What are Brad Nails?
Brad nails are thin fasteners commonly used for indoor projects like applying trim, paneling and moulding. Also called brads, they have a small diameter with a smaller head than other nail types. This allows for a seamless finish with a less visible hole, making them ideal for many woodworking projects.
The diameter of nails is indicated by the gauge (ga). The most common sizes for brads are 18 ga brand nails and 23 ga. Though it may sound counterintuitive, the smaller the gauge, the thicker the nail.
What are Finish Nails?
Finish nails, or finishing nails, are a type of fastener ideal for cabinetry and fine carpentry projects, as well as applying moulding. Their diameter makes them strong enough to hold thicker materials like baseboard and kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Often 16- to 10-gauge, their small diameter makes it less likely for them to split wood. Designed with small heads, they can either be nailed in flush or countersunk – which conceals them as they’re driven below the visible surface.
How They Compare – Brad Nails Vs. Finish Nails
Both brad nails and finish nails are essential for every toolbox. Though they’re similar, they do offer some slight differences. Generally speaking, finish nails are the stronger of the two. A good rule to remember when choosing between them is to use brad nails for thin wood and finish nails for thicker wood. Also, while brad nails are typically used for indoor projects, there are a variety of finish nails designed with specialty coatings allowing for outdoor use.
Pros of Brad Nails
- Less likely to require wood filling as their small profile leaves barely visible holes
- Ideal for fine carpentry and craft jobs or any application that doesn’t require powerful holding strength
- Easy to remove
- Because of their small diameter, brads may be more difficult to hold in place
- Prone to bending
- Better suited for an electric or pneumatic nail gun rather than by-hand application
- Offer a stronger, more durable hold compared to brads
- Preferred for larger, heavier-duty jobs
- May leave a visible hole in work surface
- Often require a nail punch to drive fastener in and conceal its head