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A lot of people have been talking about production tracking lately, so now is a good time to talk more in depth about some of the issues involved. With increased demand for the handling of metrics, levels of complexity and ever-changing conditions, manufacturers have been moving toward more...

This article discusses how to select holdowns and tension ties, which are key components in a continuous load path. They are used to resist uplift due to shearwall overturning or wind uplift forces in light-frame construction. In panelized roof construction, holdowns are used to anchor concrete...

Overview Progressive roof collapse is a roof collapse in which the failure of a single structural component triggers a chain reaction of failures that result in a large portion of a roof collapsing onto the contents below. The shifting of continuous lateral restraint is well known as a...

In 2006, when I first opened my two-man garage door business, I never imagined I would have over 80 employees and be expanding all over the United States. Over the last 10 years, people have asked me the No. 1 thing that has made my business so successful. My answer is simple:...

Just as important as enjoying our jobs is belonging to our workplace. That takes effort on our part, especially if we’re new employees or work remotely, like I do. Know that we have a dual purpose; to get our jobs done, of course, but also to become a partner with our associates. Like so...

What can be done to help eliminate hanger gaps when attaching end jacks, or common trusses, at 90 degrees to the girder truss? This month’s installment is a good question with a really easy solution. I was on another jobsite recently when I noticed a series of small (about 8’...

North Meets South in New Zealand Component Manufacturers often ask about our global experiences, how others manufacture products, and if there are better designs that may prove more efficient.  Having travelled North America, China, Australia, and New Zealand visiting and installing...

The astute observer on our website may have noticed some new links appearing. We should also have a little construction sign up though – the new section is very much a work in progress! Where is that article? From time to time, we’re asked to forward individual PDF copies of...

Because I’ve been receiving great feedback from readers (thanks for that), in my July article I also welcomed suggestions of topics. One reader stepped forward with an idea which, as I thought more about it, became the start of this month’s piece on how far we’ve come as an...

The actual payment to employees for increased performance is truly one aspect that many managers may not understand, especially regarding how to get the most bang for their buck. For example, why give equal dollars to personnel with varying degrees of skills and responsibilities? This payout...