INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction
General Guidelines...............................................................3
Required Tools/Components...............................................4
Installation
Installation Overview............................................................6
Project Planning...................................................................8
Cutting & Painting..............................................................11
Framing Connections
S-Ledger To Structure.............................................13
Post Onto Concrete Footing...................................15
Bury Post Into Footing............................................17
Post To Single Beam...............................................18
Post To Double Beam.............................................20
End Joists To S-Ledger & Beam..............................22
Joists To S-Ledger & Beam.....................................24
End Joist To Beam & S-Ledger
(Flush Mount).........................................................25
Joist To Beam & S-Ledger
(Flush Mount).........................................................26
Evolution Strap To Joist..........................................27
Non-Standard Spacing at Mid-Span & General
Blocking..................................................................29
Pre-Punched U-Rim Joist To Joists.........................29
Blank U-Rim Joist To Joists.....................................30
Curved U-Rim Joist To Joists..................................31
Joist As Rim Joist....................................................33
Joist & Beam Cap...................................................35
Care & Maintenance/Span Charts................................................36
Post To Frame Connections/Frame Inspection
Checklist/Warranty.......................................................................37

2 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

INTRODUCTION

READ INSTRUCTIONS COMPLETELY BEFORE STARTING INSTALLATION

General Guidelines
It is the responsibility of the installer to meet all code and
safety requirements, and to obtain all required building
permits. The framing installer should determine and
implement appropriate installation techniques for each
installation situation. Fortress Building Products nor its
distributors shall NOT be held liable for improper or unsafe
installations.

Reference https://bpdirectory.intertek.com/ for span charts.

Search for CCRR #0313. It is critical to NOT exceed defined
allowable maximum spans.

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) must be worn anytime

you’re using power tools and working with Evolution framing.
Eye protection, hearing protection, closed-toe shoes, gloves,
long sleeves, and pants must be worn to keep yourself safe.

As the steel framing parts are cut, all metal shavings and/
or chips must be removed from inside the Evolution Framing
parts. At the end of a work period, all steel shavings and/or
chips must be cleaned off the jobsite. Not doing so could result
in the staining of surrounding surfaces.

As the steel framing parts are cut, DO NOT allow metal

shavings and/or chips to get dropped or blown into a pool, hot
tub, or any other body of water. Staining could occur if this
were to happen.

Fortress Building Products DOES NOT cover all possible

installation scenarios within these instructions. In some cases,
it may be necessary for you to consult a professional
engineer, building code official, or local dealer. In addition, it
may become necessary to use brackets other than Fortress’
when more complex installations take place.
EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 3
 Required Tools

Goggles Safety Tape Speed Level Pencil

Gloves Measurer Square Tool

Ear Close-Toed Touch-Up Bit Drill Clamps

Protector Shoes Paint Extender

Concrete Drill Bit: Hex Head Nut Driver Bits: Metal Cutting Ground
3/8” [10mm] 3/8”, 5/16” [10mm, 8mm] Circular Saw Stakes

Wrench: Ratchet Wrench: Saw Horses Step Bit File

9/16” [14mm] 9/16” [14mm]

Locking Post Hole 3-4 LB. String

Pliers Digger Hammer

Components

Post Joist S-Ledger

3-1/2” x 3-1/2” x 10’ 2” x 6” x 12’, 14’, 16’, 2” x 8” x 8’, 12’, 20’
[89mm x 89mm x 18’ or 20’ [51mm x 203mm x
3048mm] [51mm x 152mm x 3658mm, 4267mm, 2438mm, 3658mm,
4877mm, 5486mm, 6096mm] 6096mm]

4 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

 Beam U-Rim Joist U-Rim Joist
2” x 11” x 8’, 12’, 16’ (Pre-Punched & Blank) (Curved)
or 20’ 2” x 6” x 8’ 2” x 6” x 8’
[51mm x 279mm x [51mm x 156mm x 2438mm] [51mm x 156mm x 2438mm]
2438mm, 3658mm,
4877mm or 6096mm]

