Frequently, we encounter inquiries about the diifference between galvanised nails and stainless steel nails, and it’s crucial to grasp these disparities, especially in construction projects.
Galvanized Steel Nails
Galvanised nails are steel nails with a protective zinc coating to ward off corrosion. This thin zinc layer acts as a shield against rust, but if compromised, the steel beneath becomes susceptible to rust formation.
In Ireland, standard galvanized nails often undergo electroplating, a process using an electrical current to create a smooth, bright zinc coating. However, electroplated galvanized nails may not withstand continuous exposure to corrosive materials like those found in cedar wood, Accoya timber, or iroko woods.
For enhanced rust resistance, we offer hot-dip galvanised nails, which undergo a process where the nails are dipped into a thick coating of zinc, providing superior protection compared to standard or electroplated galvanised nails.
Stainless Steel Nails
Stainless steel nails, although pricier, provide unparalleled rust protection. Comprising at least 10.5% chromium and other elements like Molybdenum, Titanium, Copper, Carbon, and Nitrogen, these nails boast enhanced formability and strength.
Unlike galvanised nails, if the surface of a stainless steel nail is scratched, it remains resistant to exposure due to the strength of its lining. Ideal for treated timbers such as cedar wood, iroko, and Accoya, stainless steel nails offer a corrosion-resistant solution.
Stainless Steel Nails vs Galvanized Nails
When working with sheeting, cedar wood cladding, or manufacturing high-spec windows using cedar wood or Accoya timber, we strongly recommend using stainless steel brads or stainless steel nails.
These timbers are highly acidic and can corrode standard galvanized brads or steel nails. Using anything other than stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized nails with treated timbers can lead to rot, disintegration, and unsightly black stains.
Opting for electroplated, standard galvanised, or bright nails is ill-advised for acidic timbers. We consistently stock 304 and 316 stainless steel nails, as well as stainless steel staples suitable for both the marine and construction industries.
Your choice of nails can be the pivotal factor in the longevity of your fence, timber house, or deck.
In our inventory, you can find a variety of stainless steel nails, including 18 gauge and 16 gauge stainless steel brad nails, DA stainless steel nails, stainless steel coil nails, stainless steel framing nails, and paslode stainless steel nails.
If you’re uncertain about the most suitable nail for your application, feel free to contact us at 01 2954680 or [email protected].
The Securall Way – Always Reliable
Here at Securall Fastenings and PaslodeNailGuns.ie we have our own in-house maintenance team who will always ensure that any issues with any Paslode tools sold by us can be fixed with a very fast turnaround time.
See our full range of Stainless Steel and Galvanized Nails here now.
We offer next-day delivery on most Paslode tools or you can also collect from our trade counter in Sandyford, Co Dublin, 5 minutes from the M50.
