Frequently Asked Questions
We talk to building professionals every day
Here we answer some of the most common queries about selecting and installing the best connector for the job.
FAQ
What are the advantages of using the standard JHMR and HJHMR return type masonry hangers over the non-return JHM and HJHM models?
The return holds the hanger onto the wall during construction and ensures the back of the stirrup is not away from the face of the wall. No increase in safe working load is given and a minimum 675mm masonry is still required above the hanger with mortar fully cured before applying load.
How much masonry is needed above your standard masonry hanger range?
A minimum of 675mm of fully cured masonry (3 courses of solid block) is required above the hanger top flange before applying load.
Are there any masonry hangers that are safe to use with no masonry above?
The new SFH Safety Fast Masonry Hangers are the only hangers that can be used with no masonry above.
Are Simpson products limited to the applications described in the catalogue?
No, as long as the recommended safe working loads are adhered to, they can be used for all sorts of construction applications. For more information on specific applications, please ask your question online.
Do SAE and HU face fix hangers have to be the full height of the joist?
No, recommended min hanger height is 60% of the joist.
Do you have a hanger that can be bolted directly to timber or masonry and what size bolts should I use?
SAE hangers have both bolt and nail holes and can be bolted to either timber or masonry with suitable 12mm diameter bolts.
What are 'Safe Working Loads' used in the catalogue?
The Safe Working Load allowed for a hanger is the maximum load that the hanger can support. This load is determined by testing and through mathematical calculations. The values obtained from the tests and calculations are then weighted for safety to account for variations in the manufacture of connectors and in the type of wood used.
Can I use standard wood screws instead of the nails you specify in your catalogue?
The specified nails that have been tested with the connector perform better in shear as they have a larger shank diameter and are less brittle than standard wood screws.
Why do some of your timber to timber connectors have double shear nailing?
This patented innovation distributes the load through two points on each joist nail for greater strength. It also allows the use of fewer nails and faster installation.
Do you make customised products?
We can make specialised, one-off connectors based on your own specifications. See our support page for more information about our one-off connector fabrication service.
What is 1kN equivalent to?
Approximately 100 kg. To be precise, you can work out the conversion from Force to Weight by using the formula F = MG where F is the force in load.
How do I specifiy the SAE hanger with slope and skew angles?
To specify the item reference for an SAE angle with a slope and/or skew, see the following examples:
SAE380/63 with a skew to the right of 15°
Item Width Height Skew Angle Slope Angle SAE380X A = 63 B = 159 SKR = 15° SL = 0° SAE380/63 with a skew to the left of 15°
Item Width Height Skew Angle Slope Angle SAE380X A = 63 B = 159 SKL = 15° Slope = 0° SAE380/63 with a skew to the left of 15° and slope down of 15°
Item Width Height Skew Angle Slope Angle SAE380X A = 63 B = 159 SKL = 15° SLD = 15° SAE380/63 with no skew and a slope up of 15°
Item Width Height Skew Angle Slope Angle SAE380X A = 63 B = 159 Skew = 0° SLU = 15° Note, where slope or skew is not required, please specify 'slope = 0°' or 'skew = 0°'.
Abbreviations:
SKR = Skewed Right
SKL = Skewed Left
SLU = Sloped Up
SLD = Sloped DownDo JHMR and HJHMR return hangers provide lateral restraint?
Traditional masonry hangers with returns but without restraint straps do not satisfy the requirements for lateral restraint type hangers. The Safety Fast system does however provide full lateral restraint.