BuildMeter guide · Structures & Carpentry
Hurricane Tie Quantity and Fastener Planning Guide
Count roof framing connections and approved connector fasteners without treating a material takeoff as wind design or continuous-load-path verification.
Direct answer
What to know first
Count every rafter or truss connection identified by the project design, then apply the exact connector-specific fastener schedule. Connector quantity does not establish capacity: model, installation side, member geometry, corrosion protection and continuous load path all matter.
Open Hurricane Tie CalculatorCount designed connections—not just roof members
Start with the number of rafters or trusses that the design connects to the wall system. Some details use one connector per member, while others use paired connectors or different hardware at gable ends, blocking and hips. Count those special locations separately.
| Question | Quantity effect | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| One or two connectors? | Can double tie count | Only approved paired arrangements develop published loads |
| Rafter or truss condition? | May change model | Geometry and fastener holes differ |
| Blocking connection? | Add separate connectors | Part of the continuous load path |
| Corrosive exposure? | May change finish and cost | Connector and fastener compatibility is required |
Worked example
A roof has 32 trusses, one tie per truss and six additional blocking connections. The base is 38 ties. With 8% spares, order 42 ties. If each tie uses 10 approved fasteners, 420 fasteners are needed. A 50-tie box and one 500-fastener box cover the planned material.
Published capacity depends on complete installation
Connector loads are tied to the exact model, support material, member thickness, installation side and fastener schedule. Missing fasteners, wrong nails or screws, split wood and interfering hardware can reduce performance. A tie is only one link in the roof-to-foundation load path.
Common mistakes
- Selecting connectors by appearance rather than design load and geometry.
- Using deck screws or other unapproved fasteners.
- Leaving optional-looking holes empty when the schedule requires them.
- Installing left/right models on the wrong side.
- Counting roof ties without checking wall, floor and foundation connections.
Sources and professional limits
- Simpson Strong-Tie — Product Installer’s Guide
- Simpson Strong-Tie — H2.5A installation guide
- Simpson Strong-Tie — H10A rafter-condition guide
This material takeoff does not select a connector or verify wind resistance. Use engineered or approved project details.