Isn't it interesting how time changes meanings? A couple of decades ago we coined the phrase "multitasking" to justify, even encourage, having our plates over loaded. Instead of acknowledging our inability or unwillingness to finish one project at a time, we adopted a new...

When a connector has been installed on a joint and it is determined the plate does not meet the requirements of the design standard, then the truss designer has to make a decision. The connection can be repaired by removing the plate, or there may be a way to facilitate the repair leaving the...

"Why do we do the things we do?" is not a rhetorical question or psychological evaluation. It is important that we understand the reasons why we work in a specific category of the lumber industry...or any profession. It is important because, subconsciously, our customers and suppliers...

Connectors are essential to the integrity of the truss.  It is imperative the plate is properly pressed in order to insure effective lateral load transfer from truss member to truss member.  Since on occasion modern and older equipment does not press the plate completely into the...

Market Summary This is an FDP reversal week as well as a 3-week interval. This three week interval is the third consecutive one making this rally now nine weeks old. Historically, "extended" trends last nine weeks. This one has certainly given buyers ample time and opportunity to...

Gadgets. Upgrades. Fads. Some people love to get the next new thing as soon as they can, some people wait to see if it’s a lasting improvement or a passing craze. Me? I’m the kind of person who waits. I didn’t buy Laser Discs when they were hot, nor did I think SuperBeta was...

Many lumberyards still do not have their own wood truss and wall panel manufacturing as part of their offerings to their contractors but are contemplating whether this might be a good investment. There are pros and cons to this type of big investment; if you have been doing any research, you...

For the wood truss industry, the single most important component in a component plant is LUMBER. Nothing is as price volatile. Nothing else takes up more physical space. Nothing else requires more constant cash or credit line. Nothing impacts the physical appearance and structural integrity of...

From worst-case scenarios to less obvious examples, do you have general guidelines that will help you make informed decisions? For example, when faced with lumber defects on the table, do you know how the builders in your plant will proceed? More importantly, are they being supplied with the...

Snow, ice and cold sent contractors on eastern U.S. job sites running for cover the end of last week. That is not the case country wide, however it is a possibility in 80% of the continental U.S. now through the end of February. One can only ponder, in the depths of winter, how could our...