Number of Nails connecting roof rafter to ridge board

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Originally Posted by kshepard

I was a carpenter for 25 years in CA and CO. Standard was 3 face nails, and for the toenailed side, 3 toenails in one side of the rafter and 2 in the other. I never heard that this was regulated by code, but more of an industry accepted standard.

That is correct David, and the reason for 3 nails on one side and two on the other is so that the nails are not lined up on opposing sides to split the wood.
It was like that 40 years ago and should still be like that today, when attachments are done in the conventional ways of framing.
Same thing was done when I used to frame with 2"x6" studs, 3 on one side and two on the other.
Brings back old memories.

Now they use air nailers and you will have twice the amount of nails required because it is too easy to pull the trigger.

[James E. Braun, CMI]

That is the way I was taught too. Too bad I seldom see it anymore, but I do see a lot of roof stuctures blown off. I wonder if there is a connection, Hmmmmm Sad but true.