Our professional-grade screws and nails are precision engineered for strength, versatility and reliability. Doors/Hinges: Hinges to wood doors attached with wood screws 25 mm long or more; and to wood frames “so that at least 2 screws per hinge penetrate not less than 30 mm into solid wood. Type 17 slash point removes material as it’s driven, reducing friction and drive time with no pre-drilling. The strength of 10d nails and #8 screws are similar. Structural fasteners are made from stronger steel and are heat-treated for maximum strength. Screws hold thing tighter then nails, but screws are brittle when hit from the side giving nails the advantage. Although nails may be considered easier to use when framing a deck, screws are a speedier, affordable, and durable option. . For a 3-ply member the nail length needs to be a minimum of 2 x 1. That's why they're the ideal choice for many situations, particularly where weight is involved like kitchen cabinetry. Starborn H19 Multi-Purpose Sep 7, 2023 · If you prioritize increased holding power, adjustability, resistance to withdrawal, and reduced risk of splitting, joist hanger screws are likely the better option. FastenMaster VersaLOK is a heavy-duty wood screw that can be used in a wide variety of structural applications. Hidden Fastening System. Collated Cortex. 3. The major difference between the two is the level of accuracy, stability, and strength. Greater grip strength: screws hold or pull wood together better and prevent them from lifting. I see their charts recommending #10 gauge to replace 16D nails but can’t find anything longer than 2. That means that screws are less likely to break under pressure, in general. 1–$0. This is especially important when you consider the number of fasteners required to frame an entire house. Aug 29, 2023 · Nails offer speed, economy, and shear strength, making them ideal for structural applications and large-scale projects. This means you can save significant time during construction by using nails instead of screws. Use them for: Decking, siding, underlayment, when sheathing roofs and walls (especially in high wind zones), or when nailing plywood to floor joists. I’ll do brads with glue if something is structural but dimensionally stable, so dados on a cabinet and I need it to hold while the glue sets up. Because they don’t need pilot holes, they can be used in roughly half the time compared to lag bolts. It can be seen by just applying common sense, how most the differences between nails and screws come to be. Sep 17, 2009 · As the nail penetrates into the wood, its fibers lock into each groove along the shank, resulting in a nail that holds tight despite extreme wind or cyclical moisture conditions. However, they will not provide the same strong holding power as 12d or 16d nails. If the bridging is to keep joists from twisting, then screws would be better. Brads I generally use alone if something isn’t structural, so trim or attaching paneling. But experts often work with #8’s or 2⅜ inch coil nails for hand nailing. But screws offer supe­ri­or ten­sile strength over nails. They have a larger initial clamping power. glued and screwed vs. if you are going to put them on top and use screws, do not use "grabber" screws, get "deck" screws. </p><p>Our fastener line includes a variety of nail types and screw styles designed Feb 1, 2019 · Simpson’s instructions for which nail is used for nailing the strapping or tie-down to the framing lumber vary a bit by connector and its application but the most-common is the 8d (0. 5-inch construction screw. I will be doing some framing that will be inspected by the AHJ. 00:00 Introduction02:19 What are structural fas Apr 11, 2023 · Because they can bend under pressure more than screws, which can snap under pressure, nails are frequently chosen for structural acceptance, including wall framing. Install with 3/8" hex socket or nut driver. Support this channel by Apr 6, 2016 · According to Table R602. Each type of CAMO structural screw was engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong with no pre-drilling required, saving you time on the job. There are a few reasons why framers use nails, they are driven very quickly with a hammer or pneumatic Jan 31, 2023 · It is a common misconception that screws are always stronger than nails. 75 to 2 times the Jul 1, 2007 · Then it's finished off with nails. Intentionally Designed for Easy Use. ” (9. As a pioneer in the building industry and a world leader in structural solutions, we have an unmatched passion for problem solving through skilful engineering and thoughtful innovation. Also keep in mind that any Feb 17, 2023 · Industry expert Greg Groenhout from CAMO Fasteners shares everything you need to know about structural screws. Nov 4, 2023 · What is Structural Screw? Structural screws are solid, high-strength fasteners made from a range of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, silicon bronze, and galvanized. Aug 22, 2023 · Screws vs. They are designed to provide superior holding power compared to wood screws and nails while also providing greater flexibility in load capacity and resistance to shock Nov 9, 2017 · For 2x12, I will do about 4-5 nails (column) every 12-16", offset on backside (a tad more than commonly suggested). Learn More. When it comes to structural fasteners, Strong-Drive is the only name you need to know. Feb 3, 2016 · Simpson Strong-Tie, the industry leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has expanded its Strong-Drive® line of structural fasteners to include the SDWS Framing screw, a multipurpose fastener designed and load-rated for replacing nails in framing and remodeling applications. Because they are quite thick, they require a pilot hole to be pre-drilled. 