Many structural failures in woodframe
buildings occur not because
a member breaks but because a connection
comes apart. Yet, in residential
work, making strong, engineered connections
in the field has never been easier.
There are many different metal
connectors available today, and manufacturers
have been innovative as well
as responsive to industry needs.
Every designer and builder should
have some manufacturers' product catalogs
on hand for quick help in finding
solutions to connection problems.
I keep these catalogs in a ring binder
on a reference shelf at arm's reach
from my work station, and refer to
them often.
In this article, I'll look at some of
my favorite connectors, as well as a
few that I would avoid.
Double-Shear Joist Hangers
High