Common Nails for Construction

Common nails are the most widely used type of nails in the construction industry. They are strong, durable, and designed for general woodworking and structural applications.

Features of Common Nails:

1. Material: Typically made of steel, but also available in galvanized or stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
2. Shape: Have a thick, smooth shank and a large, flat head for better holding power.
3. Sizes: Available in different lengths (ranging from 1 inch to 6 inches) and diameters (measured in “pennies” or “d” sizes, such as 6d, 8d, 10d, etc.).
4. Coating: Some nails have coatings like galvanized, vinyl, or cement to improve grip and rust resistance.

Uses in Construction:

• Framing: Used to join wood for building frameworks, such as walls and roofs.
• Subflooring: Helps in securing wooden subfloors to joists.
• Decking: Suitable for outdoor wooden structures when galvanized versions are used.
• Sheathing: Used in securing plywood or OSB panels to the structure.

Types of Common Nails:

1. Bright Common Nails: Standard nails without coating, ideal for indoor use.
2. Galvanized Common Nails: Coated with zinc to prevent rusting, used in outdoor construction.
3. Vinyl-Coated Nails: Easier to drive and offer better holding power.
4. Cement-Coated Nails: Have an adhesive coating to increase grip in wood.

How to Choose the Right Nail?

• For indoor framing: Bright common nails work best.
• For outdoor structures: Use galvanized nails to prevent rust.
• For heavy-duty applications: Choose larger nails (10d or higher) for strength.