2(6)(a). A good rule of thumb is that most screws have pointy ends, while most bolts have flat ends, although that's not a hard and fast rule since bolts can also have pointy ends and screws can have flat ends. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 135") fasteners would be required. HeadLOK Structural Wood Screws – 4-1/4 inch flat head wood screws – Black (50 Pack) FastenMaster HeadLOK is a heavy duty wood screw that does it all with an internal drive and flat head. 75 is recommended for applications subject to wet-service conditions. They are widely available and come in various sizes, allowing for flexibility within a budget. Jun 19, 2023 · A nail gun can be used to drive a nail into place quickly. ) Mar 1, 2012 · Screws, when compared at the same outside diameter as nails, have GREATLY less section thickness to resist shear. 5. 131" x 2 1/2") Nail. 0. In addition, the letters “GRK” may be marked on the head of each screw, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. 70 for ring shank nails. USPStructural Wood Screw USP #9-12 x 2 7/8”. 5 inches long; BTW, I own a Paslode Cordless XP Framing Nailer. Structural Framing System. Nails usually have stronger shear strength. Which is stronger, nails or screws? Leah demonstrates how nails have better shear strength, and screws have better tensile strength. They will likely require that you submit engineering data to prove it. Overall, screws are stronger, have much better holding power, they can be easily removed, and they can set flush or below the surface for concealment. Nonetheless, you can use either screws or nails for a shed; nails are better for framing while screws are preferable for finishing. Apr 17, 2019 · And that's the key: Because the structural screw has a smaller shank diameter compared with a 1/2-inch-diameter lag screw, the same load is placed on the wood over a smaller area, and - similar to standing on the balls of your feet - the wood can't handle it. thehonestcarpenter. Nails can be more flexible and allow for the natural expansion and contraction of Feb 13, 2024 · You can fasten a sister joist using 3-inch lag bolts, structural truss-lock screws, or 16d nails. The load-rated SD screw has been tested and approved for use in many popular Simpson Strong-Tie products. If the building codes in your region allow screws, you can use them in constructing your shed. • 5 yr. No screws are included in the wood framing portion of the IRC schedule. They are, however, in general more ductile. Finish nails are best for attaching trim and molding and for furniture assembly. No matter what you’re building &amp;mdash; indoors or outdoors &amp;mdash; Simpson Strong-Tie&reg; fastener products help you design and build safer, stronger structures. Nails: Nails are designed for shear strength, which means they can withstand forces applied parallel to the material’s surface. Re: GRK R4 Multipurpose screw vs. Multiple different replacement lengths are also covered, with reduction factors ranging from 0. Structural screws serve as many functions as lag bolts, but are considerably easier and more efficient to use. Nails vs. 5 inches = 4. Part of what I learned is that screws have lower shear strength as can be seen in this video. Being a smaller diameter than the harder to use 1/4" simpson screws, they start and drive easier with little splitting. Mar 29, 2022 · The advent of the Phillips-head screw in the 1930s changed everything and began the slow movement from hammering nails to driving screws. Toe Nailing Comparison. Phillips screws were fast and easy to drive in, as opposed Nails are a favorite for large jobs in con­struc­tion because they’re cheap­er than screws and offer shear strength — or the abil­i­ty to with­stand shear pres­sure, where two sur­faces slide past each other. They are made specifically to resist shear. They all feature sharp points that start fast, a Type 17 Screws are better at keeping the boards down. Here’s an article that explains it better: I’d use a power driven 10d box nail because it tends not to split the wood as much as screws. 125 inches. SD CONNECTOR Screw #9 x 2-1/2″ Mech. 9 screw that's 3¼ inches long. 2 each. 7. This is one link. Second, nails are generally less expensive than screws. Another tip, if wondering how many nails is sufficient, take the dimension of lumber and divide by two. I'm building a deck now with all screws for the first time. For these, I always recommend that you use 12d (3 ¼”) or 16d (3 ½”) nails. Mar 5, 2020 · 1. 