Beam Blocking Evolution Strap Double Beam Track

(12” OC or 16” OC) (12” OC or 16” OC) 2” x 4” x 48”
2” x 2-1/2” x 10” or 14” 2” x 2” x 48” [51mm x 102mm x
[51mm x 64mm x 254mm or 356mm] [51mm x 51mm x 1219mm] 1219mm]

Concrete Anchor Evolution Self-drilling Screw Joist/Beam Cap

3/8” x 3” [10mm x 76mm] 3/4” [19mm] #12
(NOT PROVIDED BY FORTRESS)

Single Hanger Bracket Double Hanger Bracket Ledger Bracket

Rim Joist Bracket F-50 Bracket F-10 Bracket

Post to Single Beam To Double Beam To

Pier Bracket Post Bracket Post Bracket
Dimensions of Components:
The dimensions shown with the components are rounded and NOT actual size.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 5

 INSTALLATION OVERVIEW

1. 4.

2. 5.

3. 6.

Evolution Framing Connections

1. 2. 3.
S-Ledger To Structure S-Ledger To Joist Post To Beam

4. 5. 6.
Joist To Evolution Strap Joist to U-Rim Joist Post to Footing

Note:
Construction methodologies are always improving. Please visit
FortressBP.com for the most up-to-date Installation Instructions.
6 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING
Evolution Framing Installation Process (Overview)

1. 2. 3.
Mount S-Ledger Mount Posts Install Beam
Onto Structure To Footing (Single or Double Beam)

4. 5. 6.
Install End Joists Install Joists Install Beam Blocking

7. 8. 9.
Install Evolution Strap Install U-Rim Joist Install Joist or
(Pre-Punched, Blank, Beam Caps
Curved or Joist as U-Rim)

Note:
Construction methodologies are always improving. Please visit
FortressBP.com for the most up-to-date Installation Instructions.
EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 7
 PROJECT PLANNING

Step 1: Sketch Layout of Framing Project

1. Sketch the top and side of the house/building profile.
2. Identify the desired location of your framing project.
3. Using a tape measure determine the required length,
width and height of the framing project.
4. Determine desired post locations and post height.
5. Determine required spacing between joists (on center or
non-standard).
6. Determine number of joists required.
7. Mark critical dimensions onto the previously sketched top
and side views of house/building for future reference.
Note:
• Standard spacing between joists: 12” [305mm] on center
or 16” [406mm] on center.
• Reference https://bpdirectory.intertek.com/ for span
charts. Search for CCRR #0313. It is critical to NOT exceed
defined allowable maximum spans.
Fig. 1
HOUSE/BUILDING

Joists

16’ 16”
[4877mm] [406mm]
On Center 11’ 10’
Spacing [3353mm] [3048mm]

Post

12’ [3658mm] 14’ [4267mm]

16’ [4877mm]

TOP VIEW SIDE VIEW

8 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 9
 Step 2: Create a Perimeter For The Framing Project
1. Using Stakes and Guide String, create a perimeter for the
framing project. As shown in Fig. 2.
Tip:
• Be sure corners are set at 90o angles.
Fig. 2 HOUSE/BUILDING

Top View

Guide String
90o 90o
Stake

Step 3: Mark & Dig Footing Hole Locations

1. Using spray paint, mark the center of the desired footing
hole locations. As shown in Fig. 3.
2. Consult local code requirements for exact footing hole
width and depth requirements. As shown in Fig. 4.
3. Dig the footing holes using a Post Hole Digger.
4. Be sure to keep the Post Hole Digger straight and plumb
when digging.
5. DO NOT POUR CONCRETE IN THIS STEP.
Note:
• Call 811 before you dig the footing holes to locate and
identify any buried utilities.
Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Consult local code
HOUSE/BUILDING
requirements

