Think I could use nails instead of screws on a kids playset?

[aczlan]

That sounds like the best solution, and what I would do. I love torx head screws. I also try to use self drilling, or 'no drill' type screws for treated lumber. That helps reduce splitting with screws close to the ends of the boards.

Good point. I have switched to those as well. A little more spendy, but worth it for the reduced aggrevation.

Aaron Z

 

[scdeerslayer]

As far as I'm concerned the only nail that should be made is a finish nail. For everything else I'm using some sort of screw, preferably with a torx head or a bolt hex head.

As far as stripped phillips heads, I've found that using an impact driver greatly reduces the amount of those.

 

[brown40]

I think the kids and use will determine how durable you need to build it. I'd screw it--I was a little gorilla, and would shake, whittle, climb, swing, hammer, pull and push anything I could get my hands on. Even plain old swinging will work the joints loose with nails.

 

[nybirdman]

Screws for everything for me.I did use a nail gun for some barn siding and that worked great.

 

[MRCONCDID]

If you are using pressure treated lumber ( which you should ) You need to use the proper zink platted screws.

MrC.

 

[jack707]

I always use screws when I build things because of more holding.