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CSA A370-14 (R2018): Connectors for Masonry – Technical Requirements and Compliance Guide
Comprehensive overview of materials, performance criteria, and installation requirements for masonry connectors under the Canadian standard
CSA A370-14 (R2018) is the Canadian standard developed by the Canadian Standards Association that specifies the requirements for connectors used in masonry construction. This standard covers anchors, ties, fasteners, and other devices that connect masonry wythes to structural framing or adjacent wythes. The 2018 reaffirmation confirms that the 2014 edition remains current with no technical changes. This article provides a technical overview of the standard, focusing on scope, technical requirements, implementation considerations, and compliance guidelines.
1. Scope and Application
CSA A370-14 (R2018) establishes minimum requirements for connectors used within masonry assemblies, including:
- Wall ties for cavity or veneer walls
- Anchors for connecting masonry to structural frames
- Straps, plates, and bolts for lateral support
- Fasteners used in anchorage devices
These connectors are intended for use in both loadbearing and non-loadbearing masonry. The standard applies to connectors fabricated from steel wire, steel sheet, or other approved materials. It does not cover connectors for reinforced masonry (covered in CSA A371) or structural steel connections designed within steel standards. The scope also includes test methods to verify mechanical performance and corrosion resistance.
Tip: CSA A370-14 (R2018) harmonizes with many ASTM standards (e.g., ASTM A153 for galvanized coatings) to facilitate cross-border recognition.
2. Technical Requirements
2.1 Materials and Corrosion Protection
Connectors must be made from carbon steel, stainless steel, or steel with a protective metallic coating. The standard specifies the following:
- Carbon steel: Minimum tensile strength of 450 MPa for wire ties; bending properties as specified in test methods.
- Stainless steel: Grades 304 or 316 as per ASTM A240/A240M.
- Hot-dip galvanized: Coating mass per CSA G164 or ASTM A153; minimum average of 550 g/m² for wire and 760 g/m² for sheet.
- Alternative coatings: Electrogalvanizing only with additional corrosion protection verification.
Warning: Connectors intended for use in extremely corrosive environments (coastal, industrial) should be fabricated from stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized with increased coating thickness.
2.2 Dimensional Tolerances
CSA A370 defines dimensional limits for common connector types. For example:
| Connector Type | Minimum Wire Diameter or Thickness | Minimum Width | Minimum Length/Leg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall tie (Z-type) | 4.76 mm (#8 wire) | — | 200 mm (embedment 40 mm min.) |
| Corrugated tie | 1.6 mm (0.064 in) | 22 mm | 150 mm (embedment 50 mm min.) |
| Dovetail anchor | 3.2 mm (10 gauge) | 60 mm | Embedded 75 mm min. |
| Straight bolt anchor | 6.4 mm (dia rod) | — | Adjustable embedment |
2.3 Mechanical Performance
Every connector must pass mechanical tests specified in the standard:
- Tensile test: Determine ultimate tensile load. Minimum values vary by connector type.
- Shear test: Evaluate resistance to lateral forces.
- Bend test (wire ties): Check ductility to prevent fracture during installation.
- Corrosion performance: Salt spray test for 96 hours per ASTM B117 (for coated connectors).
The following table illustrates typical acceptance criteria for common connectors:
| Connector Type | Test Method | Acceptance Criteria (minimum) |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustable wall tie | Tensile (in tension) | 3100 N (700 lbf) ultimate |
| Corrugated tie | Shear (intermittent) | 1330 N (300 lbf) ultimate |
| Two-piece anchor | Tensile & shear | 4450 N (1000 lbf) each direction |
| Dovetail anchor | Per manufacturer specification | Minimum of 2.5 kN or rupture of steel |
Compliance Note: Load values in the table are typical minimums; the designer must verify specific requirements based on project conditions and masonry type.
2.4 Installation Requirements
CSA A370 does not dictate placement rules but provides guidance on embedment depths and edge distances that affect performance. Key points:
- Embedment into masonry mortar joints: minimum 40 mm for most wire ties.
- End distances and spacing: per design but not less than 50 mm from edges of masonry units.