Spray paint center

of desired footing
location Consult local
code requirements

Top View Side View

10 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

CUTTING & PAINTING

Step 1: Mark Cut Points

1. Position the material to be cut on a flat surface,
preferably Saw Horses.
2. Using a pencil, mark desired cut length onto material.
3. Using a speed square, straighten cut point markings on
top and side faces. As shown in Fig. 5.
Tip:
• Before making cuts, confirm cut length is correct.
Fig. 5

Step 2: Cut Material To Length

1. Cut the material using a metal cutting circular saw or
grinder with a cutoff disc. As shown in Fig. 6. Be sure to
follow cut marks on top and side faces.
Tip:
• Be sure to use a saw and blade designed to cut metal.
Metal cutting saws rotate a lower RPM. Using a standard
wood saw will lead to premature wearing of the blade.
• Be sure to support product to prevent bending during
cutting.
• Be sure to not over heat the material when making
cuts with a grinder.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 11

 Fig. 6

Step 3: Clean Cut Areas

1. Use a file to smooth cut edges. As shown in Fig. 7.
2. Remove any metal shavings and dust with a brush or rag.
3. Make sure surfaces to be painted are clean. DO NOT cut
product over concrete. Be sure to remove any metal
shavings to avoid stains.
Tip:
• DO NOT allow metal shavings and/or chips to get dropped
or blown into a pool, hot tub, or any other body of water.
• Be sure to remove metal shavings and/or chips from
inside the cut material. Not doing so may result in rust
and staining of ground surfaces after installation.
Fig. 7

Step 4: Apply Spray Paint To Cut Areas

1. Using a piece of cardboard as a mask, apply the 1st coat of
Fortress zinc based touch-up paint.
2. Allow to dry before applying second coat.
3. Apply the 2nd coat of Fortress zinc based touch-up paint.
4. Allow to dry and install.

12 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Tip:
• Apply 2 coats of spray paint in non-salt water
environments and 3 coats in salt-water environments.
Fig. 8

2X

FRAMING CONNECTIONS

Connection 1: S-Ledger To Structure

1. Insert Ledger Brackets into S-Ledger openings. As shown in
Fig. 9. Ledger Brackets are press fit into place.
2. Be sure angle cut edge in Ledger Bracket is facing down
once installed. As shown in Fig. 10. Adjust if needed.
3. Place S-Ledger in desired position onto structure.
4. Mark screw hole locations onto structure. As shown in
Fig. 11.
5. Using a 3/8” [10mm] bit, Pre-drill screw holes into
structure. Attachment to the structure will vary depending
on the attachment material and geographical region.
Consult your local building code official or structural
engineer to determine the proper size and type of bolt/
screw to use to attach the S-ledger to the structure.
6. Position S-Ledger over pre-drilled holes then, using 3/8”
[10mm] bolt and washers, fasten S-Ledger to structure. As
shown in Fig. 12. All pre-drilled holes should be used
when securing the S-Ledger to the structure.
7. Attach F-50 Brackets to the outside edges of the S-Ledger
with Evolution Self-Drilling Screws. As shown in Fig. 13. The
notched side of the F-50 Bracket is designed to line up
flush with the edge of the S-Ledger.
EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 13
 Note:
• The F-50 Bracket is also used anytime there’s a joist
attachment to the S-Ledger that requires non-standard
spacing. This could occur if you’re adding joists for blocking
or adding additional support.
• If local building code requires connectors larger than 3/8”
[10mm], the factory sized holes can be drilled out using a
metal cutting drill bit.
• Flashing/Water Management requirements will vary from
region to region. Consult your local building code official
or structural engineer for proper flashing/water
management treatment.
Fig. 9 Fig. 10
Side View

