Metal Timber Connectors & Post Bases
Structural Hardware for Timber Construction
From joist hangers and rafter connectors to structural angle brackets, connector plates, bracing straps and post bases, our range covers the key connection points found in timber construction.
Suitable for timber structures including:
- Roof structures and timber framing
- Pergolas and carports
- Decks and terraces
- Timber frame construction, Garden structures and outbuildings
- Fences and gates
- Structural timber repairs and reinforcement
Choose the appropriate connector according to the timber dimensions, connection geometry, loads, fixing method and installation conditions.
Timber Connectors
Structural Connectors for Joining Timber
Timber connectors provide a reliable way to join, reinforce and stabilize structural timber members. They are designed for specific connection geometries, helping transfer forces between beams, joists, rafters, posts and other timber elements.
Our range includes connectors for common timber construction applications, from simple right-angle connections to structural roof and floor connections.
Joist Hanger
Joist hangers are used to support timber joists, beams and secondary structural members where one timber element connects to another.
They are particularly useful in:
- Floor and roof structures
- Deck substructures
- Beam-to-joist connections
The correct hanger should be selected according to the dimensions of the timber, connection arrangement and required load capacity.
View Joist Hangers
Purlin & Rafter Connectors
Purlin and rafter connectors are designed for timber roof structures, helping create secure connections between rafters, purlins and other roof framing members.
They provide a practical solution for repeated timber connections while maintaining consistent positioning and fixing.
Typical applications include:
- Roof framing, Carports and other covered structures
- Purlin-to-rafter connections
- Timber roof extensions
Structural Angle Brackets
Angle brackets provide versatile reinforcement and joining solutions for timber-to-timber connections.
Depending on their geometry and fixing arrangement, they can be used for:
- Timber frame connections
- Beam and post connections
- Reinforcement of timber joints
- Pergolas and outdoor structures
- General structural timber connections
Different bracket sizes, thicknesses and hole configurations allow the connection to be adapted to the timber section and required fixing pattern.
View Angle Brackets
Connector Plates & Straps
Connector plates and metal straps are used to reinforce timber joints, connect timber members and provide additional resistance against movement or separation.
They are particularly useful where a connection requires additional reinforcement over a larger area.
- Timber joint reinforcement, Timber frame construction
- Structural repairs
Bracing Straps
Bracing straps are perforated steel straps used to provide additional restraint and lateral stability in timber structures.
They can be used for applications such as:
- Roof bracing
- Wind bracing
- Timber frame stabilization
- Restraining structural timber members
- Reinforcement of larger timber assemblies
The installation pattern and fixing requirements depend on the structural design and the forces acting on the structure.
View Bracing StrapsPost Bases
Timber Post Bases for Concrete Foundations
Timber posts and columns should be securely connected to their foundations while keeping the timber separated from direct contact with concrete and ground moisture.
Our post bases provide two principal installation methods:
Cast-in post bases — installed into fresh concrete using a welded rebar section.
Surface-mounted post bases — fixed to an existing concrete foundation using concrete screws or other suitable anchors.
The available configurations include U-shaped, L-shaped, flat-top and post shoe designs for square and round timber posts.
Cast-In Post Bases
Post Bases with Welded Rebar
Cast-in post bases are installed directly into fresh concrete. The welded rebar section becomes embedded in the concrete foundation while the upper part provides the connection to the timber post.
This type of post base is particularly suitable when the concrete foundation is being constructed at the same time as the timber structure.
Typical applications include:
- Pergolas
- Carports
- Timber posts
- Garden structures
- Fences and gates
The required embedment depth, concrete foundation and post-base configuration should be selected according to the structural requirements of the project.
Surface-Mounted Post Bases
Post Bases for Fixing to Existing Concrete
When the concrete foundation already exists, a surface-mounted post base can be fixed directly to the concrete using concrete screws or other suitable concrete anchors.
This avoids the need to cast the post base into the foundation and is particularly convenient for renovation, extensions and existing terraces or slabs.
Typical applications include:
- Pergolas on existing slabs
- Carports
- Deck structures, Timber posts, Garden structures
- Renovation and extension projects
View Surface-Mounted Post Bases
Where concrete screws are required, use a fixing system appropriate for the concrete type, anchor dimensions and required loads.
