We tackle the question: ‘What gauge nails for framing?’ in this guide

Nail size is one of the most important considerations when it comes to framing projects.

Framing with nails that are longer or fatter than necessary will make the task more difficult (they don’t drive easily) and can even split wood.

On the other hand, shorter or thinner nails just don’t have the holding power for a firm job.

Which brings me to the question of the day:  What gauge nails should you use for framing?

I’ll walk you through the answer in this article and help you make the correct choice for your next project.

Here we go:

 

What gauge nails for framing?

Now, for the most part, 16d  nails, typically 3 1/2 inches long are the best to use when it comes to framing projects.

These are technically called 16-d (or “16-penny”) nails and you often have two choices when framing:  common nails and sinkers (forget the rest!).

Here is how to differentiate the two and what you should know about each type’s suitability for the job..

 

· Common nails

These traditionally have a smooth head and are heftier (their 0.162 inches diameter is larger).

Their heavier shank allows these nails to support higher structural loads comfortably when joining 2x dimensional lumber.

Simply put, the greatest advantage of common nails is more shear strength.

 

· Sinkers

In contrast, you’ll notice a textured head in these nails. The logic behind this design is that when textured, a nail won’t slip easily when hit by hammers.

Moving on, their 0.148-inch diameter makes them sleeker than their counterparts.

Perhaps what is more crucial is that sinkers are quite commonly vinyl coated (some have a coating of epoxy or cement) so they slide into lumber more easily.

They also sink flush with the surface more effortlessly.

Something else: Sinkers are available too with a unique galvanized coating to prevent rusting in case you’re framing exterior walls or other locations that are exposed to water (you should never use commons in high moisture spots or anywhere else they can rust).

With all these in mind, we recommend 16d sinkers for fastening your two-by-fours together.

Folks have occasion to frame with other gauge nails (more on this shortly) but overall, none has as much strength and holding power as 16d sinker nails.

Keep reading to learn when you can look at other gauge nails for interior framing jobs..

 

What gauge nails for framing?- when to use other gauge nails

The other nails that can are traditionally useful for framing projects are 10d nails (3 inches long) and 8d nails (2 ½ inches long).

So, when and where should you use these nails?

The answer is coming up right next…

 

· 10d nail gauge

When constructing a wall made up of 2x4s, you use 16d nails to attach the studs to both the bottom and top plates.

But there are instances you may want to double the studs to make headers or door trimmers.

That is where 10d nails come in.

You see, this gauge is shorter and won’t pierce all the way into your joined boards hence they’re preferred to 16d nails.

 

· 8d nails

You may need to fasten furring strips, subfloors, sheathing, and similar materials when framing too.

Needless to say, large nails are not really necessary for such applications and you have to look beyond the 16d nails.

Here is the thing: For these minor jobs, 8d common nails are most ideal.

You can even opt for the 8d vinyl-coated sinkers- they could be available from your favorite hardware store- since they’re thinner and hence a piece of cake to drive.

The other time you may want to use 8d nails is when making toe-nailed wood framing connections- toe nailing simply means driving in nails at a slanted angle to firmly secure butt joints.

 

What gauge nails for framing? – A word on Framing Nailers

Though you can drive your 16d nails by hand, framing nailers speed up the job and is the way to go for wood framing in buildings and heavy construction.

As you’d expect, a 16d nail gun shoots up to 3½-inches nails to fasten 2x4s and there are tons of models to choose from out there.

If you’re hunting around for the best framing nailer, pick a heavy-duty tool for the best results.

 

3 1/4 vs 3 1/2 framing nails

Well, 3 1/4″ (12d) is the best option if you’re using an air framing nail gun- They are actually the same gauge as 3 1/2″ (16d) sinkers with gun nails despite the difference in lengths.

But the best way to approach this is to check what your code says- some codes require 3.25” for framing and you don’t want to be on the wrong side of the law.

Plenty of other codes specify the 3 1/2″ (16d) sinkers for various framing and structural applications.

The other issue you have to consider is your nailer. Will it accept 12d nails?

 

What gauge nails for framing- frequently asked questions

Can you use 16 gauge nails for framing?

Short answer: yes!

Refer to the previous paragraphs for a deeper explanation of why 16d nails are the best choice for framing projects.

What gauge is a 16 penny nail?

As mentioned at the start of the article, common 16d framing nails are 3.5 inches and have a diameter of 0.162 inches.

On the other hand, Common 16d nails (they are, of course, 3 1/2 inches long) have a diameter of 0.148 inches.

 

What gauge nails for framing- recap

As we have learned, various gauge nails offer different results when framing and you need to choose the correct gauge for your next project.

Now, the best and most commonly used nail gauge for framing with 2 by 4 boards is 16d, specifically  vinyl coated 16d sinkers.

Use the other gauges for the relevant applications as explained to come up with the strongest wood-to-wood connection.

That pretty sums it up, folks.

We hope that this has been helpful.

 

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