Ledger Bracket

S-Ledger Angled edge in Ledger

Bracket facing down

Fig. 11 Fig. 12

14 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 13

Connection 2: Post Onto Concrete Footing

1. Fill footing holes (Page 10, step 3) with concrete. The
concrete can be at most 1” [25mm] below the ground
surface.
2. Be sure top surface of concrete is level once fully cured.
3. Cut posts to desired height. Reference cutting and painting
instructions on pages 11 - 13.
4. Pre-drill concrete footing, then mount Post to Pier Brackets
onto surface using 3/8” x 3” [10mm x 76mm] Concrete
Anchors. As shown in Fig. 14 & 15. Use the string (page 10,
step 2) as a guide when positioning the Post To Pier
Brackets.
5. Using Evolution Self-Drilling Screws, fasten Beam to Post
Brackets (Single Beam or Double Beam) onto top edge of
post. As shown in Fig. 16 & 17.
6. Insert Posts into Post to Pier Brackets. As shown in Fig. 18.
Be sure to have Beam to Post Brackets orientated in
desired direction to allow for the Beam to be mounted
correctly.
7. Confirm that the post is level and plumb.
8. Fasten Posts onto Post to Pier Brackets using Evolution
Self-Drilling Screws. As shown in Fig. 19. Continuously
check if post is level and plumb.
Note:
• Allow the concrete to cure for a minimum of 24 hours
before installing Posts.
• Post installation requirements will vary in different
geographical regions. Consult with your local building code
officials for requirements.
EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 15
 • When not mounting posts onto a footing, Fortress
recommends the use of Helical Piers. The use of
specialized equipment is required for Helical Pier
installation, be sure to contact a building professional.
• It is critical for posts and post brackets to maintain the
90o angles established in project planing instructions
steps 2 & 3, on page 10.
• It is critical for post heights to be relatively even/coplanar
once installed. This will help ensure the frame assembly is
level once installed.
Fig. 14 Fig. 15
Top View

Post
To Pier
Bracket

Concrete Anchor
& Washer

Fig. 16 Fig. 17

Fig. 18 Fig. 19
Post

Post
To Pier
Bracket

16 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Connection 3: Bury Post Into Footing (Alternative to
Connection 2)
1. Fill footing holes with 3” [72mm] of gravel or crushed
stone to allow for drainage. As shown in Fig. 20.
2. Compact the gravel before setting the Posts.
3. Use tape measure to check depth. Evolution Posts are
designed to be buried at a minimum of 36” [914mm]
depth. As shown in Fig. 21.
4. Use the string (page 10, step 2) as a guide when
positioning a Post into each hole. As shown in Fig. 22.
5. With Posts set, Fill Footings holes with concrete to within
1” [25mm] of the ground surface. As shown in Fig. 23.
6. Use a level to confirm that Posts are plumb and aligned
with the Guide Strings. Adjust if needed.
Tip:
• Be sure to account for slopes in ground surface when
setting Posts.
• Allow concrete to cure for a minimum of 24 hours before
installing brackets.
• As the concrete cures, be sure to keep posts placed along
guide strings & continuously check that they are plumb as
well as in line with the next post.
Fig. 20

Side View

Gravel/
Crushed Stone

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 17

 Fig. 21 Fig. 22
Post
Minimum of 36”
[914mm] Side View
Ground Stake
& Guide String

Side View

Fig. 23
Side View Post

Ground Stake & Guide String 1” [25mm] Clearance

Minimum of 36” [914mm] Concrete

Consult local code requirements

3” [72mm]
Gravel

Connection 4A: Post To Single Beam

1. Position Beam into desired position. As shown in Fig. 24.
2. Confirm both ends of the Beam and S-Ledger are in
Line. As shown in Fig. 25. Adjust if needed.
3. All Beams contain holes to allow for water drainage. Be
sure drainage holes on Beam face down once installed. As
shown in Fig. 26. Adjust if needed.
4. While keeping the Beam in position, use Evolution
Self-Drilling Screws to fasten brackets onto the Beam. As
shown in Fig. 27. The use of Clamps is recommended to
keep Beam in desired position.
Note:
• The maximum Beam to Post overhang allowed is 24”
[610mm]. As shown in Fig. 28.

