the fundamentals of delivering an exceptional customer experience. They’ve tailored their product mix to what’s needed in their community and they’ve maintained a great mix of in-demand items. We’re proud to welcome Cain Hardware & Lumber to the Nation’s Best family.”

“We have thoroughly enjoyed serving our community,” said Penny and Paul Cain. “And partnering with Nation’s Best allows us to pursue our retirement plans while knowing the store that we put our blood, sweat, and tears into over the years will be in great hands. They’re taking what we’ve built and will leverage their business strengths and operational best practices to make Cain Hardware & Lumber even better.”

Cain Hardware & Lumber joins 18 other Nation’s Best locations in Texas, further strengthening their presence in the state. Nation’s Best will lease the property from the Cain family. As part of Nation’s Best’s strategy, Cain Hardware & Lumber will maintain operations under their existing name and retain the team overseeing company operations alongside Nation’s Best, which will provide the strategic and financial support necessary to drive optimal growth and profitability.

About Nation’s Best

Nation’s Best Holdings, LLC was founded in 2019 and as of August 1, 2023, owns and operates 49 locations in 14 states with over 1,125 associates. Nation’s Best is committed to identifying and acquiring best-in-class independent home improvement stores to ensure their continued relevance as vibrant community resources. To learn more, visit www.nationsbest.net

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

Spida Machinery USA www.spida.com

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Remote Truss Designer 23-0816TB

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For the past five decades, Toll Brothers has been building high-quality homes in the most desirable locations across the country and has earned its place among the elite in the industry. We adapt to the ever-changing home building industry, stay ahead of trends, and nurture a superior culture. Our employees are our family, and we uphold the values that our founders instilled in us from the beginning, creating an exceptional place to work, inclusive to all.

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Simple Homes is looking for a detail oriented designer to develop truss and floor designs from architectural and structural drawings. The ideal candidate for this position enjoys hyper-focused work, sweats the small stuff, is a clear communicator and strong team player, and is excited about working for a rapidly growing company.

Remote Truss Designer J15228

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Remote Truss & Panel Designer J15290

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Hybrid Remote Truss DesignerSingle Family J14212

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If you are a mid to senior level Truss designer, able to design for mostly single family custom and production builder type projects, able to design in savings and create packages that work in the plant and on site, this is a job you should consider. The company uses MiTek but will consider other truss design software experience. This job requires someone who is used to working with repetitive tasks, but also finding savings and minimizing errors.

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Employer: Client Confidential Products include floor and roof trusses, I-Joists, wall panels, MiTek. Panel experience is a plus! JobLine Senior Designer rating is preferred. This is an InOffice position only. No remote, but part time remote may be available, depending upon skills and experience.

Thom's Notes: One of my "A" list employers, great benefits, competitive compensation plus very competitive bonus program. When I place someone there, they stick! Very tight specifications for this employer. Relocation assistance is available.

Regional Mega-Multifamily

Truss Designer

Mega-Multifamily Estimator/Designer needed to support multiple plants. Duties include modeling for estimating and full designs of multifamily projects. Intermediate or advanced skill level will be considered using JobLine's Truss Design Skills Evaluation. This job is local, remote (Eastern Time Zone), or hybrid. Relocation assistance is negotiable if you plan to work

in the office. Please inquire for additional details and to be considered for this position.

Compensation: $33-43hr based on skills and ability. average 45 hours a week. Can interview onsite or remotely.

Remote Mega-Multifamily Estimator J15227

Employer: Client Confidential

Remote Mega-Multifamily Truss Estimator opportunity. Qualified candidates will already know the general duties and skills needed for this position and additional details can be obtained prior to approving presentation. Employer will consider 3+ years single family design experience. Training and position is remote. Expert level Remote MMF Estimators are afforded top consideration but the employer is very willing to train experienced single family designers wishing to become MMF Designers. This position is a stepping stone to a MMF Design job if you are interested.

