Smooth shank nails provide clean penetration with minimal material splitting, making them ideal for finish work, trim, and applications where appearance matters. Ring shank nails have superior holding power due to their threaded design but can cause more splitting. Smooth shanks are preferred for copper flashing, decorative work, and situations where the nail may need to be removed or adjusted.

Copper nails offer superior corrosion resistance, especially in coastal or high-moisture environments where galvanized coatings can fail. Copper is also compatible with copper flashing and roofing materials, preventing galvanic corrosion. While initially more expensive, copper nails provide decades of maintenance-free service and develop an attractive patina over time, making them cost-effective for premium applications.

Choose nail length based on material thickness and holding requirements. General rule: nail should penetrate at least 2/3 through the material being fastened. For thin materials (under 1/2"), use 1" or 1-1/4" nails. For standard construction (3/4" to 1"), use 1-1/2" to 2" nails. For heavy-duty applications or thick materials, use 2-1/2" to 3" nails. Always follow building codes and manufacturer specifications.

Copper nails may cause minor green staining on some light-colored materials over time as the copper develops patina. This is typically minimal and often considered desirable for its authentic appearance. For applications where staining is a concern, consider pre-drilling and using washers, or choose materials that complement copper's natural patina development. The staining is purely cosmetic and doesn't affect structural performance.

These smooth copper nails are designed for hand driving with hammers for maximum control and precision. Most pneumatic nailers are designed for steel nails and may not properly drive copper nails due to their different hardness characteristics. Hand driving also prevents overdriving and ensures proper nail placement, which is especially important for finish work and copper flashing applications.

Store copper nails in a dry location away from moisture and chemicals. Some tarnishing is natural and doesn't affect performance - in fact, it begins the patina process that provides long-term protection. For projects requiring bright copper appearance, store nails in airtight containers with desiccant packets. Slight tarnishing can be cleaned with copper polish if needed, but isn't necessary for most applications.

Contractor direct pricing includes wholesale rates typically 35-60% off retail, technical support for size selection and application guidance, project consultation, and access to bulk pricing tiers. You also get priority scheduling for local Damascus delivery, nationwide shipping options, mix-and-match sizing flexibility, and ongoing project support. No contractor license required - everyone gets professional pricing.

Yes, we offer both local Damascus delivery and nationwide shipping to all 50 states. Shipping costs vary by quantity and destination. We use professional packaging to ensure safe transit and provide tracking information. Local Damascus customers get priority scheduling and can arrange pickup. Bulk orders qualify for discounted shipping rates, and we work with contractors nationwide to provide cost-effective delivery solutions.

Yes, our experienced team provides comprehensive technical support including nail size selection, application guidance, installation best practices, and building code compliance information. We can review your project requirements, recommend appropriate sizes and quantities, and connect you with qualified local contractors when needed. Call (503) 496-7017 for expert consultation and project planning assistance.

We offer a 30-day return policy on unopened packages in original packaging. Custom lengths and opened packages are non-returnable unless defective. For defective products, we provide immediate replacement. We work closely with customers during planning to ensure accurate size selection and quantity calculations to minimize returns and ensure project success. Sample packs are available for testing before large orders.