18 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 24

Fig. 25
Ends of S-Ledger
& Beam in line

S-Ledger

Beam

Fig. 26

Drainage holes facing down

Fig. 27 Fig. 28

24” [610mm]
Max. overhang
Side View

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 19

 Connection 4B: Post To Double Beam (Alternative To
Connection 4A)
1. Using the Double Beam Track, couple two Beams together
to create a Double Beam. As shown in Fig. 29. The Double
Beam Track must be installed continuously across the
length of the Double Beam and on both top and bottom
faces of beam.
2. Fasten Double Beam Track to Double Beam using Evolution
Self-drilling Screws. As shown in Fig. 30. Be sure to have
ends of Double Beam flush before fastening.
3. Mount Double Beam in desired position onto Post and
in between two Double Beam to Post Brackets.
4. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten Double Beam to
Post Brackets onto Double Beam. As shown in Fig. 31. Be
sure Beam is parallel to and ends are in line with S-Ledger.
Note:
• The Double Beam Tracks are packaged in pairs and come in
4’ [1219mm] sections.
• The maximum Double Beam to post overhang allowed is
24” [610mm]. As shown in Fig. 32.
• BEAM SPLICING: When splicing two beams, there must be
a minimum of 24” [610mm] of overlap between the two
beams. As shown in Fig. 33 & 34. The splice must be
supported by a post at any location within the beam
overlap. The beam splice is connected with (4) 3/8”
[10mm] diameter thru bolts, nuts, and washers. As shown
in Fig. 35 & 36.
• All Beams contain holes to allow for water drainage. Be
sure drainage holes on Beam face down once installed.
Reference Fig. 26 on page 19. Adjust if needed.

20 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 29 Fig. 30

Ends of Beam
& Beam
Tracks flush

Fig. 31 Fig. 32 Side View

24” [610mm]
Max. overhang

Fig. 33 Fig. 34

Top View

Minimum of 24”
[610mm] overlap

Fig. 35 Fig. 36

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 21

 Connection 5A: End Joists To S-Ledger & Beam
1. If required, cut joists to desired length. Reference cutting
and painting instructions on pages 11 - 13.
2. Mount End Joists flush onto both ends of the S-Ledger.
As shown in Fig. 37.
3. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten End Joists
onto F-50 Brackets. As shown in Fig. 38.
4. Confirm the End Joists and Beam are square. Adjust if
needed.
5. If using standard spacing between joists, use either 12”
[305mm] O.C. or 16” [406mm] O.C. Beam Blocking to
mount joists onto Beam. As shown in Fig. 39.
6. If using non-standard spacing between joists, Use F-10
Brackets to mount joists onto Beam. As shown in
Fig. 40.
Note:
• On both ends of the S-Ledger, and anywhere there is
non-standard spacing, the F-50 Bracket is used to attach
the joist in place of the Ledger Bracket.
• All joists contain holes to allow for water drainage. Be sure
drainage holes on joists face down once installed. As
shown in Fig. 41.
• How To Square Frame: Fortress recommends using the
3-4-5 rule. Measure and mark 3’ [914mm] from the edge
of Beam, measure and mark 4’ [1219mm] from outer
beam edge along joist, then measure between two
markings. Adjust until measurement between markings
is exactly 5’ [1524mm]. As shown in Fig. 42. Larger
triangles, with sides of 6-8-10 and 9-12-15, allow for even
more accurate results.