5inches +3/4 x 1. Nails: Choosing the Right Fastener for Your Outdoor Construction Project When it comes to tackling outdoor construction projects like deck building, fencing, or any other outdoor structure, selecting the right fastener is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success and longevity of your project. This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. nails: It depends on a lot of things. All the screws are rated and recommended for decks. Nails have a slight advantage in shear and screws have an advantage in pulling the two members together. Apr 6, 2023 · My question is not about the vague debate about screws vs nails for framing or other structural applications but specifically for the single purpose of installing 1/2" OSB to SYP 2x6 rafters on a very shallow roof slope. deck screws are thicker. Regular screws don't qualify. com/AFFILIATE TOOLS/MATERIALS LINKS:Porter Cable 20V May 4, 2017 · Screws and bolts look somewhat similar, since both have threads. Grip-Rite ® branded products may be found in the leading supply houses, independent dealers Sep 7, 2023 · In deck and framing projects, structural screws can replace nails and traditional joist hangers, providing a strong and concealed connection. We find that lag bolts or structural screws work best. Can I use these specific screws to do this specific task. Compared to nails, the standard screws that we use generate significant pull-out resistance: 122% compared to ring shank and 352% compared to smooth shank. Sometimes it's also easier to get into tight places with the screws and a 12" extension. On the other hand, if cost, speed, and flexibility are more important for your project, nails may be the more suitable choice. FrameFAST. In most cases, it is true that screws offer more tensile strength than nails of the same size. 64 to 1. Aug 10, 2022 · As was previously mentioned, you can frequently use screws and wood nails interchangeably depending on the task at hand. Specified nail bending yield strengths are 80, 90 or 100 ksi (depending on diameter), as shown in a footnote to the IRC schedule. (4. For the most critical connections on a deck, such as where ledgers attach to the house or to railing posts, use 1/2-inch bolts or lag screws. 5 inches long; GRK R4 Multi-Purpose Screw #10 3. Joists experience strong vertical shearing forces, requiring structural screws or lag bolts. Besides that, the most suitable code for roof deck sheathing installation is 8d common nails. Frankly I would use the screws. Nails may eventually lead to the floor squeaking as they are worked slightly loose over time. As such, structural screws are much easier to use. The fully-threaded shank engages the entire length of the fastener, providing a secure connection. As for screws, two popular framing options are structural screws and construction screws. But overall, nails tend to have the greater sheer strength. The installation of hardwood floors, the attachment of siding and roofing, and the securing of plywood sheathing for exterior walls all require using nails. Structural screws exist: Simpson Strong-Tie screws and Torx #9 and #10 are recognized as structural screws. Screws tested for abras Nov 2, 2020 · Nails are used in almost all framing and structural applications. End-nailing is not valid as a primary joist to ledger board/rim joist connection. When it comes to joining two pieces of wood together, screws are generally the better choice. The Strong-Drive SDWC Truss screw provides a stud-to-bottom plate or stud-to-top plate connection as well as fastening trusses and rafters to top plates. That said, it’s okay to use 10d (3”) nails. Get coated ones that won't stain the wood. Simpson Strong-Tie provides products and technology that help people design and build safer, stronger structures. If you have a twisted board or a board with a crown, a screw is pretty much useless At connections carrying structural loads, such as deck ledgers or railing posts, use through-bolts or lag screws. 50 per lb. A few other tips: When choosing the length of the nail or screw, the fastener should be 1. Cost: $4. Deck Screws have a much higher grip strength thanks to the threads that run the length of the shaft. Decks get wet and dry out. The Strong-Drive SD Connector screw is specifically designed to replace nails in certain Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and is the only screw approved for that application. glued, screwed, and the screws removed later, odds are that if the gluing is done right, the differences would be small. In addition, screws can be easily removed and replaced if a repair or adjustment needs to be made. Structural Screws. Remember, you’ll be working very close to Apr 29, 2020 · idaho falls idaho. Sometimes they can be interchangeable: When installing subflooring or drywall, screws tend to be the preferred fastener because they are less likely to loosen and pull out. The SDWS Framing screw is designed and load-rated for replacing 16d, 10d and 8d nails in framing applications. I think they're much easier than nails, and removal in case of mistakes is WAY easier. Conclusion. Jan 24, 2023 · Nails have a higher sheer resistance due to their ability to bend. And then there is bolts Google nailing schedule for beams/2x12s. Having said that my prefference is the structurally rated Timberlock screws. 