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Best Nails for Fence Pickets in 2024 [Top 6 Model Revealed]

nails for fence pickets

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Nails are an extremely important part of building your fence because they are the main thing holding your fence together. You may encounter many problems if you do not use nails to construct your fence. In addition, it would be nearly impossible to build a sturdy fence without nails. 

Using inappropriate fasteners could lead to your fence falling down and needing to be repaired or replaced. So, you should use the best nails for fence pickets in order to ensure that your fence is up for a long time. The right nails offer good holding power and are less likely to loosen over time.  

There are many different types of nails on the market, but not all of them will be good enough for your needs. 

For your convenience, we have reviewed the market and selected the top six nails for your picket.

B & C Eagle Galvanized Nails for Wood Fence Pickets

Duo-Fast Ring Shank Nails for Wood Fence Pickets

Metabo Coil Nails for Fence Pickets

6 Best Nails for Fence Pickets

Choosing the right nails for the picket can make all the difference in your project. Nails are one of the essential parts of building your fence. 

When it comes to choosing nail sets for a picket fence, there are many choices. It’s not enough to just buy any nails for your fence. You want to make sure you use the best nails for attaching the picket. Listed below are the top 6 best nails for fence pickets that will provide you with excellent performance. 

1. B & C Eagle Galvanized Nails for Wood Fence Pickets

When it comes to nails for the picket, these nails from B&C Eagle can be a great option. These ring shank nail sets are designed for use with 20 to 22-degree plastic collated framing nailers.

The hot-dip galvanized coating resists the nails from corrosion and rust, making these ring shank framing nails great for interior or exterior applications. 

This stainless steel nail is also rated to use in treated lumber, allowing you to use them with a variety of components. 

Generally, these ring shank nail sets are compatible with most nailers that support plastic collated framing nails. In addition, the new packaging protects the products during shipping. 

As these nail sets are made from only the best collation components, you can be confident that they will be stable during use. 

Having a full round head ensures that the fastener is locked in place, making it more difficult for them to come loose. 

The cutting and assembled diameters of these nails are both 2 inches. These ring shank nail sets have many great features that make fine-tuning your picket easy. 

The weight of this item is 3.24 pounds, and its dimensions are 8.7 x 3.8 x 3.6 inches. If you seek a sturdy and reliable nail, you can use these hot dipped galvanized nails for the wooden picket.

Highlighted Features:

  • Compatible with all brands of 20 to 22-degree plastic collated nailers.
  • Hot-dip galvanized coating resists corrosion and rust.
  • Full round head ensures that the fastener is locked in place.
  • Rated to use with treated lumber.

2. Duo-Fast Ring Shank Nails for Wood Fence Pickets

Duo-Fast nails are quickly becoming the choice for professional carpenters working with the picket. In order to prevent rusting, these nail sets are hot-dip galvanized. 

This also allows the framing nails to be used in applications such as fiber cement sidings and cedar and fence sidings. 

These ring shank nails help to keep the picket together, making your fence even more sturdy and long-lasting. 

The nail sets are 2 1/4 inches long, making them perfect for the wood picket. This also reduces jamming for increased productivity

Additionally, these ring shank nails are 33% more efficient than traditional nail sets. Consequently, there is less downtime and reloading. 

A plastic band holds the framing nails together in order to prevent debris from being projected and stinging users, as well as rusting. 

Additionally, the nail placement is very precise, resulting in a flush appearance. The weight of this item is 18.65 pounds. 

These nail sets are made in accordance with the inch measurement system. These ring shank nails for wooden fence pickets are sure to exceed your expectations. And these nails provide you with excellent performance. 

There is no wire flagging around these ring shank nail sets which means there is less mess and a cleaner work area.

Highlighted Features:

  • The nails are hot-dip galvanized in order to prevent rusting.
  • Ring shank nails help to keep individual pickets together.
  • Precision placement results in a flush finish.
  • No wire flagging means less mess and a cleaner work area.

3. Metabo Coil Nails for Fence Pickets

The nails from Metabo have a full round head and a wire coil siding. For siding, sheathing, decking, and wood fencing, these nails provide excellent hold.

There are 3,600 nails per box in the package. In addition to providing a solid hold, this ring shank nail features hot-dipped galvanized treatment so they are resistant to rust. 

Due to the wire coil siding on these nails, they are easy to drive, allowing you to work efficiently and effectively. These nails are measured in metric units, ensuring that you receive an accurate size. 

A flat head style keeps them flush with the wooden surface. These round wire nails are also compatible with the Metabo HPT NV65AH2. 

The item weighs 15.72 pounds and measures 0.09 x 0.09 x 2 inches. Made of steel, these ring shank nail sets will get the job done for your fencing needs. There is a 15-degree angle on the siding nails. 

In addition, Metabo nails are made of higher quality components and workmanship in order to reduce downtime. Therefore, you can opt for Metabo coil nails for individual pickets.

