Taking Apart Toe-Nailed Lumber

[George7941]

I need to take the toe-nailed 2x4 off the 4x4 post to replace the lattice. I usually use a reciprocating saw to cut the nails and screw the 2x4 back on using new holes.

Is it possible to actually pull the nails out without a lot of damage to the 2x4?

 

[cptbarkey]

Highly doubtful. The claw end of the hammer might work but chances are you would split or damage the wood in the process. The chances of you getting all the nails out cleanly are slim too.

 

[oldcodger]

The only way I know would be a cat claw puller but it is going to damage the ends of the 2x4.

 

[tnt_motorsports]

IMO, I'd take a punch and hit the backside of the nail out until you can get a clamp hammer or nail puller on it. Worse case it wrecks the 2x4 but starting with a claw hammer or nail puller is going to yield damage to this anyway.

Just my $0.02

 

[George7941]

Tough to try and drive the nail out with a punch because the 4x4 is in the way.

 

[Astro14]

Cut it with a reciprocating saw. Drive the nail out once it’s off. Drive the remnant deeper into the 4x4.

Use that hole for your new screw.

An oscillating multi tool will cut even more cleanly than a reciprocating saw, if you’ve got access to one.

 

[George7941]

I do have an oscillating tool. I wil try cutting the nails out with it and see how it compares with the reciprocating saw.

 

[Astro14]

If you’re lucky, there will be enough nail protruding from the 4X4 to pull that bit out. Locking needle nose pliers will help.

But if not, drive it much farther in - and you’re left with a pre drilled hole.

 

[jhellwig]

https://www.amazon.com/CRESCENT-19-...ywords=nail+puller&qid=1724799316&sr=8-6&th=1


Or BFH.

 

[George7941]

The Crescent nail puller is nice but it is not going to work with nails hammered in at a 45 degree angle because the puller is pulling the nail up straight.

 

[George7941]

Got it done, I replaced the lattice this morning. I have a Dremel MultiMax oscillating tool. and I tried both a carbide tipped toothed blade and a bimetal blade. The bimetal blade cut the nails much faster than the carbide one. That surprised me.

 

[JHZR2]

It can be done with the right combination of pullers and bits of wood to lever against.

Honestly I’d take a fein type oscillating tool to cut the nails and then get them out of the 2x4 with a punch. Titebond 3 or epoxy them shut or plug with wood, go from there.