Common nails, with their simple yet robust design, have been a staple in construction, woodworking, and DIY projects for centuries. These nails, also known as “general-purpose nails,” are highly versatile and serve a wide range of applications due to their strength, reliability, and ease of use. Let’s explore the various applications where common nails shine. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to use a common nail effectively and efficiently to ensure a clean finish.

If you need help finding common nails for any of the versatile applications listed below, see our product review article here.

Exploring the Versatile Applications of the Common Nail

Framing and Construction

One of the primary applications of common nails is in framing and general construction. Whether you are building walls, roofs, floors, or any other structural elements, common nails provide strong and secure fastening. Their smooth shank design allows them to penetrate through various materials, including wood, plywood, and engineered lumber, ensuring a sturdy and durable framework.

Woodworking

Common nails play a crucial role in woodworking projects, such as assembling furniture, cabinets, and joinery. Their ability to hold wood pieces firmly together makes them an essential component for creating reliable and long-lasting wooden structures.

Finish Work and Trim

While finishing nails are preferred for delicate trim work, common nails still find their place in installing larger trim elements, such as baseboards and crown moldings. Their sturdy construction ensures a secure attachment and provides an excellent solution for those who prefer a more robust fastening method.

Picture Hanging and Decorations

Common nails are a popular choice for hanging pictures, mirrors, and other decorations on walls. Their straight and smooth shank makes them easy to drive into the wall without causing damage to the surrounding area. In addition, the nails’ versatility allows them to hold various types of wall decor securely in place.

Roofing

For roofing projects, common nails are often used for attaching shingles and roofing materials. Their strength and durability make them suitable for withstanding the elements and ensuring a tight seal on the roof.

Repair and Maintenance

When it comes to repairs and general maintenance around the house, common nails are invaluable. From fixing loose floorboards and fences to securing loose hardware, they offer quick and effective solutions for a wide range of everyday household problems.

DIY Projects

Common nails are a go-to choice for DIY enthusiasts tackling various projects around the house and garden. Whether it’s building a treehouse, creating a raised garden bed, or assembling outdoor furniture, these nails provide the necessary holding power for successful completion.

Temporary Fastening

In some cases, common nails are used for temporary fastening before permanent fasteners, such as screws or bolts, are added. This approach allows for easy adjustments during construction or woodworking projects.

Metalwork

While primarily designed for wood applications, common nails can also be used in light metalwork projects. They can secure thin sheets of metal or hold metal brackets in place for certain applications.

In conclusion, common nails are a versatile and reliable option for a wide range of applications. From major construction projects to small DIY tasks, these nails offer the convenience and strength needed to bring ideas to life. When choosing common nails, consider the specific requirements of your project, the materials you are working with, and the level of durability and holding power needed. With the right selection, common nails will continue to be a steadfast companion for all your woodworking and construction endeavors.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Use a Common Nail to Ensure a Clean Finish

Using a common nail effectively is a straightforward process that requires some preparation and attention to detail. Whether you’re new to DIY or a seasoned enthusiast, follow these steps to ensure a successful and secure application:

Materials Needed

• Common nails of the appropriate size for your project.
• A hammer or nail gun (if compatible with the nails). 
• The material you will be nailing into (e.g., wood, drywall, or other surfaces).
• Safety goggles (optional but recommended for eye protection).

Step 1: Select the Right Nail Size

Choose the appropriate size of the common nail based on the thickness of the material you are nailing into and the depth of penetration required. If you’re unsure, consult the grading system (penny size or length in inches) to find the suitable nail for your project.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Ensure the surface where you will be driving the nail is clean, flat, and free of any obstacles. If the material is prone to splitting, consider using a smaller nail or pre-drilling a pilot hole to prevent damage.

Step 3: Hold the Nail in Position

Position the tip of the common nail at the desired location on the material. Hold the nail perpendicular to the surface, ensuring it is aligned correctly for accurate placement.

Step 4: Start Driving the Nail

If you’re using a hammer, hold it firmly with a comfortable grip. Aim for the center of the nail head and start driving the nail into the material using a controlled and steady motion. If you’re using a nail gun, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and safety precautions.

Step 5: Drive the Nail In Smoothly

Continue hammering or using the nail gun until the nail is securely driven into the material. Be careful not to hit the nail at an angle, as this can cause bending or splitting of the material. For larger nails, you may need to strike the nail more firmly to ensure proper penetration.

Step 6: Sink the Nail Head (optional)

For certain applications, you may choose to sink the nail head slightly below the surface. To do this, hammer the nail with a few additional taps, making sure the nail head is below the material’s surface. Use a nail set (a tool with a concave tip) to finish sinking the nail head if needed.

Step 7: Inspect and Repeat (if necessary)

After driving the nail, inspect the attachment to ensure it is secure and properly placed. If you need to add more nails to complete the project, repeat the process for each additional nail.

Step 8: Safety First

Remember to wear safety goggles when driving nails, especially if you’re using a hammer, to protect your eyes from flying debris.

