Find the right Simpson Strong-Tie connector for your framing connection. Look up hurricane clips, joist hangers, post bases, and straps.
Simpson Strong-Tie connectors are among the most widely used structural hardware in residential construction. From hurricane clips that resist uplift to joist hangers that support floor framing, the right connector ensures code compliance and structural safety. With hundreds of products in the catalog, selecting the correct one can be confusing.
This Simpson tie selection calculator helps you narrow down the connector type based on your connection requirement: rafter/truss-to-plate (hurricane clips), joist-to-beam (hangers), post-to-beam (caps), post-to-concrete (bases), and strap ties. For each category, it provides common model numbers, rated capacities, and nail requirements.
This is a reference tool—always verify that the selected connector's published capacity meets or exceeds your design load. Simpson's catalog and website provide detailed tables for every connector.
Precise calculations are essential for meeting regulatory requirements, passing inspections, and ensuring the long-term structural integrity and safety of the completed project. This data-driven approach helps contractors minimize rework, avoid delays caused by material shortages, and deliver projects on time and within the agreed budget.
Choosing the wrong connector or installing it improperly is a common inspection failure. This calculator helps you identify the right Simpson product for your connection type and lumber size. Consistent use of this tool across projects builds a library of reference data that improves estimating accuracy over time and reduces reliance on individual experience alone.
Connector capacity must equal or exceed the calculated design load. Design load = tributary area × design pressure (for wind uplift) Or: Design load = engineer-specified value from structural plans.
Result: H2.5A hurricane clip (rated 590 lbs uplift)
For a 2×6 rafter at 500 lbs uplift demand: the H2.5A provides 590 lbs uplift capacity with 4-8d nails to the rafter and 4-8d nails to the plate. The H10 or H10A is a stronger alternative at 1,300+ lbs.
Hurricane/seismic ties: H1, H2.5, H10, LSTA—connect rafters/trusses to top plate to resist uplift. Joist hangers: LU, HU,?"U—support joists at beams. Post bases: ABU, ABA, PBS—anchor posts to concrete. Post caps: BC, LPC, AC—connect beams to post tops. Strap ties: LSTA, MSTA, CMST—provide tension connections across joints.
The most common installation error is using wrong or too few nails. Many hangers require Simpson's proprietary 1.5″ nails (10d×1.5 or 8d×1.5) that are shorter than standard framing nails to avoid penetrating the back of the beam. Using standard 16d nails can split the member or protrude dangerously.
The IRC requires approved connectors for rafter/truss-to-plate connections in high-wind zones (wind speed > 115 mph) and in Seismic Design Categories D and E. Many jurisdictions require connectors on every rafter/truss regardless of wind speed. Check your local amendments.
For standard 2× rafters/trusses: H2.5 or H2.5A for lighter loads (590 lbs uplift), H10 or H10A for medium loads (1,300 lbs), and LSTA straps for heavy loads (1,500+ lbs). The choice depends on the calculated uplift force from wind analysis.
The LU210 is the standard face-mount hanger for a single 2×10. For top-flange conditions, use the HU210. For double 2×10 members, use the LU210-2. Capacities range from 1,000 to 3,000+ lbs download depending on the model.
The ABU (adjustable post base) series handles one-piece concrete or retrofit. The PBS (post base standoff) series elevates the post above the concrete to prevent moisture contact. Use ABA for moment-resistant connections requiring uplift capacity.
Properly specified connectors (G90 galvanized for interior/dry, ZMAX or stainless for treated lumber/coastal) have excellent long-term durability. Corrosion is the main concern—use the correct coating for the exposure conditions.
No. Bending, cutting, or modifying a connector voids its rated capacity. If a standard product doesn't fit, find the correct model or contact Simpson engineering for custom solutions.
Simpson post bases attach to concrete with anchor bolts (cast-in-place J-bolts) or expansion anchors (Titen HD, Strong-Bolt). The anchor type and size must match the connector's requirements. Always follow the installation instructions.