A special moment frame (SMF) lets you create wide wall openings in seismic areas, but if there’s a seismic event the frame usually has to be replaced. Simpson’s new Strong Frame SMF solves this with patented bolt-on “Yield-Link” beam-to-column links. In an earthquake, these links are designed to bear the brunt of inelastic deformation, so the beam and columns stay intact; only the Yield-Link will need replacing, according to Simpson. Strong Frames come in 192 pre-engineered sizes up to 24 feet wide and 20 feet tall. A frame sized for an 8-foot-tall two-car garage opening costs between $6,500 and $8,000 and provides 5,500 to 16,500 pounds of shear capacity.
Simpson Strong-Tie, 800/999-5099, strongtie.com/smf.