Highlighted Features:  

  • Wire coil siding makes driving easy and efficient.
  • Hot dipped galvanized treatment resists rust.
  • Higher quality materials and workmanship.
  • Provides a solid hold.
  • Comes with 3,600 nails per pack.

4. Grip Rite Exterior Galvanized Nails for Fence Pickets

Grip Rite is one of the most dependable brands on the market for nails. They offer proprietary polymer-coated nails which are equivalent to galvanize coated nails in terms of performance.  

The nails are suitable for exterior use and can be used on any kind of treated timber. The Miami-Dade County Approved stamp guarantees that these nails will meet the toughest building codes possible. With a weight of 10.19 pounds, these nail sets will be durable and long-lasting. 

The product dimensions are 10.25 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches, making them very easy to store. These nails are compatible with most 21 degree round head framing nail guns on the market. 

However, you should use these nails with Grip-Rite’s GRTFR83 or GRTRH350 21-degree round head framing nails for optimal results. This pack contains 3 x 0.120 inches nail size for fence pickets. 

These nails are measured in inches. Any carpenter would be happy to use Grip Rite exterior galvanized nails for attaching fence pickets. You can be sure that these nails will withstand the test of time and perform well. 

Highlighted Features:

  • Perfect for exterior applications with treated lumber.
  • Compatible with most 21 degree round head framing nail guns on the market.
  • The Miami-Dade County Approved Stamp ensures high quality.
  • Proprietary polymer-coated nails.

5. Hitachi Siding Nails for Fence Pickets

The Hitachi nails are an excellent choice for carpenters that want to build cedar fences. These nails are made from a sturdy fiber composite that guarantees they will hold up over time.

These nail sets have a hot-dip galvanized with a copper metallic finish. It means that there is a thick layer of protection on the nails, so they do not corrode or rust when in use.

The Hitachi nails have a full round head that has ridges going around the outside. This allows for a good grip when being hammered in and out of wood.

These fence picket nails are available in a size of ‎ 2″ X .092 RG. The nails are also 16° wire coil, which ensures they will tightly grip the wood and will not easily pull out.

With the number of nails per box being 3,600, you can get a lot of work done easily. The weight of this item is only 2 pounds, making them easy to carry around. And the product dimensions‎ are just 1 x 1 x 1 inch, making them easy to store. 

Metric measurements are used for these nails. The Hitachi nails can be a great choice for carpenters looking for excellent siding nails for the wood picket with all these great features.

Highlighted Features:

  • Hot-dip galvanized with a copper metallic finish.
  • 16° wire coil ensures a tight grip and prevents easy pulling out
  • Nails with a full round head.
  • Made from sturdy fiber materials.

6. BOSTITCH Coil Nails Ring Shank for Fence Pickets

Bostitch is a reputable manufacturer and innovator of fastening tools with superior technology in the nailer market. The siding nails from BOSTITCH offer a durable and long-lasting solution to any wooden fence panel installation project.

Quality, heavy-duty steel is used to manufacture these nails. They have a thick coating of the galvanized components to protect against rust and corrosion. 

These ring shank nails for fence pickets provide added durability, which creates a stronger connection between the nail and fence rail. These nails are available in a 1-1/4″ x .080″ size, which is ideal for standard cedar fences. 

With 4200 nails per box, you’ll have plenty of nails to get the job done. These nails are suited for use with the Bostitch N66C-1 industrial siding nailer. 

The weight of this item is 9.5 pounds and product dimensions are ‎15.19 x 9.94 x 5 inches. The inch measurement system is used for these ring shank framing nails. The assembled and cutting diameter for this product is ‎1.25 inches. 

These nails are wire collated and are 15-degree round heads. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable fence installation solution, you can go for Bostitch coil nails ring shank for your fence picket.

Highlighted Features:

  • Made from quality and heavy-duty steel.
  • Coated with galvanized material to prevent rust and corrosion.
  • Ring shank nails for added durability.
  • Full round head for increased holding power.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Nails for Fence Picket

framing nailer

Choosing the right nails for picket cedar fences can be a little tricky. This is because there are many things to consider. 

Before making a decision, you should take the time to examine each product in detail. Some factors you may want to consider when choosing nails for fence picket include the following:

1. Type of Material

It is important to consider the type of component used to make the nails when selecting them for the wooden picket. 

This is because the materials from which nails are made determine their durability over time. You want to make sure you choose a nail that is made from a sturdy component, so it can hold up for a prolonged time period and provide long term performance.

2. Coating

The coating on the nails is also important. You want to make sure you choose the type of nails that has a quality coating, so it does not rust or corrode over time. The coating should also be able to withstand the weather conditions in your area.

3. Length

size nails

Additionally, the nail length for fence pickets should be considered. You want to make sure you choose an ideal size nail that will be able to meet your specific needs. 

For example, if you are using the framing nails for the wood picket, you want to make sure they are long enough to hold the wooden fence picket in place securely.

4. Shank

Also, the shank of the nail matters. Ensure that the type of nails you choose has a strong and durable shank, so it will provide long term performance. A strong shank will help secure your wooden fence picket in place.

