Use of construction screws in framing

[tmurray]

I misunderstood, my mistake. Sounds like a long time ago when there were very few structural screws available.

I was just meeting with a structural engineer in my province (on another topic, obviously) and brought up structural screws vs. nails. He indicated the reason that we don't see a lot of screws specified is trades. People feel it takes longer to screw a screw in than to fire an air nail. So they are only specified when a nail won't do.

 

[steveray]

Grip rite/ primesource/ deckmate has some DrJ approvals for what that is worth....But they start at 1/4" screws from what I can tell....And very limited in their application....

 

[redeyedfly]

I was just meeting with a structural engineer in my province (on another topic, obviously) and brought up structural screws vs. nails. He indicated the reason that we don't see a lot of screws specified is trades. People feel it takes longer to screw a screw in than to fire an air nail. So they are only specified when a nail won't do.

So not a strength issue... just like I was saying.

 

[Beniah Naylor]

I tell people to prove it to me. It is amazing to me how many people will just replace screws rather than finding me the product info I need to approve the screws. Locally I have to watch out because of this:

 

[tmurray]

So not a strength issue... just like I was saying.

No. But in this particular case, the OP would need an engineer to design the connection if they want to keep their screws since they are in Canada.

 

[redeyedfly]

No. But in this particular case, the OP would need an engineer to design the connection if they want to keep their screws since they are in Canada.

Showing equivalence from testing has been accepted by every AHJ I've encountered. Never built in Canada though.

 

[Inspector Gadget]

So not a strength issue... just like I was saying.

You again seem to miss a key point: a deck screw is not structural. Period.

 

[redeyedfly]

You again seem to miss a key point: a deck screw is not structural. Period.

No I get it, I just don’t agree. The fastener is whatever the testing says it is.

 

[tmurray]

No I get it, I just don’t agree. The fastener is whatever the testing says it is.

I think the crux of the issue is what does "structural" mean.

The way Inspector Gadget is using it, it sounds like he is saying that it depends on the manufacturers intent.

The way you are using it, it sounds like any screw can be structural provided it is demonstrated to be able to resist the proper forces.

Am I close?

 

[mtlogcabin]

2018 UPC

2018 IPC
405.4.2 Securing floor outlet fixtures.
Floor outlet fixtures shall be secured to the floor or floor flanges by screws or bolts of corrosion-resistant material.

It is not just a structural issue when choosing a fastener, I call this out quite often because they used drywall screws for the installation

 

[jar546]

Simpson breaks it down for you, however, still waiting to see screws in the IRC for framing so not prescriptive unless a manufacturer's connector is being used.

Connector Holes and Specified Fastener Types

Simpson Strong-Tie connectors have been designed and tested for use with specific types and sizes of fasteners. Fasteners must be installed correctly to achieve published loads.

www.strongtie.com

 

[SCBO1]

It is not just a structural issue when choosing a fastener, I call this out quite often because they used drywall screws for the installation

I see this a lot, drywall screws being used for several applications, fastening electrical junction boxes to studs & used in joist hangers.