[AndrewMo]

Hi Everyone,

I'm starting to finish my basement, and have been framing the interior walls (non load bearing) in the following fashion:

1 - (3) 8d stud Toenailed to Bottom Plate
2 - (3) 8d stud Toenailed to Top Plate

I recently read some codes that concern me. The code specifies top nailing with (2) 16d nails from the top of the top plate. My top plate is already up, so I can't do this.

Is there another code permissible way to toe nail studs in the top plate?

 

[brockmiera]

Probably. What is your building code? What part of the country are you in? Will this be inspected? I'd say your first line of defense would be your building inspector.

 

[joecaption]

8D are for toe nailing not face nailing.

 

[GBrackins]

I recently read some codes that concern me. The code specifies top nailing with (2) 16d nails from the top of the top plate.

this is for building a typical exterior wall using wood framing members. the 16d face nails provides more lateral and shear resistance than 8d since it has greater penetration and shaft diameter.

you're not building load bearing wall, nor will they have to resist much lateral loads so you should be fine.

BTW, welcome to the forum!

Good luck!

 

[Jason34]

I know when i framed my walls i built the walls on the floor. Used PT 2x4 for bottom plate and regular 2x4 for top plate and studs. Did 8' sections then i anchored to the floor and shot up into floor joists

 

[jagans]

8d Nails are 2.5 inches long 10d are 3, and 16d are 3.25. I use 10d for everything as I consider 1.5 inches of penetration plenty. 8d are too short for framing, period. If you toe nail with 8d you have to get so low on the stud that you split it. Too close to the end. I am assuming a pneumatic nailer.

I personally think that metal studs are probably better in a basement, unless you use doug fir exclusively. SPF will twist like Chubby Checker. Especially the crap from orange and blue.

 

[Pittsville]

8d Nails are 2.5 inches long 10d are 3, and 16d are 3.25.

Note: If we're talking common nails here, 12d are 3.25" long. 16d are 3.50" long.