Installation Instructions for Fortress Framing Evolution Steel Deck Framing System © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Table of Contents About Evolution Steel Deck Framing ....................................................................... 4 FAQ’s ...................................................................................................................... 5 Important Information ............................................................................................ 6 Deck Overview / Definitions ................................................................................... 7 Preparation & Planning ....
Table of Contents Joist as a Carry Beam Span Tables ..........................................................................51 S-Ledger Span Tables .............................................................................................52 Fastening Schedule ................................................................................................53 Product Overview ..................................................................................................
About Evolution Steel Deck Framing Evolution Steel Framing is uniform and straight, so pieces are simple to square and won’t twist, warp, rot, crack or burn like wood. The interlocking joist and ledger system lets you build sturdy, safe decks with less labor. Our powder-coating offers increased corrosion resistance and a more finished look.
FAQ's How do I start planning to build with Evolution Steel Deck Framing? Evolution Steel Deck Framing contains all the parts you need to install a basic deck, including the fasteners. Similar to wood at a hardware store, the system also contains many beam and joist length choices. You design an Evolution Frame the exact same way you design a traditional wood framed deck.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION It is the responsibility of the installer to meet all code and safety requirements, and to obtain all required building permits. The framing, deck and railing installer should determine and implement appropriate installation techniques for each installation situation. Neither The Fortress Company nor its distributors shall not be held liable for improper or unsafe installations.
Deck Overview / Definitions 7 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Deck Overview / Definitions 1) Evolution S-Ledger: The part of a deck that attaches to the structure. Evolution's S-Ledger is an engineered interlocking design with the Ledger Bracket that eliminates the need for excessive fasteners and drastically speeds up installation. The “S” shape provides a sturdy, safe deck connection that will provide peace of mind for decades. The S-Ledger is available with pre-punched, standard spacing options that drastically simplify deck construction.
Deck Overview / Definitions Joist Cap (Not Pictured): Covers open joist to provides clean, finished look and deter pest and animals. Rim Joist Brackets (Not Pictured): Inserts into joist at the end of the deck for attaching the Curved Rim Joist. Designed to be bendable as needed to accommodate nearly any curved radius. 45 Degree Bracket (Not pictured): Used with the Blank S-ledger when joist extend at an angle to keep standard spacing.
Preparation & Planning WARNING! Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) must be worn anytime you're using power tools and working with Evolution Steel Deck Framing. At a minimum, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, closedtoe shoes, long sleeves, and pants must be worn for safety.
Preparation & Planning Recommended Tools 5/16 MAGNETIC Nut Driver Mallet or Hammer Fortress Black Sand Touch-Up Paint Quick Clamps Closed-Toe Shoes WARNING! Evolution Steel Framing is an engineered framing system and each part is designed with load limitations. The Span Charts are necessary for you to know and understand so you can ensure you framing system is structurally sound. Designing a deck frame outside the limits of the Span Charts may void the manufacturer's warranty.
Preparation & Planning B A C D Deck Top View—See Definitions on Page 14 12 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Preparation & Planning A E B Deck Front View—See Definitions on Page 14 D C Deck Side View—See Definitions on Page 14 13 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Preparation & Planning Special Note: The maximum beam cantilever allowed with Evolution Steel Framing is 24” E A 14 Joist Spacing: On-Center (O.C.) spacing typically 12" O.C. or 16" O.C. from center of one joist to center of the next joist. This spacing is determined based on desired overall joist spans. Reference the Joist Span charts contained within this instruction manual. B Beam Span: Distance between support posts.
Post Installation NOTE: Below is an example of a typical post installation. Post installation requirements will vary in different geographical regions. Consult with your local building code officials for requirements. Example of a typical Post/Pier installation WARNING! DO NOT bury post underground directly into footing or pier. Evolution Steel posts must be installed on top of ground and not be exposed to constant moisture.
S-Ledger Installation Ledger Bracket S-Ledger Notch Note: Ledger Bracket has a notch that makes joist installation easier. This notch should point down towards the ground Insert a Ledger Bracket through the back side of the S-Ledger at every 12" O.C. or 16" O.C. interval depending on your joist spacing requirements. Place all the Ledger Brackets in the pre-punched slots in the S-Ledger. No fasteners are required to hold the Ledger Brackets into the S-Ledger.
S-Ledger Installation All pre-drilled holes should be used when securing the S-Ledger to the structure. The S-Ledger has (3) 3/8” pre-drilled hole pattern spaced evenly across the length of the S-Ledger. This is an engineered hole pattern designed for optimal performance when securing to the structure. If local building code requires connectors larger than 3/8", the factory sized holes can be drilled out using a metal cutting drill bit.
S-Ledger Installation F10 Bracket S-Ledger Anytime after the S-Ledger is attached to the structure, use an F10 bracket to cover both ends of the S-Ledger. Fasten with Evolution self-drilling screws. This is necessary to prevent pests from nesting within the hollow section of the S-Ledger.
