The debate between using nails or screws for framing is a long and complicated one. Nails are typically easier to work with and faster to install, but screws offer a stronger hold. In the end, it really comes down to personal preference. However, if you’re going to use nails, you’ll need to know what size to use for the job at hand.
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Introduction
There are a variety of nails used for framing. The most common are 8d, 10d, and 16d nails. 8d nails are 3 1/2 inches long and are typically used for attaching furring strips, doorjambs, and certain types of molding. 10d nails are 3 inches long and are typically used for attaching lumber such as 2x4s to each other or to metal plates. 16d nails are 3 1/2 inches long and have a thicker diameter than 8d and 10d nails; they’re often used to attach lumber to masonry or for structural applications.
What Size Nails for Framing?
There are a few things you’ll need to consider when deciding what size nails to use for framing. The most important factor is the thickness of the lumber you’ll be using. The second factor is the climate. If you live in an area with a lot of moisture, you’ll want to use nails that are rust resistant.
6d Common Nails
The 6d common nail is the most popular size used in wood framing today. It is 3 1/2 inches long and has a diameter of .131 inches. It is available in hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, and cadmium plated finishes.
8d Common Nails
8d common nails are one of the most popular types of nails used in framing. They are 3 1/2 inches long and have a diameter of 0.131 inches. These nails are often used in conjunction with 6d common nails to provide extra support.
10d Common Nails
10d common nails are the most popular size of nails used for framing. They are 3 1/2 inches long and have a diameter of .131 inches. These nails are known for their strength and durability, making them ideal for use in a wide range of applications including construction, carpentry, and masonry.
16d Common Nails
16d common nails are the most popular size of framing nails. And for good reason: they offer the best combination of holding power and price. If you’re doing a lot of nailing, though, you might find them a bit too big and unwieldy. And if you’re working on trim or other delicate projects, you’ll want to use smaller nails.
Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular sizes of framing nails:
10d common nails: These are smaller than 16d nails and thus have less holding power. They’re also less expensive. If you’re doing light framing or working on delicate projects, these might be the right choice for you.
8d common nails: These are even smaller than 10d nails and thus have even less holding power. They’re also less expensive. If you’re doing light framing or working on delicate projects, these might be the right choice for you.
16d sinkers: These are like 16d common nails but have a slightly different head design that makes them ideal for use with sinker plates. If you’re doing a lot of nailing with sinker plates, these might be the right choice for you.
Conclusion
Framing nails are available in a variety of sizes, but the most common size is 3-1/2 inches. This size is ideal for most framing projects, as it is strong enough to hold the lumber together securely, but not so large that it makes the project more difficult than necessary.
If you are working on a particularly large or heavy project, you may need to use 4-inch nails, but this is relatively rare. For smaller projects, 2-inch nails may be sufficient.
No matter what size nails you use, be sure to drive them in at a 90-degree angle to the lumber for maximum holding power.