3 (1) of the International residential code (IRC), you have to use two 16d (3 1/2" x 0. Another thing with screws is that any stress on the connection puts stress on the screw; a nail can slide in and out a bit to relieve stress without failing Aug 11, 2021 · Always use screws to attach your exterior steel siding to a structure. Structural screws can replace metal connectors and nail plates used in framing. Joist Hangers vs End-Nailing. The manufacturer may have that engineering data, call and ask them. As Neal wrote, the beam designer should tell you whether to use nails and screws. It is code listed in IAPMO UES ER-192 and meets 2018 and 2021 IRC ® and IBC ® code requirements for most common wood framing applications. Replaces 8d, 10d, and 16d nails in interior and exterior applications. 2. However, due to the design and function of these Pros. Screws do not have the same lateral strength as nails (unless you use structural screws). Screws are always a better choice IMHO. Sure, all you have to do is prove to the AHJ that the screws are structurally equivalent or superior to the nails. For a 2×8 joist, you’ll need at least 4 12d toe-nails on each side. “ This makes screws bet­ter for projects when joined pieces Based on the test results, the recommended allowable nail withdrawal strength for plywood and OSB panels, expressed as an equivalent specific gravity, is 0. See full list on mtcopeland. Some connectors install with the Simpson Strong-Tie ® Strong-Drive ® 1/4" SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR screw. Oct 28, 2020 · GRK R4 Multi-Purpose Screw #9 3. Please consider creating a new thread. A good standard screw would be a number 9, 2. The wet-dry cycling that decks go through causes nails to lose their holding power. Nails have much better shear strength. Galv. Stainless steel screws are far superior to epoxy coated deck screws. 135") fasteners to end nail the top or sole plate to a stud. You won't need to bore Fastener Reduction Factors. If the studs were toe nailed to the sole plate, then either three 8d (2 1/2" x 0. There’s a big difference between a house and a deck. ) If in doubt, use nails. instead of purlins on top of trusses, cut blocks and nail between where the purlins would be. Rubberized Waterproof Coating. Screws: What to Use For Joining Wood. This is current as of this printing. Nails are much stronger in shear strength while screws are stronger against pull out. Deck Frame Coating. Either are ok as long as you use the structural kind. Structural Fastener Connectors approved for use with the Strong-Drive SD Connector Screw. 2x8 lumber should have 4 nails each when fixing to the rim. Screws are much more secure than nails and will not easily come loose if enough force is applied. When it comes to most standard frames, we are looking at 2×3 or 2×4 lumber. The load adjustments for alternate fasteners cover substitutions from a common diameter of 16d to a 10d, or a 10d to an 8d. Nails are not as likely to split the wood as screws. They typically feature a larger head size, a longer and thicker shank than traditional wood screws, and come with either one or two staggered drill point flutes to offer superior holding power compared to other fasteners. (Reading Time: 6 minutes) Nov 21, 2020 · While nails are more flexible, screws have better tensile strength. So when people replace #11 hanger nails with #8 screws, for instance, they're not getting a detail with the same strength. The building codes allow both joist hangers and toe-nailing for structural fastening. For example use a screw to hold down a decking board, but a nail to hold the joist up. Dec 8, 2023 · If you are installing only one sister joist, you can use #12 or #16 sinker nails to connect the sister using the same pattern. Check Out Our FREE GUIDE: *25 Must-Have Carpentry ToolsUnder $25 Each!*https://www. Speaking of angles… Get the right angle. Nov 13, 2023 · Joist Hangers Vs. com. However, it is more likely that the building codes prefer nails. Through-bolts are stronger and should be used where pos­sible. These sizes also work best to install a half-inch plywood or OSB securely. Screws are far easier to install with long-term corrosion resistance. 