Hey Ed, I took a good long look at that system before I built my shop. I was going to build it myself last summer, but just couldn't get the time. I ended using a local builder who built it the standard stick built way for a very good price so I didn't use the Socket Systems stuff.
I personally think that it is a great way to go. The bracketing system is simple to use and you could build a shop for a reasonable price with just a couple of guys.
I have spent some time on the phone with the guys over there and they are OK. They seem busy and I am suspecting that their service level would be a bit lacking, but there really isn't much to worry about.
I figured that I could save about 40% on building my shop with that system over the stick built with trusses. Plus that clear span is great if you are going to have a lift. I am constrained by my trusses in that regard.
With wood being fairly reasonable, I think this is a good way to go from a price standpoint.
There are 2 drawbacks that I see:
1: is finding a good concrete guy who can build up the pockets correctly. It seems straightforward, but when I talked to a few guys, some of them were a bit confused.
2: Is when you go to sheet it etc. Depending on where you live etc, the distance between the posts can be 12 feet or more. That complicates sheathing it with wood at a reasonable price. On the website you can see how they essentially built a complete 2x4 non-load bearing wall to allow for proper attachment of siding. If you go with a steel siding like most pole building, that becomes a non-issue. I wanted T1-11 for a more acceptable look in the residential area that I live.
So, in short, I say do it! Looks like a fun way to get a shop up fast. You could have it a fully framed place in one weekend with a couple of friends.
Mike
