A Guide to Choosing the Right Brad Nails for Your Project

a pneumatic nail gun

Brad nails have small shank diameter and small heads that make them useful for a light finish when woodworking. This small size nails are less likely to split picture rail moldings, crown moldings and similar construction materials. Brad nails can be installed with the use of a hammer or through a pneumatic nail gun.

Like most types of nails, brad nails come in different lengths and gauges so it is important that you choose the right nails for your project. Remember that the wrong size of nails will not provide strong support to your woodworking. To help you choose the right brad nails, here are some tips for you to consider.

Nail Size and Length

Choosing the right nail size for your project is very crucial. The size of the brad nail is directly proportional to its length – longer nails have bigger shanks. When choosing brad nails, see to it that the length of the nails is at least three times the thickness of the materials that you want to nail through. If you have a ½ inch molding, you should get brad nails that are at least 1 ½ inches in length. This way, you can be sure that your brad nails can hold the materials together securely. In contrast, if you choose a brad nail that is too large, you could split the wood.

Types of Brad Nails

Galvanized Brad Nails

Brad nails are made of different types of materials including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and galvanized materials. These different types of materials vary in terms of durability and strength. Brad nails that are made of galvanized materials are some of the most durable types of nails and they are less likely to corrode even when exposed to adverse conditions. If the area where you want to use the brad nails are exposed to varying climate and conditions, you should invest in nails that that are made of galvanized materials. Yes, nails that are made of galvanized materials tend to be more expensive than other types of brad nails but if you want your woodwork to stay in tack on in good condition longer, you might as well invest in galvanized nails.

Stainless Steel Brad Nails

Stainless steel brad nails are suitable for slate and tile materials. If you want to nail your tile countertop, you should load your nail gun with stainless steel brad nails instead of ordinary nails. Most types of tiles can split apart when subjected to stress so as much as possible, do not use a hammer to drive the nails through. If you must use a hammer instead of a nail gun, use a tack hammer and make sure that you do not bend the nails in place as you drive it through the tiles.

Aluminum Brad Nails

When it comes to fastening thin metal and siding, your best choice is the aluminum brad nail. Aluminum brad nails are good at piercing surfaces and they are less likely to bend in place.

Copper Brad Nails

Copper brand nails are designed for wood surfaces, sidings and moldings. Although this type of nail is not as strong and as durable as the other types of nails, it is affordable and easy to find.