Hot-dip galvanized nails are coated by dipping in molten zinc, producing a thick, rough coating. Electro-galvanized nails are coated by electroplating, which creates a thinner, smoother layer. Hot-dip provides significantly better outdoor corrosion resistance and is required for pressure-treated lumber applications.

Hot-dip galvanized nails are accepted for use with most pressure-treated lumber treatments. Electro-galvanized nails are NOT acceptable - the thin coating reacts with copper-based preservatives in ACQ and CA treated lumber. Always use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel with any PT wood.

16d (3-1/2 inch) galvanized nails are standard for most wall framing. 10d (3 inch) nails are used for single-ply headers and blocking. 8d (2-1/2 inch) nails work for joist hangers and lighter framing connections.

Sinker nails have a vinyl coating that lubricates during driving and a slightly smaller head than common nails. They are slightly shorter than a same-pennyweight common nail. Both are used in framing but sinkers drive faster in production framing.

A rough estimate is 1 pound of 16d nails per 80 board feet of framing lumber. For a 2,000 sq ft house framing, you will typically use 200 to 250 lbs of 16d nails. Buy in bulk to reduce cost per nail significantly.

Hot-dip galvanized nails are very corrosion-resistant but are not completely rust-proof in harsh environments such as coastal salt air or permanently wet conditions. In typical outdoor framing applications, hot-dip galvanized nails last many decades.

Galvanized framing nails are available in collated strip and coil formats compatible with framing nailers. Hand-drive galvanized common nails are also available for traditional hand nailing. Check the collation format matches your nailer.

Exterior deck framing uses 16d nails for joist-to-beam connections and 8d or 10d nails for joist hanger fastening (follow joist hanger manufacturer specifications). Always use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel for all deck framing fasteners.

Most building codes require corrosion-resistant fasteners for exterior or exposed framing applications, and specifically require hot-dip galvanized (or stainless steel) nails for use with ACQ pressure-treated lumber. Check your local code for specific fastener requirements.

Electro-galvanized nails are not recommended for cedar siding. The tannic acid in cedar causes electro-galvanized coatings to corrode and stain the siding. Use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel nails for cedar and other tannin-rich wood siding.