22 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 37 Fig. 38

Fig. 39 Fig. 40

Fig. 41

Drainage holes
facing down

Fig. 42
Top View 4’ [1219mm] Starting point

90o End Joist

Length mark
5’ [1524mm] 3’ [914mm]

Length mark
Beam

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 23

 Connection 5B: Joists To S-Ledger & Beam Continued
1. Slide Joists onto the Ledger Brackets. As shown in Fig. 43.
Use a 3-4 lb. Hammer and a block of wood to fully seat
joists into Ledger Brackets & S-Ledger.
2. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten Joists onto
Ledger Brackets. As shown in Fig. 44. It is required to
apply a screw onto each sides of a joist.
3. Determine on center spacing between joists.
4. If using standard spacing between joists, use either 12”
[305mm] O.C. or 16” [406mm] O.C. Beam Blocking to
mount joists onto Beam. As shown in Fig. 45.
5. If using non-standard spacing between joists, Use F-10
Brackets to mount joists onto Beam. As shown in Fig. 46.
Note:
• Standard spacing between joists: 12” [305mm] on center
or 16” [406mm] on center.
• Blocking is required between each joist throughout the
entire length of a drop beam.
• On both ends of the S-Ledger, and anywhere there is
non-standard spacing, the F-50 Bracket is used to attach
the joist in place of the Ledger Bracket.
• All joists contain holes to allow for water drainage. Be sure
drainage holes on joists face down once installed. As
shown in Fig. 47.
Fig. 43 Fig. 44

24 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 45 Fig. 46

Fig. 47

Drainage holes
facing down

Connection 6A: End Joist To Beam & S-Ledger (Flush Mount -

Alternative to Connection 5A)
1. Confirm both ends of the Beam and S-Ledger are in Line.
As shown in Fig. 48. Adjust if needed.
2. Attach F-50 Brackets to the outside edges of the Beam with
Evolution Self-drilling Screws. As shown in Fig. 49. The
notched side of the F-50 Bracket is designed to line up
flush with the edge of the Beam.
3. Reference End Joist to S-Ledger mounting steps on
page 22, connection 5A: 2 & 3.
4. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten End Joists onto
F-50 Brackets on Beam Cap. As shown in Fig. 50.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 25

 Fig. 48
Ends of S-Ledger
& Beam in line

S-Ledger

Beam

Fig. 49 Fig. 50

Connection 6B: Joist To Beam & S-Ledger Continued (Flush

Mount - Alternative to Connection 5B)
1. Determine required on center spacing between Joists.
Reference on center spacing of Ledger Brackets.
2. Once on center spacing is determined, measure and mark
desired on center spacing onto top face of Beam. As shown
in Fig. 51.
3. Position Single Hanger Brackets centered on previously
marked on center markings then fasten the brackets onto
the Beam using Evolution Self-drilling Screws. As shown in
Fig. 52.
4. Measure opening between S-Ledger and Single Hanger
Bracket. Cut joists to length, if required. Reference
pages 11 - 13 for cutting and panting instructions.
5. Reference Joist to Ledger Bracket mounting steps on
page 24, connection 5B: 1 & 2.
6. Slide Joists into the Single Hanger Brackets.

26 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

 7. Using Evolution Self-Drilling Screws, fasten additional joists
onto Single Hanger Brackets on Beam. As shown in Fig. 53.
Note:
• Standard spacing between joists: 12” [305mm] on center
or 16” [406mm] on center.
Fig. 51 Top View

On center spacing On center mark

Post Beam
End Joist

Fig. 52 On center mark Fig. 53

Connection 7A: Evolution Strap To Joist

1. Ground Level Decks: Place 12” [305mm] or 16” [406mm]
O.C. Evolution Strap on the topside of the Joist. As shown
in Fig. 54. No fasteners are required when installing Strap
on the top-side.
2. Elevated Decks: Place 12” [305mm] or 16” [406mm]
O.C. Evolution Strap on the underside of the Joist. As
shown in Fig. 55. Fasten strap to joists using Evolution
Self-drilling Screws. As shown in Fig. 56.
Note:
• For Joist Spans greater than 8’ [2438mm], blocking is
required mid-span at every bay.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 27

