Simpson Strong-Tie LTP4 Lateral Tie Plate

The LTP4 delivers 910 lbs of shear capacity using SD-Connector screws in a compact 3 in. wide x 4-1/4 in. long plate, solving critical plate-to-rim board connections that Montana contractors face in high-wind and seismic zones. Worth it for framing crews who need code-compliant shear transfer without massive hardware. The 20-gauge steel construction handles the loads while staying easy to install.

Skip it if you’re just doing basic wall framing with no shear concerns. This connector shines where inspectors demand documented lateral resistance — portal frames, top plate-to-rim connections, and anywhere wind or seismic forces threaten to rack the structure.

Load Capacity and Installation Versatility

The numbers tell the story. Approximately 910 lbs shear capacity with SD-Connector screws in Douglas Fir/Southern Pine. Drop that to approximately 800 lbs in Hem-Fir lumber. Those aren’t theoretical lab numbers — they’re ICC-ES evaluated loads you can show the inspector.

Here’s where it gets practical. The LTP4 can be installed over up to 1/2-inch plywood or wood structural panel sheathing. But watch the load reductions: 0.72x tabulated load over 3/8” sheathing, 0.64x over 1/2” sheathing. That 910-pound capacity drops to 582 pounds over half-inch plywood. Still enough for most applications, but you need to know the math.

Specification	Value	Source
Model	LTP4 / LTP4Z	Manufacturer
Material	Cold-formed steel	Manufacturer
Gauge	20-gauge (33 mil)	Manufacturer
Dimensions	3 in. wide x 4-1/4 in. long	Manufacturer
Shear Capacity (DF/SP)	~910 lbs with SD screws	Manufacturer
Shear Capacity (Hem-Fir)	~800 lbs	Manufacturer
3/8” Sheathing Factor	0.72x tabulated load	Manufacturer
1/2” Sheathing Factor	0.64x tabulated load	Manufacturer
Finish Options	G90 or ZMAX®	Manufacturer

Fastener flexibility matters on real jobsites. Use 0.131 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails with no sheathing, bump up to 0.131 in. x 2-1/2 in. common nails over sheathing, or go with #9 x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive® SD Connector screws for maximum capacity. The staggered nail pattern must be fully utilized — no skipping holes to save time.

Code Compliance and Real-World Applications

The paperwork backs up the performance. ICC-ES Evaluation Report ESR-3096 (reissued Jan 2026) covers you with building departments. Add Florida Building Code approvals FL-10446 and FL-13872 if you’re dealing with the strictest wind-load standards in the country. Compliance with IBC, IRC, and City of Los Angeles codes rounds out the approval package.

Where does this connector solve problems? Top plate-to-rim board (blocking) connections top the list. Portal-frame anchorage and continuously sheathed portal frames (CS-PF) require this level of documented shear transfer. Single or double top-plate installations work equally well. Roof-to-wall framing reinforcement rounds out the primary uses.

The LTP4 isn’t the only lateral tie plate in Simpson’s lineup. The LTP5 is larger (4-1/2 x 5-1/8) and higher capacity. More importantly, LTP5 can be installed over 1/2” sheathing without load reduction. If you’re working over half-inch sheathing and need full capacity, spend the extra money on LTP5s.

Standard galvanized G90 coating handles most applications. The ZMAX® corrosion-resistant finish option matters for exposed locations or anywhere Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles accelerate corrosion. Simpson’s standard limited warranty covers defects in material or workmanship when properly stored, maintained, and used per instructions.

Available individually or in cartons of 200. Individual pieces make sense for small repairs or testing. Buy the 200-pack if you’re framing production homes or doing serious seismic retrofits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular 16d nails instead of the specified fasteners?

A: No. The load ratings depend on using 0.131 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails (no sheathing), 0.131 in. x 2-1/2 in. common nails (over sheathing), or #9 x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive® SD Connector screws. Wrong fasteners mean the connection won’t meet code.

Q: What’s the real-world difference between the LTP4 and LTP5?

A: LTP5 is larger (4-1/2 x 5-1/8) and higher capacity. LTP5 can be installed over 1/2” sheathing without load reduction. If you’re working over half-inch sheathing, LTP5 maintains full capacity while LTP4 drops to 64% of rated load.

Q: Do I need the ZMAX coating in Montana?

A: Depends on exposure. ZMAX® corrosion-resistant finish costs more but handles Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles better than standard galvanizing. Use it for exposed locations, high-moisture areas, or anywhere you’d normally specify hot-dip galvanizing.

Q: How critical is the nail pattern?

A: Completely critical. Staggered nail pattern must be fully utilized; all designated holes should be driven. Skip holes and you’ve created a non-compliant connection that won’t pass inspection.