At DonoBrace, we strive to revolutionize the metal building industry with our innovative bracing system. DonoBrace is a lightweight, high-capacity bracing system that has been transformative for the on-site installers across Australasia, and now, North America.
Behlen Building Systems chose to use DonoBrace as their preferred bracing solution on a recent project; an expansion of a manufacturing facility in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. Behlen designed and manufactured the structure, while Northeast Erectors II were the onsite team responsible for installing DonoBrace.
The structure itself is designed to house paint and stain lines for high-end fiberglass doors. It features 44,190sqft of industrial space and measures 147’ x 300’, adding significant capacity to the existing space.
Read on to discover the DonoBrace difference.
Ease of Installation
DonoBrace is unparalleled when it comes to on-site usability and efficiency. It was designed specifically with the erector in mind, to be the easiest and fastest bracing system to install.
As the Project Manager overseeing the expansion, Andrew Hershberger initially approached DonoBrace with some skepticism, concerned that it might not live up to the hype surrounding it. However, his perception quickly changed once the metal bracing was applied to the building. “After actually applying DonoBrace to the building, it was easy to install,” he stated.
Using DonoBrace, the team were able to safely install our bracing in half the time of traditional bracing systems.
Significant Reduction in Labor Requirements
One of the standout benefits Northeast Erectors II noted was the substantial reduction in labor required for installation. Traditional bracing systems often necessitate a larger workforce due to their weight and complexity. In contrast, the lightweight design of DonoBrace allowed for a more streamlined approach.
Andrew highlighted, “DonoBrace is much lighter and could be installed with half the personnel. Two people in one lift could install the wall bracing, and four people in two lifts could easily install the roof bracing.”
He goes on to say, “It would have taken double or even triple the personnel for the old system due to the fact that they would have been much heavier.”
Improved Installation Speed
Being an off-the-shelf bracing system also means considerable time saving for engineers and erectors alike.
“Compared to the other bracing systems we’ve used, DonoBrace took half the time to install vs the traditional bracing methods of Rod & Hillside or Angle,” says Andrew.
Quicker installation means reduced labor costs and minimal on-site disruptions, allowing for a smoother workflow and faster project completion.
Positive Reception Among from Northeast Erectors II
We understand that adopting new systems can be met with resistance, especially when it comes to the metal construction industry. So, it is a thrill to hear DonoBrace received such positive feedback among Andrew’s erectors.
He shared, “I was a little skeptical at first and thought it was just a new product that was hyped up, but after using the system, I know this is a good upgrade to any building. The guys liked it and flew through it, they kept saying ‘It’s easy’.” What can we say, our bracing really does live up to the hype.
Future Implications for the Metal Building Industry
Northeast Erectors II experience with DonoBrace points to its potential to become a new standard in the metal building industry. The systems ease of installation, labor efficiency, and rapid setup times present compelling advantages over traditional bracing methods.
Andrew said it best when he said, “I think we’re all about that.”
As the metal construction industry continues to evolve, DonoBrace stands out as a powerful bracing solution that enhances efficiency and supports the workforce.
For more information about DonoBrace, or to discuss your next construction project, connect with our expert team.