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Yes, a bowed wall can be straightened in several ways. If the bowing is minimal, it can often be straightened by installing anchors or straps. For more severe basement wall bowing, your contractor might need to excavate the soil outside the foundation and pull the wall back into its original position to straighten it.

When deciding whether to use nails or screws for framing, the specific needs of the project must be taken into account. Nails have long been the go-to option for framing due to their affordability, ease of installation, and ability to withstand shear forces. They are perfect for structural framing projects where fast assembly is essential. In contrast, screws offer exceptional holding power and are particularly useful in situations requiring increased strength and resistance to pull-out forces. For projects that prioritize accuracy and long-lasting quality, screws may be the preferred option, though nails remain a dependable and efficient choice.

Most of the time, you’ll want to use screws on your subfloor rather than nails. Nails can actually weaken plywood, whereas screws can easily penetrate without damage. They also form a more secure connection because of their shape, preventing squeaky floors and tightly holding the subfloor in place. That said, some contractors do prefer nails depending on the type of floor covering because they allow for more flexibility.

Sagging floors, large cracks in your walls, and uneven door frames are three signs that your floor joists need to be replaced. You may also notice squeaky floorboards, windows that no longer close correctly, and stairs that sag on either side. You'll need a structural engineer or floor contractor to confirm whether the floor joists are the true problem behind these issues.