Tilt-up panels are only as strong as their connections. Learn how embed plates and weld patterns keep your walls standing in Palm Beach County's 170 mph design winds.
Every connection has a job. Here's what each one does and why it matters.
These connect the roof deck to the top of your panel. They transfer wind uplift from the roof into the walls. In Palm Beach, these need to handle serious suction forces.
Where two panels meet at corners or along edges. These transfer shear forces between panels and help the building act as one unit.
Where the panel meets the foundation. These anchor the panel down and resist overturning from wind pressure. Critical for hurricane resistance.
Temporary connections used during construction before the roof is installed. These keep panels from falling over until permanent connections are made.
Get a quick estimate of how many connections your panel might need. For actual design, always consult an engineer.
The weld is where the rubber meets the road. Here's what makes a good connection.
Welding all the way around the connection plate. Strongest option but uses more material. Required for high-load connections in hurricane zones.
Short welds spaced along the connection. Uses less material but provides less capacity. OK for lower loads but check with your engineer.
Fillet welds sit in corners. Groove welds penetrate into the base metal. Groove welds are stronger but cost more. Most tilt-up uses fillets.
Real answers for real contractors.