Why SHS Cleats Are a Game-Changer for Builders

When it comes to building strong, durable structures, steel column connections are a critical aspect of construction. However, the traditional methods for connecting steel columns and beams can be time-consuming, inefficient, and prone to errors. That’s where SHS Cleats come in. These innovative products are designed to streamline the process of attaching timber or steel PFC beams to SHS steel columns, offering builders a quick, precise, and cost-effective solution. In this post, we’ll explore how SHS Cleats are revolutionising the construction industry and why builders are making the switch to this game-changing product.

1. Understanding the Challenges of Steel Column Connections

Steel column connections have always posed significant challenges for builders. Whether you’re working on a light commercial or residential project, steel beams and columns need to be securely and accurately fastened to ensure the structural integrity of the building. Here are some common problems builders face when installing traditional steel column connections:

• Time-Consuming: Traditional methods, such as bolted plates and welding, require substantial labour and time. The more complex the connection, the longer it takes to complete the task.
• Error-Prone: Aligning steel beams and columns both vertically and horizontally manually can lead to errors, which often result in costly rework and delays.
• Safety Risks: With welding and other heavy equipment involved, the potential for on-site accidents increases.
• Lack of Precision: Achieving perfect alignment between the beam and column is crucial, but traditional methods can make this challenging.

These challenges can increase project costs, extend timelines, and compromise safety. However, SHS Cleats offer a solution to these problems, bringing speed, precision, and safety to the construction process.

2. The Evolution of Steel Column Connections

Steel column and beam connections have come a long way since the days of simple bolted connections. Over time, traditional methods have evolved, but they’ve also revealed limitations that modern construction practices cannot ignore. Here’s a brief overview of how the industry  has progressed:

• Early Methods: Early construction relied heavily on welding and bolting techniques. The cleats and base plates had to be pre-welded in a factory and then delivered to the site. These methods, while effective, were often slow, complex, and required skilled labour to ensure the right fit and sometimes the use of cranes as all cleats were attached to the shs posts.
• The Emergence of SHS Cleats: SHS Cleats, designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, represent a leap forward in column connection technology. Their unique patented design allows builders to slide the cleat into position along the SHS column, or site the cleat on top of the shs post, ensuring precise placement before fastening.

This evolution has led to faster installations, greater accuracy, and overall more streamlined workflows on construction sites. The builder can now assemble & install the shs posts and cleats on site and with ease instead of craning in pre-welded post and cleat assemblies that have arrived from the factory. If loads are larger than 50kN simply add a stitch weld between the channel and the shs post after tek screwing and connecting beams, this welding can be done after all beam installation at one time with 1 welder on site if required.

3. Key Features of SHS Cleats That Make Them a Game-Changer

SHS Cleats are more than just a simple connector—they’re packed with features that make them stand out in the construction industry. Here’s a closer look at the key features that make SHS Cleats a game-changer for builders:

• Patented Design
  SHS Cleats are designed with a patented system that allows them to easily slide up and down the SHS column, giving builders flexibility to adjust the position until they find the perfect fit. This design eliminates the need for manual adjustments or time-consuming measurements, streamlining the installation process.

• Galvanised Steel Construction
  The cleats are made from high-quality galvanised steel, offering superior durability and corrosion resistance. Whether your project is located near the coast, in a high-humidity area, or exposed to harsh weather, galvanised steel ensures the connections will last for years without rust or wear.
• Connectivity
  The SHS cleats can connect a single, two or 3 beams to a single post ! They aslo allow for top plates and baseplates to be added to the SHS posts on site with ease.
• If a moment connection is required for a baseplate and a post stitch welding is suggested.

• Adjustability for Precision
  The ability to adjust the cleat’s position before fastening ensures precise alignment of beams and columns. This level of precision is crucial for ensuring that the structural integrity of the building is maintained.

• Versatility in Fastening Methods
  SHS Cleats offer several fastening options: tek, weld, tek & weld or bolt. This versatility allows builders to choose the fastening method that best suits the project requirements. Whether it’s a quick and efficient tek screw installation or a more secure stitch weld for heavier loads, SHS Cleats can handle it all. As a rough guide, metal teks can be used for loads up to 50kN; above that you should also stitch weld 40-40-40 the channel to the SHS post

4. Benefits of Using SHS Cleats for Builders

Now that we’ve covered the key features, let’s look at the concrete benefits SHS Cleats bring to the table. Builders who use SHS Cleats on their projects enjoy numerous advantages that improve the overall quality, efficiency, and safety of their work.

1. Time Savings

Time is money in the construction industry, and SHS Cleats help builders save both. The unique design and simple installation process allow for quicker column and beam connections. With fewer adjustments, less time spent on each installation, and the ability to pre-align the cleats, builders can complete projects faster without sacrificing quality.

