Since 1956, Simpson Strong-Tie has dedicated itself to creating structural products that help people build safer, stronger homes and buildings. Considered an industry leader in structural systems research, testing, and innovation, Simpson Strong-Tie works closely with construction professionals to provide code-listed, field-tested products and value-engineered solutions. The global company's engineered structural products and systems are recognized for helping structures resist high winds, hurricanes, and seismic forces.

The company that became Simpson Strong-Tie grew out of a Bay Area window-screen business that Barclay Simpson had inherited from his father. As the company tells the story, one evening in 1956 the doorbell rang at Simpson's home. When Simpson opened his door, he discovered the brother of a neighbor on his doorstep. Could Simpson maybe build something that would connect the ends of 2x4 lumber for a roof? "Of course," Simpson said. With the help of his window-screen plant foreman, he developed some sketches and then used a punch press to create his first joist hanger. The rest is industry history. This year Simpson Strong-Tie celebrates its 70th anniversary in business. Since its founding, Simpson Strong-Tie has become recognized as the genuine connector brand in the residential construction industry. It is also known for its ever-expanding offering of shear walls, moment frames, fasteners, and related products.

“Simpson Strong-Tie began with a simple problem to solve, and it sparked a movement that transformed how structures are built,” according to CEO Mike Olosky. “Today, we continue to focus on building solutions that people can rely on, backed by engineering excellence, advanced technology, rigorous testing, and a relentless focus on customer service.” The company has had many product milestones across the past seven decades, according to Jesse Russell, Manager of Social Media and Integrated Marketing at Simpson Strong-Tie. They include Simpson’s F24, the company’s entry into the connector business in 1957. The owner’s first order totaled 25,000 units at 10 cents each. Reinforced angle brackets and the face-mount U hanger products followed in 1957.

In the mid-1960s the company introduced the ST strap tie, which “resists tension loads across various applications” and is “ideal for cut plates, wall intersections, and ridge ties with quick installation and optimal performance,” according to Russell. During that era, Simpson also “introduced the first HD welded holdown to secure posts to foundations.” The 1970s saw the development of the Hurricane Tie. The H1 hurricane tie connects trusses or rafters to walls, helping structures resist wind and seismic forces. The Architectural Product Line was also introduced during that decade. “Black powder-coated connectors, originally called “Ornamental Connectors,” are still sold today as Architectural Products,” Russell notes. In 1984, Simpson received a patent for the double-shear angled fastener connector, which “dramatically increased load values by using nails in double shear,” according to Russell. In 1993, “Simpson entered the fastener market with the launch of the SD8 DIY screw.” In 1995, the company acquired Ackerman Johnson, a manufacturer of chemical and mechanical anchors for concrete fastening systems. Simpson launched new mechanical and adhesive anchors the following year. Then in 1998, Simpson launched the Strong-Wall shearwall with a patented shape and industry-leading allowable loads.

One important company milestone came in 2023 with the opening of the Tyrell Gilb Research Laboratory. The $10 million, 25,000-square-foot lab features specialized equipment to test a structure’s resistance to extreme winds and earthquakes. Since then the company has continued to grow through acquisitions and innovations. Over these same periods, Russell says, “Simpson Strong-Tie progressively reinforced its commitment to giving back to communities and investing in current and future employees. These efforts include donating more than $2 million in student scholarships. Each year, the company also recognizes Community Heroes, those employees, partners, and volunteers who go above and beyond to make a difference.”

For more information about Simpson Strong-Tie, please visit www.strongtie.com. For more information about its 70th anniversary, please visit www.strongtie.com/about/anniversary.