Engineering Tested Tension Straps for Mass Timber
November 27, 2023
Mass Timber buildings utilize cross-laminated timber (CLT) or mass plywood panels to establish horizontal diaphragms, enabling the transfer of wind and seismic forces into the vertical elements of the lateral-force-resisting system.
Straight straps stand out among connector products as their characteristic capacities are determined by calculations rather than testing. Unlike joist hangers, hurricane ties, or holdowns, which encounter various forces like shear, prying, and withdrawal on fasteners, straight straps, devoid of these complexities, allow us to compute steel tension and fastener capacity per code. Nonetheless, at Simpson Strong-Tie, we conduct numerous tests on our straps due to our dedication to rigorous testing. Occasionally, we receive inquiries about deflection or the installation feasibility of certain straps over plywood.
To help reduce cost and speed up installation, Simpson Strong-Tie introduced the MDCST – Medium Duty Diaphragm Tension Strap. The MDCST48 is a 14-gauge high-capacity strap specifically designed to carry tension across a CLT floor or wall panel joint. It installs with Strong-Drive® SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws.
At Simpson Strong-Tie we have now released a dedicated range of fasteners and connectors for CLT and Engineered wood mass timber structures. These are purpose designed products, made with the load and design requirements of these building materials specifically in mind. Thought has also been given to the install requirements with fast low torque install designs for our fasteners, and options for collated systems that make connectors quicker to install on site. Download the Mass Timber Construction Catalogue to learn more or check out our Mass Timber Product Range.
Structural Connections
Unmatched Quality from the Truss to the Foundation
With nearly 60 years of field and R&D experience, Simpson Strong-Tie® timber connectors are manufactured to the industry's highest standards. From framing angles to straps to heavy-duty joist hangers, we offer the most diverse product line so that you have the right product for the job.
Simpson Strong-Tie® connectors offer unmatched quality with laboratory and field testing, and are backed by our uncompromising commitment to customer service. As the company that built the connector industry, you can count on Simpson Strong-Tie® to work closely with builders, engineers and building officials to deliver innovative, building code-compliant solutions to help build safer, stronger structures economically. Download the Timber Connectors NZS 3604 Catalogue.
Timber Connectors
From testing to service to availability, everything we do is engineered to ensure your project's success. With every product, you know you are getting the quality, value, service and on-time delivery that we have built our reputation on for the past 60 years.
From straps and ties to joist hangers and much more, Simpson Strong-Tie® structural connectors increase the strength and safety of timber-frame structures. Each connector is unique to Simpson Strong-Tie and is designed for specific applications without the need to adapt metal plating to suit a connection. Download the Timber Construction Connectors Catalogue (2016-2018).
Steel Frame Connectors
From fully tested and engineered connectors and clips Simpson Strong-Tie® provides comprehensive structural solutions for cold-formed steel construction. From steel-to-steel connections to full-scale lateral solutions and curtain wall connectors, we remain committed to developing new technology that helps to advance the cold-formed steel industry.
Find out how Simpson Strong-Tie timber connectors can help you build the right way every day. Download the Cold-Fromed Steel Construction Connectors Catalogue.
