When building a wood-framed structure like a home, barn, or shed, selecting the right fasteners is key to creating a strong, long-lasting frame. Two of the most common choices for framing nails are 10d common nails and 34 degree clipped head nails. But what exactly do these descriptions mean and when should you use each type? Read on for an in-depth look at these popular pneumatic framing nails.
Decoding 10d Framing Nails
The “10d” designation refers to nails sized at 10 pennyweight. This sizing system dates back centuries to a time when nails were sold by the penny. The “d” stands for penny and the number indicates the length of the nail in inches.
So a 10d common nail is 10-penny size, meaning it is 3″ long. This length is well suited for general wood framing applications like:
• Securing 2×4 and 2×6 studs, plates, headers, and rafters
• Attaching plywood and OSB flooring and wall sheathing
• Building decks, fences, and smaller outbuildings
The shank diameter of 10d nails for framing is around 0.148″ which provides a good balance of strength while limiting wood splitting. 10d nails work with both soft and hard woods. For framing heavier beams, posts, or timbers, step up to a larger 12d or 16d nail. But for typical light to medium framing, 10d nails are a contractor favorite.
Clipped Head Framing Nails
Unlike the rounded head of common nails, clipped head nails have a flattened top that is sheared or “clipped” during manufacturing. This shape offers several advantages:
• The flat head sits flush with the wood surface for a cleaner finished look.
• The large diameter head (up to 3x larger than common nails) provides greater holding power and shear strength.
• The angled edges aid in starting the nail into the wood.
These attributes make clipped head nails ideal for structural framing applications where strength is critical. The 34 degree variant refers to the angle of the nail shank – steeper than common 33 degree nails for extra holding power.
Benefits of 34 Degree Clipped Head Framing Nails
With their sturdy flat head and sharply angled shank, 34 degree clipped head nails are a go-to choice for robust and professional framing. Key benefits include:
• Maximized shear strength to resist forces trying to slide or twist joints apart horizontally. Essential for earthquake and high wind zones.
• Tightly secured connections between heavy load-bearing framing members like floor joists and rafters.
• Reduced risk of the nail head punching through the wood under high shear loads.
• Flush driving without denting the wood like round head nails, for a cleaner finish.
• Easier driving than common nails thanks to the angled edges, while still being reasonably easy compared to 21° nails.
• A 1/4″ diameter head has up to 6x the surface area of a 10d common nail for greater load distribution.
For structural framing applications where strength is paramount, 34 degree clipped head pneumatic nails (namely 34 clipped head framing nails) are an excellent choice.
Pro Tips Shared By Well-known Nails Factory In China
To get the most out of these popular pneumatic framing nails:
• Use ring shank or spiral shank nails for maximum grip, especially with slippery treated lumber.
• Make sure air pressure is set properly to fully seat nails without overdriving.
• Position nails at least 1.5″ from wood edges and 3″ apart between nails.
• Drive nails perpendicular to wood grain for greatest holding power.
• Consider hot-dipped galvanized nails for exterior framing durability.