Brad Nails vs. Finish Nails

Distinguishing between brad nails and finish nails at a glance can be difficult. The two nail types appear similar, but the slight difference in size makes brad nails and finish nails suited for their own uses, depending on a variety of factors, including the project at hand and the type of material you are working with.

Brads are thin 18-gauge nails designed for intricate woodworking tasks. They are available in collated strips for nail guns or as individual pieces. Typically, brad nails come in lengths ranging from 1/2-inch to 2-inch and are primarily intended for indoor applications. Their slender profile minimizes the risk of wood splitting, leaving behind small holes that are easily filled.

Brads prove highly effective for trim work, including narrow trim around windows or doors, as well as shoe moulding and quarter-round moulding.

On the other hand, finish nails exhibit versatility and feature a 15- or 16-gauge diameter. These nails are available in lengths spanning from 1-inch to 3 1/2-inch and can be obtained in collated finishing nail strips for nail guns or as individual pieces. Due to their larger gauge, finish nails provide enhanced holding strength compared to brad nails. The small heads of finish nails can be easily concealed with wood putty, making them suitable for finishing work. Some finish nails even come with exterior coatings, enabling their usage in outdoor applications.

Finish nails find application in both interior and exterior trim, window and door casings, and chair rails. They are particularly well-suited for securing baseboards, crown moulding, stair treads, risers, and various light carpentry and cabinet projects. Regarding best uses, brad nails are better suited for tasks like light decorative trim and molding, paneling, picture frames, and crafts such as birdhouses. Finish nails are better suited for larger trim, such as baseboards or crown molding.

Have more questions about Brad vs. Finish Nails, stop by your local Cardinal Home Center, and one of our trained team associates can show you all the options, including which tools to use for the best application.