Joist Hangers?
#1
06-10-02, 05:04 PM
Joist Hangers?
I am building a play house based loosely on plans in the Creative Homeowners "Build a Kids' Play Yard" book. The plans have decking spanning about a 30" gap. However, I am using composite decking, which can only span 16".
The problem: If I use the recommended 10d nails to attach the hangers, I will have nails sticking an inch or so through the outside joists. By the way, this is an elevated platform about 4 1/2 ft up, so I really don't want any unnecessary hardware sticking through on the outside.
My initial thought is to get some 1 1/2" (1"?) screws to attach the joist hangers. (Actually, my initial thought was some unkind words about the need to go to the hardware store yet again.)
Any suggestions on attaching the joist hangers?
The problem: If I use the recommended 10d nails to attach the hangers, I will have nails sticking an inch or so through the outside joists. By the way, this is an elevated platform about 4 1/2 ft up, so I really don't want any unnecessary hardware sticking through on the outside.
My initial thought is to get some 1 1/2" (1"?) screws to attach the joist hangers. (Actually, my initial thought was some unkind words about the need to go to the hardware store yet again.)
Any suggestions on attaching the joist hangers?
#3
06-10-02, 08:00 PM
They sell special nails for joist hangers. At Home Depot they're right where they sell the hangers.
I personally don't use joist hangers. My neighbor was a builder from way back and turned me on to using lumber the same size as whatever you are using for joist, and to simply pre-cut pieces 14.5", face nail the blocks to the frame, and then run the joist up to the block nailing your joist to the 14.5" piece, and continue on the whole way, 16" on center without fail. I did a deck last weekend for a friend using this method and after I cut the 14.5" pieces and the joist it took less than 30 minutes to install everything for a 12x25 deck.
Anyone else ever use this method? I know it's more lumber, but boy is it ever strong and easy.
I personally don't use joist hangers. My neighbor was a builder from way back and turned me on to using lumber the same size as whatever you are using for joist, and to simply pre-cut pieces 14.5", face nail the blocks to the frame, and then run the joist up to the block nailing your joist to the 14.5" piece, and continue on the whole way, 16" on center without fail. I did a deck last weekend for a friend using this method and after I cut the 14.5" pieces and the joist it took less than 30 minutes to install everything for a 12x25 deck.
Anyone else ever use this method? I know it's more lumber, but boy is it ever strong and easy.
#11
06-12-02, 04:30 AM
Cost is not the issue. I have already shelled out the extra money for the composite decking (Fiberon). Besides, I am only talking about 2 joists each spanning a 6' platform.
My question is how do I securely attach the joist hangers without the nails sticking through the end joists? A bunch of 10d nails sticking 1" through the side, in addition to being unsightly, could be considered a safety hazard.
My question is how do I securely attach the joist hangers without the nails sticking through the end joists? A bunch of 10d nails sticking 1" through the side, in addition to being unsightly, could be considered a safety hazard.
#13
06-12-02, 07:48 AM
Joist hanger nails are sturdier, hold better, and are easier to work with than roofing nails. Simpson brand joist hanger nails are 1 14" long, but are the thickness of a 12d common. Roofing nails have a smooth finish and are easier to pull out. Because they are stronger, the joist hanger nails are less likely to bend on a miss hit, and can be driven thorough tough wood. I have also seen some local codes that prohibit roofing nails on deck construction.
#14
06-12-02, 10:12 PM
I have to agree.. the simpson type "joist hanger" nails are the same diameter as 10D nails just 1 1/2 inch long and they wont go through 2x material. Roofing nails are not close in comparison and the oversized head might make it tougher but again this is a kids playhouse ...not building a bridge .. nails are nails. but for decking id use the simpson type of nails. Hope this helps--Josh
