Clout nails, what are they and what are they used for?
If you are like many people, the vast amount of fixings and fasteners available today can be overwhelming. Many people think a nail is a nail and do not realise the sheer number of different types available. If you ask someone what a Clout Nail is, nine times out of ten, they will have no idea.
With that in mind, let’s take a quick look at what Clout Nails are.
What are Clout Nails?
Clout Nails, as the name suggests, is a type of nail and in its basic form has been around for centuries. They are easily distinguished by their large flat head, which offers a large surface area to hit with a hammer and better grip on the material it is being used with. The larger and flatter the head, the more overall grip the nail has on the materials surface.
Where did the name ‘Clout’ originate from?
The term "clout" derives from the old English word "clūt," which means a patch or a piece of cloth. This refers to the practice of attaching thatch to a roof as the practice was to nail sections of cloth or leather to the wood frame, which in turn would then hold the thatch in place.
As time moved on, the clout nail has evolved with their use increasing across many sectors. This included attaching roofing materials, siding, and other types of woodwork. Their unique design, with a large head and a pointed tip, makes them particularly useful for holding materials in place and preventing them from slipping or moving.
What are Clout Nails made from?
Clout nails come in a variety of materials here at Fusion Fixing with an ever-growing range. At the time of writing this, the Clout Nails are supplied as Aluminium Clout nails, Copper Clout Nails and Galvanised Clout nails.
All offer certain levels of resistance to corrosion but with the large head all offer increased grip on the material being used.
What are Clout Nails used for?
The clout nails larger round head and relatively shorter, thick appearance is commonly used across many industries for attaching sheet materials to other material. Often used to fix roofing felt and timber fence panels.
Despite their long history and widespread use, clout nails have largely been replaced by newer fastening technologies such as screws and staples. However, they remain a popular choice across many industries today, particularly those that require a traditional or rustic look.
Ease of use, larger head for application and gripping of the material, easy to source, and being inexpensive, makes them a popular choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike.
Over 40 years of experience here at Fusion Fixings?
Fusion Fixings is a family run business with over 40 years of experience in the construction and fixings industry. Our aim is to bring you a range of quality, reliable, fixings and fasteners at great prices.
Quantities starting from just one to as many as you like, with bulk price offers across many of our products.
The range is always growing, and our aim is to ensure we hold as many items as possible in stock for a speedy dispatch.
