In the past, many windows were not meant to be opened. Blacksmithing was expensive, so normally only a few sashes were cut. This was common well into the 19th century, but has survived into the present day on outbuildings and farm buildings. Nails used for nailing window frames must be conical in shape so that they can be pulled out easily without chipping the wood of the frame (modern wire nails are completely unacceptable in this context). Furthermore, the nail should have a blunt head, so as not to damage the sashes when it is bent in. Therefore, horseshoe nails were often used, or sometimes stingers, both of which have these properties.

A cut-off nail is a machine-forged nail with a conical blade and a round head. The tapered blade allows the nail to be pulled out without cracking the wood. After straightening the nail, it can be used again – unlike modern nails.

Cut nails began to be produced in the latter part of the 19th century and gradually replaced hand-forged nails. The nail is cut from heavy steel plate, hence the name. In general, nails can be divided into the following categories of use.

• 2.5 inches. For moldings, linings and interior joinery.
• 3 inches. For nailing beadboard panels etc. internally. For nailing board lining on the outside.
• 4 inches. For board lining and for nailing cover strips on the outside.
• 5 inches. For nailing floors etc. internally.

A cut-off nail is a machine-forged nail with a tapered blade and a flat or semi-circular head. The tapered blade allows the nail to be pulled out without cracking the wood. After straightening the nail, it can be used again – unlike modern nails. Cut nails began to be produced in the latter part of the 19th century and gradually replaced hand-forged nails. The nail is cut from heavy steel plate, hence the name. In general, nails can be divided into the following categories of use.

• 2.5 inches. For moldings, linings and interior joinery.
• 3 inches. For nailing beadboard panels etc. internally. For nailing board lining on the outside.
• 4 inches. For board lining and for nailing cover strips on the outside.
• 5 inches. For nailing floors etc. internally.

Hand-forged nail 1 inch.

When choosing the length of the nail, it is usually said that 1/3 should be in the board and at least 2/3 in the joist.

In general, the hand-forged nail can be divided into the following categories of use:

• 1-1.5 inches Window fittings
• 2 inches Hand-planed moldings, trim and other millwork
• 3 inch wedge-sawn roof, wall and breast panels etc. internally. And for nailing wedge-sawn board lining on the outside.
• 4 inches Larger board lining and for nailing cover strips on the outside.
• 5 inch wedge-sawn floors etc. inside and for coarser joinery outside.