FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

framing nail length

apiersma | Posted in Construction Techniques on April 11, 2009 10:20am

As DIYer, I am about to add a closet into an existing room. Can I get away with a siding nailer that will shoot 2 1/2″ nails to frame with.

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. davidmeiland | Apr 11, 2009 10:28pm | #1

    Not really. Too short and too thin.

  2. User avater
    dieselpig | Apr 11, 2009 10:30pm | #2

    Not really... for through nailing 2x material you really want to be using at least a 3" nail at .131 diameter.  I suggest you either rent a framing nailer or consider using screws.

    View Image



    Edited 4/12/2009 8:59 am ET by dieselpig

    1. User avater
      Ted W. | Apr 12, 2009 02:12am | #7

      If screws and if toenailing (toe-screwing?), be sure to predrill or you'll turn the end of your studs to splinters.~ Ted W ~

      Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netSee my work - TedsCarpentry.com

      1. Biff_Loman | Apr 12, 2009 03:26pm | #12

        I don't find that necessary - at all - with ordinary #8 screws in SPF. I mean, every now and then I'll get a split, and every now and then I'll goof with the air nailer and get a split, too.

        1. User avater
          Ted W. | Apr 12, 2009 05:33pm | #16

          I don't find that necessary - at all - with ordinary #8 screws in SPF. I mean, every now and then I'll get a split, and every now and then I'll goof with the air nailer and get a split, too.

          Ya hafta predrill for them too.~ Ted W ~

          Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netSee my work - TedsCarpentry.com

  3. oops | Apr 11, 2009 10:55pm | #3

    No more than what you will be doing, just get out the old hammer.

    Plates to studs, end nail  (2-16d nails) or toe nail  (3-8d nails)

    It's in the book (The above is per International Residential Code)



    Edited 4/11/2009 9:13 pm ET by oops

  4. jayzog | Apr 12, 2009 01:53am | #4

    2½" is plenty for toenailing, its only a closet, thumbtacks and bubblegum is sufficient.

    1. User avater
      dieselpig | Apr 12, 2009 01:56am | #5

      What about nailing the plates down (and up)?  Or sistering kings and jacks?  I dunno... I think I'd either use my hammer, rent a proper nailer, or just use some screws.  Like you said... just a closet... but it would help if it stayed where he put it!  ;)View Image

      1. User avater
        EricPaulson | Apr 12, 2009 02:05am | #6

        Hey! This is Breaktime.

        No argueing allowed here!

          

         

        "When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking." — Sherlock Holmes, 1896

      2. Henley | Apr 12, 2009 02:40pm | #11

        You heard it here! Dieselpig uses screws when framing.
        Maybe we should start a thread...

    2. apiersma | Apr 12, 2009 05:21am | #9

      Bubble gum is the winner. Is grape flavor up to code?I think I'll just use screws, renting a framer for a closet seems excessive. Thanks all.

  5. USAnigel | Apr 12, 2009 03:18am | #8

    Build it out of pylwood and get max room!

    2 1/2" nails are on the short side for framing.



    Edited 4/11/2009 8:19 pm ET by USAnigel

    1. Framer | Apr 12, 2009 03:57pm | #13

      2 1/2" nails are on the short side for framing.

      Not true. They are used every day when toenailing studs top and bottom.

       

       

       Joe Carola

      1. fingersandtoes | Apr 12, 2009 05:02pm | #15

        How is your hand? Grip strength returning ok?

        1. Framer | Apr 12, 2009 05:35pm | #17

          It's getting there slowly Thank you for asking. My grip strength is at 105lbs now. Last month it was 60lbs. Still can't make a fist yet. When I exercise my fingers I can about 90%. Waking up in the morning is tight if I don't tape my fingers overnight.

           Joe Carola

          1. User avater
            dieselpig | Apr 12, 2009 10:03pm | #18

            Joe, I missed it.  What happened to your hand man?View Image

          2. Biff_Loman | Apr 12, 2009 10:24pm | #19

            Snowblower.

          3. User avater
            dieselpig | Apr 12, 2009 10:28pm | #20

            Yuck.  That's gotta be messy.View Image

          4. Piffin | Apr 12, 2009 10:52pm | #22

            Yeah, that snowblower is really messed up now cause Joe's so tough!;)Seriously, it's an injury that commonly takes those three fingers right off. His were broken and bloody i s all. 

             

            Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

          5. fingersandtoes | Apr 12, 2009 11:02pm | #23

            Excellent progress! These things take time. I'd say my finger kept healing for two years.

            Happy Easter.

  6. Pelipeth | Apr 12, 2009 02:25pm | #10

    Screw it together------

  7. frenchy | Apr 12, 2009 04:09pm | #14

    I suggest that for a closet you might get away with glue and nails that short..   Use care to make sure the nails will be equally split between the two woods..   

     If you are going to use  screws please remember to predrill the first piece of wood inorder to get a secure joint..  Just ramming screws into wood  you risk a standoff situation. 

  8. User avater
    popawheelie | Apr 12, 2009 10:42pm | #21

    There is nothing wrong with nailing by hand. Do yourself a favor and get sinkers to frame with. They are the nails coated with a green/brown coating.

    A good framing hammer would help also.

    I used to have a Hitachi framer but sold it because I don't need it. Hand nailing works fine for me.

    "There are three kinds of men: The one that learns by reading, the few who learn by observation and the rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves."
    Will Rogers

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Podcast Episode 693: Old-House Hazards, Building Larsen Trusses, AI in Construction

The crew talks about work start times, fire-resistant construction, fixer-uppers, building Larsen trusses, and AI for construction.

Featured Video

Micro-Adjust Deck-Baluster Spacing for an Eye-Deceiving Layout

No math, no measuring—just a simple jig made from an elastic band is all you need to lay out a good-looking deck railing.

Related Stories

  • Podcast Episode 693: Old-House Hazards, Building Larsen Trusses, AI in Construction
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Finding Hazardous Materials in a Fixer-Upper
  • A Classic Paint Sprayer Gets a Thoughtful Refresh
  • Podcast Episode 692: Introduction to Trade Work, Embodied Carbon, and Envelope Improvements

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2025
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data