Ah, it’s spring – that when the snow vanishes and DIY deck builders start using screws where they shouldn’t.
We’re not worried about the snow going away, but darn, we do get a bit cranky about the whole “don’t use screws to build things” part of the equation.
So, here’s a reminder: screws are NOT to be used for any structural connections. Yes, we’ve said it before, but as those who read our “top 10 infractions of 2021” list recall, the fact that people keep doing it is reason for us to say it again: do not use screws for structural connections. It will make us sad, but not as sad as you will be when we tell you to do your work over again.
And, lest our message not be clear enough, “structural connections” also means joist hangars and post brackets.
Simply put, these kinds of metal connectors have been designed by engineers to provide structural connectivity, and the engineers require very specific connections – usually either nails or engineer-approved screws.
Extensive research by our building inspectors has yet to find a single manufacturer of joist hangers, post anchors, post connectors and hurricane ties that accepts wood screws as a connector. Not one. Zero. Nada. Zilch.
In other words, the picture you see here represents a big no-no. And it makes us sad.
Don’t make us sad.