The Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie is a critical structural component used in deck and building construction to reinforce connections between joists, beams, and posts. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for the proper installation of the Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie, based on the information from official installation instructions, product specifications, and application examples. Emphasis is placed on code compliance, fastener selection, and mechanical attachment techniques to ensure structural integrity in high-wind or seismic conditions.
Overview of the Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie
The Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie is engineered to secure joists and beams to posts or drop beams, reinforcing the connection against uplift and lateral forces. It is especially suited for applications in regions prone to high winds or seismic activity. The tie is constructed from galvanized steel and is available with a Zmax finish, which provides enhanced corrosion resistance.
This connector is designed to be used in conjunction with approved fasteners, such as the Simpson SD Connector screws or SDWS Framing Screws, to ensure secure and durable connections. The H2.5AZ is typically used in deck construction, where it is installed at the intersection of a joist and a beam or post to prevent structural failure under stress.
Tools and Materials Required
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. Based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and installation instructions, the following items are required:
- Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie
- Approved fasteners (e.g., 1 ½” Simpson SD Connector Screws or 3” SDWS Framing Screws)
- Power drill
- Clamps
- Speed square or level
- Measuring tape
- Saw (for cutting blocking and joists, if required)
- Wood preservative (for treated lumber)
- Sander or planer (optional, for leveling high spots in joists)
The manufacturer also recommends consulting local building codes for specific fastener requirements, as these may vary by region.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Joist and Beam Interface
The first step in installing the Simpson H2.5AZ is to position the joist and beam in their intended locations. It is important to ensure that the joist is flush with the outside edge of the beam to prevent misalignment during fastening. Clamps may be used to temporarily secure the joist in place during the installation process.
Before attaching the hurricane tie, it is also necessary to install any required blocking between the joists and the beam. Blocking is typically cut from the same material as the joists and is installed in a staggered pattern to prevent twisting or rolling of the joists.
Step 2: Install the Blocking
Blocking is a critical structural element that prevents joists from twisting or shifting over time. The blocking should be cut to the appropriate length and coated with a wood preservative before installation. It is then placed over the beam in a staggered pattern—alternating between the front and back of the beam—before being fastened to the rim joist and the beam with Simpson SDWS 3” Framing Screws.
The use of a speed square is recommended to ensure the blocking is installed vertically and straight. This step should be repeated for all beams and joist intersections to maintain structural integrity and alignment.
Step 3: Position the Hurricane Tie
Once the blocking is in place, the Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie is positioned at the corner where the joist meets the beam. The tab of the hurricane tie should be flush with the top of the beam, and the connector should be aligned so that the fastener holes correspond with the joist and beam.
It is important to ensure that the hurricane tie is seated correctly and that there is no gap between the tie and the structural components. A slight adjustment may be necessary to ensure the tie is fully in contact with both the joist and beam.
Step 4: Fasten the Hurricane Tie to the Joist
The next step is to secure the hurricane tie to the joist using the recommended fasteners. The manufacturer specifies the use of 1 ½” Simpson SD Connector Screws, which are designed for high-strength applications. The screws should be driven through the pre-drilled holes in the hurricane tie and into the joist.
It is important to ensure that all holes in the hurricane tie are filled with fasteners to maintain the structural strength of the connection. Each fastener should be driven until it is flush with the surface of the tie to prevent protrusion, which could interfere with subsequent installation steps.
Step 5: Fasten the Hurricane Tie to the Beam
After the hurricane tie is securely attached to the joist, it must be fastened to the beam using the same type of fasteners. The screws should be inserted through the designated holes in the tie and driven into the beam until they are flush with the surface. As with the joist attachment, it is essential to fill all holes in the tie to ensure a complete and secure connection.
Step 6: Install Field Joists
The field joists, which are the joists located between the side rim joists, should be installed one at a time. As each field joist is installed, the blocking, joist hangers, and hurricane tie should also be installed to minimize the need for backtracking over the joists.
