Common Nail
As the name suggests, these are your everyday nails. They are generally used for rough construction work, and can be driven into hard materials.
Box Nail
These look like common nails, but are thinner. This means they are less likely to cause splits in the wood but they also have less holding power. So, if structural strength is critical, avoid box nails.
Related: Nailing Techniques
Finishing Nail
Finishing nails are (surprise, surprise) used for finish work. Their barrel-shaped heads are small and can be driven below the surface of the wood using a nail set (a technique called countersinking). Finishing nails are useful for installing trim, crafting furniture, and other occasions you need to hide the head of the fastener.
Related: The Essential Toolbox
Casing Nail
A close cousin of the finishing nail, the casing nail is slightly larger and has increased holding power. It is commonly used for attaching moldings such as window and door casings where added strength is needed.
Brads
Brads are used as finishing nails but are proportionately smaller in diameter and length. They are used in building frames, attaching plywood paneling, and in cabinetwork.
Roofing Nail
Roofing nails have disproportionately large, round heads and heavier shafts. Designed to hold composite and asphalt roofing materials in place, roofing nails are heavily galvanized to resist rust.
Masonry Nail
There are several types of masonry nails available; all are designed to be driven into brick or concrete walls. The shape of the masonry nail varies by type, but all are hardened to resist bending and breaking as they are driven into almost rock-hard materials. Be sure to wear safety glasses when using masonry nails, as flying concrete chips could harm your eyes.
Cut Flooring Nail
The cut nail is used for installing flooring. These nails are large, strong, and are often used in a nailing machine for easier, faster handling.
Related: Cut Nails - Hammering Home Authenticity
Annular Ring Nail
Often sold in galvanized steel, annular ring nails are commonly used to hold clapboards or shingles in place on home exteriors. These thin nails, lined with rings for added holding power, are resistant to rust.
Duplex Nail
The duplex nail is a variation of the common nail. It features a second head along the shaft which allows the duplex nail to be used for temporary construction (like scaffolding and staging); after it is driven snug, it can still be easily removed.
Related: Types of Hammers
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