In a through brace installation, what is used at both ends to secure the brace?

• A. Washers and nuts
• B. Nails
• C. Glue
• D. Tape

Answer: (A)

Through bracing relies on a bolt that passes through the wood to clamp the brace tightly in place. Washers and nuts at both ends are essential because they provide the load-distributing surface and the locking force needed to keep the bolt from pulling through or backing out. Washers spread the load so the wood isn’t crushed around the bolt, and nuts keep the bolt tight on both sides, maintaining the compression that holds the brace and the damaged wood together. Nails, glue, and tape aren’t suitable for this structural purpose: nails don’t provide the necessary shear strength or long-term security, glue isn’t reliable under dynamic tree movement and moisture, and tape offers no real structural support.