133") or two 16d (3 1/2" x 0. Apr 16, 2024 · The labor difference between structural screws and lag screws is so huge that by the time you finish drilling pilot holes and ratcheting in just a few lags, you could have finished the whole job with structural screws and be sipping a cold one. When designing wood connections, engineers consider the crushing effect on wood grain We recommend a 3/8" diameter hole for our FlatLOK screws. As for construction screws, expect the price to be 40–50% higher (or more). In this blog, we'll talk about why screws are superior to nails when it comes to your pole barn's fastening system. Appropriate length structural screws to replace 16D nails. Too few, and the joist can simply fail. HeadLOK offers higher design shear than 3/8" lag screws and no predrilling is needed. Please feel free to contact Fasten Master @ 800-518-3569 or techsupport@fastenmaster. Instalar con un destornillador de casquillo hexagonal o de tuercas de 3/8". Yes, this is the way. ago. Use the nails, dont bother with the screws, Simpson is just trying to upsell you. If you go with nailing on purlins, use 31/4 ring shank nails in an exterior finish. Structural projects and weight-bearing installations; Given their high failure strength, structural screws have completely replaced lag bolts and big wood nails for structural fastening. Screws and nails are an integral part of every project, whether you’re securing wood, drywall, concrete, steel or other materials. In certain applications screws are easier and more convenient to install than nails, and the single-fastener load The screws get more and more brittle as they move, and eventually, if they don’t fail, their failure point can’t be ascertained and isn’t assured to meet the engineering spec anymore. I would like to use GRK R4 Multi-purpose screws for the framing of the 2 by X lumber. com Nov 18, 2021 · Assuming all 3 span the full length of the opening and are all supported, glue should be unnecessary. A wet-use adjustment factor of 0. Since structural screws are made from hardened heat treated steel, they can be significantly thinner than lag bolts while being capable of holding as much or more weight than traditional lag bolts. Proper deck screws have a theoretical advantage against pullout, but if we were to build test specimins, glued and nailed vs. 7. Oct 29, 2023 · Structural screws, engineering screws or construction fasteners are specifically designed for heavy load-bearing applications. Screws with pointy ends are meant to be driven into materials that don't Screws have higher tensile, shear, and twist resistance than nails. Translation - they bend more readily, but are not as strong. Sometimes, they’re sold in weight (like 1–10 pounds). Dec 14, 2022 · And at one screw to every ten nails, you’ll also complete 10x more connections per fastener. They are less likely to pull out of the material. Nails do not have high resistance; however, a gas-fired nail gun is adhesive and has comparable clamping power. If you have any outdoor applications, you need to use stainless or galvanized nails. Simpson strong tie sells special screws for beam buildingrated for shear forces. Only 30d or higher nails are available in these lengths. 16d framing nails. Regardless of the overall strength, remember that the nail or screw chosen for the specific joist hanger was done so Jan 16, 2023 · On the sizing system for nails, this falls within the 10d to 16d range. You can also use screws, as long as they are 2 ½”-3” long. About Simpson Strong-Tie®. 0. 06mm) structural framing screw for wood-to-wood connections, deck blocking, and other interior and exterior projects. The SDWS Framing screw is superior to nails in holding power and pull-out resistance. Screws are a bit slower to install and require more labor than nails. The framing lumber in houses, for the most part, stays dry for the entire useful life of the building. Apr 3, 2020 · Some other engineer-approved screws may be used in certain situations (such as specific brands of fasteners for decks. 1 The RSSTM screws are identified by the designation “RSS” or “JTS” on the head of each screw, along with the diameter and length in millimeters, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Nails are generally cheaper than a deck or floor joist screws. Ultimately, it is crucial to assess the unique needs Mar 15, 2013 · One thing that no one has mentioned: screws WILL NOT pull down a deck board nearly as tightly as a nail. On average, you can get wood screws for $0. Jan 6, 2023 · What size nails for framing. Jan 30, 2022 · Deck Screw Brands: GRK, SPAX, Deckmate, Woodpro, Deck Drive, FastenMaster, PowerPro, Grip Rite, Deck Plus, Velocity, and Eagle Claw. They are sleek in their design compared to a beefy lag screw and are heat-treated to add strength. I read up on when to use nails and when to use screws. Be sure to If you’re looking to replace anything structural with a shear load then either stick with nails or you’d have to get structural screws. Stainless Steel nails and deck screws are useful for outdoor projects where time and weather take their toll A general rule of thumb is use screws when you need pull strength and nails when you need shear strength. When joining metal to wood or wood to concrete, there isn’t a viable solution with nails. Using an impact driver, attach structural screws every 24 inches in a staggered pattern. Mar 9, 2007 · woodturner9 - " Nails are NOT stronger than screws. The reason end-nailing into a joist’s face-grain is not effective is because the nail or screw is being fastened with the