Installing Joist Hangers: Nails or Screws?

When installing joist hangers, it is vitally important that you use the right fasteners to secure both the hangers to the beam and the joists to the hangers. Joist hangers are metal fixtures which vertically support the floor joists of a home or building. There is a tremendous amount of sheer weight thrust upon joists and joist hangers. Consequently, the wrong fastener could lead to collapsing joists. It will depend upon the joist hanger and the application, but while most joist hangers require nails, some call for specialized screws that come with the hangers and make for easier installation.

Nails or Screws

Each joist hanger will specify the correct number of nails to use to hang it depending on its size and uplift load. The number of holes found on either vertically positioned faceplate indicate how many load-bearing nails to use. Joist hangers are equipped with triangular tabs on both plates as well which are hammered into the face of the rimboard. The specifications that are included with the joist hangers indicate the type of nail to use. In some cases, 10d x 1½-inch nails in a certain quantity are required. Some joist hangers call for stainless steel fasteners that will not corrode. All nails must be galvanized.

If special load-bearing screws are used, the joist hanger specs will explicitly call for them.