Hello,

I’m evaluating a detail from a Simpson blog where the hold-down uses a threaded rod extension and coupler nut. Like every hold-down foundation detail I’ve examined the post/chord is setting directly on the sill. My question is can the SW posts set on the floor instead (sole plate, floor sheathing, I-joists, sill plate, squash blocks & rim board) by using this rod extension? It’s similar in concept to the rods used at upper floors, but I’ve never seen it at the foundation. Or, would I get much more capacity out of setting the SW posts directly on the sill plate and then frame the floor around the posts to avoid the discontinuity? This seems like a pain(i.e. notching sheathing) and not as straight forward as platform construction. To get the favorable condition of the SWs on the basement sill I’ve heard of people using top flange I-joist hangers so the floor is flush with the sill, but in my view, the hangers are a very bad detail compared with direct joist bearing. The article notes 18” is the max unbraced rod length, where with a 16” I-joist system I’ll look to to select hold-downs with 3/4” rods. Appreciate any insight and comments on this detail, thanks.