What Is a Finishing Nail?
A finishing nail is used in construction and building trades to join two materials, typically wood or lumber. The head, or top, is flat and small, so it won't be easily seen after use. The opposite end is sharply pointed so it can easily drive through the material being joined together. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Definition
-
A finishing nail is a metal (stiff wire) fastener used with either a flat-head hammer or a nailing device such as a pneumatic nail gun.
Uses
-
Finishing nails are used in building construction like wooden moldings or trim around windows, ceilings or doors, as well as in furniture joinery.
-
Sizes
-
Finishing nails come in a variety of sizes, from 2d (smallest) through 20d (largest). The size represents the gauge (or diameter) of the nail and the length.
Using Finishing Nails
-
Use a hammer, or other device, to drive the nail through the material to be joined until it is nearly flush. This protects the wood surface. The nail can then be countersunk using a nail set or punch. The slight depression is then sealed over with wood putty or filler.
History
-
The "penny" term for nails dates back to seventeenth century England, and refers to the cost of the nail. For example, a two-penny nail would refer to 2d for modern nails. "Penny" is a common term for finishing nails today.
-
