Pleasanton, Calif. — After witnessing an uptick in installers substituting alternative fasteners for connector installation, Simpson Strong-Tie is urging customers to use only specified and approved fasteners when installing its connectors. Using unapproved fasteners can lead to failed inspections, voided warranties, costly litigation and even structural failure.
“Switching to a lower-priced fastener may save money up front, but it can be a costly and potentially hazardous decision,” said Aram Khachadourian, Engineering Manager, Research & Development, Fasteners and Mechanical Anchors for Simpson Strong-Tie. “Our connectors undergo rigorous testing using specific fasteners. Substituting a smaller or shorter fastener than what is shown in our catalog puts the integrity of the connection at risk. Likewise, using untested proprietary fasteners — even those with similar dimensions — can significantly change performance and could result in reduced structural capacity or other unintended failures.”
Simpson Strong-Tie connectors have been designed and tested for use with specific types and sizes of nails and Simpson Strong-Tie Connector Screws. The specified quantity, type and size of fastener must be installed in the correct holes in the connector to achieve published loads. Other factors such as fastener material and finish are also important. Simpson will not guarantee connector performance when alternate fasteners are used.
Incorrect fastener selection or installation can result in:
· Voided warranties: The Simpson Strong-Tie Limited Warranty is void and does not apply to failure or damage caused by the use of a product with any fasteners other than those prescribed by Simpson Strong-Tie.
· Potential inspection rejection: Substitution of non-specified fasteners may result in a red-tagged job that could require the installer to provide independent engineering substantiation to satisfy the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), potentially resulting in project delays or additional costs.
· Increased repair cost: The installer may incur increased costs associated with the removal of rejected fasteners, the replacement of new fasteners and connectors, and the cost to repair or replace the wood damaged by the improper installation.
· Liability and litigation: The use of unapproved fasteners may transfer the liability of connection load values and performance away from Simpson and onto the installer, specifier, or engineer of record, resulting in greater exposure to potential litigation.
· Structural failure: The use of unapproved fasteners may result in the connection failing to meet the intended allowable load. Such conditions may have severe life and safety implications, not only during construction, but also during loading events throughout the life of the structure.
Contractors who have already installed Simpson Strong-Tie connectors with unapproved screws or nails should immediately contact the engineer of record to design and approve a remedy.
For questions about approved fasteners for connectors, installers should reach out the Engineering Technical Support Team at 800-999-5099.
For more information, visit www.strongtie.com.
About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.
Simpson Strong-Tie is the world leader in structural solutions — products and technology that help people design and build safer, stronger homes, buildings, and communities. As a pioneer in the building industry, we have an unmatched passion for problem solving through skillful engineering and thoughtful innovation. Our structural systems, research and rigorous testing enable us to design code-listed, value-engineered solutions for a multitude of applications in wood, steel, and concrete structures. Our dedication to pursuing ever-better construction products and technology and to surrounding our customers with exceptional service and support has been core to our mission since 1956. For more information, visit strongtie.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
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