Are hurricane ties required by code?

Yes. In wind zones with design speeds of 90 mph or higher (most of the US Gulf Coast, Atlantic Coast, and tornado-prone Midwest), hurricane ties are explicitly required. The 2018 and later IRC editions require continuous load path connections from roof to foundation in all areas, making hurricane ties essentially universal in new construction.

What is the uplift rating of a hurricane tie?

Uplift ratings vary by model. The Simpson H2.5A is rated for 540 lbs of uplift resistance. The H10A is rated for 1,330 lbs. The LSTA24 strap provides 1,800 lbs. Your required uplift rating depends on roof area per connector, wind speed, and exposure category — a licensed engineer or the local building department can specify the correct tie for your project.

How many hurricane ties do I need?

Install one hurricane tie on each side of every rafter or truss where it meets the wall top plate. A roof with 25 trusses needs 50 hurricane ties (2 per truss, one on each side). In high-wind zones, ties may also be required at the wall-to-floor and floor-to-foundation connections to complete the continuous load path.

What nails should I use for hurricane ties?

Use the exact nail type and size specified by the manufacturer. Simpson H2.5A ties require 10d x 1.5-inch nails (N10A) in the designated holes. Using regular 16d nails or drywall screws voids the rated capacity. Every nail hole in the connector must be filled — partial nailing dramatically reduces the uplift rating.

Can I install hurricane ties on an existing roof?

Yes, hurricane ties can be retrofitted on existing homes. Access the rafter-to-wall connections from the attic and install ties with the specified nails. Retrofit hurricane tie programs are common in hurricane-prone states (Florida, Texas, Louisiana) and may qualify for insurance premium discounts of 5-20%.

What is a continuous load path and why does it matter?

A continuous load path is an unbroken chain of structural connections from the roof through the walls, floors, and foundation to the ground. It prevents the roof from lifting off in high winds, the walls from separating from the floor, and the entire structure from sliding off the foundation. Hurricane ties are the roof-to-wall link in this chain, but hold-downs, anchor bolts, and straps at other connections are equally important.

Hurricane Tie Calculator

Hurricane tie calculator: Estimate rafter-to-wall connectors for wind resistance. Free tool for H2.5A & H10 Simpson Strong-Tie clips.

Ad — 728x90 — Leaderboard

Enter Your Measurements

How to Use This Calculator

1Enter total rafter or truss count.
2Click Calculate — one hurricane tie per rafter end.

Ad — 728x90 — Mid-Page

About This Material

Hurricane ties (also called rafter ties or wind clips) are galvanized steel connectors that mechanically fasten rafters or trusses to the wall top plate, creating a continuous load path from the roof to the foundation that resists wind uplift forces. Common models include the Simpson H2.5A (540 lbs uplift, for standard rafter-to-plate connections), H10A (1,330 lbs uplift, heavy-duty), and META20 (twist strap for truss-to-plate). Hurricane ties are required by the IRC in areas with design wind speeds of 90 mph or greater, which includes the entire Gulf Coast, Atlantic Coast, and much of the Midwest. The 2018 and later IRC editions effectively require continuous load path connections in all areas. Ties cost $0.50 to $2.50 each and must be installed with the correct nails (Simpson 10d x 1.5-inch or 16d sinkers, depending on the model). In coastal areas, use stainless steel or ZMAX-coated ties to resist salt air corrosion.

Next Steps:

Roof Truss Calculator →Rafter Calculator →

Installation Tips

•Nail all specified holes with proper 10d or 16d nails.
•Use galvanized or stainless in coastal areas.
•Install on both sides of each rafter for maximum uplift resistance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Under-nailing hurricane ties — the rated uplift capacity assumes all holes are nailed.
Only installing on one side of the rafter.
Using wrong connector type — different rafters require different ties.

Hurricane Tie Calculator

How to Use This Calculator

About This Material

Installation Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Framing Nail Calculator

Joist Hanger Calculator

Lumber Cost Calculator

Board Feet Calculator