How to Buy Nails and Screws for a Deck

When you build a deck, it will last for years. It's important to buy the right kind of nails and screws for a deck so they will last for years, too. Cheaper isn't always the way to go, as nails can rust or pop up and screws can break. Here are some tips to help you buy nails and screws for a deck.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Buying Nails

1. Avoid buying standard iron nails even though they are affordable. The deck is exposed to the weather and standard iron nails will rust in the weather. Rust is not only unsightly, it can weaken the nails after being exposed to the weather. Electroplated nails will last a little longer, but will also rust.
2. Buy stainless steel nails if you can, they will last the longest. Galvanized nails that are hot-dipped are corrosion resistant and economical to use; they should be your choice if you can't afford stainless steel nails. Aluminum nails are also corrosion resistant but can be difficult to nail into wood, unless they are spiral shank or ringed nails. Copper nails tend to react with different wood and can cause stains.
3. Check the length of the nails you are buying. The nail needs to penetrate to a depth of at least 1½ inches, so it will fasten securely to the deck joists. A 3-inch nail is the most frequently used length. The optimum nail thickness is 2 to 2½ inches with a blunt point to keep the wood from splitting.

Buying Screws

4. Avoid buying cheap plated screws. The plating can come off when the screws are installed and will then rust in the weather. If you are buying plated screws, make sure they are good quality screws.
5. Buy stainless steel screws for a long lasting deck. As with nails, screws that are made of stainless steel are corrosion resistant and fare much better in the weather.
6. Use galvanized screws if you can't afford stainless steel. Make sure the galvanized screws are double hot-dipped to assure the best resistance to weather and corrosion. The package should state the screws are for exterior use.

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