Description:

Key Features

Adjusts to Roof Pitch The Simpson Strong-Tie VPA2 Variable Pitch Connector adjusts in the field for roof slopes from 3:12 to 12:12, so you can fit the connector to the job instead of forcing a fixed bracket to work where it should not. No Rafter Notching This connector is built to attach rafters to the top plate without notching rafters, beveling top plates, or relying on toe nailing alone. That saves layout time and keeps the connection cleaner. G90 Galvanized Steel Made from 18 gauge steel with a G90 galvanized finish, it is built for wood-to-wood structural connection work where corrosion resistance matters.

Overview

The Simpson Strong-Tie VPA2 Variable Pitch Connector is a field-adjustable wood connector made for attaching rafters to the top plate in engineered wood applications. This is a variable pitch connector designed for rafter-to-wall fastening. Model Number: VPA2. If you are framing a roof and want a cleaner connection without cutting notches into the rafter or beveling the top plate, this part does that job in a simple, code-recognized way.

What makes the VPA2 useful is the adjustability. It is built to accommodate roof slopes from 3:12 to 12:12, which gives you flexibility on site when the framing angle is not the same from one project to the next. Instead of stocking multiple fixed-angle connectors or trying to make a standard bracket fit where it does not belong, this connector can be set to the required pitch and installed where the rafter meets the plate.

For the VPA2 size, Simpson Strong-Tie lists a 1-1/2 inch joist width and an overall connector width of 1-9/16 inch. It is made from 18 gauge steel, which keeps the connector light and workable while still giving you the structure expected from a dedicated framing connector. At roughly 0.41 lb, it is easy to handle during layout and installation, especially when you are working along a run of rafters.

The galvanized finish matters here. This model uses Zinc Galvanized, G90 coating for added corrosion resistance in typical wood construction use. For framers and contractors, that means a connector better suited to long-term exposure in standard building conditions than bare steel. It is also a straightforward wood-to-wood connection part, so it fits naturally into roof framing, shed framing, and similar structural wood construction work.

Another real advantage is jobsite efficiency. The VPA2 is intended to eliminate the need for notched rafters, beveled top plates, and toe nailing as the primary connection method. That can speed up repetitive framing work and reduce opportunities for inconsistent cuts. When the connector is doing the locating and fastening work, the assembly is easier to repeat from one bay to the next.

Fastener requirements are specific, which is exactly what you want with structural hardware. Simpson Strong-Tie calls for installation with 0.148 inch x 1-1/2 inch nails, commonly referenced as 10d x 1-1/2 inch nails. Fasteners are not included, so plan your order accordingly if you are buying for a full framing package.

The best buyer for this connector is a framer, builder, remodeler, or serious DIYer working on roof framing with engineered wood or standard wood-to-wood construction. If you need a small structural connector that solves changing roof pitch without overcomplicating the framing layout, the Simpson Strong-Tie VPA2 Variable Pitch Connector is the practical pick.

Built for Variable Roof Angles

The whole point of this connector is flexibility at the rafter-to-plate connection. When roof pitch changes from job to job, the VPA2 lets you fit the connector to the framing angle instead of reaching for a fixed-angle part that may not line up right.

• Adjusts to roof slopes from 3:12 to 12:12
• Designed for attaching rafters to the top plate
• Helps eliminate notched rafters and beveled top plates

Right Size for 1-1/2 Inch Members

This VPA2 version is sized for a 1-1/2 inch joist width, making it the right fit when you are matching the connector to narrower framing members. That matters because structural connectors only work as intended when the sizing is right.

• Joist width: 1-1/2 in.
• Connector width: 1-9/16 in.
• Package quantity: 1 connector

Galvanized for Framing Duty

Structural hardware lives in tough conditions, so finish and material are not throwaway details. The VPA2 uses steel construction with a G90 galvanized coating, giving you a connector made for real framing work and better resistance to corrosion in standard construction environments.

• Made from steel
• 18 gauge construction
• Zinc Galvanized, G90 finish

What's in the Box

• (1) Simpson Strong-Tie VPA2 Variable Pitch Connector

Fasteners are not included.

Key Specifications

Compatibility

Materials Connected Designed for wood-to-wood connections in roof framing applications. Application Listed for engineered wood applications and used for attaching rafters to the top plate. Required Fasteners Installs with 0.148 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails, commonly called 10d x 1-1/2 in. nails.

Built For

Roof Framing Carpentry Construction General Contracting Remodeling Engineered Wood

Tool Nut's Take

Tool Nut's Take

Why the Simpson Strong-Tie VPA2 Variable Pitch Connector Earns Its Spot

This is a smart little framing connector for anyone who wants a cleaner rafter-to-plate connection without wasting time on extra cuts.

• Who it's for: Framers, builders, and remodelers working on wood roof framing where pitch can vary from one job to the next.
• Why it stands out: The field-adjustable 3:12 to 12:12 range is the big deal here, along with the fact that it helps eliminate rafter notching and beveling work.
• Worth knowing: It is sold as a single connector and fasteners are not included, so do not treat this like a grab-and-go kit.

Common Questions

• What roof slopes will this connector handle? The VPA2 adjusts to accommodate slopes from 3:12 to 12:12.
• What size member is this VPA2 model made for? This model is listed for a 1-1/2 in. joist width.
• What fasteners does it use? Simpson Strong-Tie specifies 0.148 in. x 1-1/2 in. nails, commonly called 10d x 1-1/2 in. nails.
• What is it made from? It is made from 18 gauge steel with a Zinc Galvanized, G90 finish.