Nails are an essential tool in the construction and carpentry industry, as they’re used to fasten one or more objects together. These nails vary depending on the designated purpose, the gauges and diameters, design, and material used to manufacture. In regards to material, the common types of nails are steel, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, bronze, and silicon bronze. The material of the nails impacts their degree of holding power.
Silicon bronze nails, alternatively called silicon bronze ring shank nails, are threaded with annular ring barbs (shanks) to create a locking effect when used and resist any pull-out stress. This annular ring gives a holding power similar to that of wood screws with maximum back-out resistance. In addition to this, the nails have integrated a high degree of corrosion resistance with a considerable fastener strength. This has made the silver bronze nails find multiple applications. Below are some of the projects that utilize silicon bronze nails.
Building a boat
It is fundamental to fasten the boat scantlings for a stronger product when building or assembling a boat. The nails can also be used to fasten the laps between the lapstrake frames. The fastening can either be through riveting or the use of nails. Nails are preferable since it is a faster and reliable option. Typically, a boat nail should be 3 to 10 inches long with a large oval or round head made of soft galvanized iron or copper usually attached to a chisel point. However, the silicon bronze nails can be used in place of the copper one to provide a better fastening effect as well as attach the high-quality wood siding.
Roofing
As mentioned earlier, nails can be categorized based on their lengths. Silicon bronze nails are not an exception. It is essential to use the right size of silicon bronze nail just so that the nail completely punctures the decking. Therefore when selecting the right length, it is fundamental to factor in the sheathing and shingle thickness. Based on typical architectural sheathing and shingle, the recommended length for the silicon bronze nails is 1-inch to 1 and a quarter inches.
Flashing
Flashing is the process of installing a weather resistance barrier system using thin pieces of impervious material that prevent water leakage. For this process to be effective, it is imperative to use silicon bronze nails to fasten either the roof plane or the vertical wall.
Fencing
A fence is only as strong as the nails that hold it. Therefore, there is a no better option to keep your fence strong than a silicon bronze nail. The ring shanks on this nail improve the holding power, and therefore the fence remains intact even after expanding due to wetness. Additionally, the right size of the nail should be used to avoid splitting the wood.
The mechanical properties of silicon bronze nails make them appropriate for structural applications. This is because the combination of silicon and bronze form an alloy that enhances its properties. They are widely used for roofing, building boats, flashing, and fencing.