Stainless Steel Nails?

[WoodChucker]

I'm building a dehumidifier kiln and I'm told I should use stainless steel nails. Do I use them just where the nail heads are exposed inside or would I need them for attaching the rigid foam insulation also?

Is there any reason I couldn't use galvanized nails if I coat the exposed ends?  Also, anyone know of a good on-line supplier for these?  I need 3.5" nails and most places don't cary them that long.  Thanks!

R.T.

[Tom]

You can countersink the nail a little and get away with a shorter nail.  It would also put the head of the nail below the surface of the wood or foam and you could fill the hole to hide/protect the nail.

Three and a Half inches is just a 16d and very common as a constuction nail.  Most everyone should have that. Most hardware stores will order what they don't have.

[WoodChucker]

Thanks Tom, yeah I know 3.5" is a common size nail, but around here they don't carry anything longer then 3" in the stainless steel nails. But if I can use common nails and coat the ends then I'll just get the regular nails and do that, it's a lot cheaper that way.  Thanks again!

R.T.

[Don_Lewis]

Swan Select is a good supplier or all kinds of stainless nails, screws etc. They are in Maryland, I think. Don't use anything galvanized in the kiln. The zinc used in galvanizing reacts with the acid from Oak especailly but with nearly all species to some effect

[chisel]

I'm building a dehumidifier kiln and I'm told I should use stainless steel nails..... Also, anyone know of a good on-line supplier for these?  I need 3.5" nails and most places don't cary them that long.....  

WoodChucker,

www.mcfeelys.com

has the SS nails 3.5" long. They also have SS screws and bolts if you need them also. I have no affiliation with McFeely's, but I am an a very happy customer of theirs (I buy their square drive screws). Good luck with the kiln building!

chisel

[beetle]

McMaster Carr carries SS nails, about 40% more cost effective. www.mcmaster.com

[WoodChucker]

OK, thanks everyone for the suggestions and links.

I just have to put the interior siding on,paint it, and build the door and I'll have it done. I'll post some pics when its finished. Appreciate all the help!

R.T.