Questions and Answers for Simpson Strong-Tie EPB Elevated Post Base for 4x4 Nominal Lumber

A:  It will rust eventually, just as all galvanized 'plated' will, as it's exposed to the weather. Only hot dipped galvanized has any real anti-rust quality to it. Galvanized plated screws are a joke--as soon as you put the driver bit in the top recess and apply torque the galvanizing cracks, and the screw begins to rust. Take it from a boat builder-use hot dipped galvanized screws and bolts for applications exposed to moisture. I used Simpsons Exterior Grade Class 55 Mechanical Galvanized screws, #9x 21/2"in the 12 holes in the side plates,and drilled pilot holes for them, instead of the 16d nails recommended by the supplier. I couldn't see driving 12 16d nails in such a small area, that could result in splitting (now or later as the wood dries), and nails will surely rust. I also applied a coat of enamel on all surfaces of the anchor before installing, to cover any chips and scars due to shipping and handling. Also how are you going to paint surfaces after the post is set--or reach the underside, even though there's an inch gap? The rust will first occur where the anchor pipe enters the concrete--make sure it's well painted( I used Rustoleum.)

A:  No, this is not rust resistant.

A:  The finish on the EPB66 is Simpson Strong-Tie® gray paint. Painted finishes are considered to provide a LOW level of corrosion protection. This base is also offered with the HDG finish (hot dip galvanized) which provides a MEDIUM level of corrosion protection; specify EPB66HDG. Please visit the Simpson Strong-Tie website for complete corrosion information and to determine the recommended finish based on your specific application/conditions. Thank you!

A:  Pergola, It would be up to the Designer/Engineer of Record to specify the appropriate connector based on framing layout, demand loads, local building codes, etc. The EPB44 is a cast-in-place base, where the EPB44PHDG can be installed on existing concrete. The EPB44PHDG is rated higher for download and uplift, but it does not have a lateral rating while the EPB44 does. Please see the following links for complete details: EPB44 - http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/epb.asp EPB44PHDG - http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/epb44t.asp Thank you!

A:  The posts we used are 6x4

A:  poppabob, The pipe at the bottom of the EPB44 has an outside diameter of 1 1/16". http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/epb.asp# Thank you!

A:  approx. 1.25"

A:  3 1/2 inches square. It fits the standard 4x4

A:  No, a true 6x6 post will need to be trimmed down. Simpson Strong tie does offer custom work, from what I read, however.

A:  Marv, The EPB66 is sized for a solid sawn 6x6 (actual 5 1/2" x 5 1/2"). The following bases are available for rough lumber 6x6 posts (true 6" x 6"): ABA66R or ABE66RZ - http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/ab-aba-abe-abu.asp PB66R - http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/pb-pbs.asp CB66R - http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/lcb-cb.asp Thank you!

A:  If you mean rough sawn, NO it won't. They are typically 5 7/8" to a full 6" square, and side plates on anchor will splay out if you try to force it. You need to remove about 3/16" deep from both sides (for appearance) or remove full amount from one side if it doesn't matter. Measure each post separately as even rough sawn can vary from 5 3/4" to slightly over 6". To make a 3"wide by shallow notch I make several saw cuts (set the proper depth) across the post about 1/4" apart, then take a hammer and break off all the 'ribs' remaining after the cuts, and then smooth the notch off with a wide chisel laid flat--works like a charm!

A:  the 6x6 posts I purchased fit well in it