What Are Straps?

In this category, straps refers to EMT straps used to fasten electrical metallic tubing to a structure. They are typically formed metal supports sized to fit specific EMT trade sizes and are installed with screws, anchors, or other compatible fasteners. The main job of the strap is to keep the raceway supported, limit movement, and help maintain a neat, serviceable installation. Common styles include one-hole straps and two-hole straps, with each style offering a different balance of speed, holding strength, and alignment control.

Where Are Straps Used?

EMT straps are used anywhere EMT conduit is surface-mounted or otherwise requires mechanical support. Typical applications include commercial tenant fit-outs, retail spaces, schools, light industrial facilities, service rooms, parking structures, and maintenance upgrades in existing buildings. They are also common in exposed conduit work where appearance matters, since consistent strap spacing helps keep runs straight and professional-looking. The exact strap and fastener combination depends on whether the conduit is being mounted to wood, steel, concrete, masonry, strut, or another support system.

How To Choose Straps

Start with conduit type and trade size. EMT straps are not universal across all raceway types, so confirm the strap is intended for EMT and sized correctly for the tubing being installed. Next, choose the strap style. One-hole straps are often used where speed matters and the conduit run is straightforward. Two-hole straps are commonly chosen where installers want a firmer hold, better resistance to twisting, or more consistent alignment on longer exposed runs. Then consider environment and finish. Standard plated steel may be suitable for many indoor dry locations, while damp, washdown, or corrosive areas may require more careful material selection. Finally, think about the mounting surface and labour. A good strap choice is one that fits the conduit properly, installs cleanly with the planned fastener, and matches the jobsite conditions without creating rework.

Trade Rules Of Thumb

As a practical rule of thumb, one-hole straps are often used on smaller EMT sizes and shorter straightforward runs where installation speed is important. Two-hole straps are often preferred when the conduit is larger, the run is exposed and needs to stay visually straight, or the mounting surface and vibration conditions call for a more secure attachment. Another common field practice is to keep strap spacing visually consistent even when code would allow wider spacing, especially in finished commercial spaces. Installers also often coordinate strap placement with couplings, boxes, offsets, and bends so the run looks intentional and remains easy to service. These are practical trade habits, not code substitutes, so final support methods should always be checked against applicable code and project requirements.

Sizing Guidelines

The first sizing rule is simple: match the strap to the EMT trade size exactly. A strap that is too tight can deform or fight the conduit during installation, while one that is too loose can leave the run looking sloppy and may not support the raceway properly. On larger EMT sizes, many electricians lean toward two-hole straps because they help control alignment better during fastening. If the run includes multiple bends, expansion concerns, or transitions to boxes and enclosures, check that the strap profile and mounting location do not interfere with fittings or cover removal. Sizing and support spacing should be treated as installation guidance only and verified against the current Canadian Electrical Code and local inspection practice.

Common Installation Practices

Good EMT strap installation starts with laying out the run before drilling. Electricians typically mark box locations, couplings, bends, and support points first so straps land in sensible positions and the conduit stays straight. Fasteners should suit the substrate, whether that means wood screws, self-drilling screws, concrete anchors, or channel nuts for strut-mounted work. Straps should be tightened enough to secure the conduit without crushing or distorting it. On exposed work, many installers snap lines or use lasers to keep strap rows level and evenly spaced. Where corrosion or moisture is a concern, the strap, fastener, and mounting method should be selected as a system rather than as separate parts.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake is treating all conduit straps as interchangeable. EMT, rigid, and other raceway supports are not always the same shape or fit. Another issue is using the wrong trade size and forcing the conduit into the strap, which can slow the crew down and leave the run misaligned. Installers also run into trouble when they choose a strap without considering the mounting surface, then discover the planned fastener will not hold properly. On finished exposed runs, poor strap spacing and inconsistent placement can make otherwise acceptable conduit work look rough. In damp or corrosive areas, using a standard plated strap without considering the environment can shorten service life and create maintenance issues later.

Brand Comparisons

Bridgeport is a well-known choice for EMT fittings and support hardware and is commonly selected when contractors want dependable fit and familiar installation across standard commercial work. Wheatland and Atkore are often associated with broader conduit system supply, while T&B is widely recognized across fittings, connectors, and support products in many established specifications. In practice, strap selection is usually less about brand loyalty alone and more about fit, finish consistency, availability, and matching the rest of the installed system. If a site already uses a particular fitting brand heavily, staying with that ecosystem may simplify procurement and field expectations. Bridgeport is a practical option for many standard EMT support applications, especially where buyers want a recognized trade brand without overcomplicating a basic support item.

Related Products

EMT straps are usually purchased with EMT connectors, EMT couplings, locknuts, insulating bushings, conduit bodies, strut channel, channel nuts, beam clamps, anchors, and mounting screws. On retrofit and service work, electricians may also need box offsets, reducing washers, grounding hardware, and weather-resistant fittings depending on the run. If the conduit system is exposed, layout tools and support accessories matter almost as much as the strap itself because they affect labour time and final appearance. Buying the support hardware together helps avoid site delays caused by missing fasteners or incompatible mounting parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a one-hole and two-hole EMT strap?

A one-hole strap mounts with a single fastener and is often chosen for quick installation on lighter-duty runs. A two-hole strap uses two fasteners and generally gives better alignment control and a more secure hold, especially on larger conduit sizes or exposed runs.

Do EMT straps need to match the conduit size exactly?

Yes. EMT straps are sized by conduit trade size and should match the tubing being installed. Using the wrong size can make installation difficult, affect appearance, and reduce support quality.

Can I use the same strap for EMT and rigid conduit?

Not always. Even when trade sizes sound similar, strap shape and fit can differ by raceway type. It is better to use a strap specifically listed or intended for the conduit type being installed.

Are plated steel EMT straps suitable for outdoor use?

That depends on the environment and project requirements. Some outdoor or damp locations may need more corrosion-resistant materials or finishes. Check the product listing, site conditions, and applicable code or specification before choosing.

How far apart should EMT straps be installed?

Support spacing must follow the current Canadian Electrical Code, local authority requirements, and project specifications. In the field, many electricians also aim for consistent visual spacing so exposed conduit runs look straight and well planned.

When should I choose Bridgeport EMT straps?

Bridgeport is a sensible choice when you want a recognized trade brand for standard EMT support work and prefer compatibility with commonly used conduit fitting systems. It is especially practical for commercial and maintenance jobs where dependable fit and ready replacement matter.