Simpson Strong-Tie 7-in. 16-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Reinforcing L Angle (L70Z)

The Simpson Strong-Tie L70Z 7 in. 16-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Reinforcing L Angle is a load-rated reinforcing angle used to strengthen and connect framing members in wood-to-wood and cold-formed steel applications. This is a reinforcing angle designed for fastening and structural connection support. Model Number: L70Z. If you need a simple connector that gives you defined fastener locations and known load data, this is the kind of hardware that keeps a job moving without relying on site-made brackets.

What makes this L angle worth buying is that it is not just bent steel with holes punched in it. Simpson Strong-Tie built this connector with well-defined fastener locations and published load values that account for connection eccentricities. In practical terms, that means less guesswork when you are tying members together and more confidence that the connector is doing what it is supposed to do once the load is on it.

The staggered fastener pattern is one of the details that actually matters in the field. When you are fastening into wood, hole placement affects whether the material holds cleanly or starts to split out around the fasteners. The staggered layout helps reduce that splitting risk, which is especially useful when you are reinforcing framing connections where a clean, solid hold matters more than saving a few seconds.

For build quality, the L70Z uses 16-gauge steel with a 54 mil thickness. That gives the connector enough body for general utility reinforcement without becoming overkill for routine framing and repair work. At 7 inches long with eight fastener holes, it gives you a decent footprint for distributing load and tying two members together across the corner.

The finish is a big part of the story here. This version uses ZMAX galvanization, which is specified for extra corrosion resistance and is suited for exterior and treated-wood applications. If the connection is going on a deck, an exterior repair, or anywhere moisture exposure is part of the environment, the coating is not a throwaway spec. It is one of the reasons you would choose the L70Z over a basic interior-only angle.

Installation is straightforward, but this is still structural hardware, so the details count. Simpson Strong-Tie calls for using all specified fasteners. The published install guidance also notes that the stud or joist must be constrained against rotation when using a single L per connection. That is the kind of note experienced builders pay attention to, because connector performance depends on the whole connection, not just the bracket itself.

This reinforcing angle is a good fit for framing reinforcement, general repairs, deck work, utility connections, and cold-formed steel tie-ins where a simple angle connector is the right answer. It is especially useful for contractors, remodelers, and serious DIY users who want a tested part instead of fabricating something on the fly. If you are working on fastening, structural reinforcement, or wood framing connections and want known performance from a compact connector, this is a solid pick.

Simpson Strong-Tie L70Z 7 in. 16-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Reinforcing L Angle: simple hardware, real structural value

This is the kind of connector that makes more sense than fabricating your own bracket when you want known performance, a clean install, and better corrosion resistance.

• Who it's for: Contractors, framers, remodelers, and serious DIY users reinforcing wood framing or tying into cold-formed steel.
• Why it stands out: It combines load-rated performance, a wood-friendly staggered fastener pattern, and ZMAX coating for exterior and treated-wood work.
• Worth knowing: This is a connector, not a complete fastening kit, so make sure you use the specified nails or Strong-Drive screws and follow the install notes.

• What is this connector designed for? It is a reinforcing L angle designed for fastening wood-to-wood connections and it is also load rated for cold-formed steel applications.
• Is this suitable for exterior or treated-wood use? Yes. The ZMAX galvanized finish is specified for extra corrosion resistance and is intended for exterior and treated-wood applications.
• What fasteners does it use? The listed installation options are 10d common nails or #9 x 1-1/2 in Strong-Drive SD screws.
• Why use this instead of making a bracket on site? This angle has defined fastener locations and published load values, so you get a tested connector instead of relying on a field-fabricated part.