Step 9: Finishing Touches (optional)

If desired, fill the nail holes with wood filler or putty and sand them smooth for a seamless finish.

Using common nails effectively is a valuable skill for various projects, from construction to DIY endeavors. By following these steps and practicing proper technique, you can achieve secure and professional-looking results every time. Happy nailing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a common nail used in framing?

Yes, common nails are commonly used in framing projects. Framing is the process of creating the structural skeleton of a building or a structure. It involves assembling the framework that provides support and stability to the entire construction. Common nails are well-suited for framing due to their strength, versatility, and ease of use.

In framing applications, common nails are typically used to fasten wood members together, such as wall studs, joists, beams, and rafters. They are also used to secure plywood, sheathing, and other building materials to the framework. Common nails’ smooth shank design allows them to penetrate wood easily and provide a strong grip, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks in framing.

When framing, it is crucial to use nails of the appropriate size and length to ensure secure connections and structural integrity. The selection of the right common nail size depends on the thickness of the materials being joined and the load-bearing requirements of the structure.

Overall, common nails are an essential component in framing, offering reliable and robust fastening solutions that have been trusted in construction projects for generations.

What are some tips on how to hammer a common nail perfectly?

Hammering a common nail perfectly requires proper technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure accurate and secure nail placement:

1. Choose the Right Nail Size: Select a common nail of the appropriate size for your project. The nail should be long enough to provide sufficient holding power without being too long and risking damage to the material or causing the nail to bend.
2. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the surface where you will be driving the nail is clean, flat, and free of any obstructions. If the material is prone to splitting, consider using a smaller nail or pre-drilling a pilot hole to prevent damage.
3. Hold the Nail Properly: Hold the nail near the head with your fingers, leaving enough length to drive the nail into the material. Position the nail perpendicular to the surface, ensuring it is aligned correctly for accurate placement.
4. Start with Controlled Strikes: Start driving the nail with controlled and gentle strikes. Aim for the center of the nail head and use the appropriate amount of force. Avoid swinging the hammer too hard initially, as it can cause the nail to go off course or bend.
5. Drive the Nail Straight: Keep the hammer and the nail perpendicular to the surface to ensure the nail goes in straight. If the nail starts to tilt, adjust the angle to keep it straight before continuing to drive it in.
6. Use a Smooth Motion: Maintain a smooth and consistent motion when hammering the nail. Avoid jerking or pausing during the process, as this can result in uneven and less secure placement.
7. Avoid Hammering Too Close to Fingers: As you drive the nail, be careful not to hammer too close to your fingers to avoid accidental injuries. Use a proper grip that keeps your fingers at a safe distance from the hammer’s striking surface.
8. Use the Right Hammer: Choose a hammer that suits the size of the nail and your comfort. For smaller nails, a lighter hammer may be appropriate, while larger nails might require a heavier hammer. If you need help finding a suitable hammer, see our claw hammer review and guide article.
9. Consider Using a Nail Set (Optional): If you need to sink the nail head slightly below the surface, use a nail set – a tool with a concave tip – to finish driving the nail once it is almost flush with the material.
10. Inspect and Adjust (if needed): After driving the nail, inspect the attachment to ensure it is secure and properly placed. If the nail is not fully driven or is crooked, you can use a nail puller or pry bar to remove it and start again.
11. Practice and Patience: Hammering nails perfectly takes practice and patience. Take your time to master the technique, and don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect the first time. With practice, you’ll become more skilled at driving nails accurately and efficiently.

By following these tips, you can hammer a common nail perfectly, achieving secure and professional-looking results in your construction, woodworking, or DIY projects.

How can I remove a common nail?

To remove a common nail, you’ll need the right tools and proper technique to avoid damaging the surrounding material. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove a common nail effectively:

Materials Needed:

• Claw hammer or nail puller. Click here to read more about claw hammers.
• Pliers (optional)
• Scrap piece of wood (optional)

Step 1: Assess the Nail and Surrounding Area: Examine the nail and the material it is driven into. Determine the size and type of common nail used and the depth of its penetration. Assess the surrounding area to ensure you won’t cause any damage while removing the nail.

Step 2: Position the Tool: Choose the appropriate tool for nail removal. A claw hammer or a nail puller (also known as a cat’s paw) are commonly used for this task. Position the tool’s claw around the nail head, ensuring it securely grips the nail.

Step 3: Pry and Pull: With the tool’s claw firmly in place, gently rock the tool back and forth while applying upward pressure to pry the nail out. Avoid twisting the tool, as it may cause the nail to bend or damage the surrounding material. If the nail is not budging, try tapping the back of the tool’s head with a hammer to help it release from the material.

Step 4: Remove the Nail: Continue prying and pulling until the nail is completely removed from the material. If the nail is partially out, you can use pliers to grip the exposed portion of the nail and pull it the rest of the way.

Step 5: Use a Scrap Piece of Wood (Optional): To protect the surface while removing the nail, you can place a scrap piece of wood between the tool’s claw and the material. This will distribute the pressure and prevent any dents or scratches.

