Carpentry Trick: How To Easily & Accurately Toenail Studs

Here's a simple and oh-so-satisfying technique for toenailing. I've used this for many years. 🤓 👍

[herrickkimball]

6 Answers to Frequent Comments...
#1— The screws I'm using in this video are #9 x 3” PowerPro interior screws.
#2—I'm using screws for framing interior partitions. I am not advocating the use of screws for structural framing. Nails have more shear strength, and I used nails when framing this house addition. This video is about nothing more than a simple how-to technique for easily and accurately toenailing studs.
#3—As mentioned early in this video, this same technique works for toenailing with nails.
#4— The interior walls in this video can not be nailed together on the deck, then tipped up into position against a drywalled ceiling and still fit tightly. Thus, they are being built in place.
#5—Yes, screws are more expensive than nails. No doubt about it.
#6—Yes, screws are more time consuming to use than a nail gun, and professional framers do not use screws. But professional remodelers (which was my profession for nearly 25 years) do use them. They are a satisfying and valid option for framing walls in place.
Thanks for watching this video. 👍❤

[RaymondCore]

I framed houses more than forty years ago and we just jammed our boot against the base of the stud and drove the nails in from the other side. Very natural and very fast. No way they would let us take the time to be so accurate in those days. I would devise a quick-release clamp to go on the plate if I were using screws today but my construction days are long over. Nice video, you explained and illustrated well. I enjoyed it.

[joanfrellburg]

Good tip. You can also lay a 2x4 cut 14 1/2" against your previous stud so that it is 16'' on centre and repeat the process using no screws over and over. Or whatever your desired spacing happens to be. Just make sure you write on it so you don't grab the wrong piece of 2x4 lol.

[AS-zwlk]

I discovered this very technique on my own (out of necessity) but more recently after reading old carpentry books I discovered that you can do the same thing with a flat head nail - just lie 2 flat head nails with the head on the line (tips away from the new stud) and give each a tap with the hammer so the head penetrates the timber - then you can push the new stud up against the nail heads and toe nail from the other side. It's easy to lift the nails out with you fingers. Works with nailer or hammer.

[katmeyster]

This is perfect! I’m new to DIY and just have a very small area to frame out. This has made me much less anxious about the toenail process. And I already have all the tools and screws I need.

[tellis]

Thank you! I’m the handy WOman at home. I had to replace some framing due to
Termite damage and I was about to quit because I couldn’t figure out the proper way to replace
A stud into
Bottom plate. This solves my problem ❤

[thehatetank]

I think tips like this are for guys like me who enjoy learning and trying different projects. Now I know I can tackle a small framing job with the tools I own. Thank you

[ThePowerWithinOnline]

This is so helpful! We've been using this method to reframe all our exterior walls. The screws allow us to make corrections since we're not pros. You wouldn't believe the shoddy work we've uncovered! Thank you for the detailed instructions! 💖

[tedsteiner]

As soon as he freehanded that 1-1/4" line perfectly, I knew I could trust this man with my life.

[NPC__U]

I recently retired from doing this work my entire working life. I love watching you knowledgeable and competent carpenters and wood workers. One view and I subscribed.

[CytoplasmicGoo]

Instead of screwing 2 screws to hold the studs in place before putting toe screws in, I pre cut a 14 1/2” and a 13 3/4” 2x4 block and use them as reusable spacers. The first space I use 13 3/4” then the rest 14 1/2” block. I put the block in place put the stud against it, toe screw, remove then place in on the other side and repeat. I feel it’s faster this way and I don’t need to level all my studs just the first one.

[digitaldrive]

Awesome video for DIY enthusiasts who don't understand best practices. Thanks for this!

[acreguy]

Excellent video Herrick, thanks!! No matter what technique you use, it is essential to get the framing as near perfect as possible. Each step after that becomes increasingly easier. A poor framing job becomes a nightmare for the drywallers, flooring, and trim people😠.

[marvinmartion]

Well sir I enjoy your precise placement and don't fault you for it. As a carpenter for close to 50years I've come to see great benefits of screwing my studs in remodeling. Anytime a customer makes a change it's easier to make happen. Although I don't get quite a precise as you in screw placement. I find that I can make minor adjustments to the line by over tighten or backing off slightly. Your clearly a good carpenter!

[danielrothbart]

Thank you, very informative. I have to add a few studs in a shower area and this will let me get them squared up nicely. Good video, showing all the important steps. I also can't help but wonder why "professional framers" are watching your video and then commenting negatively? It seems to be geared for lowly DIY'ers like me. Well done.

[dreamingcode]

I got down on myself yesterday because I was doing it all wrong so I'm glad I found your video. Im new to DIY so thank you

[doop]

that inch and a quarter free hand was super!

[donaldmiles]

Thank you for this great hack. You saved me a trip to HD.

[EpicCultureClash]

Thank you. I am a rookie DIYer and these tips are life saving.

[fransiscoalvarezinski]

Great tips. This will help me when I build some internal walls in my garage. Thanks.