Foundations without Concrete
Ground screws for foundations of timber building, modular housing, container projects or LSF - light steel framing structures.
Not all wooden structures require a concrete foundation. Ground screws allow for the creation of support points directly in the ground, without the need for extensive excavations, formwork, or pouring concrete.
This solution is particularly interesting for pergolas, decks, carports, garden structures and other wooden or metal constructions where a quick installation and minimal intervention in the ground are desired.
The foundation screws are installed directly into the ground and can be used as foundation points for the timber framed houses, light steel framed or modular house. Different dimensions and capacities allow for the solution to be adapted to the type of structure, loads, and soil conditions.
Light Construction
For pergolas, decks, small garden structures, and other lightweight constructions, smaller foundation screws provide a practical alternative to small concrete foundations that can be installed manually.
See Ground Screws for Light Construction
Heavy Construction
For timber framed, LSF, modular housing, solar frame installations and other constructions with higher loads, larger foundation screws with greater load capacity are available.
See Ground Screws for Heavy Construction
The choice of foundation screw must take into account the loads of the structure, the characteristics of the terrain, the installation depth, and the configuration of the support points. For structural structures, the position and spacing of the foundation points must be defined according to the design.
Post Base Configurations
Choose the Right Post Base for Your Structure
Different timber post geometries and connection arrangements require different post-base configurations.
Type U Post Base for Embedding in Concrete
U-shaped post bases support the timber post from both sides and provide a simple and robust connection for square or rectangular timber posts.
See simple type U post basesSee reinforced type U post bases
U-Shaped Bases for Surface Mounting
U-shaped post bases support the timber post from both sides and provide a simple and robust connection for square or rectangular timber posts.
See U shaped post based for surface mounting
L Post Bases
L-shaped post bases are useful where the connection is positioned against an edge, corner or another structural element.
T shape / blade post base for Embedding in Concrete
The bases in T, also known as blade bases, are installed directly in the fresh concrete and position the metal plate in the center of the wooden post.
The metal blade is practically hidden inside the pole, creating a more discreet and clean connection, without visible metal elements on the sides of the pole.
They are particularly suitable for structures where a strong structural connection is desired with a more discreet visual finish.
Adjustable Pilar Base with Flat Plate
The adjustable base with are installed on an existing foundation or concrete slab.
The upper plate is mounted on a threaded rod, allowing for easy adjustment of the support height and leveling of the post after installation.
This possibility of vertical regulation facilitates the compensation of small differences in level in the foundation and allows for precise alignment of the posts.
Square Post Base Shoes
Square post base shoes are designed specifically for square or rectangular timber posts and provide lateral support around the bottom of the post.
See Square Post Base Shoes
Round Post Base Shoes
Round post base shoes are designed for circular timber posts and poles, providing a suitable connection between the round post and its concrete foundation.
See Round Post Base ShoesHow to Choose the Right Timber Connector
Select the Connection — Not Just the Product
The correct connector depends on more than the timber dimensions. Consider the complete connection before selecting the hardware.
1. Identify the connection
Determine what needs to be connected:
- Joist to beam
- Rafter to purlin
- Wood to wood
- Post to concrete
- Timber joint requiring reinforcement
- Structure requiring additional bracing
2. Check the timber dimensions
Connector dimensions should match the width, height and geometry of the timber members.
3. Consider the loads
Structural connections must be capable of transferring the forces acting on the joint. Depending on the application, this can include vertical, lateral, uplift and shear forces.
4. Select the appropriate fixing
The connector is only part of the connection. Nails, structural screws, bolts or concrete anchors must also be suitable for the connector, substrate and required loads.
5. Consider the environment
For outdoor applications, corrosion protection is an important consideration. Select the connector finish according to the exposure conditions and expected service environment.
For load-bearing structures, always follow the product's technical documentation and installation requirements.
Connectors & Their Fixings
The Connector and Fixing Work Together
A structural connector cannot be considered independently from its fixing system.
Depending on the product, connectors may be installed using:
- Structural connector screws
- Structural timber screws
- Nails
- Bolts
- Concrete screws
- Other specified anchors like bolt anchors
The fixing type, diameter, length, number of fixings and installation pattern can all affect the capacity of the connection.
