ABSTRACT
Connections within any structure are usually very small relative to the supported members, but they are often limited by the connection. The capacity of the beams and other major structural members are only as strong as their connectors. There are two basic types of loads that connections are designed to resist: lateral loads and withdrawal loads. From a practical standpoint, wood screws and lag screws are the preferred connector for withdrawal loading because the threads create a more positive connection to the wood. Several factors have an effect on the load-carrying capacity of a connection. There are several geometric factors that affect the capacity of a connection such as the direction of the load relative to the grain, the geometry of the connectors, and the location of the connector within the wood member. Toenail connections are typically used where the loads are minimal, such as beam to sill plate, stud to sill plate, or blocking to a beam.
