Joist Hangers Vs End Nailing Vs Toe Nailing…What Should You Use & What’s Better
By: Xtreme eDeals
If you’re a builder or a DIY hobbyist who builds things then you’ve probably come across terms that talk about structural fastening methods like, joist hangers, end nailing hangers, and the toe nailing hangers.
All of these structural connection methods are used to fasten the joists to a ledger board.
They are used to secure two beams together in order to support a stable and sturdy structure, so it can withstand a heavy load.
So today we’re going to talk about the difference between these three main structural fastening methods.
Below we will answer:
What is a joist hanger?
What is end nailing?
What is toe nailing?
What is better between joist hangers and end nailing?
What is better between joist hangers and toe nailing?
When do you need to use joist hangers?
What Are Joist Hangers?
Joist hangers are metal fixtures or better known as galvanized metal brackets which are designed to connect and support the weight of the joists, rafters, or wooden beams that go around the framing systems.
Most of them are made out of galvanized steel, aluminum, or simple steel, which enables them to anchor the decks, floors, and ceilings to the framing system by means of fastening the joists to the rim joists and the ledger boards.
These types of joists are mostly used in roofs, floors, ceilings, deckings, and elsewhere, to create strong and long-lasting support.
You can often find them being used in construction.
This enables a safe structure while working after completing a project.
Yet, somehow they are not needed in building construction. But if you feel the need for them, use them freely.
They are mostly used to help pass safety tests on building construction.
The requirement of these joints may vary depending on the location and the type of building. Note that they come in various shapes and sizes.
What Is End Nailing?
This is a joist connection method that you can do by hammering a nail or screw through a rim joist of the ledger board into the face-grain or end grain of another plank or a joist piece in order to connect them together.
If you want a long-term solution, this is the most popular technique.
Yet, it is used as a temporary hold or support on a lightweight building project.
You can mostly see this type of work being executed on a roofing job or decking job in order to allow for a steady solution.
What Is Toe Nailing?
This carpentry method is created when you put a nail diagonally through the vertical face of the joist and then behind the ledger board.
The nails must be nailed very deep into the piece.
It is a technique most commonly used to fasten two wood pieces together.
This is to ensure that they will not dismantle that easily.
If it is done correctly, it can be a truly solid piece of work.
Note that you need to be adequately equipped to make these toe nailings on site. You need the proper equipment, otherwise, you will not do a proper job.
Joist Hangers Vs End Nailing – Compared
These two are both various techniques used for the same thing.
You can use them to fasten the joist to the rim joists or ledger board. They have such large differences, that it is hard not to notice them.
The joist hangers use metal brackets to connect a joist to a rim.
They can create a powerful holding force and connections because of the metal brackets. This is the ideal solution for you if you are looking to make some long-term solutions to your job.
Opposite to them, the end-nailing creates a weaker connection.
This is because they don’t use a power source, only a few nails, and pieces of wood. It is not considered a long-term choice and it is often avoided by people who work on site.
Joist Hangers Vs Toe Nailing – Compared
Both of these have a similar task: to hold down a certain structure; though both of them may be used in different ways.
The difference between joist hangers and toe nailing is the level of strength and stability they can offer.
Joist hangers are by far more precise than toe nailing.
They allow for a perfectly aligned installation.
Also, you can easily install them anywhere you like.
With the toe nailing, the nails will pull on the opposite side due to the force. This is why you need to properly install them so they will be perfectly aligned.
The toe nailing is much cheaper to install than joist hangers, however, when it comes to accuracy and durability, joist hangers seem to be the more logical choice than the toe nailing.
Joist Hangers Vs Nailing – Framing Decks
When it comes to framing decks, joist hangers are much better.
This is because they allow for a stronger support system than the nails by themselves.
Also, you can install them in a simpler way.
Joist hangers can be used as decorative pieces too and they can support the structure much more than nails.
On the other hand, the end-nailing technique is strongly not recommended use when working on a framing deck. It will not support the structure as it should and you should not opt for this option.
Joist Hangers Vs Nailing – Angled & Sloped & Rafters
Both joist hangers and nailing can be used for sloped or angled rafters.
For joist hangers, it’s best to use angled or skewed joist hangers, as these are usually bent to a certain angle and degree.
However, if you prefer a cheaper method, you may opt for the toe nailing method for sloped or angled rafters, as it can also provide a similar holding force and support.
Do You Need Joist Hangers?
If you need some structural engineers to approve your work, then you absolutely need them.
You will ensure a stable and structural connection to a building, all the while allowing it the support to handle and sustain a heavy load.
If you want to prevent any casualties and frequent repairs, then you will add these joist hangers while roofing, flooring, or decking your property.
Nail or Screw The Joist Hangers
You can easily use both, but you have to make sure that they are placed just right.
When it comes to nails, you want to use the standard nails if you want to fasten a joist hanger for interior framing.
When it comes to the outdoor joist hangers, then the standard ones are your best bet.
You can also use stainless steel or double-dipped galvanized nails.
If you want to use screws, the galvanized, standard, or drywall deck screws are NOT recommended.
This is because they are not that strong to support the load, and in this case, you need something to support a heavy load.
When it comes to the structural screws, you should only use the ones that the manufacturers made compatible with your joist hangers.
These are specifically designed to be compatible with each other.
The reason for this is that the specialized structural screws that are used for joist hangers are properly tightened and aligned.
This is the only way how they will be able to withstand the heavy load.
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Joist hangers
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