In August 2025, Keen Construction started work on a new storage facility for Beck's (Retail Seed Company). This project located in New Madrid, Southeastern Missouri incorporates DonoBrace; the latest in innovative bracing systems, delivering significant time savings and enhanced safety standards in a seismic location.
This project faced several significant challenges, including the seismic zone location of the site, tight schedule demands, and weather conditions that threatened project completion. The seismic requirements necessitated a robust structural solution that couldn't compromise the aggressive timeline. When weather delays further jeopardized the schedule, the lightweight DonoBrace system proved instrumental in enabling rapid installation and schedule recovery. The innovative bracing system eliminated the need for traditional 3x3 angle requirements while delivering 75% faster installation times compared to conventional methods. Most importantly, the system enhanced both crew safety and operational efficiency, earning unanimous approval from field personnel.
Keen Construction Senior Superintendent, Frank McBrayer summarizes the impact of DonoBrace on the project: "The system is lightweight and easy to handle and move in the field. We haven't needed to add nearly as much additional bracing while setting columns and rafters as we normally would on a project this size in this area. It helps us catch up from weather days and other delays because the installation is straightforward and quick."
75% Faster Installation
DonoBrace is proving to be dramatically more efficient than traditional angle bracing, with installation times reduced by approximately 75%.
Reduced Material Requirements
In this seismic location, DonoBrace eliminates the need for 3x3 angle bracing that would typically be required, simplifying the structural design while maintaining superior performance.
Enhanced Project Schedule Performance
The system has helped the team recover from weather delays and other setbacks, keeping the project on track through faster, more straightforward installation processes.
Installation Advantages
Iron worker Luigi praised the system's handling characteristics: "I like how easy the system is to handle in the field. It saves a lot of jobsite space compared to what we would have needed for angle bracing, and the simple fact that we didn't need a crane to move it around was great. We also didn't have to use two lifts to install it, which made the whole process quicker and cleaner."
Simplified Field Handling
The lightweight components offered several key operational advantages, including the elimination of crane requirements for repositioning, significantly reduced jobsite storage space needs, and the capability for single lift installation procedures.
Streamlined Process
DonoBrace features a logical system design that quickly became second nature to installers, supported by user-friendly documentation that got crews productive immediately. The comprehensive installation guides, available in both English and Spanish, are easily accessible through QR codes printed directly on the drawings, ensuring seamless communication and efficiency across diverse work teams.
Victor, an iron worker onsite, highlighted the dual benefits of improved safety and efficiency: "This is so much better than angle bracing. The setup and install go smoother, which means we work safer and faster in the field. I'd like to see every metal building manufacturer adopt this as a standard because it would make our jobs easier and help keep crews moving."
Industry Recognition: Beyond the project's success, McBrayer sees broader implications for the industry:
Frank McBrayer's assessment reflects growing industry recognition: "I think the industry should adopt this system more widely. Based on what I have seen, it deserves to be the standard. It is refreshing to see someone look at the people in the field and ask, 'How do we make you safer, more efficient, and give you a superior product?' It does not feel like something driven only by engineering or manufacturing. It actually works for us on site."
Overall Benefits
The Beck's facility in New Madrid demonstrates the ability of DonoBrace to deliver measurable results where it matters most - in the field. With 75% faster installation time, reduced material requirements, and enhanced safety protocols, the system is helping Keen Construction overcome project challenges and maintain schedule integrity. The unanimous endorsement from superintendent to iron workers reflects DonoBrace's field-tested design philosophy that prioritizes actual installer needs. From eliminating crane requirements to streamlining temporary bracing, 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: Keen Construction
- Project: Beck's (Retail Seeds) Storage Facility
- Location: New Madrid, Southeastern Missouri
(seismic zone) - Building Type: Storage Facility
- Superintendent: Frank McBrayer
- Manufacturer: Behlen Building Systems
Learn more about how DonoBrace can improve your next metal building project by connecting with our expert team.