Simpson Strong-Tie Introduces DeckTools Design Software for Deck Builders and Suppliers

June, 2009 -- Imagine showing a prospective customer a picture of their dream deck—and not just a drawing or sketch, but a full-color, 3-dimensional image they can look at from any angle. DeckTools™, a sales, design and estimating software program for decks, allows deck builders and suppliers to bring photo-realistic deck designs to customers right from their laptops.

With DeckTools, users can create one-of-a-kind deck designs for their clients, customizing nearly every detail from the deck shape to railings and material choices. The program provides 3-dimensional views of deck and railing designs as well as traditional plan views. Designs are rendered in real time, so clients can see what their deck will look like with their home and backyard. The program also makes it easy to suggest upgrades by instantly showing the visual and cost impact.

Simpson Strong-Tie's DeckTools Design and Estimating Software

In addition, DeckTools helps with practical design elements, such as identifying the key connections required by the building code and suggesting the appropriate Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and fasteners. Users can generate all of the drawings they need in minutes, including structural drawings for permit applications, working drawings for crews and detailed finished views for homeowner associations. They also can create material take-off lists, cost estimates and professional proposals which are fully-customizable Microsoft® Office documents. One-on-one training is provided with every license as well as ongoing online classes, self-paced instructional videos and customer support.

Simpson Strong-Tie acquired DeckTools in early 2009. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com/decktools.

*Editors see a live demonstration of the program at PCBC in San Francisco on Thursday, June 18,booth 925 – south hall.

About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.
For more than 50 years, Simpson Strong-Tie has focused on creating structural products that help people build safer and stronger homes and buildings. Considered a leader in structural systems research and testing, Simpson Strong-Tie® products are recognized for helping structures resist high winds, hurricanes and seismic forces. The company is one of the largest manufacturers of connectors, fasteners, fastening systems, anchors and lateral-force resisting systems in the world. Featured product lines include Wood and Steel Strong-Wall® prefabricated shearwalls, Anchor Tiedown Systems for multi-story buildings and Strong Frame™ moment frames. Specialty products include Quik Drive® auto-feed screw driving systems, corrosion-resistant fasteners and Simpson Strong-Tie Anchor Systems® - anchors and fasteners for concrete and masonry. Simpson Strong-Tie is committed to providing exceptional products and service to its customers, including engineering and field support, product testing and training. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.strongtie.com.