The Simpson Adjustable Hip-End Purlin is a structural steel purlin engineered specifically for step-down hip truss framing applications. Designed by Simpson, this adjustable purlin serves a dual purpose on the jobsite: 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 and keeping hip-end framing efficient from eave to peak.

Key Features

• Dual-function design as structural purlin and lateral restraint - serves a permanent structural role while also providing temporary top-chord lateral restraint during truss erection, reducing the number of separate components and steps required on the job.
• Roof sheathing attaches directly to the purlin - compatible with knurled pneumatic fasteners and low-profile head, self-drilling screws, so crews can apply decking without first removing any temporary bracing, saving labor time and reducing risk.
• Interlocking, linear installation aligned with end jacks - maintains consistent framing spacing from the eave to the hip or peak, reducing layout errors and keeping trusses properly positioned throughout the build.
• Helps meet WTCA/TPI BCSI temporary top-chord lateral restraint recommendations - supports code-conscious framing on step-down hip ends, giving builders and inspectors confidence that installation practices align with industry guidance.
• Adjustable length accommodates varying hip-end configurations - adapts to different framing layouts without requiring custom-cut lumber or additional filler components, keeping material waste low.
• Wide pitch range coverage - supports structural purlin use from 3/12 to 9/12, and lateral restraint and spacer use up to 12/12, making it suitable across a broad range of residential and light-commercial roof designs.
• Fabricated from 20-gauge, 33-mil zinc galvanized G90 steel - provides corrosion resistance appropriate for structural framing applications, supporting long-term performance behind the finished roof assembly.
• Made in the United States - domestically produced by Simpson, supporting consistent quality standards for structural connectors used in load-bearing framing.

Why This Product

• Eliminates multiple redundant components in one connector - by replacing drop-top chords, 2x lumber, and gable end fillers simultaneously, this adjustable hip-end purlin simplifies the framing package and reduces the total number of parts a crew has to source, cut, and install on step-down hip truss jobs.
• Keeps framing moving without stopping to remove bracing - because sheathing attaches directly to the purlin using standard pneumatic or self-drilling fasteners, crews do not have to pull temporary restraints before decking, which keeps the construction sequence tighter and reduces downtime.
• Covers a broad pitch range with a single adjustable product - the ability to function as a structural purlin from 3/12 to 9/12 and as a lateral restraint and spacer up to 12/12 means this one connector handles the majority of residential hip-roof pitches, reducing the need to stock or specify multiple alternatives.
• Supports WTCA/TPI BCSI compliance during the critical truss erection phase - using a connector specifically designed to meet temporary top-chord lateral restraint recommendations helps framing crews demonstrate that their installation process aligns with recognized industry standards, which can matter during inspections and quality reviews.

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.