Nailing or Screw pattern for plywood
Sicilian
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
What would the nailing pattern be for a 4×8 sheet of 4ply plywood on an exterior stud wall (2×4) along the edges and in the field? What size nail do you use a 6d or an 8d?
Now what if you want to use screws, such as those Deck Mate square drive, what whould the nailing pattern be for the same situation along the edges and in the field? I think the smallest screw is a 2″.
Thanks,
The Sicilian
Replies
6", 12", 8d.
Ask Piffin.
Joe H
Edited 12/8/2003 10:50:38 AM ET by JoeH
What Joe said - 6" on the edges, 12" in the field (center of the sheet). 8p nails. Assuming that the sheet is in a location that requires a structural panel - such as the corner of the house. For a structural panel, all edges must be supported; ie, if you have 8' sheathing and 9' walls, you must block where the sheet ends. Your local requirements may be different, especially if you live in a high wind or seismic zone.
IMO, screws are a waste. The sheer strength of nails are just as good, and, with today's commonly used sheathing materials, the fastener will generally pull thorugh the sheet, before comming out. Try removing a sheet in-tact that has been nailed to the above code guidelines...
Edited 12/8/2003 12:55:58 PM ET by DIRISHINME
6d common for 1/2"
8d common for 5/8"
wether screws or nails ... same pattern... 6 " on the edges & 8 " in the field..
this is common sheathing.. if there is a special problem, or if this is a shear panel, then the nail pattern and schedule will be spec'd
Mike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore