Understanding The Application Of 18 Gauge Brad Nails And Finish Nails
For minimum but firm hold strength, 18 gauge brad nails are a great choice. Therefore they are greatly used for binding lightweight wood trims. Without leaving a visible hole they give smooth finishing; however, they cannot be inserted manually, but with the help of an electric brad nailer, they easily penetrate the wooden structure giving a camouflaged look. They are hence perfect for fixing structures without leaving a visible hole. The small 18-gauge brad nails are the first choice of professionals who needs to attach expensive and delicate wooden trims without any damage or split. When with thin trims you feel the need of using putty, you can consider the application of 18 gauge brad nails. In contrast, 18 gauge finish nails are thicker nails that allow more holding strength, as they are slightly thicker in diameter than brad nails. The added thickness means they are applicable for heftier applications with thicker material, such as baseboards and cabinets. The wider diameter of finish nails leaves a more visible cavity after fastening a piece of wood which is unlikely in the case of brad nails. For this reason, there is the need for filler to conceal the spots and tidy the finishing. Therefore it is a bad idea to use finished nails on thin or delicate pieces of wood trim.
Getting to know about 18 gauge brad nails and finish nails, as well as common uses for each type will help you be properly equipped for your next DIY project. Brad’s nails are manufactured with precise 18-gauge steel wire. The nail gauge sizes indicate the width or thickness of the nail. Slender the nails mean higher the gauge numbers. The small width of brad nails makes them easy to penetrate themselves in the wood trim. In addition to being thinner than available standard nails in the market, they also feature a smaller head complimenting their body or structure. The slim profile of brad nails makes them perfect for delicate materials that need to handle with care and precision. Their tiny and subtle feature is ideal for a professional finish that is required for various high-end woodworking projects. Because brad nails themselves are manufactured slim, so they work aptly in thinner cuts of lumber, including plywood and fiberboard. The tiny width of brads means that your trim work will not require much work as the application of fillers before painting.
Therefore, for more delicate woodworking jobs 18-gauge nails are an apt choice. They are available in collated strips for individual pieces and nail guns as well sold by many online and offline stores. Brad nails are available in versatile sizes with 15- or 18-gauge diameter made specifically for thicker cuts of wood. Their length ranges from 1/2-inch to 2 1/2-inch that makes great depth for solid support and strength. The best thing is they are exclusively available in various stores and can be picked up from any good brand that has a reputation in the industry.