Simpson StrongTie Avant Gable Plates For Outdoor Timber

Structural connectors often determine both the durability and the finished appearance of a custom outdoor living space. Simpson Strong-Tie's Outdoor Accents® line is engineered around that dual requirement, and its Avant Collection™ Gable Plate illustrates the approach: a heavy-gauge steel connector finished for exposed outdoor use and shaped to suit contemporary wood structures.

The plate reinforces the junction where a horizontal beam meets three angled supports, a common configuration in pergolas, pavilions and covered patio framing.

A minimalist design language

Unlike traditional decorative connectors, which tend to reproduce scrollwork and other historical profiles, the Avant Collection™ relies on straight edges and a pared-back silhouette. The result is a hardware piece that reads as part of a modern structure rather than an applied ornament.

The styling is intended to sit comfortably within minimalist or contemporary pergola and deck designs, where exposed framing is treated as a visible architectural element. In that context, the connector functions both as structural reinforcement and as a visual detail that can be left exposed without clashing with the surrounding timber.

Technical specifications and pitch options

The Gable Plate is designed to strengthen the connection between a wood beam and three sloped wood supports. To accommodate structures of different scales, the line is offered in several pitch options matched to common roof and support geometries.

Lumber size	Available pitches
6x and larger	6:12, 8:12, 12:12
4x	12:12

The connector is manufactured from 12-gauge steel and receives a ZMAX® galvanizing treatment followed by a black powder-coat finish. That two-layer system is intended to raise corrosion resistance in exposed outdoor settings and in applications involving treated lumber.

Two fastening approaches

Matching the look to the structure

Bolt-style appearance: Outdoor Accents structural wood screws paired with a patented hex-head washer produce the industrial character associated with traditional through-bolted connections.
Low-profile appearance: A patent-pending Outdoor Accents round-head connector screw creates a flush, integrated appearance with minimal visual interruption across the plate face.

Installation requirements

Structural performance depends on the use of the specified fasteners. The listed components are the structural wood screw (SDWS22312DBB) used with the hex-head washer (STN22), or the round-head connector screw (SDWB22306DBB).

Installers are directed to follow the general notes supplied with the product. Substituting fasteners of a different type or dimension is not permitted, because load capacity ratings are established for the specified combinations and may not hold otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right Gable Plate for my structure's pitch?

First confirm the size of the lumber being used. For 6x and larger members, the plate is available in 6:12, 8:12 and 12:12 pitches. For 4x members, only the 12:12 pitch is offered. The selection should correspond to the actual pitch of the roof or support framing.

Do the two fastener options differ in performance?

Both configurations are engineered to meet structural strength requirements. The difference is primarily visual: the hex-head washer option provides a traditional bolted appearance, while the round-head connector screw produces a flatter, more understated finish.

Why is the product suited to treated lumber?

The combination of ZMAX® galvanizing and a black powder coating creates a layered barrier against moisture in outdoor environments and against the corrosive chemicals present in treated wood, which helps extend the service life of the connector.