Questions and Answers for Simpson Strong-Tie BC Galvanized Post Base for 4x Nominal Lumber

A:  Certainly, these post anchors can be attached to all the materials mentioned using the appropriate fasteners. I used bolts set in wet concrete. As for what these are "rated" for, I would assume that the manufacturer has determined installation practices that meet certain building code specifications. In the case of these anchors, a wood to wood attachment where cross bracing is incorporated. There are more robust and stronger post anchors available that are intended for use with concrete. You must determine the strength and fasteners required for your application or refer to building codes. My personal judgment would be to use stronger post anchors for anything other than a light structure such as a deck railing or patio cover. My application was anchoring posts to concrete footings that support a small, woodshed with cross bracing between corner posts.

A:  Yes, I believe the primary use for this is to lag bolt or thru bolt this to an existing wood surface and screw and bolt a 4 x 4 or 2--2 x 4's into it. The use of a lag or bolt with a nut would have to be counted sunk into the 4 x 4 to sit flush. It possibly could be used for use with a 4 x 4 post ( weatherproof ) and poured concrete in a sonatube. If done fresh pour with a threaded rod protruding out the top. Once cured, thread a nut down to surface of concrete, than the half base and again a nut. You do this to keep base off surface and away from moisture. I would paint the base with some type of epoxy or a brand name item like Por-15 or Chasi- Black. Wear gloves. It won't come off. You could also use blind roof nailing compound, the tar like roofing cement. The item is galvanized. That means it will rust later rather than sooner. If you use this in cured concrete with no bolt, you will have to drill it ( Hilti Gun ) and bond a threaded rod into it with a commercial adhesive such as Molly parabond capsule anchors. Its a sealed glass tube you shove into hole. You double nut the rod at top and pound home breaking tube, adhesive surrounds bolt, its solid to use in 10 minutes @ 68 degrees. Good luck.

A:  I wouldn't. It would make the project look cheap and done in desperation. If you are talking about those light weight landscaping ties with the rounded sides that are meant for ground work of some type; the answer is no! The ties have no structural integrity/strength. They are not meant to be used as structural lumber. They were made to look nice as a border, on the ground.

A:  The BC40 values in our catalog are based on Douglas Fir or Southern Pine. Allowable loads for other species must be adjusted according to the code. Please see our T-C-SCLCLM technical bulletin when installing this connector on structural composite lumber (SCL). Thank you!

A:  Yes, I used them on 4x4 pressure treated posts which measured approx. 3.5" x 3.5".

A:  Yes, but bear in mind that a standard finished 4x4 post measures roughly 3.5" x 3.5". There is a little leeway for small variations in size. These won't fit a post that actually measures 4" x 4" unless the end is milled to reduce the size..

A:  Based on its size, the BC40 can be used with a 4x4 post. It would be up to the Designer to evaluate if it is the correct base to use for the specific application based on framing layout, demand loads, local building codes, etc. Thank you!

A:  Really ! The answer is yes.

A:  Not sure about concrete but I used for 4x4 posts in order to cut cost. It worked for my small 8x8 deck. I'm not a professional and can only share my own experience but I'm happy with what I used for.