Scaff board floor - what nail?

[chappers]

I read that cut nails don't go in properly after 75mm as they are not sharp enough. is that just BS?

don't see why they shouldn't. Bit of a process but you can always pre drill the holes

 

[Gerrydelasel]

Use clasp nails surely? Those basterds grip like crazy!

 

[giggadygoo]

Hmmm

 

[giggadygoo]

Thanks to all for your input. I have just ordered 3kg of 100mm cut clasp nails. £24 all in so pretty happy. I am sure it will be fine! Thanks guys.

 

[giggadygoo]

Hi all,

I am now having a BIG PROBLEM with the nails! They are going in to the boards nicely but are spiting the joists. Not sure it it is safe to continue as I don't want to weaken the whole floor.

Should I pilot hole? I already tried with a 3mm bit and it still split. Perhaps I should abandon and switch to screwing and plugging/filling??

In the below image you can see the nail compared to the board and the drill bit. The red line marks where the bit ends

 

[big-all]

you shouldnt have to pilot
what diamiter is the shaft ??
my thoughts
first try blunting the point on the nail with a hammer then if that doesnt work
a half the shaft size and depth in the wood pilot hole

 

[giggadygoo]

The nail is already blunt! See the image...

The nail is tapered so not sure where I would measure it from

 

[big-all]

yes sorry missed the cut clap bit lol
what way are you inserting them??
is the nail along the grain or across ??

 

[giggadygoo]

No worries! Along the grain of the floor board (which means across the grain of the splitting joist)

 

[giggadygoo]

I could use a longer drill bit but if I go over 3mm, the pilot will be wider than the flat side of the nail...

 

[big-all]

are all the split nails in the same bit off wood
is it quality or cheap carcassing 5x2"??

 

[big-all]

also is it near the end ??

 

[giggadygoo]

It seems to be happening all along all the joists so far.

It should be good quality 5x2. From a reputable independent trade place.

 

[giggadygoo]

No, all along the joist

 

[big-all]

how was the timber described as theres many a quality from very good to very bad