Simpson Strong-Tie 12-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Pipe Grip Tie for 1-1/2-in. Pipe (PGT1.5Z-R)
Simpson Strong-Tie 12-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Pipe Grip Tie for 1-1/2-in. Pipe (PGT1.5Z-R)
Key Features
Overview
The Simpson Strong-Tie PGT1.5Z-R Pipe Grip Tie is a fence connector designed to attach wood fence rails to metal fence posts. This is a pipe grip tie designed for wood-to-metal fence rail connections in new fence construction and fence repair. Model Number PGT1.5Z-R fits a 1-1/2 inch nominal pipe with a 1-7/8 inch outside diameter, giving you a practical way to keep the look of a wood fence while using longer-lasting steel posts behind it.
Where this connector earns its keep is simple: metal posts typically outlast wood posts, especially in ground-contact fence work where rot is the usual failure point. The PGT1.5Z-R wraps the post and gives you mounting ears on each side so the wood rail can be fastened directly to the connector. That means you get a solid rail-to-post connection without trying to notch, toe-screw, or improvise around a round pipe.
This model is made from 12-gauge steel, which matters because a fence connector takes repeated load from wind, gate movement, and seasonal wood movement. The heavier material helps the tie keep its shape once installed, and the ZMAX coating adds corrosion resistance for exterior conditions and treated lumber contact. If you are building or repairing a fence that needs to stay straight and hold up outdoors, coating and steel thickness are not throwaway specs here.
The Simpson Strong-Tie PGT1.5Z-R Pipe Grip Tie is also built to make installation straightforward. The tie installs on vertical pipes and tightens with one supplied 1/4 inch hex-head bolt. Rail attachment uses four 1/4 inch by 1-1/2 inch Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are not included. That layout gives you a repeatable install method, which is helpful when you are setting multiple posts and want consistent rail alignment down the fence line.
Another useful detail is that the flanges can be field-bent one time to fit corner and angled conditions. That makes this connector more than just a straight-run bracket. It can help when you are tying into a 90 degree corner, working around a 45 degree change in direction, or replacing a damaged wood post in an existing fence where perfect geometry is not happening. Strong-Tie also notes using three to four PGT ties per pipe and lining up to stringline for a clean finished run.
In practical terms, this connector is for fence builders, remodelers, property maintenance crews, and serious DIY users who want the durability of steel fence posts without giving up wood rails and wood pickets. If your goal is a stronger fence structure with less post rot and fewer callbacks, this is the kind of small hardware choice that makes a real difference over time.
Extend Fence Life with Steel Posts
If you want a wood fence look with a tougher post system behind it, this is the move. The connector lets you fasten wood rails to round steel posts so the post is no longer the weak point.
- Designed for fencing applications
- Helps replace damaged wood posts or build new fences with metal posts
Built for Straight Runs and Corners
Fence lines are not always dead straight. This tie can be field-bent one time to deal with corner and angled conditions without switching to a completely different connection method.
- Suitable for standard applications, corners, and splices
- Field-bend flanges one time only for angled layouts
Simple Hardware, Repeatable Install
This connector is straightforward to install and easy to repeat across a full fence run. Wrap the pipe, tighten the supplied bolt, then fasten the rail through the side tabs.
- Installs on 1-7/8 inch outside diameter vertical pipe
- Attaches to rails with four 1/4 inch x 1-1/2 inch SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, sold separately
What's in the Box
- (1) Simpson Strong-Tie PGT1.5Z-R Pipe Grip Tie
- (1) Bolt supplied
Rail attachment screws are not included. This tie installs to the rail with (4) 1/4 inch x 1-1/2 inch Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws.
Key Specifications
| Application | Fencing |
|---|---|
| Pipe Size Compatibility | 1-1/2 in. nominal pipe |
| Pipe Outside Diameter | 1-7/8 in. |
| Material | 12-gauge steel |
| Finish | ZMAX® |
| Width (W) | 6-1/2 in. |
| Height (H) | 1-1/2 in. |
| Packaging Quantity | 1 |
Compatibility
Built For
Pro Tip
Run a stringline before tightening the ties for good, then keep your PGT locations consistent at three to four ties per pipe. It makes the rail line cleaner and saves you from chasing alignment later.
Tool Nut's Take
Simpson Strong-Tie PGT1.5Z-R Pipe Grip Tie solves the wood-post rot problem the smart way
If you want the look of a wood fence but trust steel posts more than buried wood, this connector is the clean answer.
- Who it's for: Fence builders, repair crews, and homeowners upgrading from wood posts to metal pipe posts.
- Why it stands out: 12-gauge steel, ZMAX corrosion resistance, and a design that lets you fasten wood rails directly to round metal posts.
- Worth knowing: You get the tie and bolt, but not the rail screws, so plan on the correct 1/4 inch x 1-1/2 inch SDS connector screws before you start.
Common Questions
- What size pipe does this tie fit? It is designed for 1-1/2 inch nominal pipe with a 1-7/8 inch outside diameter.
- Can it be used on fence corners or angled runs? Yes. The flanges can be field-bent one time to fit corner and angled conditions.
- What kind of project is this connector made for? It is made for fencing, specifically attaching wood fence rails to metal fence posts in new construction or repair work.
- Are the rail screws included? No. The tie uses four 1/4 inch x 1-1/2 inch SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws for the rail attachment, and those are sold separately.