Is an 18 gauge 316 stainless steel hanger or angle bracket both more corrosion resistent and stronger than a 16 gauge galvanized with 1.85 oz of zinc per sq.ft? Is it the other way around at first but then over time does the 316 still win?
What about 18 gauge 316 stainless steel vs 14 gauge hot dip galvanized?
Thanks,
Tim
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Replies
Once the galvanized hanger starts to rusting, the strength declines. Probably nobody knows all the exact answers to your questions, but the manufacturer of the hardware is a good place to begin. 316 SS is stronger than typical mild steel, FWIW.
Bill
Simpson offers a few of their hangers and brackets in 18 gauge stainless steel. There are quite a fewmore options for the "z-max" galvanized hangers, like skewed angles and brackets that are 16 gauge. But I couldn't find anyplace on the site where the load tables distinguish between metals. If 18 gauge 316 stainless is stronger than 16 gauge "z-max" when new, it would be easier to choose stainless. Otherwise it is less clear, especially since stainless costs more.
Codehorse,If you really need to know, telephone Simpson on Tuesday and ask an engineer there. The hangers themselves are never the weak link when new. The attachment to the wood is the weak link. That determines the rating, and the metal is strong enough to comfortably exceed that rating.If what you are building is near the rating limits, the conversation with Simpson could be doubly fruitful.Bill
Bill,Good advice. Also thanks for mentioning that the attachment is the weak link. I had read that but it never fully registered. Thanks again,
Tim