Fixing type for joist hangers

[dan.taylor.1]

Hi folks,

What type of fixings is ok to use for the 0.9mm pressed steel joist hangers? When I did my mezzanine I just used screws, it's been up (with a lot of weight on it!) for 5 or so years and hasn't moved, no signs of issues with the screws.

However reading up on them, square twist nails seem to be the fixing of choice, as nails are better in shear as they're more malleable, but some people said that once the screw head deforms the hanger into the timber when it's tight the shear load is reduced meaning screws are fine?

Any help much appreciated.

Cheers, Dan

 

[Blobber]

Ive always used sheradised nails or just ring shanks without a problem

 

[gaz1]

to be honest both are poor and will suffer with shear its why they say use all holes when using them

i dont as i add both 4" nails to the beam as well

twist nails are a pain to install and yes you do loose heads often with them so it gives you a good idea

 

[weldingnovice]

First time I used hangers it was fixed with 2" galvanised clout nails.

Try pulling some out.

While after it was sheradised ring nails, then the square twist nails.

I have not used screws, but have seen it with no apparent problems.

Have seen double truss shoes with a few 2.5" lostheads holding a completed roof with valley set over.

Hadn't fallen over.

Personally I would use the twist nails.

I bought a ppn gun by paslode, great.

 

[sako243]

The joist hangers I used specified 40mm square twist nails so that's what I used. Doesn't take long to whack them in and they're cheap as chips.

 

[mike os]

Part of the spec to achieve design strength is to use the manufacturer specified fixings

 

[dobbslc]

I've used these for most of my house construction they are the correct BS standard for load bearing fixings.

ForgeFast Multi Purpose Self Drilling Wood Screw Tub

Professional, elite performance from screws that are so easy to use – it’s no surprise that these ForgeFast self-drilling wood screws are so popular among trade pros and DIYers alike.With its Torx head, the screw delivers maximum power transmission for minimum effort – it ensures reduced...

www.toolstation.com

 

[grim_d]

Twist nails or structural screws. Easy as that.

I just use twist nails, quite enjoy putting them in.

@gaz1 what's the issue with installing twist nails? Always found em dead easy, never lost a head either.

 

[Blue Chips]

Twist nails or structural screws. Easy as that.

Another vote for structural screws. For wood construction metal connectors, I use mostly Simpson Strong-Tie products, fastened with their "Strong-Drive SD Connector" screws. You should have equivalent products on your side of the pond.

Here's a Simpson link about fasteners that might be of some interest (including some info on fastening technique):
https://www.strongtie.com/products/...tors/technical-notes/fastener-types-and-sizes

My nail usage has dropped off considerably over the years, as I've found a wide range of specialized screws to take their place. Installing screws with a power driver is also MUCH easier on my tendonitis (which has been gradually improving) than the repetitive action of wielding a hammer, and with screws it's easy to correct mistakes (I make enough of them ). I really like my Milwaukee hydraulic hex driver...quiet and very good control. BTW, I do have pneumatic framing/finish/brad nailers, which certainly take the place of a hammer in many situations, but I still prefer screws for many (most?) tasks.

 

[gaz1]

Twist nails or structural screws. Easy as that.

I just use twist nails, quite enjoy putting them in.

@gaz1 what's the issue with installing twist nails? Always found em dead easy, never lost a head either.

try nailing upside down the amount of times ive hit my fingers is bad enough never mind the nail shot out

id rather use the screws myself