The Simpson PPB44-6Z PPBZ Porch Post Base from Simpson Strong-Tie is engineered to simplify porch post installation by supporting permanent porch framing through every stage of construction - without ever requiring temporary vertical support structures. Designed for use with a nominal 4x4 post and a 6 in. slab, this post base is fastened to the footing with two Titen Turbo masonry screws during the framing phase, allowing the concrete contractor to pour and finish the slab on their own schedule - no framer return trip required. Built from 12-gauge steel with ZMAX galvanization, it is well-suited for exterior porch and overhang applications where long-term durability and compatibility with treated wood are essential.

Key Features

• Stiffened embedded side stirrups provide temporary vertical download support without being embedded into concrete - the post is held securely during framing so the slab can be poured later without disrupting the structure or requiring temporary shoring
• 1 in. standoff raises the post base off the finished slab - reduces the potential for decay at post or column ends, extending the service life of the framing member in wet or exterior conditions
• Pre-pour installation design - eliminates the need for temporary vertical support entirely, reducing labor steps and keeping the construction timeline moving forward without delays
• No disruption to subcontractor scheduling - the concrete contractor can complete the slab pour independently, and framers do not need to return after the concrete hardens, cutting down on additional trade move-ins and certain inspection callbacks
• Sized to fit a nominal 4x4 post and 6 in. slab thickness - purpose-built dimensions mean no guesswork or field modification, making installation straightforward for porch roof and overhang framing projects
• 12-gauge steel construction - provides the structural integrity needed to support vertical construction loads before the base is fully embedded, handling the weight of most framed porches and overhangs during the build process
• ZMAX galvanization delivers extra corrosion resistance - makes this post base a reliable choice for exterior environments and applications involving treated wood, where standard coatings may fall short over time

Why This Product

• Eliminates a common scheduling bottleneck on porch projects - because the base supports vertical construction loads before concrete embedment, framers and concrete contractors can complete their work independently, reducing coordination headaches and unnecessary return visits to the jobsite
• Built specifically for exterior porch and overhang applications - ZMAX galvanization and a 1 in. standoff work together to resist corrosion and minimize post-end decay, addressing two of the most common long-term durability concerns in exterior post installations
• Supports structural loads before the slab is poured - the stiffened side stirrups are engineered to handle the weight of most framed porches during construction, giving builders confidence that the framing is secure while concrete work is still in progress
• Streamlines the inspection and trade coordination process - by removing the need for temporary support structures and reducing the number of required trade move-ins, this porch post base helps keep projects on schedule and may reduce certain inspection callback requirements

Specifications

• MPN: PPB44-6Z
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Member Size: 4x4
• Slab Depth: 6 in.
• Width 1: 3-5/8 in.
• Width 2: 3-3/8 in.
• Height: 5-3/4 in.
• Gauge: 12
• Coating: ZMAX
• Finish: ZMAX
• Country of Origin: United States

Install With

• Install with (12) 0.148 in. x 3 in. Strong-Drive SCN Smooth-Shank Connector nails (Model: 10DHDG) and (2) 1/4 in. x 1-1/4 in. Titen Turbo concrete screws (Model: TNT25114H)

Frequently Asked Questions

What size post is the PPB44-6Z designed to fit?

The PPB44-6Z is sized to fit a nominal 4x4 post and is designed for use with a 6 in. slab thickness.

How does the PPBZ porch post base eliminate the need for temporary vertical support?

The stiffened embedded side stirrups provide temporary vertical download support without being embedded into concrete. The base is fastened to the footing with two Titen Turbo masonry screws during porch roof framing, allowing the concrete contractor to pour and complete the slab later - without any temporary support structures in the way and without requiring the framer to return to the jobsite after the slab has hardened.

Why is ZMAX galvanization important for this product?

ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance, making the PPB44-6Z well-suited for exterior applications and use with treated wood - environments where standard galvanization may not offer sufficient long-term protection.

What fasteners are recommended for installing the PPB44-6Z?

Installation is recommended with (12) 0.148 in. x 3 in. Strong-Drive SCN Smooth-Shank Connector nails (Model: 10DHDG) and (2) 1/4 in. x 1-1/4 in. Titen Turbo concrete screws (Model: TNT25114H).

Note: Product dimensions may differ from picture.