Threaded rod lengths are selected first. This allows the designer to provide rod that continues into the next floor with minimum excess rod. The crossover point (into the bay above) is automatically calculated. This assigns elongation to the proper floor. The required rod strength is selected based on required uplift. With the rod length and diameter determined rod elongation is automatically calculated.

Bearing Plates are selected for the required reaction load. The reaction load identifies the appropriate plate size. The plate is then selected for rod size and wall width.

Take-Up Devices Buildings shrink and settle for the first few years after construction. Take-Up Devices (TUDS) are selected to eliminate the effects of shrinkage. Designers usually pick 0.250” of shrinkage per floor when manufactured wood is used, and 3/8” to 1/2″ per floor with solid sawn wood. To keep the system tight and fully performing a TUD is used at every floor to eliminate shrinkage effects.