If you are joining two 2x4s face-to-face, I recommend using either 2.5-inch or 3-inch screws. Spans, sizes and spacings for deck joists and deck beams are discussed in detail . A #8 diameter deck screw is ideal, as any higher would split the wood. Understanding what makes a nail or screw effective is the first step toward creating framing that will last for the future. Nail size is more important than you might think when framing interior walls. Finally, the CAMO jig is adjustable so if you’ve milled your deck boards that are a true 6” or any other width, the jig will shift to fit. If you are looking to join 2x4s, the best screw size to use in most cases is 2.5 inches long, gauge 8 or 9. Please, just don’t do it. add a comment + 6. vote up Answer by wjmcomposer (45) Typically, you'll use 2x6, 2x8, or 2x10 size timbers for deck joists, spacing them apart 16" O.C., or 'on center'. Unlike other hidden systems that use brackets between the deck boards, the CAMO system relies on a handheld jig that fits over the width of a deck board. An understanding on nail sizes is vital if you work with various types of nails and nailers. In a 2x6 joist I'd use a total of 8 8d or 10d nails, 4 per side, typically 8d in size or in some cases 10d - these are the most-commonly-used nail sizes when toe-nailing 2x framing lumber as unless you're using box nails, larger nails tend to split the lumber, especially when, as in your photo, they're nailed too close to the end of the joist. If it needs to be able to withstand lateral load (twisting), make sure to use thicker screws or nails. I asked one of Home Depot folks and he suggested to use Tapcon as the most optimal option. Screws vs. Nails for Framing. In a 2x6 joist I'd use a total of 8 8d or 10d nails, 4 per side, typically 8d in size or in some cases 10d - these are the most-commonly-used nail sizes when toe-nailing 2x framing lumber as unless you're using box nails, larger nails tend to split the lumber, especially when, as in your photo, they're nailed too close to the end of the joist. An improperly sized screw tip offers poor driving performance and can strip or ruin the screw. When using the word “coarse” to describe thread size, this only means that the threads are further apart than what would be found on, say, a machine screw. While the size of the screw will depend on many different factors, a general rule is to find a screw that is just long enough to hold together two boards but at the same time but will not risk splitting them because it is too long. No. This is a huge time saver. Wire size is important. Do not use in shear force applications. Tension ties are connected to the joist using Simpson SD #10 screws that are 1 ½” long. If using standard, pressure treated deck boards as treads, then #8 3” coated deck screws is the best option. Compare Similar Wood Screws. The most common size is #8 (approximately 5/32-inch in diameter), but the appropriate size of screw will depend on your individual project. There are several different styles of hurricane tie, but this type of screw should suffice as long as they are Simpson brand. Stainless steel decking screws are ideal in any exterior application because they are extremely rust-resistant. Remember that a bucket of CAMO deck screws is about double the amount of regular deck fasteners, not to mention the cost of the jig. This will drive it right in and hold well. The column on the right shows the size of the pilot hole to be drilled for starting the screw. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right screw size for a wide range of situations. The SDWS Framing screw is designed and load-rated for replacing 16d, 10d and 8d nails in framing applications. Structural screws are thicker screws specially designed to be load-bearing. 2. He explained that a concrete nailer could be much more expensive. Wood screws come in a wide variety of drive types, including Phillips, square-drive, Torx, T-star and hex-head. Wider boards, like 2x8s, 2x10s, and 2x12s are used for rafters as well as floor and ceiling joists. Finally, these screws are designed to fit within the holes of the brackets, as they are both Simpson brand. A reverse thread ensures the screw sits cleanly at level with the composite deck board. Also, you can use it for treated lumber like Cedar or Redwood. Joined: 6 Oct 2004 Messages: 1,200 Thanks Received: 18 Country: Can anyone advise on a sensible screw length for use with 2x6" joists on decking. I always backed up this arguement with the manual from Simpson, and the other hanger company, US metal or something like that. Wood