- Fasteners: must not split masonry units; pre-drilling may be required.
3. Implementation Highlights
Effective use of CSA A370 connectors requires coordination between the masonry contractor, structural engineer, and building official. Important considerations:
- Seismic design: In Canadian earthquake zones, connectors may need to meet ductility requirements from the National Building Code of Canada (NBC). CSA A370 provides ductility categories; select accordingly.
- Fire resistance: Connectors embedded in masonry rely on the masonry’s fire rating. Steel thicknesses ≥ 1.6 mm provide inherent fire endurance for most assemblies.
- Corrosion protection selection: Use Table 2 in CSA A370 (exposure classification) to determine coating or stainless steel grade.
- Quality control: Installers should verify that connectors bear the standard marking; store connectors off ground to protect from moisture.
Warning: Mixing connector types from different manufacturers without verification of compatibility can reduce structural integrity. Always confirm load capacities are based on same test protocols.
4. Compliance Notes
4.1 Testing and Certification
Manufacturers must submit connectors to an accredited laboratory for testing per CSA A370 test methods. Certification is typically performed by a third-party organization accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC).
4.2 Marking Requirements
Each connector or packaging must be marked with:
- Manufacturer name or identifier
- Standard designation (CSA A370-14)
- Material grade (e.g., carbon steel, stainless 304)
- Lot number for traceability
Marking shall be legible and durable for the life of the product.
4.3 Updates from Reaffirmation
The 2018 reaffirmation did not introduce technical changes but clarified editorial references to ASTM standards. Users should still refer to the 2014 edition for requirements.
4.4 Acceptance of Alternatives
Connectors not explicitly covered by CSA A370 may be accepted if they pass the performance tests and are evaluated by the authority having jurisdiction. Annex A of the standard outlines qualification procedures for proprietary connectors.
Good Practice: Keep record of test reports and certificates on jobsites to facilitate inspections and avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What connectors are covered by CSA A370-14 (R2018)?
A: The standard covers wall ties, anchors, straps, plates, and bolts that connect masonry to structural elements. It applies to both loadbearing and non-loadbearing masonry assemblies. Connectors for reinforced masonry are excluded; they fall under CSA A371.
A: The standard covers wall ties, anchors, straps, plates, and bolts that connect masonry to structural elements. It applies to both loadbearing and non-loadbearing masonry assemblies. Connectors for reinforced masonry are excluded; they fall under CSA A371.
Q: Are corrosion protection requirements mandatory under this standard?
A: Yes. All connectors must have a protective coating unless made of stainless steel. The minimum coating is hot-dip galvanizing per CSA G164, with thickness depending on exposure class. The standard’s Table 2 links corrosion protection levels to building environment.
A: Yes. All connectors must have a protective coating unless made of stainless steel. The minimum coating is hot-dip galvanizing per CSA G164, with thickness depending on exposure class. The standard’s Table 2 links corrosion protection levels to building environment.
Q: Can connectors certified to ASTM standards be used as equivalent to CSA A370?
A: In many cases, yes, but they must meet the performance criteria specified in CSA A370. Connectors conforming to ASTM A510 for wire or ASTM A240 for stainless steel are often accepted after verification of mechanical properties. However, the authority having jurisdiction may require direct testing to CSA A370 test methods.
A: In many cases, yes, but they must meet the performance criteria specified in CSA A370. Connectors conforming to ASTM A510 for wire or ASTM A240 for stainless steel are often accepted after verification of mechanical properties. However, the authority having jurisdiction may require direct testing to CSA A370 test methods.
Q: What are the main differences between the 2014 edition and the 2018 reaffirmation?
A: The 2018 reaffirmation did not alter any technical content. It updated references and made editorial corrections. Therefore, designs based on the 2014 edition remain valid for projects under the 2018 reaffirmation.
A: The 2018 reaffirmation did not alter any technical content. It updated references and made editorial corrections. Therefore, designs based on the 2014 edition remain valid for projects under the 2018 reaffirmation.
This technical article is based on CSA A370-14 (R2018) and serves as a general overview. For detailed specifications, users should obtain the official standard from CSA Group. © 2026