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Answers to your Lumber Link questions:
Q. Who is Socket Systems?
A. Socket Systems makes steel connectors and hangers that join timbers to create post-and-beam buildings, effectively replacing Mortise and tenon joints.
Q. What is Post and Beam?
A. Vertical blocks are POSTS, and horizontal blocks are BEAMS. BEAMS on an angle form RAFTERS.
Q. Why not use Trusses?
A. Space. That's the best answer. The right combination of posts and beams can replaced trusses and create true clear span buildings.
Q. What kind of timber do I use?
A. Rafters MUST be either #1 construction grade, dried timber, LVL's (laminated veneer lumber) or Glulams. Posts are usually #2 grade timber, Build-ups (edge-nailed, hand-laminated posts), or better. Purlins are usually #2 grade 2x6 or 2x8's. See Building Basics pdf for a visual answer.
Q. What size timber do I use?
A. That depends on your building and where you live. Posts are usually 6x6 timbers; dimensional true-cut size is 5.5" x 5.5". Larger bay spacing, extra snow loads, etc., requires 6x8, or 8x8 posts. Most of our Rafters require 6x8 or 6x10 beams.
Q. What holds the frames together?
A. Primarily the roof purlins sitting vertically on the frames (Bents) attached using our metal Purlin Clips. Side walls can be finished using a typical framed stud wall, or horizontal girts.
Q. How big can I build?
A. Width- Lumber Link can be designed to meet whatever width you require up to 60 ft clear span. Additional vertical supports increase the width. Length- As long as you want. The vast majority of our buildings use 8ft or 10ft. bay spacing.
Height- Our new Second Floor Connector allows for side wall heights of 24 ft. plus, allowing for three stories.
Q. How do I get plans?
A.
90% of cities in America require a building plan. Socket System
architect will design, and provide engineering if required, your own custom building based on
your specific snow loads, wind ratings, etc., using IBC International
Building Code standards. Cost is 1% of the value of the structure
(starting at $600).
Q. What about engineering?
A. Socket Systems parts are built to meet or exceed engineering requirements.
Q. How do I determine my cost?
A. Just call a Socket Systems representative at 800-724-8250. Give us some details and we will send you an e-mail estimate along with a timber framing list for you to quote.
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Review our Building Steps - Start Here |
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Call your county or township and get in writing the building requirements for your area. Skipping this step will likely cost you fines and delays.
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Order Lumber Link products and Build-It-Yourself. |
Click on the images to download a printable .pdf version
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