The Simpson MPB44Z Moment Post Base is engineered specifically to provide moment resistance for wood columns and posts in structural applications. Its innovative sleeve design encapsulates the post and keeps it from rotating at its base when lateral loads are applied at the top, giving specifiers and contractors greater design flexibility and the opportunity to reduce the need for bracing - creating more unobstructed views. This off-the-shelf solution has been engineered and tested to save specifiers and contractors the time and expense involved in designing, calculating, and ordering custom-fabricated parts, making it a practical choice for decks, pergolas, carports, and open-structure builds alike.

Key Features

• Code-required 1 in. post standoff via internal tabs - keeps the wood post elevated above standing water and ground moisture, reducing the risk of rot and extending the life of the post.
• Stamped indicators and internal tabs identify required concrete embedment depth - removes guesswork during installation so the base is set correctly the first time, reducing costly errors.
• Strategically placed holes allow template attachment - simplifies positioning during the concrete pour phase, speeding up the installation process.
• Optional obround holes for trim material attachment - allows finished trim to be fastened cleanly to the base, supporting a polished final appearance without extra hardware.
• Additional holes at the embedment line allow water drainage and visual inspection - helps standing water exit the connector and provides a point to verify installation integrity after concrete placement.
• One-piece construction - fewer parts mean faster assembly and less chance of component mismatch on the job site.
• Made from 12-gauge steel - delivers the structural strength needed to handle moment and lateral load demands in residential and light commercial framing applications.
• ZMAX galvanized finish - provides extra corrosion resistance suited for exterior environments and direct contact with pressure-treated lumber, where standard galvanization may fall short.
• Includes 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - everything needed for fastening arrives with the base, so there are no separate fastener purchases to track down.

Why This Product

• Eliminates the need for custom fabrication - this pre-engineered, tested solution replaces the time and expense of designing and ordering custom moment-connection hardware, making it a cost-effective choice for contractors and structural specifiers.
• Enables cleaner, more open structural designs - by resisting rotation at the post base under lateral loading, this connector reduces or eliminates the need for diagonal bracing, opening up sightlines in pergolas, covered patios, and similar structures.
• Built for long-term exterior performance - the ZMAX galvanized coating is specifically suited for outdoor use and contact with treated wood, making this base a durable fit for exposed applications where corrosion resistance is essential.
• Installer-friendly details at every step - from template-attachment holes and depth indicators to the included SDS screws, every design element of this connector is aimed at reducing installation time and minimizing the opportunity for error in the field.

Specifications

• Model Number: MPB44Z
• Finish: ZMAX
• Coating: ZMAX
• Gauge: 12
• Member Size: 4x4
• Country of Origin: United States
• Install With: 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (included)

What's Included

Each pack contains (1) MPB44Z Moment Post Base - Zmax Finish, 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the MPBZ's sleeve design?

The innovative sleeve design encapsulates the post and keeps it from rotating at its base when lateral loads are applied at the top. This provides both the specifier and the contractor with greater design options and the opportunity to reduce the need for bracing, creating more unobstructed views.

Why does the MPB44Z include a post standoff, and how large is it?

Tabs inside the MPBZ provide the code-required 1 in. post standoff to help prevent rot from standing water and ground moisture, keeping the wood post elevated above the base of the connector.

What type of corrosion protection does the ZMAX finish provide?

ZMAX galvanization offers extra corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood applications, making the MPB44Z well-suited for outdoor use where exposure to moisture and treated lumber is expected.

What fasteners are used to install the MPB44Z, and are they included?

The MPB44Z is installed with 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are included with the post base.