The Simpson Strong-Tie CTS218 Compression/Tension Strap is an innovative 18-inch, 14-gauge steel repair strap engineered to handle both tension and compression loads - a first in the Simpson Strong-Tie strap lineup. Designed to repair wood members such as top plates, studs, and trusses, the CTS218 features unique rolled edges that allow it to span gaps as wide as 4-1/2 in., while its 1-1/2 in. width enables convenient installation on the narrow face of 2x lumber. Built from 14-gauge steel with a G90 zinc galvanized finish for superior corrosion resistance and made in the United States, the CTS218 delivers simple, versatile, and code-compliant repair solutions for light repairs and heavy-duty structural applications alike.

Key Features

• Tested specifically for top/bottom plate repair with various multi-strap configurations
• First Simpson strap designed to handle both tension and compression loads
• Unique rolled edges allow the strap to span gaps as wide as 4-1/2 in.
• 1-1/2 in. width enables installation on the narrow face of 2x lumber
• One-sided installations - install one or two CTS straps on the same side of the member
• Two-sided installation - install CTS straps on opposite sides of member
• For three-part installations, install two parts on one side, one part on opposite side
• Made from 14-gauge steel
• Galvanized (G90) for extra corrosion resistance
• Install with 10d x 1-1/2 in. nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SD screws
• Made in the United States

Specifications

• MPN: CTS218
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Gauge: 14
• Width: 17-7/8 in.
• Height: 1-1/2 in.
• Depth: 3/8 in.
• Coating: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Finish: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Install With: Install with 10d x 1-1/2 in. nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SD screws (sold separately)
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Repairing top plates that have been cut or notched to accommodate plumbing or HVAC ductwork
• Repair of wood members including top plates, studs, and trusses
• Structural connections requiring both tension and compression load resistance
• Installations on the narrow face of 2x lumber
• Spanning gaps as wide as 4-1/2 in. in wood framing repairs

Downloads and Resources

• Model No. CTS218Ga. 14Coating/Material Zinc Galvanized, G90View Spec Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the CTS218 different from other Simpson Strong-Tie straps?

The CTS218 is Simpson Strong-Tie's first strap designed to handle both tension and compression loads. Its unique rolled edges allow it to span gaps as wide as 4-1/2 in., and its 1-1/2 in. width enables installation on the narrow face of 2x lumber - capabilities not typically found in standard straps.

What types of wood members can the CTS218 be used to repair?

The CTS218 is designed to repair wood members such as top plates, studs, and trusses. It has been tested specifically for top/bottom plate repair with various multi-strap configurations, including repairs to plates that have been cut or notched for plumbing or HVAC ductwork.

What fasteners are recommended for installing the CTS218?

The CTS218 should be installed with 10d x 1-1/2 in. nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SD screws.

Can the CTS218 be installed on both sides of a wood member?

Yes. The CTS218 supports multiple installation configurations: one-sided installations allow one or two CTS straps on the same side of the member, and two-sided installations place CTS straps on opposite sides. For three-part installations, two straps are installed on one side and one strap on the opposite side.

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture. Please see item description for specifications.