Transforming a Childcare Center with DHSD Screws
August 30, 2024
A large, architecturally designed commercial building was constructed in Rouse Hill, NSW, to serve as a childcare center for children aged 6 months to 6 years. The building was primarily made of steel and concrete, with most external walls covered in hardwood cladding and 500 square meters of hardwood decking.
Construction Challenges and Solutions
The builder, Blue Group Services, faced the challenge of balancing material costs with installation time to meet the project's budget. To address this, they subcontracted the installation work to PR Brooks Services. After a demonstration, Blue Group and PR Brooks decided to use Simpson Strong-Tie's DHSD hardwood screws for both the cladding and decking. While these screws were more expensive than initially quoted, they significantly reduced installation time.
Time and Cost Savings
The use of Simpson Strong-Tie's Quik Drive System allowed for faster installation, as the screws didn't require pre-drilling. This resulted in substantial labour cost savings: $12,000 for cladding and $20,000 for decking, total saving $32,000.
Additional Benefits
The project was completed weeks ahead of schedule, further reducing labour costs. The Quik Drive system also improved worker comfort and productivity. This project marked the first use of Simpson Strong-Tie solutions for both Blue Group and PR Brooks. The positive results have led to plans to use these solutions in future projects.
Simpson Strong-Tie Products
In addition to the DHSD screws, Simpson Strong-Tie also provided E5 Reinforced Angle Bracket, SD9 Connector Screws, SDWS Structural Timber Screws, and BFHSD Bi-metal hardwood to steel joist screws for the project.
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Structural Connections
Unmatched Quality from the Truss to the Foundation
With nearly 60 years of field and R&D experience, Simpson Strong-Tie® timber connectors are manufactured to the industry's highest standards. From framing angles to straps to heavy-duty joist hangers, we offer the most diverse product line so that you have the right product for the job.
Simpson Strong-Tie® connectors offer unmatched quality with laboratory and field testing, and are backed by our uncompromising commitment to customer service. As the company that built the connector industry, you can count on Simpson Strong-Tie® to work closely with builders, engineers and building officials to deliver innovative, building code-compliant solutions to help build safer, stronger structures economically. Download the Structural Connectors Overview Flyer.
Timber Connectors
From testing to service to availability, everything we do is engineered to ensure your project's success. With every product, you know you are getting the quality, value, service and on-time delivery that we have built our reputation on for the past 60 years.
From straps and ties to joist hangers and much more, Simpson Strong-Tie® structural connectors increase the strength and safety of timber-frame structures. Each connector is unique to Simpson Strong-Tie and is designed for specific applications without the need to adapt metal plating to suit a connection.
Steel Frame Connectors
From fully tested and engineered connectors and clips Simpson Strong-Tie® provides comprehensive structural solutions for cold-formed steel construction. From steel-to-steel connections to full-scale lateral solutions and curtain wall connectors, we remain committed to developing new technology that helps to advance the cold-formed steel industry.
Find out how Simpson Strong-Tie timber connectors can help you build the right way every day. Download the Cold-Fromed Steel Construction Connectors Catalogue.