stringers are held up by stringer brackets, which are screwed into . Model #155450. While I was browsing the Simpson web pages, I found that whereas they advocate their 1/4″ “strong drive” wood screws for structural applications, they specifically advise *against* lag screws. For best results use a hex-head attachment on your power drill to secure the screw. Size: Allowable Span: Southern Pine: 2x6: 9'-11" 9'-0" 7'-7" 2x8: 13'-1" 11'-10" 9'-8" 2x10: 16'-2" 14'-0" 11'-5" 2x12: 18'-0" 16'-6" 13'-6" Douglas Fir-Larch, Hem-Fir, Spruce-Pine-Fir. Coated screws may leave a residue or stain over time as the coating bleeds into the wood. For most, ½” diameter galvanized, lag bolts driven through joists into the railing post works fine. Since these brackets screw into the rim joist on your deck, use of 1 ½” long SD screws are fine. Blue-Kote™ Kreg Pocket-Hole Screws are the best choice for damp or wet applications, including projects for your porch, patio, detached garage, or outdoor areas. A framing nailer usually supports up to 3 ½ “nails to attach two-by-fours. So, let’s start by looking at what exactly makes a screw a screw – and a nail a nail. 2x6: 8'-10" 8'-0" 6'-10" 2x8 : 11'-8" 10'-7" 8'-8" I hope you have enjoyed this article on how to find which screws work best for your deck. Then drive a cut nail with a piece of tie wire in the hole. Nails that are too long or fat are difficult to drive and can split wood, while short or thin nails just don't do the job. Metal stringers require galvanized lag bolts instead of SD screws and brackets. Nails are also called upon when securing plywood sheathing for exterior walls, installing hardwood floors, and attaching siding and roofing. Toe screwing 2×4’s ,etc should I be using 2 1/8′ or 2 1/2″. A wooden deck is really nothing more than an outdoor floor. The smaller diameter makes driving through the angled joist holder holes easier and lessens the event of joist ends splitting out during diagonal fastening. There are two things that determine the size of a screw: The longer and the thicker a screw is, the stronger it holds two pieces together. If you are having a hard time inserting them, place a small piece of wood over the plug and tap it into place with a rubber mallet. I like the fact that I can "nudge" with a hammer after I have tacked (if something is slightly off). You can see the screws have got the point. DeWalt DWS780 Review: A Miter Saw Worth Getting? Description; Specifications; Reviews; description. Nails are stronger sure, but Ive never seen screws be any issue at all in stud walls. When your work is with various types of framing nails and nailers, then it is a must to know about the nail size for framing. 3. To save you some trips back and forth to your nearest Home Depot, let’s break down what those numbers mean. If you want to change the ratio of the length of the screw in the two pieces, you can use counter-sink holes. Using screws to affix brackets such as hurricane ties and joist hangers, you may need shorter screws that will not protrude through the ledger boards or joists. That means these screws can be used in place of nails when attaching joists to ledger boards, beams to joists, and for railing posts. Therefore, 1 ½” length SD screws should be used for this connection. Type of load: If your joint will need to be able to withstand a lot of withdrawal load (the two boards pulling apart from each other horizontally), make sure to use longer screws than you normally would. In some cases, these screws have a reverse-thread just under the screw head. Stress occurs when the shank of the fastener or screw moves back and forth. The small head of these screws reduces any mushrooming in the material while the thick diameter provides more than enough fastening strength. ... Framing or decking screws. Like laying out walls and joists, use two 3" screws for each 2x4 intersection. the web, flanges, and lips of a stud or C-shape. For conventional guardrail post installation bolted to the side of the framing, larger framing will provide more strength in the rails. When a basement wall runs parallel to the floor joists above you will need … Using hurricane ties to attach joists to a beam is ideal. Simpson Strong-Tie PF/PFB/PFDB hangers have a patented double-shear nailing system. If two or more studs are parallel to each other, screw them together every 24". There are tons of different types of deck screws out there and it can be overwhelming when standing in the fastener aisle at Home Depot. Answer: For 2×4 framing, the best is to use 3.5 inches nails, which are 16d nails. x 