How to Choose the Right Nail

Nails are used for making permanent joints. Choose among different types of nails for different applications.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boat Nails
• Finishing Nails
• Form(ing) Nails
• Masonry Nails
• Wire Nails
• Box Nails
• Common Nails
• Concrete Nails
• Drywall Nails
• Hammers
• Roofing Nails
• Tack Hammers
• Roofing Nails
• Hammers

1. 
    

   Choose common nails for heavy-duty wood construction. Box nails are smaller and typically are used in woods that splinter easily.

2. 
    

   Select finishing nails for trim and cabinetwork. These nails are usually countersunk with a nail set.

3. 
    

   Secure drywall to wood with drywall nails.

4. 
    

   Use boat nails for fences, outdoor furniture and, of course, boats.

5. Remove forming nails easily. They have two heads and are designed for temporary use.

6. Hold fabric to furniture and carpet to furring strips with tacks.

7. Prevent rusting and hold shingles on with galvanized roofing nails.

8. 
    

   Consider wire nails for very light jobs. These are measured by wire gauge rather than pennyweights (the higher the number, the smaller the gauge).

9. 
    

   Use masonry or concrete nails in masonry and concrete.

Tips & Warnings

• Nails are measured in pennyweight and designated by a "d" for denarius, the ancient Roman equivalent of a penny. Nails were at one time priced by the hundred. Today the "d" simply indicates the nail's size: a 2d or "2-penny" nail is 1 inch long, a 6d nail is 2 inches long, and a 10d nail is 3 inches long.

on 11/22/2005 I use a pneumatic nail gun for trim, and I have never had a problem with the trim splitting.

on 11/22/2005 Hit the sharp end of the nail with a hammer to dull the point in order to prevent the moulding from splitting when nailed.

on 11/22/2005 When nailing close to the edge of a board, look at the nail. There is a "wide side"(\\/) and a "narrow side.(v)" Turn the narrow side of the nail to run with the grain of the wood. Drive it in just short of the head and set it with a nailset.