Questions and Answers for Simpson Strong-Tie RTC 18-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Rigid Tie Corner for 2x Nominal Joist, 2x4 Nominal Post

A:  Hello Charlie, this is McKenzie with Simpson Strong-Tie. The RTC42 is sized for a nominal 4x4 post (3.5") and nominal 2x joists or beams (1.5"). The link in your ask, is the RTC2Z sized for nominal 2x4 post and 2x joists.

A:  The RTC2Z requires a 2x4 post. Thank you!

A:  No, these really need 2x4's to be able to function correctly

A:  Some Rigid Tie connectors are load rated and some are not. Copy and paste the following link in to your web browser for a catalogue page with information on the connectors. Hope this helps. https://embed.widencdn.net/pdf/plus/ssttoolbox/bpm6gjqjni/C-C-CAN2020-p325.pdf

A:  If you use 5/8" plywood for shelving there shouldn't be a problem unless you are storing massive lead lined objects. This is a stout set up. Although the directions don't say it, you can place a reinforcing 2x4 under the middle of the shelves.

A:  Yes, they are galvanized sheet metal. I would do a self etching primer first before finished paint

A:  I recently used a primer on the metal beforeI painted with a latex paint. I will know as time goes on how durable it is.

A:  It would be up to the Designer/Engineer of Record to specify the appropriate connector based on framing layout, demand loads, local building codes, etc., but I can tell you we can only support the installation of our products as designed/tested. In the case of the RTC2Z that would attached to a wood post and carrying the two size members. Also, other than the E-Z Spike, we do not recommend any of our connector products for below grade applications. Thank you!

A:  Even though they are galvanized, I don't believe they would not last long with ground contact / weather

A:  It is designed for the extending piece to go along side the corner post. Then the 2x4 to set into the slots. You could place it on top of the 2x4's and add an upright post.

A:  Yes, it can be used upside down. The attached picture shows the top of my work bench and if you wanted to have pieces at the bottom of the legs that can be done.

A:  I don't think why not. However, it should depend on the purpose. The design of the bracket is to have the short sides holding the lumber pieces and sustain the weight from the top layers. That is another reason the extended side facing down to provide extra support and forming a "strong math triangle" structure. If you flip it upside down, it would depend on your design and other bracket option might work better for your purpose.

A:  No. The whole point if this product is to support a 2X4 which will support the upper structure

A:  If you did use it upside down, the only thing would be the support for your cross pieces would only be from the screws. You wouldn't have any structural support.

A:  No. You could probably use to connect 2x6 on top of a 2x4 post, but not 4x4. They probably make a different one for 4x4s.

A:  No, but they make a different version compatible with 4x4s that you could use 2x6s with for the sides. Model #RTC42

A:  What you need is RTC44. I'm looking for a local vendor, myself (scarce for So CA). We have a project where we want to frame 4 x 4 x 4s and the RTC44 is perfect. You can go to https://www.strongtie.com, navigate to Locations to find a "Factory & Training Center" and put in some calls. I think HD will help you get it, too; it's just a special order.

A:  For a 4x4 post you will want to use Model # RTC42 which will support a 2x6 beam, or any 2 by for that matter. Model # RTC2Z only support 2x4 posts

A:  Yes, I suppose....but the connector is designed to allow vertical 2x4s to pass through. Your 4x4 obviously wouldn't do that. However, the connector could be used to attach 2 2x6s at a corner, and those could be attached to the top of a 4x4 post, as you suggest. I used the connectors to create a 4-shelf 8' x 8' x 2' shelving unit out of 2x4s and 2 4'x8' sheets of 5/8" A/C plywood, split lengthwise. Easily carries hundreds of pounds of tools and lumber. 4x4 legs sounds like overkill to me... Good luck.

A:  Use RTC22Z instead. It is designed for 2x2 posts.

A:  This model corner connector connects a 2x2, 2x3 or 2x4 vertical member to two 2x3 or greater horizontal members, forming a 90 degree corner.

A:  I don't think so, they are specifically designed for 2x4s. There are several different connectors for 2x2...see the catalog via the link below. Not sure which ones home depot carries. http://embed.widencdn.net/pdf/plus/ssttoolbox/xd2mseqyql/C-C-2017-p355.pdf

A:  Oh, you could attach a 2x2 to this, but you won't be happy with the results. The exposed edges of the tie connector will maim someone, eventually.

A:  These are for a 2x4 so the holes and bracing wouldn't line up very well. I don't think it would brace it very well. They do work great for 2x4's though