The Spokesman-Review

Ask the Builder: Joist hangers, beams and columns

Q. Tim, I’ve never worked with metal joist hangers. How long have joist hangers been around? When I hold one in my hand, I question whether it’s actually strong enough to support all the weight that ...
Star Tribune

How to look for (and fix) improper joist hanger nails on your deck

Many years ago I wrote a blog post detailing one of the most common deck defects that I find: improper joist hanger nails. The issue detailed in that blog post was the use of 1-½" nails in places ...
The Washington Post

Do’s and don’ts for hanging joists, sizing beams and connecting columns

The best things to use to attach the joist hangers to the beam are structural screws or bolts. Never use roofing nails. (Tim Carter/TNS) Perspective by Tim Carter Q: Tim, I’ve never worked with metal ...
The Spokesman-Review

Ask the Builder: Beware of rusted joist hangers and nails

One of my newsletter subscribers, Robert, does handyman work on the weekends for friends and other homeowners. Eleven years ago, he wanted to learn how to frame a large shed, including common roof ...