For this reason, use the fasteners specified in the product's technical documentation rather than selecting fixings based only on the connector's physical dimensions.
Our structural timber screw range can be used alongside suitable timber connectors where specified.
Designed for Timber Construction
Practical Hardware for Professional Construction
Our timber connection hardware is selected for applications where reliable and repeatable connections are required.
Structural Connections
Solutions for joining and reinforcing timber members in load-bearing structures.
Fast Installation
Pre-formed steel connectors simplify positioning and provide a consistent fixing pattern.
Wide Range of Applications
From roof structures and timber framing to pergolas, decks and carports.
Concrete Anchoring
Post bases are available for both new concrete foundations and existing concrete surfaces.
Technical Selection
Product dimensions, fixing requirements and available technical information help you select the appropriate connection for your project.
Applications
Timber Hardware for a Wide Range of Projects
Roof Structures
Connect rafters, purlins and other timber roof members using dedicated structural connectors.
Pergolas & Carports
Create secure post-to-foundation and timber-to-timber connections for outdoor structures.
Decking & Terraces
Use joist hangers, angle brackets and post bases when constructing timber substructures and supporting structures.
Timber Frame Construction
Connect and reinforce timber members using structural brackets, plates, straps and other dedicated hardware.
Garden Structures
Suitable connection solutions for sheds, covered structures, fences and other timber projects.
Renovation & Reinforcement
Metal connectors can also be used to reinforce or repair existing timber connections where the product and installation are appropriate for the application.
FAQ
Here are some answered questions about wood connectors and post bases.
Timber connectors are metal components designed to join, reinforce or stabilize timber members. They include joist hangers, angle brackets, rafter connectors, plates and straps, among other connection systems.
A joist hanger is a metal connector used to support a timber joist or beam where it connects to another structural timber member. Joist hangers are commonly used in floors, decks, roofs and timber-frame structures.
Timber connectors generally join or reinforce timber members, while post bases are designed specifically to connect timber posts or columns to concrete foundations.
Yes. Surface-mounted post bases can be fixed to existing concrete using suitable concrete screws or other approved anchors. The fixing method must be appropriate for the concrete and the loads acting on the connection.
A cast-in post base is installed into fresh concrete. The metal section, typically incorporating a welded rebar element, becomes embedded in the concrete foundation while the upper section connects to the timber post.
The appropriate post base depends on the timber post dimensions, connection geometry, foundation type and structural loads. For an existing concrete slab, a surface-mounted post base may be suitable; for a new foundation, a cast-in post base can be considered.
Post bases designed for surface mounting can be fixed using suitable concrete screws when the product documentation permits this fixing method. The screw diameter, length, embedment depth and installation arrangement must be suitable for the concrete and required loads.
It depends on the connector. Some connectors are designed for specific connector screws or nails, while others may allow different approved fixing methods. Always follow the manufacturer's fixing requirements for the particular connector.
Many timber connectors are available with corrosion protection suitable for exterior applications. The required protection depends on the exposure conditions, location and expected service life. Check the product specifications before selecting the connector.
Yes, many timber connectors are specifically designed for structural applications. However, the suitability of a connector depends on the complete connection, including the timber, connector, fixings, loads and installation. For engineered structures, the connection should be checked according to the project requirements.
Where applicable, suitable structural screws, connector screws and concrete fixing solutions can be supplied together with the timber hardware. Using the correct fixing system is important because the capacity of the connection depends on both the connector and its fixings.
Complete Your Timber Connection System
From Foundation to Timber Structure
A reliable timber structure starts with the connection between the foundation, posts, beams and structural members.
Post Bases - Secure timber posts to concrete foundations.
Timber Connectors - Join beams, joists, rafters and other timber members.
Structural Screws - Create strong timber-to-timber and timber-to-connector connections.
Screws for Metal Connectors - Screw with specific reinforcement at the bottom of the head and appropriate diameter for metal connectors.
Concrete Screws - Fix suitable post bases and other components to existing concrete.
See Metal Wood Connectors See Post Bases See structural wood screws See Screws for Metal Connectors
Building a Timber Structure?
Choose the right connection hardware for every stage of your project.
Browse our range of timber connectors and post bases or contact us if you need help identifying the right solution.