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Employer: Client Confidential

JobLine Senior Designer ranking and MiTek software experience (Sapphire preferred) is highly desirable for this position. Prefer someone with commercial and multifamily experience but strong Single Family Custom will be considered. Bring your friends! In-office position. Remote is not an option.

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ProTec Panel & Truss is looking to add a Lead Designer to our team. The designer will be responsible for the production of detailed shop drawings for component manufacturing using Mitek Software. They will contribute to the Design Team's success by working with team members to check accuracy and assist entry level designers.

Remote Designer - Truss/Panel J14179

Posted on Friday, January 21, 2022

Employer: Client Confidential

This opportunity is for senior remote designers with truss and/or wall panel experience. Only highly capable designers with solid remote experience will be considered.

MiTek software experience preferred. The ideal candidate will have multifamily and single family experience. This advanced level designers only. Please inquire for additional information.

PERFECT Heels,Angles, & Lengths

Safe, accurate cutting of any component with the ProCut™ UC Linear Saw Series

Roof, Floor, and Wall components: Webs, Chords, Sliders and Wedges – up to 4-boards high! The ProCut™ Linear Saw Series is configurable to any assembly line – providing a safe, accurate way to cut your lumber, while keeping your materials moving on your line.

Maximize your output with ProCut™ Material Handling Systems

Feed the ProCut™ with bulk lumber staged around the Linear Infeed Conveyors. Materials are picked and placed in the order which it is to be processed. Lumber is fed to the ProDeck™ Lumber Infeed - where it accumulates and is dispensed to the sawyer.

From the ProCut™, the cut material is conveyed to an accumulator where it is grouped and placed together with all components for the job. The material is conveyed to the staging area at each truss assembly workstation. The staging areas at the table provide an uninterrupted supply of perfectly cut and organized material.

Eliminate the carts and congested staging areas in your plant. The ProCut™ saw, when used in combination with the ProDeck™ and our Custom Material Handling Systems, can be configured to improve the flow of perfectly cut parts and materials directly to your assembly stations.

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ProCut™ UC-4 shown with optional ProDeck™

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TheLastWord

Seventy Years of Service

As we celebrate SBCA/WTCA’s forty years, let’s also recognize the entrepreneurs behind them, especially these twelve who made outstanding contributions. While each of them added something unique, their work was interrelated, and formed the foundation for today’s truss industry. Although all but two have left us, their combined legacies remain.

Carol Sanford developed his roller plate in Cal Jureit’s testing lab, and surely Jureit learned from Sanford’s work. Walter Moehlenpah and Jack Schmitt discovered the business via component manufacturers. Bill McAlpine and Charlie Harnden started in engineering and sales for Sanford, just as George Eberle did at Hydro-Air and Bill Turnbull did at Truswal. Bill Black sold his first business to MiTek and his second to Simpson. Tom Whatley spent two decades as a component plant owner and operator, but three decades as a full-service supplier. And Gene Toombs got a lot done in 25 years, but built MiTek on Jureit’s, Moehlenpah’s, Mort’s, Black’s, and Turnbull’s great work.

And the evidence of their inventiveness is still all around us. Sanford’s most widely used invention, the Roll-A-Master, is still rolling trusses in plants in Maryland and Virginia. Cal Jureit’s long-toothed plate innovation is gone, but his 1975 Mark 4 gantry is still running at Builders

FirstSource in Culpeper, VA, while Walter Moehlenpah’s 1966 Mono-Press powers much of Joe Hikel’s Shelter Systems plant in Westminster, MD.

This is not to understate the software, engineering, and expertise lent to CMs by these entrepreneurs, most of whom devoted their entire careers to the truss business. Nor do we discount the special contributions of the lesser known plate suppliers that will be lauded in articles to follow. But on this 40th anniversary of the industry’s association, all suppliers and component manufacturers should be aware and celebrate 70 years of success serving the building industry.

Joe Kannapell, P.E.

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