Construction Hardware Overview

This guide gives a broad overview of some of the types of hardware used in construction of walls, roofs, decks, etc., but always follow building code and manufacturer specifications. Keep in mind:

• Building codes and manufacturer’s instructions determine the types of hardware that are suitable for individual construction applications, as well as the number and type of fasteners necessary.
• Some hardware is designed for structural support, some for simple household repairs. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
• Hardware has different load capacities. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications for the weight a piece of hardware can bear.
• Hardware for outdoor use must be corrosion resistant.
• Different sizes and gauges or thicknesses are suitable for different uses.
• Some fastener materials aren’t suitable for some hardware. For example, mixing galvanized steel with stainless steel will cause corrosion.
• If you’re working with pressure-treated lumber, make sure the hardware and fasteners are rated for the material.

Angles, brackets and braces strengthen joints between two or more wood members. This is a larger group of hardware, and different designs and configurations are suitable for different projects and structures.

Common Types and Uses, Depending on the Hardware:

• Angle: Reinforcing connections between a deck rim joist and end joist, connecting a wall stud to a bottom plate, reinforcing a fence gate frame, etc.
• Bracket: Supporting a shelf or countertop, installing railing, etc.
• Brace: Making general household repairs, building work benches or shelving, etc.

Base and cap hardware secures posts or columns to other elements of a structure. This type of structural hardware is for either wood-to-wood or wood-to-concrete applications. Wood-to-concrete hardware is either designed to be cast in place when concrete is poured or designed for retrofit use in cured concrete.

Common Types and Uses, Depending on the Hardware:

• Column and Post Base: Supporting a railing post on a deck or connecting a deck frame post to a concrete footing
• Standoff Column Base: Connecting a frame post to a concrete footing where the post end must be separated from the surface of the footing
• Post and Column Cap: Attaching to the top of a post to support an overhead member, such as a roof beam on a pergola.

Hangers support wood joists, beams or rafters in a structure, securing the component to a larger wood beam or ledger board on the structure. Hangers stabilize the joists, beams or rafters, helping prevent movement, warping and twisting.

Common Types and Uses, Depending on the Hardware:

• Rafter Hanger: Supporting rafter connections to a roof ridge beam
• Face-Mount Joist Hanger: Supporting floor joists on a deck or floor and ceiling joists in a home
• Concealed Joist Hanger: Connecting joists in applications where a less-visible installation is necessary

Hardware plates are flat pieces that connect to wood members of a structure either by means of integrated prongs or separate fasteners. Different types serve specific purposes.

Common Types and Uses, Depending on the Hardware:

• Bearing Plate: Creating a bearing surface, like a washer on a bolt, for securing a wall base plate to the foundation of a structure
• Mending Plate: Reinforcing the connection of two wood members
• Nail Plate: Protecting pipe or electrical lines from nails or screws

Straps and ties are two types of connectors that help control tension between two wood components in a structure and reinforce connections. Like angles, brackets and braces, there is a wide range of straps and ties for different applications.

Common Types and Uses, Depending on the Hardware:

• Hold-Down: Securing the wall of a structure to the foundation
• Rafter Tie: Connecting rafters in a roof to a wall top plate
• Foundation Strap: Securing the rim joist of a floor to a home foundation

Understanding the different types of construction hardware and when to use them can seem complicated, but it’s critical to a safe and secure construction project. Here are the key points:

• Always follow building codes and the manufacturer’s specified uses.
• Make sure the hardware can handle the load necessary for the application.
• Make sure the hardware, fasteners and components are all compatible.

Shop Lowes.com the construction hardware you need for any project large or small. Or stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Lowe’s Red Vest associate. They’ll make sure you get the hardware, tools and materials you need to do your project right.