The Simpson MSTA18SS MSTA 18-in. 18-Gauge Stainless-Steel Medium Strap Tie by Simpson is engineered to resist tension loads in wood-to-wood uplift applications, delivering reliable structural performance where it matters most. Designed specifically for use on the edge of 2x members, this medium strap tie features a staggered nail pattern to help minimize wood splitting during installation. Its 18-gauge stainless-steel construction provides high and severe corrosion resistance, making it a dependable choice for demanding environments where long-term connection integrity is critical. Whether used in floor-to-floor clear span applications or projects subject to elevated wind and seismic forces, this strap tie is built to hold.

Key Features

• Load-rated with correct thickness and number of fasteners - gives builders a verified, engineered connection in contrast with field-fabricated straps, removing guesswork from critical structural joints
• Increased load values for wind and seismic forces - means the strap meets the demands of code-driven uplift and lateral load requirements in high-stress structural applications
• Floor-to-floor clear span application - allows continuous tension transfer across framing levels, making it well suited for multi-story wood-frame construction
• Designed for use on the edge of 2x members - ensures proper fit and alignment on standard framing lumber without modification or guesswork during installation
• Staggered nail pattern - helps minimize wood splitting as fasteners are driven, preserving the integrity of the wood member and the quality of the finished connection
• 18-gauge stainless-steel construction - provides high and severe corrosion resistance for applications in coastal, treated-lumber, or other harsh environments where standard hardware would degrade prematurely
• Installs with stainless-steel 10d common nails - maintains a fully compatible, corrosion-resistant connection from strap to fastener, preserving long-term structural performance

Why This Product

• Engineered reliability over field fabrication - unlike improvised strap solutions, this tie is load rated with the correct gauge and fastener count, so contractors and inspectors can trust the connection meets verified performance standards
• Built for corrosive environments - stainless-steel material provides high and severe corrosion resistance, making this strap tie a sound long-term investment in coastal zones, high-humidity conditions, or applications involving treated lumber
• Optimized for wind and seismic uplift resistance - load values have been increased for wind and seismic forces, giving builders a strap tie ready for the structural demands of modern code-compliant construction
• Installation-friendly design - the staggered nail pattern and edge-of-2x member orientation work together to simplify fastening while reducing the risk of wood splitting, helping crews work efficiently without compromising connection quality

Specifications

• MPN: MSTA18SS
• Length: 18 in.
• Width: 1-1/4 in.
• Gauge: 18
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Finish: Stainless Steel
• Member Size: 2x
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Wood-to-wood uplift and tension load connections
• Floor-to-floor clear span applications
• Edge installations on 2x framing members
• Projects requiring enhanced resistance to wind and seismic forces
• High and severe corrosion environments requiring stainless steel hardware

Frequently Asked Questions

What fasteners are required to install the MSTA18SS?

The MSTA18SS should be installed with stainless-steel 10d common nails to ensure compatibility with the stainless-steel strap and to maintain corrosion resistance throughout the connection.

Why is the MSTA18SS made from stainless steel instead of standard steel?

The stainless-steel construction provides high and severe corrosion resistance, making the MSTA18SS well suited for environments where standard galvanized hardware would be prone to premature corrosion and structural degradation.

How does the staggered nail pattern benefit the installation?

The staggered nail pattern is designed to help minimize wood splitting during fastener installation, ensuring a cleaner, more reliable connection without compromising the integrity of the wood members.

What makes the MSTA18SS more reliable than a field-fabricated strap?

Unlike field-fabricated straps, the MSTA18SS is load rated with the correct thickness and number of fasteners, providing a verified, engineered connection with loads that have been increased for wind and seismic forces.

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