Why Hurricane Ties and Connectors Matter
In hurricane-prone areas, ensuring a building’s structural integrity is essential for safety and long-term durability. Hurricane ties and connectors play a crucial role in reinforcing a building’s frame—helping to secure the roof, walls, and foundation into a single, continuous system that resists uplift and lateral forces caused by high winds.
Whether working with steel or wood frame construction, using tested and code-compliant connectors is a key strategy in hurricane-resistant building.
Meeting Code Requirements with Simpson Strong-Tie
Simpson Strong-Tie is a recognized leader in structural connectors and is known for its focus on building safety. Their hurricane ties and connectors are designed and tested to meet modern building codes, including those in regions with strict wind resistance requirements. These products enable builders to create a “continuous load path,” transferring loads from the roof to the foundation and improving the overall performance of the structure under wind pressure.
From residential homes to commercial buildings, Simpson Strong-Tie components are trusted in high-wind zones for their quality and consistency.
Code-Compliant Options for Steel Frame Construction
Cold-formed steel buildings require specialized connectors to meet engineering and code specifications. Simpson Strong-Tie offers a wide range of solutions for steel framing, including:
- Bridging and bracing connectors
- Steel-stud and steel-joist connectors
- Joist framing connectors
- Rigid connector angles
- Coiled straps and utility clips
- Skewable angles and spacer bracers
- Drywall bridging connectors
- Ledger connector systems
- Hangers for steel joists and drywall
These components are engineered to handle high-stress conditions while maintaining compliance with wind-resistant construction standards.
Code-Compliant Options for Wood Frame Construction
For wood frame construction, Simpson Strong-Tie provides durable, tested connectors designed to meet wind and uplift code requirements. Commonly used components include:
- Joist hangers (standard, heavy-duty, and skewed)
- HPT hurricane ties and twist straps
- Deck tension ties
- Post bases and column caps
- Holdowns and truss anchors
- Adjustable stringer connectors and stair angles
- Glulam beam connectors
- Face-mount hangers
- Reinforcing and skewable angles
- Fence rail brackets and framing plates
These connectors help ensure the structure remains tied together and intact under extreme wind conditions.
Free Guide: Best Practices for High-Wind Construction
To support builders and contractors in hurricane-resistant design, Simpson Strong-Tie provides a detailed reference guide. The High Wind-Resistant Construction Application Guide includes:
- Insights on how wind, corrosion, and uplift affect buildings
- Recommended practices for using connectors in high-wind regions
- Product specs aligned with building code requirements
Build with Confidence in Coastal and High-Wind Areas
Building to code in hurricane zones requires dependable materials and a thorough understanding of how to reinforce structures against extreme weather. Simpson Strong-Tie connectors offer engineered solutions that meet the standards of modern building codes, making them a go-to choice for contractors seeking compliance, safety, and long-term performance.
Working with a knowledgeable supplier ensures you get access to the right products and technical expertise for your project—so you can build stronger, safer structures from the ground up.
Request a Quote or Get Expert Help from AJAX
AJAX supplies contractors with a full range of Simpson Strong-Tie hurricane ties and connectors—available for both wood and steel frame construction. Whether you’re starting a new project or sourcing materials for a retrofit, our team is here to help you meet structural and code requirements with confidence.
Contact us today at 904-353-4783 or fill out our online form to request a quote or discuss your project needs.
