Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the most queries questions on our products are answered below;

Do I need to specify the attaching beam depth and width ?
Yes, when ordering please specify the depth and width and material of all your attaching beams, ie, timber – 190×42 LVL15 or steel PFC-150PFC
Is it better to weld or tek the channel to the post ?
Both is the answer, For strength ratings a 5mm CFW is the strongest, so both tek & stitch weld by using 5 or more 12gx38 series 500 metal teks in each leg using the pre-drilled 4mm dia holes. Then weld down the 2 vertical edges of the channel to the post with a 5mm CFW, for a length of 50mm top and bottom on both channel legs then use a sealant along the top edge to stop water entering the channel and post from the top.
How many tek screws do I need to use ?
Generally a min. 5-6 teks per channel leg that beams are attached to. for eg, a corner cleat will have 2 beams, so attach 5 teks on each channel leg on both sides of the SHS . N.B all cleats require teks in the 2 shorter channel legs as marked at 30mm centres. If you are using the 3 way intermediate cleat you need tek screws in each of the 3 channel sides. If you are only using teks your structural engineer or SHS cleats engineer should confirm the minimum number of teks to use based on the shear load of the connecting beam but generally 5 teks minimum each face which allows for a 30kN shear load per beam, however it depends on the calculated shear force on that joint which is based on beam length and load width. For the timber beam cleats it is best to both tek & stitch weld the sliding cleats to the shs post as noted below.
Our SHS cleats engineer can confirm your connection with you if you provide your structural and architectural pdfs for our review to info@shscleats.com.au
Using a combinations of tek and a fillet weld is usually the best and strongest connection. Using the teks to hold the cleat in place and attach the beams followed by using a 5mm CFW down the 2 vertical edges for a length of 50mm top & bottom of each channel leg of the sliding C channel to the post works best.
Can I paint the SHS-Cleat ?
Yes, just paint directly over the galvanised surface.
Can I weld the channel to the post instead of bolting or using teks screws ?
Certainly, welding is the strongest and better looking use a 50mm long stitch weld at the top & bottom of each channel leg to the shs post.
What tek screws do I use ?
Use 12g-38 series 500 metal galvanised teks, this is a must, otherwise the tek heads just break off when tightening.
Can I use galvanised bolts instead of Tek Screws ?
Yes you can, simply fasten the sliding channel to the post with 2 or 3 m12 or 2 off m16 galvanised hex.hd bolt nut & washers instead of using tek screws if you want a stronger shear load connection, just use very second marking at 60mm crs and drill the holes at 14mm or 18mm dia for the m12 or m16 bolts.
For the floor bearer top plate cleats, should I use shims on top of the shs post ? Yes we supply shims (2mm,4mm & 6mm thick shims for levelling) the same size as your SHS post size, so place the shims under the top plate cleat and on top of the post and this will lessen the shear load on the tek screws or bolts fastening the sliding channel to the shs post.
Can I use the steel angle bracing cleats for a braced frame for wind loads ?
Yes certainly simply chemset 2 shs posts with an shs base plate to the concrete floor and fasten the steel angle bracing cleats (via tek, bolt, weld or tek and weld) to both of the shs posts each side of the frame, then bolt your steel angle brace to each of your cleats.
Can I use the bracing rod cleats for sub-floor bracing ?
Yes, simply fasten the relevant bracing rod cleat to the shs post at the levels required, then install your threaded rod and clevis and bolt your clevis’ to the shs bracing rod cleat, then tension your threaded rod with your turnbuckle, or use a 75x10mm x 250mm dia galv. steel ring and bolt your bracing rod through the steel ring.
Can I order via your website ?
Yes our new e-commerce website soon to be launched will have a shopping cart where you can order and pay for your cleats directly on our website, simply go to the shop webpage, select the type of cleat you require , answer the relevant questions re: the beam and shs post sizes as well as the quantity for each cleat. Then submit your order and pay online, and your cleats will be delivered to your nominated delivery address. Or simply email or message SHS Cleats from the request a quote page with your structural pdfs for advice on which cleat type you need for your project and our engineers will confirm the best cleat type and fastening method for you.