Beam to Post Connections Single Beam to Post Single Beam Single Beam to Post Bracket Post Once posts are set and the beam is cut to length and ready to install, position on top of posts. It's very important during this step to make sure the beam is supported properly until it is fastened to the support posts. Once beam is set, attach the Single Beam to Post Bracket using Evolution self-drilling screws.
Beam to Post Connections Double Beam Track Double Beam to Post Double Beam to Post Bracket Double Beam Post Couple two beams together using the Evolution Double Beam Track. Snap a double beam track on the top and the bottom of the double beam. Fasten the double beam track to the double beam using Evolution self-drilling screws. Position the Double Beam with Double Beam Track to the top of posts and secure with the Double Beam to Post Bracket. Attach with Evolution self-drilling screws.
Flush Beam Hanger Bracket F50 Bracket Beam Beam to Post Bracket Position F50 Brackets and Hanger Brackets to the beam at their desired locations. Attached with Evolution self-drilling screws. Flush Beam Installation with Joists attached.
Drop Beam & Blocking Blocking is required between each joist throughout the entire length of a drop beam. The F10 bracket is used anywhere the joist spacing is non-standard. The 12” O.C. or 16” O.C. Blocking is required anywhere there is standard spacing. Attach with Evolution self-drilling screws. Use F10 Brackets as blocking anywhere there is non-standard joist spacing. Use either 12” OC or 16” OC Blocking anywhere there is standard spacing.
Beam Splicing When splicing two beams, there must be 24" of overlap between the two beams. The splice must be supported by a post at any location within the beam overlap. The beam splice is connected with (4) 3/8” diameter thru bolts, nuts, and washers.
Beam & Joist Caps Beam Caps Use the Evolution Beam Cap to cover the open ends of the beams. Not doing so will leave exposed openings for pests to make nests. Joist Caps Use the Evolution Joist Cap to cover the open ends of the joists. Not doing so will leave exposed openings for wasps and other pests to make nests.
Joists WARNING! Evolution Framing System has two versions of joists. See Table of Contents and reference the Product Overview section for specifics on the different joists. It's important be aware of your job requirements as they have different span limitations. See Table of Contents and reference the Span Charts for span limitations. On both ends of the S-Ledger, and anywhere there's non-standard spacing, the F-50 Bracket is used to attach the joist in place of the Ledger Bracket.
Joists WARNING! Evolution Framing System has two versions of joists. See Table of Contents and reference the Product Overview section for specifics on the different joists. It's important be aware of your job requirements as they have different span limitations. See Table of Contents and reference the Span Charts for span limitations. Weep Hole - POINT DOWN Joist All joists contain weep holes to allow for water drainage. When installing, it’s important that the weep holes are pointed down.
Joist as a Carry Beam Double Joist as a Carry Beam Double Joist Hanger Single Joist Hanger At times, it can be more cost effective or simpler to use a joist or a double joist as a beam. This can also be necessary when framing around bay windows or when extra support is needed for decking. WARNING!! Reference the Joist as a Carry Beam Span Tables for span distances when using a joist as a carry beam. Never exceed the limits outlined within the span charts. Doing so will void the manufacturer's warranty.
Strapping (Mid-Span Blocking) For Joist Spans greater than 8’, blocking is required midspan at every bay. There are two different installation options for the 12" O.C. and 16" O.C. straps; one for ground level decks and one for elevated decks. Ground Level Decks Using Evolution 12” or 16" O.C. Straps, Place on the TOPSIDE of the joist. The strap is 4’ long and will cover (4) Joist for the 12” O.C. version and (3) Joist on the 16” O.C. version.
Non-Standard Spacing at Mid-Span & General Blocking This method can be used for blocking in cases when there’s non-standard spacing and the pre-engineered mid-span strap and beam blocking cannot be used. This method can be used in general applications when extra blocking is needed for more structure and support. This can be the case when railing or stairs are being installed, extra framing for deck board picture framing, etc.
Rim Joist There are 4 variations of Rim Joists: U-Rim Joist 12” O.C. & 16” O.C., U-Rim Joist Blank, Joist as a Rim Joist, and the Curved Rim Joist. U-Rim Joist 12” O.C. and 16” O.C. Spacing The pre-punched U-Rim joist should ONLY be used when fascia will mount on the Rim of the deck. Pre-punched U-Rim U-Rim Joist The pre-punched U-Rim joist is designed to provide a completely flat surface for fascia mounting.
Rim Joist Blank U-Rim Joist The Blank U-Rim is used anytime there’s non-standard joist spacing The Blank U-Rim is used anytime no fascia will be used on the rim of the deck. Position the Blank U-Rim Joist the same as the pre-punched U-Rim Joist and use the F50 brackets to fasten it to the joists. Curved Rim Joist The Curved Rim Joist is used anytime there’s a radius on the rim of a deck. Curved Rim Joist.
