What do you need to know about galvanized nails?

Galvanized nails undergo a process that involves coating them with zinc to protect them. This process is commonly known as hot-dip galvanizing. Apart from the protection, the barrier also saves the metal from being damaged, as the coating would dissolve before the metal.

Why are iron and steel nails coated with zinc?

Iron and steel nails that are coated with zinc, to prevent corrosion, are called galvanized nails. The name is derived from the process of coating zinc, called galvanization.

What are the different uses of galvanized iron?

The zinc provides the galvanization, as zinc resists corrosion typical of ungalvanized wrought or cast iron. Galvanized iron is manufactured and used for wide variety of purposes but its primary use is for sheet metal roofing and other building materials, such as metal framing studs, metal roof shingles and fencing.

What’s the best way to keep steel nails from rusting?

The quick answer, to slow down the process of rusting and corrosion, by protecting the nail with a zinc coating. Galvanized steel nails will eventually rust (use stainless steel nails to completely prevent rust), but the galvanization (zinc coat) will prolong the nail’s lifespan – as compared to non-coated alternatives.

How do you tell if a nail is galvanized?

When trying to determine if a nail is galvanized, there are a few telltale signs that will help you make the decision. Place the nail under a light source and look at its surface. Galvanized nails, unlike other metal nails, don’t have a shine to them. They appear dull and do not reflect light like other metals do.

Should I use a galvanized nail?

A galvanized nail should be used when you do not want the nail to rust. All outdoor applications usually require galvanized nails. If the nail is not galvanized, it will rust if exposed to the elements. However, the ‘streaking’ effect achieved with ungalvanized nails outside is sometimes preferred to the matte silver color of the galvanized nail.

Is a “hot dipped” nail galvanized?

When it comes to galvanized nails for roofing, the gold standard is hot-dipped galvanized nails . These steel nails are cleaned chemically and then immersed in a vat of molten zinc that sometimes contains some lead. The molten zinc is usually between 815 and 850 degrees. It doesn’t take long for the steel nails to rise up to that temperature.

What are steel nails made of?

Nails are usually made of steel but can also be made of stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, or bronze. The pointed end of a nail is called the point, the shaft is called the shank, and the flattened part is called the head.