Simpson Strong-Tie DTT2Z DTT ZMAX Galvanized Deck Tension Tie for 2X Including 1-1/2 Inch Strong Drive SDS Screws, 14 Gauge Deck and Fence Connector (Each)

I used these on my deck rail posts and they are rock solid. The difference between a rail post tied in with these as opposed to just bolted to the rim or band joist is very noticeable. This type of reinforcement is not required by code in my area but I want my deck to feel solid and well built when people lean into the rail.For code compliant guardrail post connections on the inside of a joist/rim look-up Simpson Strong-Tie Tech Bulletin T-GRDRLPST10.[...]For rail post connections inside a band joist you'll need a length of 1/2" threaded rod that is used to tie the post into an interior joist. I sourced these at Grainger (24") as I could not find a solid Amazon source.Note that these come with the screws to attach the connector to the joists or blocking and one washer. You need to supply the through bolts or threaded rod and the nut to attach the bolt to the connector.

Not much to say aside from these do exactly what they are supposed to do - add strength and stability to deck posts. In many areas these also help to meet code requirements for how deck posts are secured. Just used a set on a deck with offset posts (pre-cut notched bases) and they did a very nice job. Proper spacing between posts is still required since these can only do so much on their own. Check your local code, but consider shorter spacing - especially if using notched posts (they tend to be a bit less stable to begin with).

They work as designed. SDS fasteners and washer are included. Watch how much you pay for these though. I paid $3 more each 3 days ago than what I can buy them for today. You can always get them from the big orange store for 17 dollars for a two-pack.Also these are definitely prices PER EACH CONNECTOR. the 2x in the description is rather misleading and refers to that this is a connector for 2" thick framing members, not that it is a package of 2 (like you get from the orange store). The fact these can be use on thicker framing members so this seems to me to advertising gimmickry by the re-sellers.

I repaired our long, narrow deck. The railing, attached to the outer, 'rim' joist, was leaning outward a great deal and you could wiggle it easily with your hand. When I looked at the construction, I saw that the rim joist was just nailed into the ends of each of the deck joists - which did not all meet it perfectly. In any case nailing into the end of the board is a bad idea. I used these Deck Tension Ties to attach the rim joist and the top screws of the posts to the deck joists. They came with the proper screws to attach the tie to the sides of 2x framing timbers. I set the ties back 1/2" to 3/4" from the deck joist ends so I could cinch the bolts tight and correct the leaning railing posts. I used the existing bolts on the posts and also bought some 1/2" x 4" hot dip galvanized bolts, nuts and washers, to add where needed. The railing posts are now true vertical, they feel firm with no wiggle. Now I feel certain that the railing will not give away if someone falls against it. Nothing else will do this job. With an impact driver and drill these are pretty quick to install. Highly Recommended.

These ties are an excellent method of keeping a deck from pulling apart at the weakest link, which is the ledger board only being secured to the joists by a few short nails in the joist hangers, which can easily pull out of the ledger board as the wood ages. Same for the connection of the ledger board to the house rim joist. The special mounting lags are also a great design, requiring no predrilling and easily driven in by a cordless drill with a 1/4" nut driver head.

required by code for all deck guardrails these fit the bill. Our inspectors smile when seeing these installed on our projects. Easy to use, super strong and adjustable to plumb the rail posts straight as an arrow. really like to use.

These were perfect to help my deck rail posts pass final inspection by the city as dictated by the American Wood Council. Wish I would have known these come with exterior screws and washer! Would have been 5 stars if the large bolt hole was about 1/4” closer to the face that the smaller screws screw to (if that makes sense) . About a couple dozen instances that weird offset made me drill the hole a little off so the the screw face was about 1/4” off the blocking. Then had to bend the screw face plate by doing the screws closest to the hole first. You’ll see what I mean. Still worth getting these.

Do not buy from Amazon. Per Simpson this part number and description is a two pack, their current title "Simpson Strong Tie Simpson Strong Tie DTT2Z ZMAX Galvanized 14-Gauge 2x Deck Tension Tie" even reflects that this SHOULD be a two pack. it is NOT, they remove the original packaging, wrap them in paper and sell them that way at very nearly double the price of the big box stores website. Returning mine.As for the notes that you need two per post, that is not correct. Check Simpson's website and they specify one tie per post on the upper of the two bolts through the joist.