What are Hurricane Ties? and Other FAQ
Whether you're building a new home or reinforcing an existing structure, making sure your roof is anchored properly is essential, especially in regions prone to high winds or hurricanes. That’s where hurricane ties come in. In this post, we’ll cover what they are, how they work, and as a bonus: why Simpson’s structural screws might just be your new favorite shortcut.
What Are Hurricane Ties?
Hurricane ties are metal connectors used to anchor roof trusses or rafters to wall plates, helping to resist uplift caused by high winds. These small, inexpensive brackets play a major role in preserving the structural integrity of homes and buildings, especially in hurricane-prone regions. Installed on both sides of a rafter or truss, they form a crucial link between the roof and the rest of the structure.
How Do Hurricane Ties Work?
In high-wind events, roofs act like sails, catching gusts that can lift them off the structure. Hurricane ties prevent this by creating a continuous load path from the roof to the foundation. These ties absorb and redirect uplift forces into the framing, helping the structure stay put when nature pushes hard.
As our product expert Matt B. notes:
Think of hurricane ties like a chinstrap for your house. They secure your roof framing to the rest of the structure, creating a continuous path from the trusses all the way down to the foundation. Before these connectors were common, a roof wasn’t truly anchored in a meaningful way, so in a strong wind event like a hurricane or tornado, it could lift off just as easily as a baseball cap blowing off your head. Hurricane ties lock everything together so the whole structure works as one solid unit when the wind starts pushing.
What Materials Are Hurricane Ties Made From?
Most hurricane ties are made from galvanized steel, often with G90 or ZMAX coatings for corrosion resistance. In areas with high moisture or salt exposure, stainless steel versions are available to offer long-term durability. Always match the connector material to your environment and fastener compatibility.
Are There Alternatives to Hurricane Ties?
Yes, Simpson Strong-Tie Structural Screws.
For faster installs and cleaner aesthetics, many pros are switching to Simpson Strong-Drive SDWC Truss Screws. These code-listed screws provide the same uplift resistance as traditional ties without the need for metal brackets. Benefits include:
- Faster installation, especially in tight attic spaces
- Reduced hardware clutter
- ICC-ES code approval for rafter/truss-to-wall plate connections
- Ideal for new builds or retrofit projects
Do I Need Hurricane Ties?
If you’re in a high-wind, hurricane, or seismic zone, yes. Hurricane ties are often required by the International Residential Code (IRC) and local building codes. Even outside of those areas, many builders use them as a best practice for added strength and peace of mind.
Where Are Hurricane Ties Installed?
Typically, hurricane ties are installed where the roof meets the wall, connecting rafters or trusses to the top plate. They're also used in deck framing and open framing structures to secure beams, joists, or rafters.
Can I Install Hurricane Ties Myself?
Absolutely. With basic tools and attention to detail, DIYers can install hurricane ties. Here are a few tips:
- Use manufacturer-approved fasteners, regular screws or nails won’t do
- Install ties on both sides of a rafter or truss when possible
- For tight spaces, consider SDWC screws as an alternative
- Follow the product’s installation guide for spacing and nailing patterns
Conclusion: Metal or Screw? Do It Right Either Way.
Whether you go with tried-and-true metal connectors or opt for structural screws, securing your roof properly is critical for long-term performance and safety. At Fasteners Plus, we carry both hurricane ties and Simpson’s code-listed screw alternatives. If you’re unsure which is right for your job, reach out to our experts, we’re happy to help.
