Structural Brackets & Connectors
Structural brackets and connectors are engineered metal plates, angles, and clips that create code-compliant connections between wood framing members. Manufactured by Simpson Strong-Tie, USP, and MiTek, they replace traditional toenailing with tested load-rated connections.
Fast Facts
- What Is It?
- Stamped galvanized steel plates, angles, and specialized connectors for wood-to-wood and wood-to-concrete structural connections. Each connector has published allowable loads per ICC-ES evaluation reports.
- Common Uses
- Joist-to-beam connections, beam-to-post connections, rafter ties, wall-to-foundation hold-downs, deck ledger connections, shear wall strapping.
- Cost Range
- Angles/ties: $1–$8 each; Hangers: $3–$12 each; Hold-downs: $25–$60 each; Post bases: $10–$30 each.
- Durability
- G185 galvanized (standard): 20+ years interior/protected; ZMAX G185+: 20+ years exterior; Stainless steel (316): lifetime in marine/corrosive.
Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Standards | ICC-ES ESR reports (product-specific); AISI S100; NDS for Wood Construction |
| Material | ASTM A653 galvanized steel; gauge varies by connector (12–20 ga) |
| Coating Options | G60 (standard), G185/ZMAX (high-galv), stainless 316 (marine/corrosive) |
| Common Types | Joist hangers (LUS/HU), angles (A/L), ties (H/RT), straps (LSTA/MST), hold-downs (HDU/HD) |
| Fasteners | Must use specified fasteners — typically 10d×1½" joist hanger nails (Simpson #9) or structural screws (SD) |
| PT Lumber Compatibility | Use ZMAX or stainless with ACQ/CA-C treated lumber — standard G60 corrodes |
Why Engineered Connectors Matter
Building codes require a continuous load path from roof to foundation — every structural connection must transfer gravity, lateral, and uplift forces. Engineered connectors provide tested, published load values that inspectors can verify against the structural plans. Toenailing, while still used in some applications, cannot match the uplift and lateral resistance of a properly installed connector.
Selecting the Right Connector
Start with the Simpson Strong-Tie or USP catalog — organized by connection type (hanger, tie, strap, hold-down). Match the connector to: (1) the wood member sizes, (2) the required load (from structural plans), (3) the environment (interior, exterior, PT lumber), and (4) the fastener type available. Every connector has a product-specific ICC-ES evaluation report with tested allowable loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use the exact nail specified for joist hangers?
Yes. Joist hanger load ratings are based on specific fastener tests. Using drywall screws, deck screws, or undersized nails dramatically reduces the connection capacity. Simpson specifies 10d×1½" joist hanger nails (#9 or N10A) or their SD structural screws as approved alternatives.
What connector coating works with pressure-treated lumber?
ACQ and CA-C preservatives are corrosive to standard galvanized (G60) steel. Use ZMAX (G185 equivalent) or stainless steel (316) connectors. Simpson marks PT-compatible connectors with a "Z" suffix (e.g., LUS26Z vs. LUS26).
Also Consider
Joist Hangers
Joist hangers are metal connectors that support wood joists, headers, and beams at the end of a member where bearing cannot occur directly over a wall or beam.
Hurricane Ties
Hurricane ties are light-gauge metal connectors that tie rafters or trusses to the top plate and wall framing to resist wind uplift and maintain a continuous load path to the foundation.
Post Bases
Post bases are steel connectors that anchor wood posts to concrete while elevating the post above standing water and transferring compression, uplift, and lateral loads into the foundation.
Anchor Bolts
Anchor bolts secure sill plates, post bases, holdowns, and steel connectors to concrete or masonry and are a core part of the structural load path between wood framing and the foundation.