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.

As with our previous webinars, we ended with a Q&A session for the attendees. Our director of structural steel, Chase Sebastian, answered as many questions as he could in the time allowed. Now we are back to recap some commonly asked questions and their answers, but if you’d like to see the full list, click here.

Q: Where can QuickFrames ship?

A: QuickFrames can ship to any location in the USA or Canada.

Q: What’s the lead time for QuickFrames?

A: Currently, timing is dependent on the following:

• The time to get all the construction and loading information to QuickFrames.
• 1–2 weeks are necessary for engineering when it’s required (time measured after all information has been received).
• The time for QuickFrames to receive a purchase order and release from the customer.
• Number of frames: One day per 20–30 frames (as measured after customer has provided the purchase order and release).
• 2–5 days shipping.

Q: Is engineering included?

A: Individual project-specific design is included for every QuickFrames project.

Q: How long does the engineering take?

A: Engineering takes 1–2 weeks from the time that all information has been received. However, not all projects require engineering. For projects that don’t require engineering, the products can be provided more quickly.

Q: Can QuickFrames be used under floor slabs?

A: QuickFrames can install under floor slabs just as it does under roof decks. Floor slabs with very high loading can sometimes exceed QuickFrames capacities. Simpson is currently developing QuickFrames with higher capacities — stay tuned!

Q: What if the QuickFrames rails fall under a high flute of the metal deck?

A: QuickFrames can provide rails with wider top flanges that extend to a lower flute where the deck needs connection to the rails, and a curb may need to be connected through the deck.

Q: Do you have a detail available for use in structural drawings?

A: We have a detail that’s currently available directly on request and that will soon be available on our website.

Q: Is QuickFrames rated/approved, or does it have an ESR/code report?

A: QuickFrames provides evaluation of every project, so there’s no need for specifiers to have an evaluation report for reference.

Q: How are lateral loads handled, and diaphragm shear around openings?

A: QuickFrames designs and connections are currently provided for gravity loads and the vertical effects of lateral loads (overturning from wind and seismic). As QuickFrames continues to integrate into the Simpson family, we are working toward providing frames and designs to transfer horizontal loads to the structure and to support diaphragms at openings.

Q: What are the load tables used for?

A: The load tables shown were developed to show example allowable equipment weight capacities for a very specific given combination of criteria. Load tables are not used in any project design — calculations are performed for every project.

We hope this Q&A has helped show how QuickFrames can simplify your next project with efficient, adaptable framing solutions. As we continue to enhance our QuickFrames offering and expand its capabilities, we’re committed to making structural support easier and more flexible. Have more questions or want to get started with QuickFrames? Reach out to our team at structuralsteelsales@strongtie.com or (800) 999-5099 to learn more.