Brad Nails Vs. Finish Nails for Woodwork and DIY Projects
Both brad nails and finish nails look the same, and it can be hard for someone to tell the difference between the two. If you examine both of them together, you will find there are subtle differences that tell them apart. Both of them differ in size, and you can use them for your carpentry or DIY projects as per the need.
How are brad nails different from finish nails?
Brad nails are also known as “brads,” and they are generally made of a steel wire that is about 18-gauge. The gauge size of the nail indicates how thick it is. If the nail is thinner, it will have a higher gauge number. If you take a look at the diameter size of brad nails, you will find they are easy to mask wood or paneling. Besides this feature, they are thinner than the other standard nails in the market and have a head that is smaller in size compared to them.
Ideal for delicate materials
The brad nail is slender and is useful for delicate materials. If you use a brad nail on a delicate piece of wood, it will not split. The finish of the brad nail makes it a hot favorite for woodwork projects that need a good and clean finish. It is thin and perfect for projects that work with lumber like fiber-wood and plywood. Since the diameter of the brad nail is very small, the trim and molding of the wood will conceal holes. This means you need not paint the wood or insert a filler to hide any hole that is displayed.
What are finish nails?
Finish nails are thicker than brad nails, and they have a gauge number of 15 to 16. They have a stronghold on materials but are not suitable for delicate materials as the wood is likely to spill. They are good for applications that need more durability and are great for baseboards and cabinets. Since the diameter of the finish nail is thicker over a brad nail, they will display a hole. This hole needs to be concealed with paint or a filler to make the woodwork look neat.
In case you are not sure about which nail to buy for your woodworking or DIY project, you should consult an experienced professional for help. There are credible websites that sell both brad and finish nails; you may contact them over phone or email to get recommendations for the project you have on hand. You can discuss it with them and order the nails online to have them shipped to your destination without hassles.
Both Brad nails and finish nails have their shares of advantages and disadvantages. Choosing them will depend upon the project you have on hand. If you are working with gentle and delicate wood, you should use a brad nail to avoid splitting. If you want the woodwork to be stronger and more durable, buying a good grade of finish nails will be the perfect choice for you.
