This is the second in a six-part blog series in which we discuss, from the ground up, how to build a code-compliant deck. Building a safe, sturdy deck involves much more than selecting the right materials and a stylish design. To ensure a deck can handle the loads placed upon it, a strong foundation is essential and starts with properly designed and installed footings, posts, and post-to-beam connections. Footings are the foundation of the deck, providing support to the posts, which, in turn, support the beams and the rest of the structure. Properly installed footings prevent settling or shifting that could jeopardize the deck’s stability. Post-to-beam connections are particularly crucial, as they bear the weight of the deck and distribute it to the posts. These connections should be reinforced with metal connectors to ensure they can handle the load. Now let’s get more into the specifics.
Building Safer Decks: Essential Tips for Code Compliance and Structural Integrity
Decks are a beloved feature of many homes, offering a space for relaxation, social gatherings, and a connection to the outdoors. However, despite their popularity, decks can also pose serious safety risks if not properly designed, built, and maintained. According to experts, decks cause more injuries and fatalities than any other part of the home’s structure — a shocking statistic that highlights the importance of ensuring your deck is safe, secure, and compliant with local building codes. In this article, the first in a six-part series, we’ll explore key insights into building stronger, safer decks, drawing on the thinking behind industry standards and guidelines.
QuickFrames Q&A: Top Questions Answered
In this post, we follow up on our March webinar, Innovative Structural Steel Solutions, Part 2 — QuickFrames, by answering some of the interesting questions raised by attendees.
During the webinar, we explored QuickFrames, a pre-engineered, adjustable framing solution that simplifies structural support for rooftop and floor openings in commercial buildings. We examined common market challenges and the limitations of traditional angle iron and channel steel frames, emphasizing the need for more adaptable framing solutions. By comparing QuickFrames to traditional welded steel frames, we highlighted its fully customizable, bolt-on design, simplifying coordination, eliminating field fit-up issues, and reducing labor, installation time, and overall costs.
Anchor Anatomy 101: Titen HD® Concrete and Masonry Screw Anchors
Today’s blog post is the first in a series called “Anchor Anatomy 101.” Each post is designed to clarify anchor components, installation processes, and common applications to help you make informed anchor selection decisions based on your project’s unique requirements.
The Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Link™ Moment Connection — A Strong, Field-Friendly New Moment Connection for Low-Seismic and Wind-Governed Regions
Moment connections are a common lateral system in structural steel design, offering the advantage of unobstructed sight lines and clear passageways. However, they often come with significant cost and labor demands. Fully welded moment connections require extensive beam preparation, welding, and inspection, while common bolted solutions, such as flange-plated and end-plate moment connections, still involve welded components, leading to installation and fit-up challenges.
From Scholarship to Strengthening: My Career Evolution at Simpson Strong-Tie
Tran Duong, Strengthening Solutions engineer at Simpson Strong-Tie, reflects on how the Simpson Strong-Tie Student Scholarship shaped her career path. From receiving the scholarship as a civil engineering student to transitioning from consulting at Freese and Nichols, she now helps lead the company’s structural strengthening solutions. Tran shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of making connections, taking risks and learning beyond the classroom.
Earthquake Retrofit Solutions and Resources Webinar
In this post, we follow up on our November webinar, Earthquake Retrofit Solutions and Resources Webinar, by answering some of the interesting questions raised by attendees.
Oh Yeah, Prove It! WSV SUBFLOOR Screws as Alternatives to 8d and 10d Subfloor Nails
When Simpson Strong-Tie set out to re-engineer their Strong-Drive® WSV Subfloor screw, the plan was to bring a code-evaluated, no-squeak, no-glue all screw replacement for sheathed horizontal wood-frame diaphragms to the market. We knew that these collated fasteners, which were designed for fast subfloor installation using the auto-feed Quik Drive® system, were going to be an ideal replacement for 8d and 10d nails. The only thing left to do was to prove it…
Strengthen Your Designs with the Latest Strong-Wall® Applications Webinar
In this post, we follow up on our October webinar, by answering some of the interesting questions raised by attendees. During the webinar, we discussed the latest Strong-Wall applications and innovative design strategies to help you optimize your structural designs. We walked through key updates, showcasing how our enhanced Strong-Wall solutions can streamline the design process while improving structural performance and compliance.
Framing the Future: The Evolution of Moment Frames
Discover insights from Simpson Strong-Tie engineer Emily Morris Frazier, P.E., as she examines the evolution of moment frame construction over the past 150 years. She traces the transition from early rivet and angle connections to the prevalent use of welded moment frames in seismic zones. Emily addresses the challenges that emerged after significant earthquakes, which spurred the development of prequalified connections to boost safety and performance. She highlights the ongoing advancements in design strategies that aim to enhance the resilience of modern structures.