Cutting Tools

Wood Connectors: What You Need to Know

Wood connectors, also referred to as framing brackets, structural ties, or metal anchors, are critical components used to join wood framing elements together with strength and precision. These galvanized steel fittings are designed for a wide range of structural applications, including post-to-beam support, rafter connections, fence rail joints, and foundation anchoring. This collection includes both standard and ZMAX galvanized options for added corrosion resistance, making them suitable for interior framing or outdoor exposure. Builders can rely on these connectors for durability, code compliance, and long-term load support.

Type:

• Adjustable Stringer Connector: Designed to connect stair stringers to framing members with adjustability for alignment. Used in deck or stair framing to simplify installation and ensure a strong hold.
• Bearing Plate: Distributes structural loads over a wider area to prevent crushing of wood beneath anchor bolts or columns. Typically installed at the base of posts or beams.
• Fence Rail Bracket: Used to attach fence rails to wood or metal posts, maintaining a clean and secure joint. Designed to resist pullout and increase fence durability.
• Foundation Anchor: Provides secure hold between the wood framing and concrete foundations. Essential in seismic zones or high-wind areas for uplift resistance.
• Gusset Angle: Reinforces corner joints and intersections in roof trusses or wall framing. Adds rigidity and alignment to structural assemblies.
• Hot-Dip Bearing Plate: Enhanced version of a standard bearing plate with superior rust protection. Ideal for long-term structural installations in moisture-prone environments.
• L-Angle: A versatile angle bracket used to reinforce joints or corners between two wood members. Common in deck framing, pergolas, or interior blocking.
• Mudsill Anchor: Secures the sill plate to a concrete foundation or stem wall. Prevents lateral displacement from seismic or wind loads.
• Predeflected Holdown: Engineered to counteract uplift forces by anchoring shear walls to the foundation. Pre-bent shape helps reduce installation time and increase precision.
• Ridge Rafter Connector: Attaches rafters to the ridge beam at roof peaks, providing structural stability. Ensures secure load transfer across the roof structure.
• Shelf Bracket: Designed for wall-mounted shelving installations in residential or utility spaces. Provides clean support and load-bearing strength.
• Slotted Bearing Plate: A variation of the bearing plate with slotted holes to allow for anchor bolt adjustments. Commonly used when field alignment is necessary.

Application:

• Anchor: Designed to resist uplift or lateral movement by securing framing to concrete. Commonly used in foundation and sill plate applications.
• Rail Bracket: Specialized connectors for joining horizontal rails to posts or framing. Ensures strong and consistent placement for fences or deck railings.
• Ridge Rafter: Used in roof framing to tie rafters to ridge boards or beams. Helps distribute roof loads and prevent separation at the peak.
• Strong-Tie: Simpson Strong-Tie branded connectors known for meeting or exceeding structural codes. Widely trusted for residential, commercial, and industrial builds.

Gauge:

• Light Gauge (16–20): Typically used for small reinforcement tasks or light-duty framing. These thinner connectors are easy to work with and sufficient for non-load-bearing joints.
• Mid Gauge (12–14): Offers a good balance of strength and flexibility, suitable for general framing use. Most commonly used in interior and deck construction.
• Heavy Gauge (3–10): Built for demanding structural applications where maximum load capacity is required. Ideal for holdowns, anchors, and bearing plates in critical joints.

At Supply Ontime, we offer reliable materials designed to meet your project’s needs. With same-day delivery across the Greater Los Angeles area, we make it easy to keep your projects on schedule. Order Wood Connectors now and get them delivered today!