 • Evolution Strap mounted to underside of joists is the
preferred method for installation and should be used
anytime there’s access to the bottom of the deck.
• The larger diameter holes in the strap are to allow water to
escape when it’s installed on the underside of the joist.
• The Evolution Strap is 4’ [1219mm] long. The 12” [305mm]
O.C. version and will cover 4 Joists. The 16” [406mm] O.C.
version and will cover 3 Joists.
Fig. 54

Fig. 55

Fig. 56

28 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Connection 7B: Non-Standard Spacing at Mid-Span & General
Blocking
1. Place two F-50 Brackets opposite of each other in desired
position on Joists. As shown in Fig. 57. Be sure brackets are
in line to allow for easy install of Blocking.
2. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten the two F-50
Brackets onto joists.
3. Cut Joists, to be used as standard blocking, to the desired
length. Reference pages 11 - 13 for cutting and panting
instructions.
4. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten cut Joist to two
F-50 Brackets. As shown in Fig. 58.
Note:
• This method can be used for blocking in cases when there’s
non-standard spacing and the pre-engineered mid-span
strap and beam blocking cannot be used.
• This method can be used in general applications when
extra blocking is needed for more structure and support.
This can be the case when railing or stairs are being
installed, extra framing for deck board picture framing, etc.
Fig. 57 Fig. 58

F-50
Brackets

Joists

Connection 8A: Pre-Punched U-Rim Joist To Joists

1. Mount pre-punched U-Rim Joist onto exposed ends of
Joists. As shown inf Fig. 59. Be sure pre-punched slots on
U-Rim Joist cover Joist holes with tabs exposed.
2. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten U-Rim Joist
onto Joists. As shown in Fig. 60.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 29

 3. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten ends of U-Rim
joist onto top face of End Joists. As shown in Fig. 61. Be
sure edge of the Pre-punched U-Rim is flush with outside
edge of the Joist.
Note:
• The pre-punched U-Rim Joist should ONLY be used when
fascia will mount on the Rim of the deck. Not having fascia
will result in exposed openings that may be unsightly.
• The pre-punched U-Rim Joist is designed to provide a
completely flat surface for fascia mounting.
Fig. 59

Fig. 60 Fig. 61

Connection 8B: Blank U-Rim Joist To Joists

1. Mount Blank U-Rim Joist onto exposed ends of Joists. As
shown inf Fig. 62.
2. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten on top and
bottom faces of the Blank U-Rim Joist. As shown in Fig. 63.
Be sure edge of the Blank U-Rim Joist is flush with outside
edge of the End Joist.

30 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Note:
• The Blank U-Rim Joist is used anytime there’s non-standard
Joist spacing or no fascia will be used on the rim of the
deck.
Fig. 62

Fig. 63

Connection 8C: Curved U-Rim Joist To Joists

1. Insert Rim Joist Brackets in exposed ends of Joists. As
shown in Fig. 64.
2. Using Evolution Self-Drilling Screws, fasten Rim Joist
Brackets onto Joists. As shown in Fig. 65. It is required for
a screw to be applied onto each sides of a Joist.
3. Bend the Curved U-Rim Joist by hand and fit it to the angle
of the mounted Rim Joist Brackets. As shown in Fig. 66. Be
sure edge of the Curved U-Rim is flush with outside edge
of the end Joist.
4. On external face of the Curved U-Rim, determine and mark
the position of the Rim Joist Bracket tab.
5. Use locking pliers to bend the Rim Joist Bracket tab to the
desired angle.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 31

 6. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten the Curved
U-Rim onto the Rim Joist Bracket tab. As shown in Fig. 67.
7. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten ends of the
Curved U-Rim Joist onto top and bottom face of End Joists.
Reference Fig. 61 on page 30 of Pre-punched U-Rim Joist
installation (Connection 8A).
Note:
• The Curved Rim Joist is used anytime there’s a radius on
the rim of a deck.
• There’s no need to angle cut the joists at the rim when you
use the Curved U-Rim Joist and the Rim Joist Bracket.
Fig. 64