To ensure proper alignment, the ledger board can be used as a template for cutting and positioning the blocking. The staggered placement of the blocking helps to distribute the load evenly and prevents the joists from twisting.
Step 7: Secure the Rim Joist
The rim joist is fastened to the ends of the field joists using 5” Simpson Strong Tie SDWS Timber Screws. It is important to pre-drill the joists when installing longer fasteners to prevent splitting. Two fasteners should be installed into each joist to ensure a strong and durable connection.
For decks that are longer than the standard deck board lengths, a splice may be required. The splice should be placed between two joists and fastened to the front rim joist. This ensures that the deck remains level and structurally sound.
Step 8: Check for and Correct High Spots
After all joists and connections have been installed, it is important to check for high spots along the middle of the deck. A level should be placed on at least three joists to identify any that are higher than the others. These high spots should be marked and corrected using a planer. It is recommended to make small cuts and recheck with the level after each adjustment.
Once the high spots have been corrected, a wood preservative should be applied to the cut surfaces to protect the wood from moisture and decay.
Step 9: Repeat and Finalize
The installation process should be repeated for all joists and connections in the deck. It is important to maintain consistency in the placement of blocking, fasteners, and hurricane ties to ensure a uniform and structurally sound deck.
After all components have been installed and checked, the final step is to ensure that the deck is level and that all connections are secure. Any loose or protruding fasteners should be adjusted or replaced as necessary.
Fastener Specifications and Code Compliance
The correct selection of fasteners is essential for the performance and longevity of the Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie. The manufacturer recommends the use of 1 ½” Simpson SD Connector Screws for attaching the tie to both the joist and beam. These screws are designed for high-strength applications and are compatible with the galvanized steel construction of the hurricane tie.
In addition, the use of 3” SDWS Framing Screws is recommended for fastening the blocking to the rim joist and beam. These screws are engineered for use in wood-to-wood connections and provide a secure hold in both ends of the blocking.
It is important to note that local building codes may specify different fastener requirements. These codes often vary by region and may include specific recommendations for screw types, lengths, and installation methods. Always consult the applicable building codes and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure code compliance.
Compatibility and Structural Considerations
The Simpson H2.5AZ is designed to be compatible with a wide range of deck and beam configurations. It is particularly well-suited for use with drop beams, where a mechanical connection is required to prevent uplift of the joist. In such cases, the hurricane tie provides a secure connection between the joist and the beam, ensuring that the structure remains stable under stress.
When used in conjunction with other Simpson Strong Tie products, such as the L70Z joist hanger or the SDWS Timber Screws, the H2.5AZ can be part of a complete structural system that meets the requirements of modern building standards.
Structural considerations also include the use of blocking, which is required by code to prevent joist twisting and to provide additional support. The staggered placement of blocking helps to distribute the load evenly and ensures that the deck remains level and stable.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Simpson H2.5AZ is constructed from galvanized steel with a Zmax finish, which provides enhanced corrosion resistance. This makes the tie suitable for use in a variety of environments, including those with high humidity or exposure to moisture.
To maintain the performance of the hurricane tie, it is important to ensure that all fasteners remain tight and that the connections remain free from debris or damage. Periodic inspections are recommended, especially in areas prone to high winds or seismic activity.
For decks constructed with treated lumber, it is also important to apply a wood preservative to the cut ends of the joists and blocking. This helps to extend the lifespan of the wood and prevents decay over time.
Conclusion
The Simpson H2.5AZ Hurricane Tie is an essential component in deck and structural construction, providing a secure and durable connection between joists and beams. Proper installation involves the use of approved fasteners, the installation of blocking, and the careful alignment of the tie to ensure structural integrity.
By following the manufacturer’s installation instructions and consulting local building codes, users can ensure that their decks meet the highest standards of safety and durability. The use of high-quality fasteners, such as Simpson SD Connector Screws and SDWS Framing Screws, is critical to the performance of the tie and the overall strength of the structure.
Whether building a small deck or a large commercial structure, the Simpson H2.5AZ provides a reliable solution for reinforcing connections in high-wind or seismic conditions.