What should we send?

Drawings - Rough or Detailed.

If what you want is a ballpark figure with out extensive work, we will do that without charge.

If what you send to us are drawings in extensive detail, in what might turn out to be reasonably close to final drawings, we would prepare a set of drawings for your review. In some instances, we would submit alternative options based on our experience in the manufacture of timber trusses. Some of these options include such items as appearance or cosmetic suggestions, usually at little or no increase in cost. Other options might include ones that could result in cost savings without a significant impact on appearance and with no impact on strength.

As we proceed, attention is invited that numerous sets of "final" drawings are costly, since engineering time is involved in each change. In many instances, this is not a problem because required changes are reasonable in number. For those limited cases where repetitive changes become necessary, there would be a reasonable additional engineering charge beyond that covered by the contract.

Are the lumber and plates specially ordered for the specific timber truss order?

Yes. Generally the lumber is Southern Yellow Pine or Douglas Fir. Other species will be quoted upon request, and would be subject to availability and suitability.

The plates, which are heavy duty, are fabricated to exact specifications, as determined by the P.E., who takes into account strength and appearance.

Typically the plates, nuts and bolts are galvanized, but occasionally we get inquiries about stainless steel or painted plates. Theses are rarely needed, but can be provided if specified, at increased cost.

Will Mulqueen, Inc. paint or stain the trusses?

Yes, but in many instances it would be much less expensive to have this done at the site. On the other hand, this can be accomplished by us at additional cost.

As we proceed, what additional steps are required?

We do not begin fabrication until the final consumer, the architect and engineer have reviewed the drawings and approved them in writing. While this does require some additional time, we do not want any party to find any surprises.

Experience has indicated that timber trusses have high visibility and prudence demands that all parties be in agreement prior to fabrication. This is true whether the contract is signed by another truss plant, or by the actual owner. We require that the owner or someone on his behalf be fully aware of the process and therefore we require an appropriate signoff.

Are the final drawings prepared by a P.E. and will we be furnished sealed drawings?

Yes to both questions. Sealed drawings (required by many building codes) will be furnished for each type of truss involved.

Is a deposit required when the contract is signed?

Because timber trusses are completely custom made, and the timbers, plates, and the hardware are purchased specifically for the project, we require a deposit equal to 50% of the total contract price at the time the contract is signed. The balance is to be paid when the trusses are offloaded from our truck, by means arranged by you, at your jobsite. In the event that a common carrier is the most cost effective method of delivering the trusses, the balance of the contract price must be prepaid before the trusses can be loaded onto the common carrier. Common carrier C.O.D. fees are a percentage of the collected amount, resulting in what we consider an exorbitant charge to you.

We hope these questions and answers have been of some help. If you have more questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at any time.