How should wood decking for exterior decks be attached to each supporting member?

How should wood decking for exterior decks be attached to each supporting member?

• A. One 10d nail
• B. Three No. 8 woodscrews
• C. Two 8d threaded nails or two No. 8 woodscrews
• D. Two 10d nails

Answer: (C)

The recommended method for attaching wood decking for exterior decks is to use two 8d threaded nails or two No. 8 woodscrews. This approach ensures a secure connection between the decking and the supporting members, which is vital for structural integrity and safety. Using two fasteners, either of the specified types, helps to distribute the load more evenly and significantly reduces the risk of any single fastener becoming loose over time due to environmental factors such as moisture, temperature changes, and wear from foot traffic. Threaded nails or screws provide superior holding power compared to smooth nails, as the threads engage more securely with the wood fibers, resulting in a stronger bond. Moreover, this method complies with many building codes and best practices for exterior decking, ensuring that the installation meets safety standards. The use of just one fastener, as suggested in other options, does not provide adequate support, and relying on larger nails alone may not offer the same level of grip as screws, leading to potential failure over time. Thus, the choice of using two fasteners ensures both stability and longevity of the deck.

The recommended method for attaching wood decking for exterior decks is to use two 8d threaded nails or two No. 8 woodscrews. This approach ensures a secure connection between the decking and the supporting members, which is vital for structural integrity and safety.

Using two fasteners, either of the specified types, helps to distribute the load more evenly and significantly reduces the risk of any single fastener becoming loose over time due to environmental factors such as moisture, temperature changes, and wear from foot traffic. Threaded nails or screws provide superior holding power compared to smooth nails, as the threads engage more securely with the wood fibers, resulting in a stronger bond.

Moreover, this method complies with many building codes and best practices for exterior decking, ensuring that the installation meets safety standards. The use of just one fastener, as suggested in other options, does not provide adequate support, and relying on larger nails alone may not offer the same level of grip as screws, leading to potential failure over time. Thus, the choice of using two fasteners ensures both stability and longevity of the deck.