Which Simpson Strong Tie Wood Connector Should I Use?

Simpson Strong-Tie wood connectors and structural hardware

Which Simpson Strong‑Tie Wood Connector Should I Use?

Targeted picks from Simpson’s newest additions, now available.

Choosing the right Simpson Strong-Tie Wood Connector enhances both safety and structural integrity. Here’s a refined look at Simpson Strong‑Tie’s latest connectors and how they fit into real-world applications.

Simpson Strong‑Tie Wood Connector continues to innovate with new connector designs that address evolving construction needs, from fire-rated assemblies to mass timber construction. Whether you’re working on residential projects, commercial builds, or specialized applications like modular construction, these latest additions provide engineered solutions that combine code compliance with installation efficiency.

1. DGT™ / DGHT™ Fire Wall Hangers

Purpose: Provide a 2-hour fire rating for code-compliant joist-to-wall connections in Type III residential buildings.

Why They Stand Out: Engineered for fire-rated assemblies where structural continuity and fire resistance are both required.

Key Features:

  • 2-hour fire rating certification
  • Code-compliant for Type III residential construction
  • Maintains structural integrity during fire exposure
  • Available in multiple joist depths

Ideal For: Fire-rated assemblies, Multi-family residential buildings, Commercial residential structures, Code-required fire separations

2. ACHZ™ Heavy Adjustable Post Cap Wood Connector

Purpose: Offers a mid- to high-load capacity for connecting posts to beams in new and retrofit projects.

Why It Stands Out: Adjustable for beam heights, bridging the gap between light and heavy-duty post caps.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable beam height accommodation
  • Mid- to high-load capacity design
  • Suitable for new construction and retrofits
  • Reduces need for multiple cap sizes

Ideal For: Decks, Pergolas, Elevated post-frame structures, Retrofit applications requiring flexibility

3. ECB™ Elevated Column Base Wood Connector

Purpose: Features a 2″ standoff to accommodate waterproofing or finish materials while maintaining required 1″ gap for decay prevention.

Why It Stands Out: Engineered elevation protects against moisture while meeting code requirements for wood-to-concrete connections.

Key Features:

  • 2″ standoff height for moisture protection
  • Accommodates waterproofing and finish materials
  • Maintains required 1″ decay prevention gap
  • Corrosion-resistant coating

Ideal For: Stacked balconies, Porches, Applications with moisture exposure risk, Waterproofed deck systems

4. Outdoor Accents® Decorative Hardware Additions

Purpose: Combines structural performance with aesthetic appeal in outdoor construction projects.

Why They Stand Out: ZMAX®-galvanized black finish provides both style and corrosion protection.

New Models Include:

  • APVKB™ Knee Brace Connector – Reinforces bracing supports quickly in outdoor structures
  • APRT™ Rigid Tie Connector – Stylish connector with ZMAX®-galvanized black finish for lighter structural projects

Ideal For: Decorative decks, Pergolas where aesthetics matter, Outdoor structures requiring both beauty and performance, Visible structural connections

5. Mass Timber & Offsite Construction Connectors

Purpose: Specialized connectors designed for advanced wood construction methods and prefabricated systems.

Why They Stand Out: Engineered specifically for modern construction techniques like CLT, mass timber, and modular building systems.

New Offerings Include:

  • ACBH™ Concealed Beam Hanger — Sleek support for mass timber beams with hidden fastening
  • HSKP™ Heavy-Seated Knife Plate Hanger — Robust connector for large wood members
  • SCLC™ Stair Cassette Ledger Connector — Streamlines installation of prefabricated stair assemblies
  • MASOZ™ Mudsill Anchor — Tailored for factory-built, sheathed panel systems

Ideal For: CLT construction, Mass timber projects, Modular building systems, Prefabricated construction, Advanced wood framing methods

Quick Connector Selection Guide

Connector Type Best Application Key Benefit
DGT™ / DGHT™ Fire-rated residential construction 2-hour fire rating
ACHZ™ Adjustable post-to-beam connections Installation flexibility
ECB™ Moisture-prone column bases 2″ moisture protection standoff
Outdoor Accents® Decorative structural connections Style + performance
Mass Timber Series Advanced/prefab construction Specialized engineering

Next Steps for Seamless Installation

To ensure proper selection and installation:

  • Download the 2024–2025 Wood Construction Connectors Catalog (C‑C‑2024) for full product specs, load tables, and installation guidance
  • Consult with structural engineers for load calculations and code compliance
  • Verify local building code requirements for your specific application
  • Connect with our team for tailored recommendations and product availability

Explore These Connectors on Our Site

Looking for these new Simpson Strong‑Tie connectors or need help selecting the right hardware for your project? Visit our comprehensive selection of structural connectors: Shop Simpson Strong‑Tie Connectors

Need Help Selecting the Right Connector?

Our team at SC Fastening Systems can help you choose the perfect Simpson Strong‑Tie connector for your specific structural requirements.



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