I have a client looking to build a cabin out in the hills. He wanted to know which would give a stronger stucture in the end – a building framed with 2 16d nails per stud, or one framed with two 3 inch deck screws per stud (these would be 2×6 studs). I told him that code sez use the 16d’s, but he wants to know which will have more resistance to pulling out or working loose over time. I said I dunno. Anyone else have an opinion? Apparently fastener cost is not a big factor for him.
Loach in California
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" Apparently fastener cost is not a big factor for him."
or labor cost while your at it. 16D's.....if it ain't broke don't fix it. There is such a thing as overbuilt, but in all fairness I'd have to say a 3" deck screw would shear long before a 16D ever would anyway. No need to re-invent the wheel.
There is absolutely no reason why resistance to pullout is a concern for studs in a wall. Gravity holds them in place once the wall is up.
The more important consideration is shear strength of the nails and the wall. Thjat is a primary concern in Californis, I hear. Most screws will not satisfy codes out there.
But based on your description of two per stud end, you are figuring on platform framing but using toenails is even better than either option you mention for both pullout and shear.
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LOL, My threads must be stripped. It never crossed nmy mind.
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Here is the non-PC version... It's a totally wacky idea. Labor is the real question here - not cost of fasteners. If this guy wants screws instead of nails, he likely is going to come up with all kinds of other imaginative building techniques and therefore I'd only work for him at a stiff hourly rate.
To increase the strength of the connection between studs and plates, either go with 3 nails per stud, and/or the addition of 3 toe-nails per connection. Really though, the traditional method is via various metal connectors, which could get pretty pricey - both materials and labor. If this idea appeals - look through the Simpson catalog: http://www.strongtie.com/ Also, an increase of the sheathing strength/nailing schedule should be considered.
If he's concerned about pullout he should use hurricane straps on the studs.