One of the characteristics of nails is that they are designed to secure materials together. Nails are simple, basic fasteners that have been used in architecture in various forms for over 3,000 years, making them one of the most time-tested items used in architecture. Nails are typically used to fasten pieces of wood or lumber, but they have other uses as well. Nails come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs that work for specific purposes. With this in mind, let's take a look at the different types of nails to understand which types are suitable for which purposes.

Gold, silver, and nickel-colored nails are lined up in different sizes.

Nail size is determined by both length and gauge. The length of the nail is indicated by the letter "d". This is a measurement that dates back to Old England and originally represented the word "penny." Nails come in different lengths from 2d to 50d with corresponding lengths.

A nail gauge measures the diameter of your nails. The higher the gauge, the thinner the nail. Different purposes require different nail sizes and gauges. As a rule of thumb, you should use nails that are three times as long as the thickness of the material you are securing.

Plain nails, as the name suggests, are the most common nails used in construction and construction. Heavy shanks are often the first choice for framing and carpentry projects because they are reliable for their sturdy support. These heavy-duty nails are used for strength and function on rougher work projects, not for aesthetic appearance. The rounded heads of common nails usually show up on the surface, making this style of nail suitable for jobs where function is more important than appearance.