Rim Joist Joist as a Rim Joist The regular Evolution 2x6 Joist can also be used on the rim of a deck. This option can be used with or without fascia and leave a completely flat surface on the rim. Ledger Bracket F50 Bracket Joist as a Rim joist Insert Ledger Brackets into the ends of all the joists except the ends. Use F50 Brackets on the end joists. Position the “Joist as a Rim Joist” into place and secure using the Evolution Self-Drilling Screw. Fill all holes on the brackets.
Post to Frame Connections Additional Tools Required Step Bit for Metal Cutting 9/16” Wrench 3/8” x 8” Long Galvanized Drill Bit for Metal Cutting 5-7/8 in. x 5-7/8 in. x 1-1/2 in.
Post to Frame Connections Surface Mount Post—Deck Rim TOP VIEW Cut blocking using the Evolution 2x6 Joist. Position and install blocking according to the required hole spacing of the surface mount post. Install with 5-7/8 in. x 5-7/8 in. x 1-1/2 in. 12 Gauge Angle Bracket using the Evolution Self-Drilling Screw. INSTALLATION ALERT: Install deck boards BEFORE positioning surface mount post and marking holes.
Post to Frame Connections Surface Mount Post—Deck Rim Continued BOTTOM VIEW 5-7/8 in. x 5-7/8 in. x 1-1/2 in. 12 Gauge Angle Bracket Blocking (2x6 Joist) U-Rim Joist 3/8” x 8” Galvanized Nuts, 3/8” x 8” Galvanized Bolts, Washers Nuts, Bolts, Washers Finish installing bolts on the bottom side with 3/8” galvanized washers and nuts. Hand tighten the bolts and nuts until snug. Some deformation of the framing member is normal to get a solid connection but DO NOT over-tighten.
Post to Frame Connections Surface Mount Post—Side of Deck TOP VIEW This installation assumes an additional joist was added to length of the deck to support the railing post connection and the decking picture framing board. If that Joist is not in place just proceed with the installation. Cut (2) pieces of blocking using the Evolution 2x6 Joist. Position and install using (4) F50 brackets according to the required hole spacing of the surface mount post.
Post to Frame Connections Surface Mount Post—Side of Deck Continued BOTTOM VIEW BOTTOM VIEW 3/8” x 8” Galvanized Nuts, Bolts, Washers Finish installing bolts on the bottom side with 3/8” galvanized washers and nuts. Hand tighten the bolts and nuts until snug. Some deformation of the framing member is normal to get a solid connection but DO NOT over-tighten.
Post to Frame Connections Thru-Mount Post This is the installation for a wood or steel thru post. TOP VIEW Cut blocking using the Evolution 2x6 Joist. Position and install blocking so the post will fit snug between the U-Rim Joist and the cut 2x6 blocking piece. Install with 5-7/8 in. x 5-7/8 in. x 1-1/2 in. 12 Gauge Angle Bracket using the Evolution Self-Drilling Screw. Using a drill and a 3/8” x 8” long drill bit, drill thru-holes that go thru the blocking, post, and the U-Rim Joist.
Evolution Stairs—Coming Sept. 2019 Evolution Stairs—Coming Sept.
Stairs Engineered Evolution Stair Solution Coming in Q3 2019! Until the Evolution Stair Solution arrives, the steel framing members and F50 brackets can be used to assemble a set of stairs. Below is an example of a set of stairs that can be assembled using Evolution Joists and Evolution F50 Brackets. F50 Bracket Evolution Joist Evolution Joist or Beam Material Evolution Joists or Evolution Beams can be used as stringers.
Maintenance Requirements When installed properly, Evolution Framing is very low maintenance. It's galvanized as well as powder coated which protects it extremely well from the outdoor elements. Touch Up Paint: Fortress Black Sand Touch-Up Paint can be used to spray cut ends and any scratches or scuffs on the framing. If that is unavailable, any other rust-inhibiting spray paint can also be used. Be sure to choose a color that closely matches the Fortress Black Sand powder coating.
Evolution Inspection Checklist Date: ____/____/______ Property Address: ______________________________ Contact Name: _________________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________________________ _______________________________ Contact Phone: _______________________________ Contact E-mail: ________________________________ Footing Connection Any visible signs of Corrosion on Post/Pier Bracket? _____ Yes _____ No Any visible signs of Damage to Post/Pier or Connection?
Beam to Post Connections Any visible signs of Corrosion on Beam to Post Connection? _____ Yes _____ No Any visible signs of Damage to Beam to Post Connection? _____ Yes _____ No Any missing, damaged or corroded fasteners? _____ Yes _____ No If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, please explain below: _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________
Joist/Rim Connection Any visible signs of Corrosion on Joist/Rim Connection? _____ Yes _____ No Any visible signs of Damage to Joist/Rim Connection? _____ Yes _____ No Any missing, damaged or corroded fasteners? _____ Yes _____ No If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, please explain below: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
© 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6–10/10/2019
Component Fastening Schedule Beam Connection Schedule 53 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Product Overview 54 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Product Overview 55 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Product Overview 56 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Product Overview 57 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
Product Overview 58 © 2019 Fortress Framing, LLC Rev6-10/10/19
