nails for wood fence

The Essential Guide to Selecting Nails for Wood Fences

When it comes to building or maintaining a wood fence, selecting the right nails is crucial for ensuring durability and security. The choice of nails can significantly affect the structural integrity of your fence, so understanding the different types and their purposes is essential. This article will explore the best practices for choosing nails for wood fences, highlighting materials, types, and application techniques.

1. Types of Nails

There are several types of nails that are commonly used for wood fencing. The three main categories include

- Common Nails These are typically used for general fencing purposes. Their larger size makes them suitable for securing heavy wood panels. However, due to their design, they can split the wood if not applied correctly.

- Galvanized Nails Approved for outdoor use, galvanized nails are coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. This rust resistance is particularly important for wooden fences, which are constantly exposed to the elements. Galvanized nails come in various sizes and gauge, making them suitable for different fence types.

- Stainless Steel Nails For fences in coastal areas or regions with high humidity, stainless steel nails offer the best protection against rust. Although they are more expensive than galvanized options, their durability justifies the investment, especially for long-lasting fences.

2. Nail Size and Gauge

The correct nail size and gauge largely depend on the thickness of the wood used in your fence. For standard 1-inch thick boards, 1.5 to 2.5-inch nails are commonly recommended. The gauge, which measures the nail's thickness, should ideally range between 8 and 16. A lower gauge indicates a thicker nail, providing better holding strength and resistance against bending.

3. Nail Selection Based on Fence Type

Different types of fences may require specific nail choices. For instance

- Privacy Fences Because privacy fences often bear more weight due to their taller structure, it is advisable to use thicker nails, such as 8-gauge galvanized nails, to ensure stability and longevity.

- Picket Fences For picket fences, lighter and shorter nails, like 16-gauge galvanized or stainless steel nails, can be used. Since pickets are typically thinner, they don’t require heavy-duty nails.

- Chain Link Fences with Wood Posts If you are opting for a chain link fence that uses wooden posts, you will still need heavy-duty nails for the posts while opting for lighter nails for attaching the chain link fabric to the posts.

4. Application Techniques

How you apply the nails plays a pivotal role in the overall strength of your wood fence. Here are some best practices

- Pre-drilling Whenever possible, pre-drilling holes for nails can prevent the wood from splitting. This is especially important for harder woods or near the edges of the boards.

- Proper Spacing When securing the fence boards, ensure that you space the nails correctly, usually about 12 to 16 inches apart. This spacing helps distribute the stress evenly, enhancing the fence's stability.

- Avoid Overdriving Take care not to overdrive the nails, as this can cause damage to the wood and weaken the overall structure. A nail set can help ensure that nails are driven to the proper depth without going too far.

Conclusion

Selecting the right nails for your wood fence is an often-overlooked aspect of fence building but one that is critical for maintaining the integrity and longevity of your structure. By considering the types of nails available, their sizes, and application techniques, you can ensure that your fence withstands the test of time. Investing time and thought into nail selection will pay off as you enjoy the benefits of a sturdy, beautiful wood fence for years to come.