The Ontario Building Code | Prevention of Splitting
9.23.3.3. Prevention of Splitting
(1) Splitting of wood members shall be minimized by staggering the nails in the direction of the grain and by keeping nails well in from the edges.
In Plain Language
Measures to prevent splitting are required as set out in this article, since a split framing member loses much of its strength at the fastened connection.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.