See this article for a breakdown of the three most common types of window / door / glazing support mullions in our articles section. Learn the difference between a mullion, supporting frame, and structural column and how they are used in a construction project.
Wind Exposure Category Overview ASCE-7 is the governing referenced standard for design loads on buildings & other structures for building codes throughout the US. ASCE 7 (26.7 of ASCE 7-16) describes the process to which wind speed is converted into wind pressure to design such structures. The formula is based on many variables. One of …
ASCE 7 WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORIES AND HOW EXPOSURE ‘D’ WORKS Read More »
Welded Aluminum Railings: Structural Risks, Code Requirements, and Design Considerations Welded aluminum railings are commonly used in residential, commercial, and outdoor applications due to their durability, corrosion resistance, and clean architectural appearance. However, from an engineering standpoint, welding aluminum—especially heat-treated alloys such as 6061-T6 or 6063-T6—introduces critical structural considerations that must be properly addressed to …
Loss of Capacity Due To Welded Aluminum In Railings – Signs – Structures Read More »
What’s the Difference Between Aluminum T5 and T6 Tempers Aluminum alloys in the 6xxx series, such as 6063, are widely used in structural and architectural applications due to their excellent balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and extrudability. However, the temper designation (T5 vs T6) plays a critical role in determining the final mechanical properties of …
What’s the difference between aluminum T5 and T6 temper (like 6063-T5 vs 6063-T6 alloy)? Read More »
Sunrooms across the US are categorized into 5 categories. AAMA published these in their AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100-12 publication which made its way into the Florida & International Building Codes. FBC (17, 20) lists this in Chapter 20 section 2002.6 directly siting the AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100 spec. IBC 2015/2018 References AAMA 2100 in IRC Chapter 44 Please refer …
This is provided to inform clients of the dissimilar metal protection requirements of the 2015 Aluminum Design Manual, Chapter M – Section M.7 Structures of the alloys covered by the Aluminum Design Manual are not ordinarily painted. Surfaces shall be painted where: 2014-T6 alloys are exposed to corrosive environments. Aluminum alloy parts are in contact …
How to Avoid Contact With Aluminum & Dissimilar Metals Read More »
Tek® screws have become an essential tool in construction and manufacturing, valued for their self-drilling capabilities that simplify a variety of projects. These screws eliminate the need for pre-drilling, saving time and effort while ensuring strong, reliable connections. Ideal for applications like metal roofing and steel framing, Tek® screws deliver durable, high-performance results, making them …
TEK Sheet Metal Screws (SMS) – About – Sizes – Gauges Read More »
Here’s a chart illustrating some of the many dimensions and components needed to design a site specific open patio / pergola / carport / louvered roof type structure. It’s best if you start with an existing Master Plan from one of our manufacturer partners. Mark those up & create your sketches using the information from …
Typical Information Needed For Engineering Design of a Patio-Pergola Roof Read More »
We’re frequently asked by our clients where they can purchase many of the products specified in our plans. Below is a growing list of products1 for your reference. FEATURING PRODUCTS BY: CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW TO FIND THE PRODUCT(S) YOU ARE LOOKING FOR: General Extrusions Eastern Metal Supply Standard Extrusion & Sheet Products Eastern …
Per the Aluminum Design Manual (ADM) 2015, the allowable bending stress of round tubes shall be determined for the limit states of yielding, rupture, and local buckling: that given by section F.6.1 (compressive yielding), or that given by section F.6.1 (tensile yielding), or that given by section F.6.1 (tensile rupture), or that given by …
Procedure For Calculating Aluminum Box Beams For Bending Read More »
There is often confusion as to which size product a client actually needs – Pipe Size or OD Tubing Size. Keep in mind that pipe size refers to a nominal – not actual – inside pipe diameter. Schedule refers to the pipe’s wall thickness. The dimensions provided for OD tubing on the other hand refer to the actual …
What’s the dimensional difference between a pipe and a tube? Read More »
