The Simpson 18-5/16 ZMAX Galvanized Retrofit Strap Tie is a purpose-built repair strap from Simpson designed for wood framing members where pipes, ducts, or other mechanical systems have been routed through studs or plates. Fabricated from 16-gauge steel with a ZMAX galvanized finish, this retrofit plate strap reinforces cut or compromised framing at wall intersections, ridge tie connections, and locations where plates or soles have been cut - delivering dependable structural reinforcement in both exterior and treated-wood applications while meeting IBC, IRC, and City of Los Angeles code requirements for HVAC and pipes in walls.

Key Features

• Repair strap for wood members where pipes and ducts are installed - directly addresses compromised framing caused by mechanical system installations, restoring structural integrity without requiring full framing replacement
• Fits on the narrow face of a 2x member - designed for tight framing situations where space is limited, allowing installation without interference from adjacent mechanical or structural elements
• Fasten where plates or soles are cut, at wall intersections, or as a ridge tie - versatile enough to handle multiple repair and reinforcement scenarios with a single connector type
• Staggered nail pattern - optimizes fastener placement across the strap to distribute load evenly and reduce the risk of wood splitting during installation
• 16-gauge steel construction - provides the structural strength needed for heavy-duty framing repairs while keeping the profile slim enough to fit a 1 1/2 in. wide member
• ZMAX galvanization offers extra corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood applications - goes beyond standard galvanized coatings to protect against the accelerated corrosion that treated lumber and outdoor environments can cause, extending the service life of the connection

Why This Product

• Built specifically for mechanical trade cutouts - unlike general-purpose straps, this retrofit strap tie is engineered specifically for situations where HVAC, plumbing, or electrical runs have cut through framing members, making it the right tool for a very common jobsite repair scenario
• Code-compliant for demanding jurisdictions - meets IBC, IRC, and City of Los Angeles requirements for HVAC and pipes in walls, giving contractors and inspectors confidence that the repair meets recognized standards without additional engineering
• ZMAX coating for long-term durability in harsh conditions - the ZMAX galvanized finish is suitable for exterior connections and treated-wood applications where standard hardware would be vulnerable to premature corrosion, reducing callbacks and long-term maintenance concerns
• Straightforward installation on narrow framing faces - the 1 1/2 in. width and staggered nail pattern allow the strap to seat cleanly on the narrow face of a 2x member and fasten with (12) 0.162 in. x 2-1/2 in. nails, keeping the repair process efficient even in confined wall cavities

Specifications

• Model Number: RPS18Z
• Width: 1-1/2 in.
• Length: 18-5/16 in.
• Gauge: 16
• Coating/Finish: ZMAX
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Reinforcing wood members where pipes and ducts have been installed through studs or plates
• Fastening where plates or soles are cut during installation of HVAC, plumbing, or electrical runs
• Use at wall intersections as a structural connector
• Ridge tie applications
• Exterior applications and connections involving treated wood, where corrosion resistance is required
• Projects subject to IBC, IRC, and City of Los Angeles code requirements for HVAC and pipes in walls

Install With

• Install with (12) 0.162 in. x 2-1/2 in. nails

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the RPS18Z retrofit strap tie fit on a lumber member?

The RPS18Z is designed to fit on the narrow face of a 2x member, making it well-suited for tight framing situations where pipes, ducts, or other mechanical systems have been routed through studs or plates.

What type of galvanization does the RPS18Z have, and why does it matter?

The RPS18Z features ZMAX galvanization, which provides extra corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized coatings. This makes it appropriate for exterior applications and connections involving treated wood, where standard hardware may be prone to corrosion over time.

What building codes does the RPS18Z meet?

The RPS18Z meets IBC, IRC, and City of Los Angeles code requirements for HVAC and pipes in walls, making it suitable for a wide range of compliant residential and commercial construction applications.

What fasteners should be used to install the RPS18Z?

The RPS18Z should be installed with (12) 0.162 in. x 2-1/2 in. nails. The strap features a staggered nail pattern to help ensure proper fastener placement and optimal load performance.

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