Project Overview
In 2025, Big D Builders began work on a new retail facility in Jerome, Idaho, incorporating DonoBrace; the latest in innovative bracing systems. During this project, DonoBrace delivered significant time savings and enhanced safety standards through reduced bracing requirements.
The retail facility required an efficient structural solution that wouldn't compromise the project timeline.
The innovative bracing system dramatically reduced braced bay requirements from five to just two while delivering 30-40% faster installation times compared to conventional angle bracing. Most importantly, the system enhanced both crew safety and operational efficiency by minimizing time spent at elevation, earning strong approval from field personnel.
Big D Builders Lead Foreman, Caleb Durant, summarizes the impact of DonoBrace on the D&B Jerome project: "For the overall project, it was much faster to install, and my guys were in the air for less time. Once they got the hang of it, it was easier to work with than other systems like cable."
30-40% Faster Installation
DonoBrace proved dramatically more efficient than traditional angle bracing, with installation times reduced by approximately 30-40% compared to angle systems, while matching the speed of rod bracing with hillside washers.
Reduced Bracing Requirements
Engineering's ability to reduce braced bays from five to just two simplified the building layout and shortened the overall installation timeline, keeping crews productive and on schedule.
Enhanced Safety Performance
The system significantly improved jobsite safety by reducing the number of braced bays, which meant crews spent considerably less time working at elevation in lifts—minimizing risk exposure throughout the erection process.
Installation Advantages
The crew quickly discovered practical benefits that made DonoBrace easier to work with in the field. Lead Foreman Caleb Durant noted: "When the crew first saw DonoBrace, they were struck by its size but also surprised by its lightness. 'Oh, this is big! But it feels lighter than rod.'"
Simplified Field Cutting
The lightweight components offered a key operational advantage: crews could use portable bandsaws instead of angle grinders with a cutoff wheel, allowing them to cut four DB8 rods at once. This eliminated sparks, removing the need for hot work permits or fire watch requirements - streamlining the workflow and improving site safety. As DonoBrace is a fully threaded rod, it allows the installers in the field to cut the bars to the length they require.
Easier Material Handling
Durant emphasized the handling benefits: "The DB8 rod is still lighter than a typical 1" rod, which made this easier to handle in the field." This weight reduction improved crew efficiency without sacrificing structural performance.
Streamlined Process
While there was a short learning curve, DonoBrace features a logical system design that quickly became intuitive for installers. After the initial adaptation period, the crew found themselves moving faster and more efficiently across the project, with the added benefit of greater adjustability compared to angle bracing systems.
Durant's assessment of alternative systems was clear: "I've only done a handful of angle-braced jobs in my career, but DonoBrace is way faster, and it has more play. Cable bracing sucks… I hate it."
Overall Benefits
This retail facility project in Jerome demonstrates the ability of DonoBrace to deliver measurable results where it matters most - in the field. With 30-40% faster installation than angle bracing, reduced bracing bay requirements from five to just two, and enhanced safety protocols through less time at elevation, the system helped Big D Builders maintain schedule integrity while improving crew welfare.
The strong endorsement from Lead Foreman Caleb Durant reflects the practical design philosophy of DonoBrace, prioritizes actual installer needs. From bandsaw-friendly cutting that eliminates hot work permits to lightweight rods that ease material handling, every aspect of the system contributes to safer, more efficient construction practices. As industry professionals increasingly recognize these advantages, DonoBrace is positioned to become the new standard for metal building bracing systems.
Project Details
Contractor: Big D Builders
Project: D&B Jerome Retail Facility
Location: Jerome, Idaho, USA
Building Type: Retail
Building Size: 230'-0" x 250'-0"
Lead Foreman: Caleb Durant
System Used: DB8
Learn more about how DonoBrace can improve your next metal building project by connecting with our expert team.