2-3/4 in. They work great with chemical-treated wood and … Compare; Find My Store. What Determines Screw Size. Let’s have a look at the different types of deck screws. Utility screws (also known as deck screws) and steel / stainless steel screws. Your email address will not be published. These are the types that you will most likely be using. Zinc-coated screws are the cheapest, and one of the most reliable, screws to use for pressure treated wood. I am adding shelves to my basement and I need to mount 2x6 to basement concrete. It is much stronger than a lag bolt simply because the railing post is fastened on both sides, whereas a lag bolt only attaches the post to one joist. The chart also gives the relative size of the head and shank of screw sizes ranging from #2 to #16. When you purchase screws of any kind, you are going to see a whole bunch of numbers on the packaging. Before that, though, here’s a quick rule of thumb you can refer to. Lag bolts are a tried and tested method to affix two pieces of lumber in shear force applications. The nails are to be bonded in rows in the magazine. I like to tack with a framing nailer and then come back with the screws. While the cost is roughly four or five times the cost of 16d galvanized nails, these screws are much stronger. Head-bore size refers to the diameter of the screw head. SKU: PFD26B. A: Most nail guns support nail sizes, ranging from 1 ¼ inch to 3 ½ inches. These screws should be at least 1/2 inch in diameter if they will support the weight of the deck, and the point should sink at least 1 1/2 inches into the stationary member. This chart is designed for flat-head screws but can be used for any type. Model #182131. The second board getting the screw is the one you want to take note of. Camo brand hidden decking screws use a handheld jig that fits the width of a deck board, with angled holes on either end that allow you to drill down through the sides of the board into the joist. Drill a hole in the concrete with a concrete bit the same size as the nail and drill a hole where you want it in the 2x6. However, hurricane ties require screwing into the thickness of the joist. Headers are usually made of 2x4s or 2x6s and 1/2" plywood. The perfect screw to fasten your 2×4 with will depend on a variety of factors many of which I listed above. The PF series hangers can accommodate collated nails as well as 10d common purlin nails. Do your research and ask questions – don’t just rely on a product’s guarantee or warranty. In this case, ¼” SDS structural screws of either 1.5” or 2” are good. Thus, 4 inches would be the minimum length of a lag bolt used to attach a 2-inch board. A common rule of thumb is that a screw needs to go at least halfway into the wood beneath the piece you are attaching. Treads are non-load bearing. If you have a hammer drill, then use tapcon. As for the type of drive, it does not really matter, but generally, I recommend Phillips over slotted. If it’s structural, make sure to use stronger screws, or even consider using nails. As decking products proliferate, it is important to understand that not every fastener works with any bracket or lumber. While these screws come in many designs, they are often ¼” diameter or more. The gauge is the diameter of the screw. If using structural wood screws, then you’ll likely be using ¼” diameter screws. Last weekend I was installing some 2 x 4 blocking for a bathroom cabinet, and I really struggled to drive the screws into the lumber. current product. Nail size is more important than you might think when framing interior walls. It says that the anchor length of a fastener should be twice that of the workpiece you are fastening. It would’ve been handy to fasten everything together with just one size of screw, but when I did my research, I realized that would’ve been a really big mistake. I hope I can see more some of your article about home improvement in the future. If using 2 3/4" screws, put a piece of tap on the bit 3" from the tip. 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Chart also gives the relative size of fasteners to use galvanized screws best!, 16d nails, and attaching siding and roofing fasteners come with a 4×4 railing post a look... To withstand lateral load ( twisting ), make sure you are joining two boards is what of. Have a patented double-shear nailing system ⅜ ” important questions to answer before joining two face-to-face. Hold well halfway into the thickness of the screw first, you can use counter-sink holes,! ¼ inch to 3 ½ “ nails to attach a 2-inch board to be specific, 8 gauge roughly a...