The Simpson LUS48Z LUS ZMAX Galvanized Face-Mount Joist Hanger is a Simpson Strong-Tie engineered connector built to deliver solid, load-bearing support underneath joists, rafters, and beams in face-mount framing applications. Constructed from 18-gauge steel with a ZMAX galvanized finish, this hanger is engineered for exterior and treated-wood environments where standard corrosion protection falls short. Its patented double-shear nailing design distributes load through two points on each joist nail, enabling a stronger connection with fewer fasteners - making it a reliable and efficient choice for residential and light commercial framing projects.

Key Features

• Patented double-shear nailing design provides greater strength with fewer nails - load is distributed through two points on each joist nail, reducing the total number of fasteners needed without sacrificing connection strength
• Speed prongs for fast and easy installation - hold the hanger in place during positioning so you can work more efficiently without a second set of hands
• Angled joist nailing easier in tight spaces - the nailing angle is optimized to give you better access in confined framing conditions where a straight drive is difficult
• ZMAX galvanization offers extra corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood applications - provides a higher level of protection than standard galvanized coatings, extending the service life of the connection in demanding environments
• Made from 18-gauge steel - delivers the structural integrity required for common lumber sizes in both residential and light commercial framing
• Hanger seat width of 3-9/16 in. fits nominal 4x8 and 4x10 lumber - ensures a proper, snug fit for the supported member so the connection performs as engineered
• Do not bend or remove tabs - tabs are structural elements of the hanger design; leaving them intact is essential to maintaining rated load capacity

Why This Product

• Fewer nails, faster installation, same strong connection - the patented double-shear nailing design means you drive fewer fasteners to achieve the required load rating, cutting labor time on the job without compromising structural performance
• Built for treated-wood and exterior framing where ordinary hangers fall short - the ZMAX galvanized finish is specifically engineered to resist the corrosive effects of treated lumber and outdoor exposure, making this hanger the appropriate choice when standard galvanization is insufficient
• Compatible with common fasteners you likely already have on site - accepts all common nails as well as Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD Connector screws and SCN Smooth-Shank Connector nails, giving installers flexibility without requiring specialty hardware
• An economical face-mount solution that works across common joist sizes - fits nominal 4x8 and 4x10 lumber and is compatible with Douglas Fir, Southern Pine, Spruce-Pine-Fir, and Hem-Fir species, reducing the number of different hanger SKUs needed on a typical framing project

Specifications

• Model Number: LUS48Z
• Nominal Joist Size: 4x8, 4x10
• Width: 3-9/16 in.
• Seat Depth: 2 in.
• Hanger Seat Width: 3-9/16 in.
• Height: 6-3/4 in.
• Gauge: 18
• Coating / Finish: ZMAX
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Face-mount joist and rafter connections for solid sawn lumber
• Exterior applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance
• Treated-wood applications where standard galvanization is insufficient
• Common lumber sizes in residential and light commercial framing
• Compatible with Douglas Fir / Southern Pine (DF/SP) and Spruce-Pine-Fir / Hem-Fir (SPF/HF) lumber species

Frequently Asked Questions

What fasteners should be used to install the LUS48Z?

Install with Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD Connector screws: (6) #9 x 1-1/2 in. screws in the header AND (4) #9 x 2-1/2 in. screws in the joist, OR (10) 0.162 in. x 3-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SCN Smooth-Shank Connector nails (Models: SD9112, SD9212, 16DHDG).

Why does the LUS48Z use a double-shear nailing design?

The patented double-shear nailing design distributes the load through two points on each joist nail, resulting in greater strength. This allows for fewer nails, faster installation, and the use of all common nails for the same connection.

What makes the ZMAX coating different from standard galvanization?

ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance compared to standard coatings, making the LUS48Z especially suitable for exterior applications and use with treated wood where greater protection against corrosion is required.

Can the tabs on the LUS48Z be bent or removed to fit a different application?

No. The tabs on the LUS48Z must not be bent or removed. Modifying the hanger in this way can compromise the structural integrity and load-rated performance of the connection.

Downloads and Resources

• Face-Mount Hangers - Solid Sawn Lumber (DF / SP) Tables
• Face-Mount Hangers - Solid Sawn Lumber (SPF / HF) Tables

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