how to use corrugated fasteners with a hammer

How to Use Corrugated Fasteners with a Hammer

Corrugated fasteners are a type of connecting hardware that have been used for many years in the construction industry. Also known as wiggly nails, corrugated fasteners are a popular choice for joining wood pieces, especially when it comes to framing or general woodworking tasks. Whether you're a novice carpenter or a professional with years of experience, this article will teach you how to use corrugated fasteners with a hammer and create a strong and long-lasting joint.

What are Corrugated Fasteners?

Corrugated fasteners are thin, wavy nails that can connect two pieces of wood without causing any damage to the wooden surface. They are designed with multiple sharp points that easily penetrate the wood and anchor it in place, creating an incredibly strong joint. They come in various sizes, from 1/4-inch to 1-inch, and are available in different materials, including steel, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.

Preparing the Wood Surface

The first step in using corrugated fasteners with a hammer is to prepare the wooden surface. Make sure that the wood pieces you’re joining are dry and free from any dirt, dust, or debris. Use a brush or a cloth to clean the surface and remove any excess sawdust or wood chips.

Aligning the Wood Pieces

Before you start hammering the corrugated fasteners, you need to align the wood pieces properly. Use clamps or other tools to hold the wood pieces in place, ensuring that they are level and flush. This will help keep the pieces in place while you hammer the corrugated nails.

Hammering the Corrugated Fasteners

Once you’ve aligned the wood pieces, you can start hammering the corrugated nails into place. Use a hammer that matches the size of the corrugated fastener. For instance, if you’re using a 1-inch corrugated fastener, you’ll need a hammer that’s heavy enough to drive it into the wood.

Hold the corrugated fastener with one hand and place it at a slight angle to the wood surface. With the other hand, hold the hammer and the corrugated fastener in place. Make sure that the fastener is positioned exactly where you want it to be.

Use a single, sharp blow to drive the corrugated fastener into the wood. As you hit the nail, the wavy shape will help the fastener to maintain its position and grip the wood tightly. Make sure that the corrugated fastener is driven all the way into the wood, leaving no part exposed.

Repeat the process

Repeat the process with a hammer and another corrugated fastener until you’ve joined the wood pieces together. Make sure that you place the corrugated fasteners at regular intervals to create an even and strong joint.

Finishing the Joint

Once you’ve finished driving the corrugated fasteners into the wood, you can remove the clamps or other holding tools that you’ve used. Inspect the joint and make sure that it’s even and flush. If you notice any gaps or imperfections, you can use wood filler to fill them in.

Conclusion

Corrugated fasteners are a versatile and reliable option for connecting wood pieces in the construction industry. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can learn how to use corrugated fasteners with a hammer and create strong and long-lasting joints. Remember to always prepare the wood surface, align the wood pieces, and use the right size and type of hammer and corrugated fastener. With practice, you can become a master at using corrugated fasteners and increase your proficiency in woodworking.