Basement T-Braces

[peteml]

We are also in the process of putting T-Braces in our garage between the posts and the beams. There has been equal arguments whether the use of screws or nails is better. Does anyone on this forum have an opinion?

[moorem]

I can't think of a single application where nails are better for any project. The only advantage is price.

quote:Originally posted by peteml

We are also in the process of putting T-Braces in our garage between the posts and the beams. There has been equal arguments whether the use of screws or nails is better. Does anyone on this forum have an opinion?

[Snoonyb]

While nails and screws generally share four primary strengths; shear, tensile, yield and pullout and both largely rely upon proper engagement with the base material. Screws, in the most general of terms of course, are made by three methods; machining, rolling or stamping. Nails, again in the most general of terms, are drawn and stamped. Both are made of similar base metals, but each will most likely undergo different coating and treatment processes.
That said, and even considering all the serious industry "standards" and "official" comparisons and assessment generalizations between these two fasteners has to be very carefully thought about and not blindly accepted very simply because quality will always vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
No two products, for example, whether it be nails or screws, will have the same four base strengths mentioned above or share corrosion resistive qualities or share the same hydrogen embrittlement factors.

The next step up is thru-bolts and a heavier gauge bracket.

If in the end you choose nails, consider Simpson joist hanger nails or "TECO" nails. They are both a hardened fastener specifically designed for this application.


Illegitimas non-carborundum