Many different types of nails are used in manufacturing and carpentry. A finishing nail is a specific type of nail used to conceal the presence of the nail. With its small head and diameter, a finishing nail is much smaller and easier to hide than a larger nail.
Instead of the broad, flat head found on common nails, finish nails have small or T-shaped or barrel-shaped heads with a dimpled notch at the top. This allows them to penetrate further than a larger nail. Such a size and shape also help the finishing nail not show through on the final project. To learn more, we put together a finish nail gauge chart.
The Basics of Nail Sizing
A carpenter or construction worker will choose a hand drive finish nail based on a few different specifications. These could be the length of the nail, the gauge of the shank, the diameter of the head, and the number of nails required per pound. In order to properly penetrate the wood, each finishing nail should be three times as long as the thickness of the board.
Nail size is often measured by the term pennyweight, an archaic word that refers to how much 100 nails cost. These sizes, denoted by the letter "d," are most frequently found in sizes 2d through 10d, as well as 12d, 16d, and 20d. The small 2d size finish nail is typically required for fine woodworking jobs. Baseboards are frequently installed using medium-sized finishing nails, such as 6d or 8d.
Finish Nail Gauge Chart
Baseboards, crown molding, windows, chair rails, and many other heavier wood trim applications require finishing nails. As an example, the following finish nail gauge size chart shows nails that are 14, 15 and 16 gauge. Head diameters can range from 13/64" to 3/16". This makes sure that the wood trim firmly fastens to the wall or other surface you are nailing it to.
Get the Best Nails for Your Projects
Fastener USA carries the most comprehensive selection of high-quality products, including the most comprehensive selection of stainless steel finish nails. In order to keep up with your ever-evolving needs, we make it a priority to stay on top of developments in both technology and the construction sector. Our products offer the best fastening options regardless of the scope or complexity of your project.
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