Use Proper Nail Length and Head Size
Notes:
USE THE PROPER LENGTH OF COMMON NAIL
- We have established the use of common nails, so diameter is specified
- There are two other important parameters of nails
- Length is usually only an issue for 10d nails that are shot with guns because 10d gun nails come in shorter lengths
- Shortened 10d common nails, commonly referred to as short or plywood nails, come in three lengths: 2-1/8, 2¼ & 2-3/8-inches.
- Only 11/32-inch thick panels can use the shortest nail, 2-1/8-inch.
- Panels with thicknesses from 3/8-inch to 15/32-inch can use the 2¼-inch length nail.
- Panel thicknesses from ½-inch to 19/32-inch require the 2-3/8-inch length nail.
- Panel thickness equal to 5/8-inch or thicker must use the full length 10d common (3 inches).
- Can I use shortened 10d common nails?
- Because of their shallower penetration, short nails are less likely to split framing members
- Short nails are more likely to withdraw, however.
- All nails must provide a minimum of 12 diameters penetration into the framing member or blocking.
- Check with the structural designer before using these shortened nails.