a. Choice of Material. Regardless of whether the girder is built-up or solid, it should be of well-seasoned material. For a specific total girder load and span, the size of the girder will vary according to the kinds of wood used, since some woods are stronger than others.

b. Use of Nails. When built-up girders are used, the pieces should be securely nailed together to prevent individual bucking. A two-piece girder of 2-inch lumber should be nailed on both sides with 16d common nails. The nails should be located near the bottom, spaced approximately 2 feet apart near the ends and 1 foot apart in the center. A three-piece girder should be nailed in the same way. The nailing pattern should be square across the end of the board (1 1/2 inches from each end) and then diagonal every 16 inches.