Structural integrity is crucial for any post frame building. Oct 27, 2023 · Screws: Screws, especially structural screws, offer impressive holding power due to their threading. Jul 19, 2017 · 1. by. You can use these anywhere you would a 16d nail, so they're ideal for any projects that use dimensional lumber. Algunos conectores se instalan con el Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive 1/4" SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR screw. Grip-Rite ® is preferred by professionals nationwide and is the brand you turn to when you need to get a job done right. Yep. It is important to remember that double shear hangers require 3” minimum joist nails. The SDWC is tested in accordance with ICC-ES AC233 (screw) and AC13 (wall assembly and roof Structural Wood Screw. To be substituted, the screw in question should have a similar strength, diameter and length to the nail it is to replace. Wood is a hygroscopic material. Let's assume all fasteners are acceptable by the AHJ. With innovative designs that make driving fast and easy, the entire Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive line helps keep installed costs low while meeting Apr 24, 2003 · As to screws vs. Shown below is Simpson Strongtie's H1 hurricane tie, for which, in the instructions for the H1 (given below) the company cites two fasteners Sep 12, 2023 · It depends on the manufacturer, the diameter, length, thread count, shape of the screws, and even the area that you live in. Replace Nail Plates & Metal Connectors. This will clear the diameter of the threads and the widest part of the chamfer underneath the head of the screw. Alpherjo. 40 for plain or screw shank nails and 0. Sep 3, 2013 · 09-03-2013, 11:27 AM. Easier to remove: it’s a lot easier to remove a screw than a nail, and causes less damage than removing a nail. However, I don't find it evident why screws have lower shear strength than nails. Screws are used when it’s not dimensionally stable and I need it locked down or I need a Jun 7, 2023 · Lag bolts, on the other hand, have a hexagonal head that requires socket wrench for fastening. Shear Strength. Joist hangers provide a joist connection, while toe-nailing offers similar holding force as long as the nail is in the correct size. Most pros use 3” galvanized wood screws with a square drive head, but Phillips or Torx screws are also fine. Use the nails or screws recommended. Apr 25, 2014 · For example, Spax makes a No. It is crucial to evaluate the specific requirements of the project and consider the long-term benefits offered by each fastener. Screws also create stronger joints. Just think of it this way: When fasteners begin pulling out, structural movement occurs. Traditionally, bolts are assembled with a nut and have machine threading, while screws are fastened by turning the head and having threads cut into the material. Screws are easier to use. In certain applications screws are easier and more convenient to install than nails, and the single-fastener load Jun 5, 2021 · Galvanized framing nails cost the least, being the most economical option for fastening joist hangers. ADMIN MOD. Screws, with their superior tensile strength, adjustability, and reusability, are perfect for detailed work, projects that may require disassembly, or where the wood may be subject to movement or warping. They can be more cost-effective and easier to install. For a rafter or truss over a double top plate, whether aligned between the studs or directly over them, install your six-inch structural screw at an upward angle of 20°- 30°. Award. Screws definitely have more resistance to pulling out, but are less flexible, so they may break over time as the lumber expands and contracts. This versatile fastener offers a new alternative to 16d, 10d and 8d nails for contractors […] Sep 20, 2021 · The best screws to use for roof sheathing are at least 2¼ to 2½ inches screws. 148-Gauge 3-in Hot-Dipped Galvanized Smooth. Whether that job is residential or commercial, spanning days or months, we know reputations are built on quality, value and trust. We are constantly testing and updating this information. SD CONNECTOR Screw #10 x 2-1/2″ Mech. 5 inch length and the charts only talk about gauge. Packaging labels for the RSS screws include the GRK People use lag bolts or lag screws to say the same thing because these fasteners exhibit characteristics of both a bolt and a screw. Since these nails are not commonly used in the job site and do not fit the regular nail gun, installers may need to use a special nail gun. 160 in. Probably need D10 nails for the hangers. dndlurker9463. You want to ensure the materials and components being used are high quality, and that's where using screws to connect the purlins come into place. That’s savings from every angle. Lag bolts, on the other hand, are generally more cost-effective than structural screws. I have both available to me for post base connectors but would prefer to use Simpson SDS connector screws. USP 0. Screws also have less tendency to allow surfaces to pull apart. yl bd mn ek ft pl bs nx se md