TLCE4 Post Caps — Code-Compliant Galvanized Steel Post-to-Beam Connection
The TLCE4 Post Cap is a 20-gauge galvanized steel connector engineered to join wood post and beam members in structural framing applications. Designed for use with 4x or 6x posts, it delivers verified uplift and lateral load resistance backed by ICC ESR-1347 code compliance. The cap installs on either the left or right orientation, providing flexibility for varied framing configurations. It is suited for contractors and structural framers working on decks, pergolas, covered structures, and similar post-and-beam assemblies.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Item ID | TLCE4 |
| Material | 20ga. galvanized steel |
| Steel Gauge | 20 |
| Code Compliance | ICC ESR-1347 |
| Compatible Post Sizes | 4x or 6x post |
| Installation Orientation | Left or right installation |
| Height (H) | 5-3/8" |
| Width (W) | 5-3/8" |
| Base (B) | 1-1/4" |
| Nail Schedule – Beam | 14 |
| Nail Schedule – Post | 10 |
| Nail Type | 16d by 3-1/2 inch common nails |
| Allowable Load – Uplift (DFL, lbf) | 1835 |
| Allowable Load – Lateral H1 (DFL, lbf) | 1894 |
| Allowable Load – Lateral H2 (DFL, lbf) | 1180 |
| Lumber Specific Gravity | 0.50 or greater (e.g. Douglas Fir Larch) |
| Load Duration Factor (CD) | 1.6 (160%) — adjusted for occupancy live loads, snow loads, and construction loads |
The TLCE4 stands out from generic post caps by offering dual-orientation installation and published, code-evaluated load values under ICC ESR-1347, giving engineers and inspectors the documentation they need on the job. Its 20-gauge galvanized steel construction provides corrosion resistance appropriate for exterior structural applications where post-and-beam connections are exposed to the elements.
Key Features & Benefits
ICC ESR-1347 Code Compliance
The TLCE4 carries an ICC Evaluation Service Report (ESR-1347), meaning its load values are independently evaluated and accepted by building officials. This simplifies permit approval and inspection sign-off on structural framing projects.
High Allowable Load Ratings
With an allowable uplift load of 1,835 lbf and lateral loads of 1,894 lbf (H1) and 1,180 lbf (H2), the TLCE4 provides substantial structural capacity for post-and-beam connections. These values are adjusted for a load duration factor of 1.6, covering typical occupancy live loads, snow loads, and construction loads.
Left or Right Installation
The cap can be installed on either the left or right side of the post, reducing the need to stock separate left-hand and right-hand connectors on the job site. This flexibility streamlines framing layout and minimizes material waste.
20-Gauge Galvanized Steel Construction
Fabricated from 20-gauge galvanized steel, the TLCE4 offers the corrosion resistance required for exterior structural connections. The galvanized finish helps protect the connector in conditions where moisture exposure is a concern.
Standard Nail Fastening
The connector uses standard 16d by 3-1/2 inch common nails — 14 into the beam and 10 into the post — so no proprietary fasteners or special tools are required. This keeps installation straightforward and compatible with standard framing crews and nail supplies.
Common Applications
Deck Post-to-Beam Connections
The TLCE4 is used to connect vertical 4x or 6x deck posts to horizontal beam members, providing code-compliant uplift and lateral resistance at each post location.
Pergola and Covered Structure Framing
In pergola and patio cover construction, the cap secures the top of posts to overhead beams, resisting wind uplift and lateral forces that these open structures commonly experience.
Structural Post-and-Beam Assemblies
Wherever wood post and beam members must be mechanically connected with verified load capacity, the TLCE4 provides a tested, code-evaluated solution suitable for structural framing inspections.
Product Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What post sizes is the TLCE4 compatible with?
A: The TLCE4 is designed for use with 4x or 6x posts.
Q: What are the allowable load values for the TLCE4?
A: The allowable uplift load is 1,835 lbf, the allowable lateral load H1 is 1,894 lbf, and the allowable lateral load H2 is 1,180 lbf. These values apply to Douglas Fir Larch or lumber with a specific gravity of 0.50 or greater.
Q: What fasteners are required to install the TLCE4?
A: Installation requires 16d by 3-1/2 inch common nails — 14 nails into the beam and 10 nails into the post.
Q: Is the TLCE4 code-evaluated?
A: Yes. The TLCE4 complies with ICC ESR-1347, providing independently evaluated load data accepted by building officials.
Q: Can the TLCE4 be installed on either side of the post?
A: Yes. The TLCE4 supports both left and right installation orientations.
Q: What lumber species or specific gravity is required for the published load values to apply?
A: The allowable loads are valid for wood or structural composite lumber with an effective specific gravity of 0.50 or greater, such as Douglas Fir Larch.