About the SideStep® Plate
Universal’s ground-breaking patented SideStep Plate provides a reliable, pre-engineered field connection between a folding kneewall and the bottom chord or kingpost of a roof truss. The steel connector is built as an integral part of the truss at the time of manufacture, so it's shipped already installed on the truss. The connector “side-steps” around the bottom plate while maintaining the structural load path between the bottom chord or kingpost and the folding kneewall (see Toe-nailing photo). When a roof is raised for the final set, the builder swings the folding kneewalls into position, and then installs the required number of fasteners.
U.S. Patent 7,200,972
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NEW SideStep Plate Method |
OLD Toe-nailing Method |
Features and Benefits
No more “toe-nailing”
Using the patent pending, SideStep Plate lets you avoid the old method of “toe-nailing” the kneewall and bottom chord or kingpost together (see Toe-nailing photo).
Speedy approvals
Your structures will sail through approvals when you use the SideStep Plate, a strong, pre-engineered connection.
Ensured quality
The sound, strong connection provided by the SideStep Plate assures building inspectors and homeowners of the quality of your construction.
No more splitting
Using the SideStep Plate helps prevent splitting at this critical connection.
Uplift capacity assured
With the SideStep Plate, inspectors will have definitive answers regarding the uplift capacity of toe-nail connections and screws.