Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

What size nails are required to nail ceiling joists to a top plate in a single-family dwelling?

1. 6d nails

2. 8d nails

3. 10d nails

4. 12d nails

The correct answer is: 8d nails

Using 8d nails is appropriate for nailing ceiling joists to a top plate in a single-family dwelling because this size offers a good balance of length and holding power for typical framing applications. The 8d nail is 2.5 inches long, which is adequate for securely fastening ceiling joists, ensuring a solid connection to the top plate. This length allows for penetration sufficient to develop the required shear strength while minimizing the risk of splitting the wood. When framing, using nails that are too small may lead to weak connections that compromise the structure's integrity, while larger nails, though they may provide extra strength, may be unnecessary and could cause unintentional damage to the materials. Therefore, 8d nails are widely specified in building codes and construction practices for this type of application, reflecting their suitability and the standardization used in the industry.