Use the nail or screw specified for the joist hanger. The connector capacity is based on a particular fastener type, size, quantity and fixing pattern, so ordinary wood screws or decking screws are not an automatic substitute.
Wern-Wood's standard and mini hangers use 30 × 3.75mm square twist nails
The timber-to-timber hanger ranges we stock specify 30 × 3.75mm square twist nails. The twisted shank is designed for structural metalwork connections and the nail head seats correctly over the connector hole.
Connector screws are only suitable where the hanger manufacturer approves them
Some engineered hanger systems have tested structural connector screws listed in their fixing tables. If the manufacturer's data lists that screw, it can be used in that installation. A normal timber, drywall or decking screw is not the same thing.
Do you have to fill every hole?
Follow the fixing schedule for the exact hanger. Many standard installations require all specified holes to be filled, while some engineered connectors publish alternative full or partial fixing patterns. Do not guess which holes can be left empty.
PPN nails are for compatible positive-placement systems
Collated PPN or positive-placement nails are designed for compatible nailers and connector systems. Our 35mm Viper PPN nails should only be used where the nailer and connector specification accepts 35 × 3.4mm positive-placement nails; they are not a default substitute for a hanger that specifies 30 × 3.75mm square twist nails.
Match the coating to the connector and environment
Use the fastener finish required by the connector manufacturer so the fixing and metalwork are suitable for the intended service conditions.
For the fitting sequence, see How to Install Joist Hangers.
