What Size Nails Do You Use When Framing a House?

Nail Lengths

• Manufacturers refer to nails by the length of each one and the gauge, which is the width or circumference of the nails. Nails range in size from two gauge, which is the largest, to the smallest size of 12.5 gauge. The longest gauge needed for framing a house is a 60d size. The 60d size is approximately 6 inches long. The “d” listed in the size refers to the length. For example, a 4d nail is approximately 1.5 inches long. Smaller nails are similar to those used for picture hanging in your home.

Right Nail for the Job

• Each nail size is suited for a different construction job. Size 16d nails, for example, are best suited for outdoor frames, including decking, and for attaching walls to studs. Contractors also use this size for flooring inside the home. Nails of the 10d size are better suited for floor joists and jobs that require more security because the nails are thicker. The larger 60d nails are best suited for framing. The longer shape of the nails holds the wood boards together, which creates the frame of the house. The two gauge nails have a wide nail head and wider shaft for nailing larger or thicker boards.

Types of Nails

• In addition to sizes, you must also know the difference between nail types, because not all are suitable for framing. Contractors often use common nails for construction jobs, including house frames. The nails feature a barb or point on the end of the nail and a slight texture that holds to the wood. Textured nail heads provide a grip that prevents a hammer from sliding off the metal. Spiral nails feature a shaft similar to a screw for extra grip but with a typical nail head. Both spiral nails and common nails are suitable for house framing. Ring shank nails and duplex nails are less useful in framing. Ring shank nails have small rings on the nail, which can damage the harder timber used in framing. Duplex nails feature two heads that can also damage the wood.

Warning

• Do not use any type of nails for a framing job unless the packaging says wood nails. Depending on the manufacturer, the box might state that the nails are safe for wood jobs. Nails of this type work well on wood surfaces. Other types of nails can damage the wood, causing breaking or splitting of the surface, which reduces the strength of the wood.