The Simpson MSTAM36Z 36" 16-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Medium Masonry Strap Tie is a structural connector engineered by Simpson to resist tension loads in wood-to-masonry uplift applications. Spanning 36 inches, this medium strap tie works with both concrete and grout-filled concrete masonry units (GFCMU), making it a dependable choice for floor-to-floor clear span connections that must perform under wind and seismic loading conditions. A staggered nail pattern helps minimize wood splitting during installation, and the ZMAX galvanized finish delivers enhanced corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood environments.

Key Features

• Load-rated design with correct thickness and fastener count - gives you verified, code-supportable performance that field-fabricated straps cannot reliably provide.
• Increased load values for wind and seismic forces - means the connector is engineered to meet the elevated demands of high-wind and earthquake-prone regions without requiring field modifications.
• Floor-to-floor clear span application - allows the strap to bridge between framing levels in a single continuous piece, simplifying installation and maintaining structural continuity.
• ZMAX galvanized finish - provides extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanization, making this strap suitable for exterior installations and contact with treated wood where moisture exposure is a concern.
• Staggered nail pattern - reduces stress concentration in the wood framing during fastener installation, helping preserve the integrity of the lumber at the connection point.
• Compatible with both concrete and GFCMU substrates - offers installation flexibility across common masonry wall types without requiring a different connector for each substrate.

Why This Product

• Factory-rated performance you can document - because this strap is load-rated with the correct thickness and number of fasteners, it gives contractors and inspectors a traceable, consistent basis for approval that field-fabricated alternatives cannot match.
• Built for demanding structural environments - with load values specifically increased for wind and seismic forces, this connector is a purposeful choice for projects in regions where uplift resistance is a primary structural concern.
• Long-term durability in tough installation conditions - the ZMAX coating is specifically suited for exterior and treated-wood applications, reducing the risk of premature corrosion in moisture-exposed connections over the life of the structure.
• Versatile masonry compatibility in one connector - a single strap design that works with both poured concrete and grout-filled concrete masonry units means fewer SKUs to manage on the job site and consistent detailing across mixed-substrate projects.

Specifications

• Model Number: MSTAM36Z
• Strap Length: 36 in.
• Width: 1-1/4 in.
• Gauge: 16
• Coating: ZMAX
• Finish: ZMAX
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Wood-to-masonry uplift and tension load resistance
• Attachment to concrete masonry units
• Attachment to grout-filled concrete masonry units (GFCMU)
• Floor-to-floor clear span connections
• Exterior and treated-wood applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance
• Wind and seismic force-resisting assemblies

Installation

• Install with (13) 0.148 in. x 3 in. common nails AND (8) 1-1/4 in. x 2-1/4 in. Titen Turbo screws for GFCMU OR (8) 1-1/4 in. x 1-3/4 in. Titen Turbo screws for concrete
• Attaches to concrete or GFCMU and wood framing
• Minimum end and edge distance for Titen Turbo screws is 1-1/2 in.
• Staggered nail pattern minimizes wood splitting during fastener installation

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of masonry is the MSTAM36Z compatible with?

The MSTAM36Z is designed for use with either concrete or grout-filled concrete masonry units (GFCMU), making it versatile for a range of wood-to-masonry uplift applications.

What fasteners are required to install the MSTAM36Z?

Installation requires (13) 0.148 in. x 3 in. common nails AND (8) 1-1/4 in. x 2-1/4 in. Titen Turbo screws for GFCMU, or (8) 1-1/4 in. x 1-3/4 in. Titen Turbo screws when attaching to concrete.

Why choose the ZMAX coating on the MSTAM36Z over standard galvanization?

ZMAX galvanization offers extra corrosion resistance specifically suited for exterior and treated-wood applications, providing a longer service life in harsh or high-moisture environments compared to standard coatings.

How does the MSTAM36Z differ from a field-fabricated strap?

Unlike field-fabricated straps, the MSTAM36Z is load rated with the correct thickness and number of fasteners, ensuring consistent, code-compliant performance. Its loads have also been increased for wind and seismic forces, offering a higher level of structural reliability.

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