Fig. 65

Fig. 66

32 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Fig. 67

Determined position of
Rim Joist Tab

Connection 8D: Joist As Rim Joist (Alternative to Connections 8A

& 8B)
1. Mount F-50 Brackets in desired position onto exposed ends
of frame joists.
2. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten the F-50 Bracket
onto the End Joist. As shown in Fig. 68. Be sure back face
of bracket is flush with open edge of Joist.
3. Insert Ledger Brackets into the ends of all the Joists. As
shown in Fig. 69.
4. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten Ledger Brackets
onto inside face of Joists.
5. Mount Joist onto exposed ends of Joists. As shown in
Fig. 70.
6. Using Evolution Self-drilling Screws, fasten Ledger Brackets
& F-50 Brackets onto Joist. As shown in Fig. 71. Be sure
edge of the Joist is flush with outside edge of the End
Joist.
7. Install Joist Caps to exposed ends of Joist. Reference Joist
Cap installation steps on page 35.
Note:
• The “Joist as Rim Joist” option can be used with or without
fascia and leave a completely flat surface on the rim.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 33

 Fig. 68

Fig. 69

Fig. 70

Fig. 71

34 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

Connection 9: Joist & Beam Cap
1. Position the Joist or Beam Cap on end of Joist or Beam. As
shown in Fig. 72.
2. Using Evolution self-drilling screws, fasten Joist or Beam
Cap onto Joist or Beam. As shown in Fig. 73.
Note:
• Use the Evolution Joist or Beam Caps to cover the open
ends of the joists or beams.
Fig. 72 Fig. 73

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 35

 CARE & MAINTENANCE

Care And Maintenance Of Fortress Building Products

Powder-Coated Products And Surfaces:

• Immediately after installation of your Fortress Building

Products, clean powder-coated products and surfaces with
a solution of warm water and non-abrasive, pH neutral
detergent solution. Surfaces should be thoroughly rinsed after
cleaning to remove all residues. All surfaces should be cleaned
using a soft cloth or sponge.
• Ensure construction materials such as concrete, plaster, and
paint splashes are removed immediately before they have a
chance to dry. Failure to remove these materials may cause
damage to the powder-coated surfaces.
• DO NOT allow metal shavings and/or chips to get dropped or
blown into a pool, hot tub, or any other body of water.
Staining could occur if this were to happen.
• The frequency of cleaning depends in part on the standard
of appearance and also the requirements to remove deposits
that may cause damage to the powder coating after
prolonged exposure. Fortress recommends cleaning in three to
four monthly intervals.
• WARNING: Do not use strong solvents such as thinners, or
solutions containing chlorinated hydrocarbons, esters, or
ketones. Abrasive cleaners or cutting compounds should not
be used.

SPAN CHARTS

Reference https://bpdirectory.intertek.com/ for span charts.

Search for CCRR #0313. It is critical to NOT exceed defined
allowable maximum spans.

36 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

POST TO FRAME CONNECTIONS

Reference https://fortressbp.com/Documents/install-guide-post-
to-evolution-steel-framing-0.pdf for the Post To Frame
Connections.

FRAME INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Reference https://fortressbp.com/Documents/fbp-new-evolution-
framing-form-final-0.pdf for the frame inspection checklist.

WARRANTY

To obtain and review a copy of the warranty, please go to:

https://Fortressbp.com/warranties. You can also contact:
(844) 909-1999 or write to: Fortress Building Products Warranty,
1720 N 1st St, Garland, TX 75040 to obtain a copy of the warranty.

Note:
• On the Fortress website there are two warranties for
framing - standard warranty and salt water proximity
warranty. Be sure to reference the appropriate warranty.

EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING 37

 JOIN THE REVOLUTION.
FortressBP.com | 866.323.4766

© 2022 Fortress Building Products.

Unless otherwise noted, all proprietary names are trademarks of Fortress Iron, LP. All rights reserved.

38 EVOLUTIONTM STEEL DECK FRAMING

04/2022