• Quick Installation: Unlike traditional methods that require extensive setup, SHS Cleats can be installed in a fraction of the time only 12 seconds per tek screw with the pre-drilled holes available sin the shs cleats.
• Less Rework: The precision offered by SHS Cleats means fewer mistakes, reducing the need for costly rework.

2. Reduced Errors

One of the biggest challenges when installing steel connections is ensuring the components are perfectly aligned. Even a slight misalignment can affect the structure’s integrity. With SHS Cleats, alignment is effortless, reducing the risk of errors that could compromise the safety of the building.

• Built-In Adjustability: The cleat can slide into position and be locked into place, reducing the margin for error.
• Improved Quality: With more precise alignment and fewer mistakes, the overall quality of the construction improves.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

The upfront cost of SHS Cleats is less than traditional factory-welded methods. The time saved and the reduction in errors can also lead to significant cost savings over the course of the project. The efficient installation process helps minimise labour costs, and the durability of the cleats ensures fewer repairs and replacements down the line.

• Reduced Labour Costs: With quicker installations, only one worker is required to complete the connection.
• Longevity: Galvanised steel cleats will not require frequent replacements, saving money in the long term. Our galvanised SHS Cleats have a 100-year lifespan, far greater than timber.

4. Improved Site Safety

Safety is always a top priority on construction sites, and SHS Cleats contribute to a safer environment. Since the cleats require less manual labour, welding, and heavy lifting, there is less risk of accidents. Additionally, the precise design reduces the need for rework or adjustments, further enhancing site safety.

• Fewer Accidents: The simplicity of the installation process reduces the chance for injury or accidents during assembly.

5. Real-World Examples: SHS Cleats in Action

To further illustrate the impact of SHS Cleats, let’s look at some real-world examples:

Residential Construction

Residential builders also benefit from the flexibility and ease of SHS Cleats. Whether working on a single home or a series of townhouses, these cleats simplify the process of connecting steel beams to columns, ensuring the structure is secure and stable.

• Case Study 1: A builder used SHS Cleats in a residential project. The result? Quicker framing, fewer delays, and a smoother workflow overall. The client also loved the new industrial aesthetic look after painting the cleats for their balcony. Refer image below;

6. SHS Cleats vs. Traditional Methods: Why Builders Are Switching

Many builders have already made the switch from traditional methods to SHS Cleats, and here’s why:

• Speed: Traditional methods like welding or bolted plates can be slow and labour-intensive, while SHS Cleats allow for quicker, more efficient installations.
• Flexibility: SHS Cleats offer multiple fastening methods (tek, weld,tek & weld or bolt), whereas traditional methods are more rigid and often require more manual work.
• Accuracy: SHS Cleats ensure precise alignment, whereas traditional methods often require multiple measurements and adjustments.

When builders switch to SHS Cleats, they enjoy faster completion times, fewer errors, and greater flexibility & lower cost, essentially transforming the way they approach column and beam connections within the residential housing and light commercial markets.

7. How to Install SHS Cleats: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Installing SHS Cleats is a straightforward process that any builder can follow. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth installation:

1. Prepare the Site: Concrete the SHS columns into their pier footings and ensure the SHS post are plumb and in the correct alignment
2. Slide the Cleat into Position: Adjust the cleat along the column to the desired height for the relevant beam connection.
3. Secure the Cleat: Choose your preferred fastening method usually metal tek screws series 500 12g-35mm if loads are less than 50kN, otherwise stitch weld 5mm 40-40-40mm and secure the cleat in place.
4. Attach the beam: Once all SHS posts are installed and the SHS cleats are on the posts, simply bolt your timber or steel PFC beam to the SHS cleats and tighten.
5. Paint the SHS post and cleats: If required for aesthetic requirements, paint the SHS posts and cleats (eg monument is a popular colour refer to photos above

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to install SHS Cleats efficiently and accurately.

8. The Future of Steel Column Connections: The Role of SHS Cleats

The construction industry is constantly evolving, and SHS Cleats are part of that evolution. As construction becomes more focused on efficiency, sustainability, and precision, SHS Cleats are well-positioned to remain a key player in the future of steel column connections.

• Sustainability: As builders focus on reducing waste and improving sustainability, SHS Cleats, with their durable design and quick installation, contribute to a greener construction process.
• Innovation: SHS Cleats are just one example of the ongoing innovations in the construction industry. As new technologies continue to emerge, products like SHS Cleats will only become more essential.

Conclusion: Why Builders Can’t Afford to Ignore SHS Cleats

In conclusion, SHS Cleats represent a significant improvement over traditional methods of steel column and beam connections. They save time, reduce errors, improve safety, and offer a more cost-effective solution for builders. Whether you’re working on a light commercial project or a residential home, balcony, flooring, a pergola, fence or garage, SHS Cleats will help you streamline your workflow and deliver high-quality results.

Get Started with SHS Cleats Today

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of SHS Cleats for yourself, reach out today to learn more or place an order. Our team is here to assist you with any questions and ensure you have everything you need to get started.