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| Screws Versus Nails By Greg Vanden Berge 9/2/2008 |
Some nails over time seemed to loosen up and do not have the holding
power that a screw does. Over time both will corrode through the process
of oxidizing or rusting. When framing a set of stairs using nails will
definitely be faster and more efficient. It would be extremely difficult
to screw a set of stairs together and time consuming.
So why would I even bring this up screws versus nails when building a
set of stairs. One of the biggest problems with staircase construction
are squeaky stairs. And most stair squeaks can be attributed to lose
nails. If this is the case why wouldn't I use screws instead of nails
when assembling a set of stairs.
Most people don't know or have any idea about the structural strength of
a screw versus a nail. If a horizontal force is applied to a stair tread
that is screwed, it will take less force to break a screw than a nail.
To get the best of both worlds you would need to nail and screw the
stair treads.
This would require using three nails and two screws or two nails and two
screws to each stair tread. But two nails will give you enough
horizontal shear strength and the two screws will help you hold the
stair tread down and help eliminate the stair treads from squeaking. No
Guarantees of course. I would imagine some building departments,
structural engineers and building inspectors could have a problem with
this.
You should check to make sure this is an acceptable practice with the
authorities that will be inspecting or carry the liability for your
project.
Using screws to fasten the stair stringers to the ledgers would not be
necessary. Any form of toe nailing
or fastening two pieces of wood together by nailing at an angle is a
great way to creates excellent holding power. The problems develop when
we are nailing perpendicular or
straight into a board. When we nail straight into a board, over time
with the lumber expanding and contracting this could cause the nails to
loosen up, creating a safety hazard or squeaking.
Screws and nails definitely have their advantage and should be used with
common sense. You are not going to be screwing shear panel and expecting
better results from nails. At the same time we will not be nailing light
fixtures into the electrical boxes.
Don't forget that nails and screws come in all sorts of different sizes
and lengths, as well as different metals. Try to use galvanized nails
and screws for the exterior to prevent oxidation or rusting. You can use
almost any type of screw on the interior of a house as long as moisture
won't be a problem. |
| About The Author
Greg Vanden Berge started working with his father in 1978 building
stairs on residential tract homes. Together they use to install 3 to 5
sets of stairs each day. Greg learned from a master carpenter the skills
of home building and has a construction company Located in Vista
California. Visit his web site for some great
Home Remodeling Ideas. |
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