Outdoor Accents: Decorative Connectors & Hardware for Your Project
Simpson Strong-Tie's Outdoor Accents bring together architectural flair and load-rated performance for outdoor structures like pergolas, gazebos, decks, and more. These decorative connectors are built to be seen - offering both form and function with every bolt, bracket, and base. Whether you're a contractor or DIY enthusiast, this line of hardware adds strength without compromising appearance.
Explore Our Outdoor Accent Categories
Our unique Outdoor Accent Kits provide a convenient bundle of matching connectors and hardware to simplify your build. Perfect for pergolas and pavilions, these kits include post bases, caps, straps, fasteners, and more—making layout and ordering fast and frustration-free.
Matching fasteners complete the look of your build, with powder-coated heads and load-rated performance. Hex-head screws, connectors, and specialty washers are designed to integrate seamlessly with every accent in the line.
These structural bases secure posts to concrete or wood surfaces, while adding an elegant touch with their black powder-coated finish. Ideal for decks, porches, and open-frame structures where exposed bases contribute to the final look.
Support joists in your exposed framing with decorative hangers that match the aesthetic of your project. These hangers maintain proper load transfer and structural integrity while blending into the rest of your accent hardware.
Used to connect and brace wood members at right angles or across large spans, these T and L straps provide visual symmetry and critical support. Often installed where beams intersect or transition into upright posts.
Flat and deck ties reinforce straight-line wood connections and help prevent twisting or shifting under load. These decorative elements keep your outdoor framing tight and aligned while adding a professional look.
Angle brackets offer diagonal support at joints, especially in areas prone to lateral stress. The black finish and visible profile make them a great choice for corners or transitional points that require both strength and style.
Designed for open-frame structures like gazebos and pavilion roofs, these gable plates tie together angled beams at ridge points. They serve both a structural and stylistic function, often as the centerpiece of a pitched frame.
These heavy-duty connectors strengthen the critical intersections of beams and posts, especially where angled or horizontal forces are at play. Knee braces add visual weight and serious support for larger timber structures.
Finish Options & Material Performance
Outdoor Accents are made from ZMAX® galvanized steel with an optional black powder-coated finish. These finishes enhance corrosion resistance, especially for pressure-treated lumber and moisture-prone environments, while adding refined visual contrast to wood framing.
Common Applications
- Pergolas and pavilions
- Covered patios and gazebos
- Deck and porch framing
- Garden structures and trellises
- Custom timber and decorative framing
Installation & Compatibility Tips
Outdoor Accents work with most wood types, including pressure-treated lumber. Use matching corrosion-resistant fasteners, and always pre-drill if you're working near wood ends to avoid splitting. For larger or symmetrical layouts, measure and mark anchor points ahead of time to ensure a balanced appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are Outdoor Accents structural? Yes - these connectors are tested and load-rated for structural performance.
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Can I use them outdoors all year? Absolutely. The finishes are engineered for long-term exposure to the elements.
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Do I need special fasteners? Use the designated Simpson Outdoor Accents fasteners for best results - these match the finish and meet performance specs.
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How do I choose between kits and individual parts? Kits are perfect for matching components in one box. If you're customizing a build, individual parts allow more flexibility in layout and quantity.
For more information, check out our blogs on the full line of Simpson Outdoor Accents or if you're looking for project ideas, check out our Simpson Outdoor Accents DIY Project Inspiration, The Best Decorative Hardware for Outdoor Projects or How to Build a Garden Bench.
Further Questions About Outdoor Accents
From decorative connectors to structural fasteners, it can be daunting to decide which product best suits your needs. Our team of experts has a depth of knowledge in the fastener industry. If you have any additional questions be sure to reach out and we'll be glad to help.
