What is the minimum nail length for joining floor joists to the plate (toe-nail)?

The minimum nail length for joining floor joists to the plate using a toe-nail is 82 mm. This length is specified to ensure that the connection is robust enough to carry the loads and stresses typically encountered in floor systems. A toe-nail involves driving a nail into the end of the joist at an angle into the plate, which can be more challenging than a standard nail and requires appropriate nail length to achieve sufficient grip in the materials.

Using nails longer than the required length may penetrate deeper than necessary, which could complicate connections and lead to structural difficulties or weakening of the material. Conversely, nails that are too short would not provide the necessary holding power, risking structural integrity. Therefore, 82 mm nails strike the right balance between ensuring a strong connection while being practical for proper installation.