Home Remodeling and Framing

Framing uses larger nails to carry the load required in most Codes. Generally speaking this means 16d or 12d nails will be used. If you are using a framing gun then you typically have to step down to 12d nails with clipped heads.  That would mean 3 1/4″ long nails with a diameter of .131″. Paslode and other manufacturers make these. If you are doing a small project, such as one small wall, then you can hand nail. But if you are looking into a larger project, then the extra $500 or so to purchase a compressor and framing nailer will save a tremendous amount of time and is well worth the investment. Porter Cable makes a pancake compressor with a framing gun kit for under $400 as well as Hitachi.

Other things to consider when using framing nails:

• Bright Common: used for normal indoor nailing projects such as walls
• ring shanked: help prevent nail from backing out
• galvanized: great for outdoor wood project or moisture ( make sure they are compatible with pressure treated AZQ wood if using)
• spiral: Used to hold nail in.