How to Install the GIGANT Beam Hangers?

MTC Solutions’ GIGANT series is a line of pre-engineered concealed beam hanger systems designed for structural performance, speed of installation, and clean aesthetics in timber framing, log home building, and mass timber construction.

This article gives you the complete rundown on how to install the GIGANT family of connectors. We’ll cover general considerations for the installation, the hardware and tools necessary, installation time, and step-by-step instructions to help you speed up work while ensuring top-notch quality.

New to designing wood structures and mass timber post-to-beam connections? Read this first to learn more about beam hanger systems. 😉

Approximately 4-minute read.

Hardware & Tools, What Do You Need?

Every GIGANT connector set is delivered with:

• Two identical steel connector plates
• GIGANT SK Self-Tapping Screws (STSs) – Quantity and dimensions (diameter and length) of the STSs will vary based on the GIGANT model installed
  • 💡 Shorter STSs are to be installed in the side grain while the longer ones are for use in the end grain.

For an accurate installation, MTC recommends using:

• A low-RPM, high-torque drill with a feather (variable-speed) trigger for an enhanced speed control while installing STSs
  • 💡 The use of impact drills isn’t the best choice for installing STSs, especially for beam hanger systems. Want to know more? Read our article on the topic.
• Torx bits to match the drive recess in the STSs for optimal torque transmission:
  • Torx 40 bit for the 3/8 in. [10 mm] diameter STSs

And the usual must-haves: PPE, a measuring tape, a framing square and a marker.
 

Installation Time and Time-Saving Tips

The estimated time for a single person to install a complete GIGANT system takes less than five minutes! This can be further improved by mastering efficient practices.

A breakdown of the total installation times given in the table includes:

• Layout for 25–30%
• Positioning for 40–50%
• Screw installation for 20–30%

Table 1. GIGANT estimated installation time

💡 Pro tips for a faster installation process:

• Pre-install the connectors in a shop to reduce on-site labor, increase precision, and maintain quality control.
• Group housing installations in batches to improve process efficiency.

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

Before looking into the step-by-step installation process of the GIGANT series, and especially if you are not familiar with MTC Solutions fastener technology, we recommended you read through our STS installation best practices article that details how to optimize your installation.

Now, let’s dive in!
 

1. GIGANT plate layout and reference points

The GIGANT’s point of reference is the top of the beam. The lower structural positioning screw should be measured from that point of reference.

The connector plates on the primary member should be oriented with the GIGANT hooks pointing upwards, and on the secondary member with the GIGANT hooks pointing downwards.

Figure 2. GIGANT layout reference points

💡 Pro tips for a smoother process:

• Design the housing depth with tolerance at the beam-to-column interface—this facilitates smooth drop-in placement. For more details, refer to the GIGANT detailing section in the MTC Beam Hanger Design Guide.
• Split Lamination: It is recommended that the vertical joints in split lamination glulam beams be tight at the time of manufacturing. Gaps between adjacent plies may occur due to wood shrinkage. Such gaps are unfortunately not compatible with the GIGANT model’s installation.

2. Structural Positioning Screws

The first screws to install should be the two structural positioning screws which will hold the connector in place during the fastening of the remaining fasteners. Here is a visual diagram indicating STS positioning across the GIGANT product family.

Refer to the red dots to know which screws correspond to the structural positioning screws.

Figure 3. GIGANT screw patterns

Legend:
● Structural Positioning Screws (without Clip Lock)
● Horizontal Screws

For an optimized installation process, we recommend that each screw is installed considering the following best practices:

Figure 4. Screw installation best practices

And that’s it! Efficient and simple.

The GIGANT connectors are smaller in size than RICON S VS and MEGANT hangers. When smaller loads need supporting, the GIGANT connectors will suit your needs while still providing a clean, architecturally aesthetic finish.

And you’re not alone—our team of engineers and timber experts are here to help. Need layout tables, CAD files, or fire-rated options? Tap into our Resource Hub or Contact Us today! Let’s build something great together. 😉