The Simpson FBFZ ZMAX Galvanized Flat Rail Fence Bracket is engineered to create a sturdy, concealed connection between 2x4 rails and posts, eliminating the need for toe nails or screws. Its flat-plate design streamlines installation and delivers a clean, finished look for fences, deck and porch railings, louver framing, and similar exterior wood projects. Built from 18-gauge steel with ZMAX galvanization, this fence rail bracket is purpose-built to hold up in exterior and pressure-treated wood applications where long-term corrosion resistance matters.

Key Features

• Clean, concealed flat-plate design - eliminates visible toe nails or screws for a polished, professional finish on fences, railings, and louvers
• Versatile application range - works across fence rail-to-post connections, deck and porch railing construction, handrail attachments at 30 in. or closer to ground level, and louver assembly, reducing the number of different brackets you need on a job
• Bendable tabs on each end - allow slight adjustments when wood rails are cut too short and maintain a secure connection as wood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal changes
• Flexible hole design - accommodates multiple fastener types, including nails and Strong-Drive SD Connector screws, so you can work with the fasteners you already have on hand
• 18-gauge steel construction - provides solid structural strength without excessive bulk, keeping the bracket low-profile against the post
• ZMAX galvanization - delivers extra corrosion resistance specifically suited for exterior environments and direct contact with pressure-treated lumber, extending the service life of the connection

Why This Product

• Faster, cleaner builds - the flat-plate bracket design removes the guesswork of toe-nailing, making rail-to-post connections quicker to execute and more consistent across an entire fence or railing run
• Built-in flexibility for real job-site conditions - the bendable tabs accommodate minor cutting variations and wood movement, reducing wasted material and callbacks caused by loose or shifting rails
• Corrosion resistance where it counts - ZMAX galvanization is specifically suited for the harsh conditions of exterior and treated-wood applications, making this bracket a reliable long-term choice rather than a short-term fix
• Multi-use value across a single project - one bracket model handles fence rails, deck and porch railings, handrail attachments, and louver framing, simplifying procurement and reducing the number of components to track on site

Specifications

• MPN: FBFZ
• Nominal Member Size: 2x4
• Width: 1-9/16 in.
• Height: 4-3/4 in.
• Gauge: 18
• Coating/Finish: ZMAX
• Seat Depth: 7/32 in.
• Country of Origin: United States
• Install With: Install with (5) 0.131 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails, 0.131 in. x 2-1/2 in. nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SD Connector screws

Approved Applications

• Fence rail-to-post connections
• Deck and porch railing construction
• Handrail attachments for porch and deck railings that are 30 in. or closer to ground level
• Louver framing and assembly
• Exterior and pressure-treated wood applications

Downloads and Resources

• View Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What size lumber is the FBFZ designed to work with?

The FBFZ is designed for a nominal member size of 2x4. Its width of 1-9/16 in. and height of 4-3/4 in. are sized specifically to accommodate standard 2x4 rails.

What fasteners are required to install the FBFZ bracket?

Install with (5) 0.131 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails, 0.131 in. x 2-1/2 in. nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SD Connector screws. The flexible hole design accommodates multiple fastener types.

Is the FBFZ suitable for use with pressure-treated lumber?

Yes. The FBFZ features ZMAX galvanization, which offers extra corrosion resistance specifically suited for exterior and treated-wood applications.

What is the purpose of the bendable tabs on the FBFZ bracket?

The bendable tabs on each end of the bracket allow for slight adjustments when wood rails are cut too short and provide a secure connection when wood expands and contracts, ensuring a reliable fit even with minor dimensional variations in lumber.

Related Products

• Nails 0.131 x 1-1/2"
• #9 x 1 1/2"
• Strong-Drive SD Connector screws