5. Head Type

The type of nail head is also an important factor to consider. You want to make sure you choose a nail that has a full round head, so it can provide the best hold over your wood picket. The full round head will ensure your fence board stays up for as long as possible.

6. Gauge

It is also crucial to take into account the nail’s gauge. You want to make sure you choose a nail that has the correct gauge for your specific project. 

The gauge of the nail will determine how thick it is, so you want to make sure you choose one that is thick enough to hold your fence posts in place securely.

7. Collation

backer rails

The collation means how the nails are held together in a strip, roll, or pack. Nails that are collated are easier to insert into the nailer. 

There are mainly three types of collations: wire, plastic, and paper. When choosing brad nails for the picket, you want to make sure you choose a nail that is collated with wire or plastic, so it is easy to insert into the nailer.

9. Quantity

Think about the quantity of the product. You want to make sure you choose a set of nails that has enough quantity for your specific needs. 

If you are using framing or brad nails for the picket, you want to make sure you choose a nail that comes in a large quantity. This will ensure you have enough nails to complete your project.

10. Angle

The angle of the nail will determine how it goes into the wood. When choosing smooth nails for picket cedar fences, you want to make sure you choose a nail with the correct angle so it can easily go into the fence picket.

Which Type of Nail is Ideal for Different Types of Wood?

cedar wood

There are a few different types of nails that are best for different kinds of wood. You want to make sure you choose the right type of nail for the specific type of wood you are using. 

Below are a few of the most common types of nails and the type of wood they are best suited for.

1. Cedar Wood

For a cedar fence, polymer coating, double-hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails are the most appropriate. These nails are resistant to corrosion and work well with a cedar fence.

2. Pressure-Treated Pine Wood

The term “pressure-treated wood” refers to wood that has been coated with chemical agents to shield it from rot and pests.  The most appropriate nails for pressure-treated wood are copper, hot-dipped galvanized, silicon bronze, polymer-coated, or stainless steel nails. The hot-dip galvanized, polymer composite coated, and silicon bronze nails offer an excellent combination of corrosion protection and superior holding power for these types of wood.

3. Non-Pressure Treated Pine Wood

For non-pressure treated pine wood, zinc-plated steel and other types of fasteners are acceptable. Due to the fact that the wood has not been pressure-treated, the fastener material will not react badly with the wood. Zinc plated steel is coated with a zinc layer. This is suitable for non-pressure treated wood.

How Do You Use Nails for Picket Fences?

zinc plated steel

Using nails for the picket is a simple process. You want to make sure you have the right tools for the job, so you can easily complete your project. 

For the purpose of nailing a picket fence, you will need nails and a nailer. Below are the steps you need to take in order to use nail sets in your picket.

Step 01: Choose the Right Nails for Picket Fences

As mentioned above, there are a few different factors you need to consider when choosing the nail sets for picket cedar fences. 

You want to make sure you choose long enough framing or brad nails to secure the fence picket in place, have a strong and durable shank, and have a full round head. It is also important to select the type of nails that has the proper gauge for your particular project.

Step 02: Insert Nails into Nailer

Once you have chosen the right nail sets for the picket, you want to insert them into the nailer. The easiest way to do this is by choosing nails that are collated with wire or plastic. This will make it easy to insert them into the nailer.

Step 03: Nail Picket Fences in Place

Once you have inserted the nails into the nailer, you are ready to start nailing the picket cedar fences in place. 

Aim the nailer at the top of the fence picket and pull the trigger to drive the nail into the fence picket. Repeat this step until all of the nails are secured in place.

FAQs:

You need to know the answers to some questions before choosing nails for the picket. Here are some of the most common questions people ask when choosing nails for their fence:

1. What Size Nails for Fence Pickets?

nail gun

When choosing nails for the picket, you want to make sure you choose the correct size. The size of the nail will depend on the thickness of the surface you are using. It is generally recommended to use 2.5 inch to 3 inch long nails for attaching individual picket cedar fences to backer rails.

2. What Type of Nail Gun for Fence Pickets?

Choosing nails for the picket requires selecting the proper type of fencing nailer. You want to choose the best nail gun that is compatible with the nails you are using. A framing nailer is an ideal option for using nails for picket fences. Heavy-duty wooden projects can also be accomplished with the framing nailer.

3. What Nails to Use for Fence Pickets?

For building a fence, you want to use nails that are specifically designed for picket cedar fences. These nails will have a round head and a thick shank, so they can hold the fence picket in place securely. Double hot dipped galvanized nails are the most suitable option for the wood picket.

4. Should I Nail or Screw Picket Fences?

When attaching the picket, you should use nails to secure them in place. Nails provide a stronger hold than long screws, and they are less likely to loosen over time. 

Conclusion

When choosing nails for the wood picket, you want to make sure you use the best. By using the best nails for fence pickets, you can ensure that they will remain sturdy for a prolonged period of time and ensure long term performance. 

All of the nails we have outlined in this article are of high quality and suitable for fence building. You can select any of them as your preference. We hope that you will be satisfied with our recommendations.

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