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Ouchless Tips for Hammering Nails
Hammering nails is an easy do-it-yourself project that almost everyone has attempted. Yet many people become frustrated when their nails bend, thumbs get bruised, and wood splits.
While nailing is not an exact science, there are some basic tips that can help make nailing easier and less painful.
Choose the Right Number
There are many types of hammers available. A 16-ounce claw hammer is best for general nailing. For more heavy-duty nailing, choose a heavier hammer, maybe 20-22-ounces. A 10-ounce hammer is designed to be used with very small nails.
Straight Nails
Before you start hammering away at the nail, be sure to take the time to get it started. Hold the nail with your fingers and then tap the top of the nail lightly until it starts driving into the wood. Let go of the nail and strike it with the hammer straight on. If the nail starts to bend, start fresh. Take the nail out and start with a new one in the same hole. It’s easier and less frustrating.
Bruised Fingers
When hammering small nails, don’t use your fingers to keep the nail steady. Try using needle-nose pliers. This way if you miss, you won’t bruise anything.
Split Wood
The main cause of split wood is when a nail is driven too close to the end or edge of a board. One solution would be to drill a guide hole. This hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the nail. Blunting the point of the nail is another solution. Simply tap the point with a hammer. A blunt point crushes wood fibers rather than forcing them apart.
The Right Nail
Common nails have large heads and extra holding power. They are best used when strength is more important than appearance. Finishing nails are used when appearance is important, such as when applying trim or assembling furniture.
