Wooden nails rival metal fasteners in timber construction

Researchers have demonstrated that wooden nail connections, when optimised for factors like nail diameter, sheathing material, and spacing, can significantly enhance the shear performance of timber structures, offering a viable, sustainable alternative to metal fasteners.

A recent study published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts explored this potential through a series of monotonic loading tests. The research focused on how variables such as sheathing panel material (oriented strand board [OSB] and structural plywood [SP]), panel thickness (9.5 and 12 mm), nail diameter (3.7 and 4.7 mm), spacing (50 and 100 mm), and cap configuration influence joint performance.

Historically, metal fasteners like smooth nails, angle brackets, and screws have been the go-to for connecting wood components. However, their long-term durability can be compromised in environments with fluctuating humidity and temperature. In contrast, densified wooden nails have emerged as a more sustainable alternative, offering continuous production capabilities and better environmental compatibility.