Q. What kind of timber connectors are used in the construction or support of a deck?

A. It depends.

There are several key factors: structural design load requirements, site conditions, environmental exposure (such as coastal or high-humidity areas), and the desired service life of the deck. These variables influence the choice of materials and the specific connectors needed to ensure safety, durability, and compliance with Australian Standards.

We offer a comprehensive range of metal timber connectors engineered for structural integrity, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation – making them well-suited to Australian conditions.

Here are some of the most commonly used connectors in deck construction:

• Joist Hangers (Australian Made)
  These secure joists to supporting beams, providing a stable and reliable connection that helps distribute loads evenly.
  
  
• Triple Grips
  Triple grips are used to join perpendicular framing members, such as joists to bearers. They restrict both vertical and horizontal movement, enhancing the rigidity of the structure and resisting twisting or separation over time.
  
  
• Joist Straps (Australian Made)
  These are employed to secure joists or rafters to right-angled supporting members. Their design helps resist uplift forces and keeps framing components aligned under load.
  
  
• Post Supports (see labelling to confirm if Made in Australia)
  Essential for anchoring timber posts to concrete footings or slabs, post supports elevate the timber above ground level to reduce moisture ingress – crucial in prolonging the life of the post. Some post supports also meet termite mitigation requirements, making them suitable for high-risk areas.
  
  
• Builder’s Strapping (Australian Made)
  To eliminate excessive shear forces on a deck, builder’s strapping is used in an ‘x’ configuration. These are essential for decks over a certain size to comply with Australian Standards.