Detecting broken nails in wood

Recycling and reusing wood has become a huge industry and this is reflected in the growing number of customer emails we receive regarding detecting broken nails in wood.

By far our most popular product for this type of work is our Magnetic Stud Finder. Alternatively you could buy a Neodymium Cylinder Magnet such as the 22mm x 25.4mm.

Depending on the scale and nature of the application, our magnetic sweepers offer a broad pick up area however they would not be appropriate for nails and screws still secured in the wood.

It is also important to note that lead, copper and aluminium, which are common materials in older construction are not magnetic so will not be detected by magnets.