The Simpson SBR/43-R20 Structural Spacer Bracer is an 18-gauge (43 mil), G90 galvanized cold-formed steel component engineered specifically for structural exterior stud walls. Designed by Simpson Strong-Tie, it provides bracing along the length of cold-formed steel studs and accommodates head-of-wall slip conditions, while reducing installed wall costs by enabling faster stud layout and minimizing the need for bridging clips. Assembly-tested bracing load data backs every installation, giving designers and structural contractors measurable confidence in their specifications from the start.

Key Features

• Patent-pending precision-engineered prepunched slots at 12 in., 16 in., and 24 in. on-center spacing - contractors can space studs without marking the top track for layout, cutting layout time and reducing room for error on every cold-formed steel framing project.
• Compatible with 3-5/8 in. and 6 in. studs in thicknesses from 33 mil (20 ga.) through 68 mil (14 ga.) - broad stud compatibility means a single spacer bracer model handles a wide range of structural exterior wall assemblies without substitutions.
• Hat-section profile enables clip attachments via Simpson Strong-Tie LSSC or RCA connectors in off-layout or end-of-run conditions - gives installers a reliable fastening solution wherever standard on-module spacing is not possible, eliminating the need for field workarounds.
• Prepunched holes allow rapid screw installation at splice locations for axial load-bearing studs - speeds up spacer-bracer splicing on load-bearing walls and keeps fastener placement consistent across the assembly.
• G90 zinc galvanized finish - provides extra corrosion resistance, making the SBR well-suited for structural exterior wall environments where moisture exposure is a design consideration.
• Made from 18-gauge (43 mil) steel - the heavier gauge delivers the structural rigidity required for load-bearing exterior cold-formed steel stud wall applications.

Why This Product

• Faster framing with fewer steps - the prepunched on-center slot pattern lets crews space and brace studs in a single operation, eliminating separate layout marking and reducing the number of bridging clips needed on structural exterior walls.
• Assembly-tested bracing load data reduces design risk - unlike products without published load data, the SBR comes backed by assembly testing results, giving engineers and designers verified numbers to work from and reducing liability exposure on structural projects.
• Versatile enough for both standard and non-standard conditions - the hat-section profile and compatible clip connectors mean the same spacer bracer handles on-module runs and off-layout or end-of-run situations without requiring a separate product, simplifying procurement and jobsite inventory.
• Built for long-term performance in exterior structural applications - the combination of 18-gauge steel construction and G90 galvanized coating delivers the strength and corrosion resistance that structural cold-formed steel exterior walls demand over the life of the building.

Specifications

• Model Number: SBR/43-R20
• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): SBR/43-R20
• Steel Gauge: 18 ga.
• Thickness: 43 mil
• Length: 50-3/4 in.
• Coating / Finish: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Compatible Stud Widths: 3-5/8 in. and 6 in.
• Compatible Stud Thicknesses: 33 mil (20 ga.) through 68 mil (14 ga.)
• On-Center Spacing Enabled: 12 in., 16 in., 24 in.
• Packaging Quantity: 20
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Structural exterior cold-formed steel stud walls
• Bracing along the length of cold-formed steel studs
• Head-of-wall slip condition bracing
• On-module stud spacing at 12 in., 16 in., and 24 in. on-center layouts
• Off-layout and end-of-run conditions using clip attachments with Simpson Strong-Tie LSSC or RCA connectors
• Axial load-bearing stud walls requiring spacer-bracer splices

What's Included

• 20 x Simpson Strong-Tie SBR/43 18-Gauge G90 Galvanized Structural Spac

Frequently Asked Questions

What stud sizes and thicknesses is the SBR/43-R20 compatible with?

The SBR accommodates 3-5/8 in. and 6 in. cold-formed steel studs in thicknesses ranging from 33 mil (20 ga.) through 68 mil (14 ga.), making it suitable for a wide range of structural exterior wall assemblies.

What on-center stud spacing options do the prepunched slots support?

The patent-pending precision-engineered prepunched slots are strategically located to enable 12 in., 16 in., and 24 in. on-center stud spacing. The slots also allow contractors to space studs without having to mark the top track for layout, speeding up installation.

How is the SBR different from the DBR, and when should each be used?

The SBR is designed specifically for structural exterior walls, while the DBR is intended for interior walls to eliminate stud bow and allow for quicker drywall attachment. Both products provide bracing along the length of the stud and for head-of-wall slip conditions, and both feature prepunched slots that eliminate the need for bridging clips with on-module studs.

What connectors are used with the SBR in off-layout or end-of-run conditions?

In off-layout or end-of-run conditions, the hat-section profile of the SBR enables clip attachments to the stud using Simpson Strong-Tie LSSC or RCA connectors.