Simpson Strong-Tie has expanded its Outdoor Accents decorative hardware line to offer deck contractors, homebuilders and DIY experts a full collection of essential connectors and fasteners that bring both design elegance and structural strength to custom outdoor living structures.

To celebrate the complete line of load-rated hardware, Simpson Strong-Tie is sponsoring the first Outdoor Accents “Give It Your Best Shot” photo contest, now through Oct. 22. Anyone who has built an outdoor living structure using Outdoor Accents decorative hardware is invited to send in photos for a chance to win an outdoor TV, YETI cooler and Simpson Strong-Tie-branded items. Click here for more information about the contest.

Introduced in 2016, the Outdoor Accents collection accommodates nominal and rough lumber sizes to provide designers and installers with maximum flexibility when planning and building custom outdoor structures. The patent-pending hex-head washer, when used with the structural screw, offers the look of a bolted connection with significantly faster and easier installation than through-bolting.

2018 additions to the Outdoor Accents line include joist hangers, gable plates, decorative side plates and new sizes of the popular APDJT joist tie, the APDTS3 Texas star and the APDMW56 decorative washer. All Outdoor Accents connectors and fasteners — including screws, post bases, strap ties and angles — are made from exterior-rated galvanized steel with a black powder-coat finish for corrosion protection.

“We are excited to continue the expansion of our successful line of decorative outdoor hardware and provide contractors and builders with a one-stop solution for attractive connectors and fasteners that are easy to install and provide superior load strength,” said Sam Hensen, Simpson Strong-Tie vice president of connectors and lateral systems.

A mainstay of Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents advertisements and brochures, the 10x10 pergola photograph has generated a steady stream of customer requests for building plans, which are now available for free download for 10x10 and 25x17 pergolas. 

To learn more, visit strongtie.com/outdooraccents.