The Simpson APB88 Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Post Base is a decorative structural connector engineered to secure an 8x8 post or column to concrete for outdoor projects including pergolas, patio covers, and other top-supported structures. Built by Simpson with a dual-layer ZMAX galvanized and black powder-coat finish, this post base delivers serious corrosion resistance without sacrificing curb appeal - making it a practical choice for exterior and treated-wood construction in demanding environments.

Key Features

• Designed to meet stringent building codes for seismic or high-wind events - gives you structural confidence that the connection meets code requirements in high-risk regions, reducing approval concerns during inspection.
• Slotted for adjustability - allows minor positioning corrections during installation so the post lines up perfectly even if the anchor placement is slightly off.
• 1 in. standoff from the concrete surface - elevates the post end above moisture that collects at the base, directly helping to prevent rot and extending the life of your post.
• Fastener holes are slightly offset to help prevent fastener interference - reduces the chance of fasteners splitting or colliding inside the wood, resulting in a cleaner, stronger installation (fasteners sold separately).
• ZMAX galvanized base with black powder-coat finish on the straps - the layered corrosion protection is engineered for exterior exposure and treated-wood contact, while the black finish keeps the hardware looking intentional rather than industrial.
• Base in 14 ga. steel with 12 ga. straps - the heavier-gauge straps handle the structural load transfer from post to base while the base plate provides a stable, durable footing on the concrete.
• Outdoor Accents side plates available separately (see APBDSP) - lets you extend the decorative look by covering the base plate sides, giving the finished installation a more refined, complete appearance.
• Install with (8) STN22 hex-head washers and (8) SDWS22312DBB structural wood screws - the recommended fastener system is designed to work as a matched set with this base, simplifying your hardware sourcing and ensuring a code-appropriate connection.

Why This Product

• Form and function in one connector - most post bases are purely utilitarian, but the Outdoor Accents Mission Collection design pairs ZMAX corrosion protection with a black powder-coat finish, so the hardware becomes part of the project's visual design rather than something to hide.
• Built-in rot prevention for long-term performance - the 1 in. concrete standoff is a simple but critical detail that keeps wood away from pooled moisture at the base, protecting your investment in large 8x8 structural columns over the long term.
• Engineered for high-demand outdoor applications - whether you are building in a seismic zone, a high-wind coastal area, or simply want a connection point that meets stringent building codes, this base is designed and rated for exactly those conditions.
• Adjustability that saves time on the job - the slotted design and offset fastener holes give you installation flexibility that is especially valuable when working with large posts where repositioning after anchoring is difficult.

Specifications

• Model Number: APB88
• Nominal Post Size: 8x8
• Width: 7-1/2 in.
• Length: 7 in.
• Height: 10-9/16 in.
• Steel Gauge: Base 14 ga.; strap 12 ga.
• Coating: ZMAX
• Finish: ZMAX Galvanized with Black Powder Coat
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Pergolas
• Patio covers
• Top-supported outdoor structures
• Exterior and treated-wood construction applications
• Structures located in seismic or high-wind zones

Related Products

• SDWS22312DBB Screws - Outdoor Accents structural wood screws (required for installation)
• STN22 Washers - Outdoor Accents hex-head washers (required for installation)
• Concrete Anchors - 5/8 in. concrete anchors required for installation
• - Outdoor Accents decorative post base side plates
• Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents Collection - Browse the complete collection

Frequently Asked Questions

What size post is the APB88 designed for?

The APB88 is designed for a nominal 8x8 post size, making it suitable for large structural columns used in pergolas, patio covers, and similar top-supported outdoor structures.

Why does the APB88 include a 1 in. standoff from the concrete?

The 1 in. standoff is specifically designed to help prevent rot at the post end by keeping the bottom of the post elevated above the concrete surface, reducing direct contact with moisture that can accumulate at the base.

What fasteners are required to install the APB88?

Installation requires (8) STN22 Outdoor Accents hex-head washers, (8) SDWS22312DBB Outdoor Accents structural wood screws, and (2) 5/8 in. concrete anchors. Fasteners are sold separately.

Is the APB88 suitable for use in high-wind or seismic regions?

Yes. The APB88 is designed to meet stringent building codes for seismic or high-wind events, providing the structural integrity required for outdoor projects in demanding environmental conditions.

Note: Fasteners are sold separately. Install with (8) STN22 Outdoor Accents hex-head washers and (8) SDWS22312DBB Outdoor Accents structural wood screws. Outdoor Accents side plates available separately (see SPECS).