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Vertex BD integration key to Qld Steel House Frames success.
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Qld Steel House Frames was founded by Brett Smith to address the growing need for higher-quality building materials in the Australian construction industry. As a carpenter with firsthand knowledge of the obstacles faced by builders, Brett identified a market gap. His vision was to provide steel framing solutions that were reliable, durable, and easy to use, streamlining the construction process. “I’ve been in the industry for years, and I knew there was a way to make things easier for builders,” Brett recalls. Based in Carole Park, Queensland, the company has quickly become a recognised name in the steel framing sector.
The journey into light gauge steel manufacturing
The idea for Qld Steel House Frames took shape in 2018 when Brett saw an opportunity to improve the quality of steel framing solutions available to builders. “In 2018, I realised there was a gap in the market. Builders weren’t getting the quality they needed at the time, and I saw an opportunity to offer something better,” Brett explains. His mission was to develop a manufacturing process that would simplify construction and meet the practical needs of tradespeople like carpenters, plumbers, and electricians.
To achieve this, Brett embarked on a search for cutting-edge machinery and manufacturing techniques. “I did a lot of research into carpentry and found the best products, machines, and methods to set up a steel house framing factory,” Brett shares. His commitment to delivering better products led him into the realm of light gauge steel manufacturing, where innovative solutions like roll-forming technology would enable him to meet the market’s growing demands.
The role of Vertex BD software
A pivotal factor in Qld Steel House Frames’ operations is Vertex BD software, which was recommended by one of Brett’s machine suppliers. “The company that supplied the frame machine recommended Vertex BD software, although they said I could use any software I preferred. Vertex BD was the best choice,” Brett explains. This decision proved crucial in allowing Qld Steel House Frames to operate efficiently and scale their production.
Vertex BD plays a central role in connecting various forming machines used at the factory. What sets the software apart is its ability to operate seamlessly across machines from different suppliers, allowing the company to maintain flexibility in their production process. “Vertex BD allows communication between all four machines, without relying on any manufacturer-specific software,” says Brett. This adaptability enables the factory to remain efficient and responsive to the specific needs of each project.
Overcoming obstacles
The path to establishing Qld Steel House Frames wasn’t without its challenges. One significant hurdle was integrating machines from different manufacturers into a cohesive system. “No one had ever used a particular machine before, so it was a bit of a gamble,” Brett admits. However, with the support of Vertex BD’s flexible software, the company was able to integrate its forming machines without the need for multiple, manufacturer-specific systems. “It turned out that having machines from different companies worked in my favour, as Vertex BD could integrate with all of them,” Brett notes, emphasising the value Vertex BD brought to the table by streamlining their operations.
Brett’s innovative approach also extended to customising machinery when standard solutions weren’t available. “I had to find my own machine to make the frames and trusses. This company had the best truss machine, and I hadn’t seen anything like it before,” Brett recalls. When suppliers couldn’t meet his exact requirements, he partnered with a local engineering firm to develop custom profiles for his machines. Vertex BD’s ability to integrate these customised configurations further underscored its importance to the company’s success.
Efficiency and customisation through Vertex BD
Qld Steel House Frames now operates four different makes of roll-forming machines, each integral to the production process. Thanks to Vertex BD, these machines work in harmony, driving efficiency and precision across all areas of manufacturing. “We manufacture every component in-house, from brackets to larger elements, and Vertex BD has been able to integrate those components into their system,” says Brett.
The software’s 3D visualisation capabilities allow Qld Steel House Frames to design and preview every component before it goes into production, ensuring accuracy and minimising errors. “We can see everything in 3D before it’s even made, which cuts down on mistakes and saves time,” Brett explains. This attention to detail has helped the company maintain its reputation for delivering high-quality steel framing systems that meet the specific needs of builders.
Continued growth and future plans
Since its establishment, Qld Steel House Frames has experienced rapid growth. “We’ve doubled in size over the years, and we’re still expanding. We have 12 roll-formers in operation, and we’ve recently purchased land next door to build a new factory,” Brett shares. The company’s expansion is driven by its commitment to quality and precision, supported by Vertex BD’s ability to keep production smooth and efficient.
As Brett looks ahead, he remains focused on growing the business while maintaining its core values. “We’re staying focused on what we do best. I don’t want to stretch the business too thin by moving into other sectors just yet,” he explains. By continuing to leverage the flexibility of Vertex BD and remaining committed to high standards, Qld Steel House Frames is set to thrive in Queensland’s evolving construction market. “The demand is growing, and we’re growing with it,” Brett concludes.
