Square cut nails and hard maple

[Andrew Williams]

In preparation for making an antique reproduction piece, I am experimenting with square cut nails (clout or shingle nails) in hard maple. Has anybody used this combination before? What is the best way to avoid splitting the wood? At this time I am considering drilling an extra large hole (too big and loose) in the face grain and just relying on the nail to dig into the end grain underneath it only.

Any suggestions welcome :)


Andrew

[Dave Anderson NH]

I use square cuts all the time in all types of hardwoods when making period pieces. I drill a small pilot hole through the top piece about half the size of the top end of the nail just below the head. I find this is sufficient when close to the edge, otherwise I don't bother predrilling. Remember that square cut nails hold far better than wire nails so they are really great for general construction too. They went out of fashion because they were more expensive to make.

[Andrew Williams]

I think I may have not gotten the correct nails. These clout nails seem like the head is too large for the face of a piece. Dave, Do you use the fine finish nails like these?

http://www.horton-brasses.com/products/nails/10

nail N-5

I only have these

http://www.horton-brasses.com/products/nails/11

nail N-7

I suspect that the larger nails are better for nailing the back pieces on.

[Dave Anderson NH]

Hi Andrew, I use the finish nails and sometimes the replica headed nails. Cloute nails will almost guarantee a split in hardwoods. They were designed for cedar and other softwood shingle materials. I normally buy my nails directly from the Tremont Nail company, www.tremontnail.com (http://www.tremontnail.com), who is the oldest producer of nails in the US. I've always been satisfied with their service and offerings.

[Andrew Williams]

Thanks Dave!

I am ordering a few sizes of finish nails from them now, and some brads just in case ;)

I guess I'll save the clout nails for other stuff