Square-head nails were made from the late 1700s until about 1830. Most were machine-cut and finished off by a blacksmith who squared the heads. From 1830 to 1890, cabinetmakers used headless, machine-cut nails that are a tapered, rectangular shape.

How were old square nails made?

These nails were made one by one by a blacksmith or nailor from square iron rod. After heating the rod in a forge, the nailor would hammer all four sides of the softened end to form a point. The pointed nail rod was reheated and cut off.

When did they stop using square nails for building?

When did they stop using square nails in houses? About the only thing I know for sure is that they quit using the square nail (other than for horse shoes) around 1900. Actually, the widespread use of square-nails for housing construction lasted a few decades longer than 1900.

What nail shape is the strongest?

oval nails Why choose oval nails? They elongate the nails and are the preferred shape for the catwalk. They also widen narrow nail beds to create a more balanced look. Furthermore, they are one of the strongest shapes and least prone to breaking.