Revolutionizing Structural Connections: A Deep Dive into SHS Cleats

SHS Cleats – Modern Connection Solutions for Builders

SHS Cleats is an Australian design and fabrication specialist offering a modern and highly efficient solution for connecting timber or steel PFC beams to SHS (Square Hollow Section) steel columns. Based in Brisbane, with offices in Sydney and Coffs Harbour, SHS Cleats provides builders a time-saving alternative to traditional factory-welded connections.

Their PCT-patented galvanized steel channel cleats are engineered to slide along SHS columns, allowing precise vertical positioning before fastening via Tek screws, welds, bolts—or a combination thereof. This flexibility makes SHS Cleats highly appealing for on-site simplicity and adaptability.

Product Categories & Key Highlights

1. SHS-Timber Beam Cleats

Ideal for mounting verandah and roof beams or stairway landing bearers to SHS posts. Multiple configurations include single-side, corner, inline, and intermediate cleats.

2. SHS-Top Plate Cleats

Designed for supporting timber floor bearers on top of SHS columns. Variants include square, corner, and intermediate top plate configurations.

3. SHS – Baseplates, Top Plates & Single Cleats

These support SHS columns anchored to concrete piers or pads. Available in configurations ranging from 2-hole rectangular or 4-hole square baseplates to corner and single cleats, with thickness options from 8mm to 20mm.

4. SHS-PFC Beam Cleats

Built for more load-intensive applications, these cleats attach PFC steel channel beams to SHS posts—common in verandah and roof beam support where extra strength is needed.

5. SHS-Bracing Rod Cleats

Excellent for structural bracing within sub-floors or during house raising projects. Available in single-sided, double-sided, two-way, and corner configurations.

6. SHS-Steel Angle Bracing Cleats

Engineered for high-wind bracing or small communication tower applications. These durable angle cleats come in many configurations—single, double, corner, diagonal, and three-way angles—ideal for steel framing bracing bays.

Why Builders Prefer SHS Cleats

Efficiency Meets Flexibility

Traditional methods require pre-welded factory assemblies, precise fabrication, and often crane-assisted installation. SHS Cleats, by contrast, slide into place on site—eliminating the need for factory welding and allowing adjustments right where you need them.

Robust and Durable Construction

Made from galvanized steel, these cleats are corrosion-resistant and ready to be painted to match SHS posts, enhancing both longevity and aesthetics.

Multiple Fastening Methods

Installation can be customized using Tek screws, welds, bolts, or combinations—depending on shear load requirements. For loads above 45–50 kN, a modest 5 mm stitch weld can reinforce timber-beam connections.

Time & Cost Savings

Builders save significant time on-site—and costs associated with prefabrication and unload handling—while maintaining certified structural strength. One example cited a 6-hour time saving on a roofed balcony connection.

Supporting Resources & Services

Builders can access downloadable installation notes, shear and uplift calculators, laboratory test reports, and even purchase engineering design certifications issued by qualified Australian structural engineers (NER, RPEQ, MIE).

SHS Cleats also prides itself on customizing services to match builder goals and budgets—supporting the project from selection through to installation advice.

Final Thoughts

SHS Cleats stands out by offering smart, adaptable, and durable connection solutions for SHS column installations. Their product range—from timber cleats to angle bracing connectors—provides the flexibility builders need for a wide array of framing and structural scenarios. With practical installation, strong support, and technical rigour behind each product, SHS Cleats makes structural assembly faster, easier, and more reliable.

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