Simpson AHEP Adjustable Hip-End Purlin by Simpson is a structural steel purlin engineered for step-down hip truss framing applications. Fabricated from 20-gauge, 33-mil zinc galvanized G90 steel, the AHEP serves a dual purpose: it functions as a permanent structural purlin to which roof sheathing attaches directly, and it acts as an installation lateral restraint and spacer throughout the truss erection process - eliminating the need for drop-top chords, 2x lumber, or gable end fillers.

Key Features

• A structural purlin to which sheathing can be directly attached - no need to remove temporary bracing
• Accurately spaces the installed trusses and helps meet the temporary top-chord lateral restraint recommendations of WTCA/TPI BCSI on step-down hip ends
• Adjustable in length to accommodate a wide pitch range
• Attaches to the leading edge of step-down hip trusses, eliminating the need for drop-top chords, 2x lumber, or gable end fillers
• Interlocking design allows linear installation aligned with the end jacks to maintain framing spacing from eave to hip or peak
• Roof sheathing and decking attach directly to the purlin using knurled pneumatic fasteners or low-profile head, self-drilling screws
• Functions as a structural purlin for pitches of 3/12 to 9/12 and as an installation lateral restraint and spacer for pitches up to 12/12
• Made in the United States

Specifications

• Model Number: AHEP
• Thickness (mil): 33
• Gauge: 20
• Coating/Material: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Pitch Range (Structural Purlin): 3/12 to 9/12
• Pitch Range (Lateral Restraint/Spacer): Up to 12/12
• Country of Origin: United States

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AHEP designed to replace during hip-end framing?

The AHEP attaches to the leading edge of step-down hip trusses and eliminates the need for drop-top chords, 2x lumber, and gable end fillers, streamlining the framing process significantly.

Can roof sheathing be attached directly to the AHEP?

Yes. Roof sheathing and decking attach directly to the AHEP purlin using knurled pneumatic fasteners or low-profile head, self-drilling screws, so there is no need to remove temporary bracing before applying the sheathing.

What pitch range does the AHEP support as a structural purlin versus as a lateral restraint and spacer?

The AHEP is designed to accommodate a pitch range of 3/12 to 9/12 when functioning as a structural purlin, and it can serve as an installation lateral restraint and spacer for pitches up to 12/12.

How does the AHEP help with truss spacing during installation?

The interlocking design of the AHEP allows it to install linearly, aligned with the end jacks, to maintain consistent framing spacing from the eave to the hip or peak. It also helps meet the temporary top-chord lateral restraint recommendations of WTCA/TPI BCSI on step-down hip ends.