Duplex Nail
Nails & Construction Fasteners · double-head nail · scaffold nail · form nail
Definition: A duplex nail has two heads — one seated against the work and a second raised head for easy pulling. It is the standard nail for temporary construction.
Anatomy & Schematic
■ Head■ Shank■ Point
Governing standards: ASTM F1667
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6d · 2 in | — | 1/4 | — |
| 8d · 2-1/2 in | — | 9/32 | — |
| 16d · 3-1/2 in | — | 11/32 | — |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bright (plain) | low carbon steel | — | Temporary interior |
| Galvanized | zinc-coated steel | — | Temporary exterior |
Materials
- Steel (bright)
- Galvanized steel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Built-in pulling head
- Fast to remove
- Reusable
Cons
- Second head snags and trips
- Not for finished work
- Leaves a double mark
Typical Uses
- Concrete forms
- Scaffolding and staging
- Temporary bracing
- Job-site layout
Alternatives & Related
- Common Nail — Permanent single-head fastening
- Framing Nail — Collated nails for permanent framing
Where to Buy
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FAQ
What is a duplex nail used for?
Temporary construction — concrete forms, scaffolding, and bracing — where the raised second head lets you pull the nail out quickly.
Why two heads?
The top head stays proud of the work so a crowbar or hammer claw can grab it for fast removal.