Step 6: Fill or Repair Holes (Optional): After removing the nail, you may need to fill the resulting hole with wood filler or putty. For larger holes, you can use wood plugs or dowels to repair the damage and create a smooth surface.

Step 7: Inspect the Material: Inspect the material to ensure there are no remnants of the nail left behind or any damage caused during the removal process. If necessary, sand or repair the area to restore it to its original state.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove a common nail without causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding material. With the right tools and technique, you’ll be able to complete your woodworking, repair, or renovation projects with ease.

What are the advantages of a common nail?

Common nails offer several advantages that make them a popular and versatile choice for various construction, woodworking, and DIY projects. Here are the key advantages of using common nails:

1. Versatility: Common nails are widely used and suitable for a broad range of applications. They can be used in framing, general construction, woodworking, hanging pictures, repairing furniture, and more. Their versatility makes them a go-to option for many projects.
2. Strength and Durability: Common nails are made of sturdy materials, such as steel, which provides excellent strength and durability. They can withstand heavy loads and hold materials together securely, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting connection.
3. Ease of Use: Using common nails is straightforward and doesn’t require specialized skills or tools. They can be driven in using a simple hammer or a compatible nail gun, making them accessible to DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: Common nails are cost-effective compared to other fastening options, such as screws or specialty nails. They are widely available and come in large quantities, making them an economical choice for various projects.
5. Quick Installation: Due to their ease of use, common nails allow for efficient and quick installation. They are particularly useful when time is a critical factor in completing a project.
6. Secure Fastening: Common nails provide a strong and secure hold when driven into wood or other suitable materials. Their smooth shank design ensures a reliable grip, reducing the likelihood of loosening over time.
7. Availability: Common nails are readily available at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. Their widespread availability makes them easy to obtain for any project.
8. Wide Range of Sizes: Common nails come in various sizes, denoted by a “penny” size or by their length in inches. This variety allows users to choose the appropriate nail size based on the specific requirements of their project.
9. Traditional and Proven Design: Common nails have been used for centuries and have stood the test of time. Their simple design and effectiveness have made them a reliable choice for a wide array of applications.
10. Suitable for Many Materials: While commonly used in wood applications, common nails can also be driven into other materials like drywall, soft metals, and more, making them suitable for various tasks.

In summary, common nails offer numerous advantages, including versatility, strength, ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and secure fastening. Their widespread availability and proven track record make them a reliable choice for a wide range of projects, from small repairs to large-scale construction endeavors.

What should I not use a common nail for?

While common nails are versatile and suitable for many applications, there are certain situations where they may not be the best choice. Here are some instances where you should avoid using common nails:

1. Hard Metals: Common nails are designed primarily for wood applications. Avoid using them on hard metals, as they may not have the strength or durability to penetrate and hold in such materials effectively.
2. Concrete or Masonry: Common nails are not suitable for fastening into concrete, brick, or other masonry surfaces. For such materials, use specialized concrete nails, masonry anchors, or screws designed for that purpose.
3. Thin or Delicate Materials: For thin or delicate materials like thin veneers, lightweight panels, or delicate moldings, common nails can cause splitting or damage. Instead, consider using finishing nails, brads, or adhesive for a more inconspicuous and gentle attachment.
4. Load-Bearing Heavy Structures: While common nails are appropriate for standard framing and general construction, for heavy load-bearing structures, such as tall buildings or bridges, specialized fasteners like structural screws or bolts are necessary to ensure safety and stability.
5. Outdoor Marine Environments: In areas with constant exposure to saltwater or harsh marine environments, common nails may not provide sufficient corrosion resistance. In such cases, consider using stainless steel or galvanized nails designed for marine applications.
6. Precision Woodworking: For fine and precision woodworking, where appearance is crucial, common nails may not offer the level of control and aesthetics needed. Finishing nails, brads, or dowels are better suited for such projects.
7. Electrical or Plumbing Fixtures: Common nails should never be used to secure electrical or plumbing fixtures. Improper fastening in these areas can lead to safety hazards and compromised structural integrity.
8. Projects Requiring Easy Removal: If you anticipate needing to remove or disassemble the fastened materials in the future, consider using screws or other reversible fasteners instead of common nails, which can be difficult to extract without damaging the material.
9. Thin Sheet Metal: Common nails are not suitable for attaching thin sheet metal, as they may cause warping or damage. Instead, use specialized sheet metal screws or rivets.
10. Projects Requiring Precise Depth Control: When precise depth control is crucial, such as in finish work, using common nails may result in inconsistent nail heads. Consider using a nail gun with adjustable depth settings or use finishing nails with pre-set depths.

In summary, while common nails are versatile and widely used, they have limitations. It’s essential to understand their strengths and weaknesses and choose the appropriate fastener for your specific project to ensure a safe, secure, and aesthetically pleasing outcome. When in doubt about the suitability of common nails for a particular application, consult with a professional or seek advice from a knowledgeable source.