What type of nail is better suited for outdoor applications due to its resistance to rust?

Galvanized nails are specifically designed for outdoor applications due to their unique coating that provides resistance to rust and corrosion. This coating is typically made of a layer of zinc that protects the iron or steel from the elements, including moisture and atmospheric conditions that can lead to rusting. This makes galvanized nails an ideal choice for construction projects exposed to the outdoors, such as decking, fencing, and roofing.

In contrast, common nails, finishing nails, and panel nails generally lack the protective coating that galvanized nails have, making them less suitable for outdoor use. Common nails are often used for general construction but can rust quickly when exposed to moisture. Finishing nails, designed for woodworking applications, may also succumb to rusting if not properly coated. Panel nails, used primarily for attaching paneling or similar materials, similarly do not have the rust-resistant properties that galvanized nails do. Thus, for any outdoor project where weather exposure is a concern, using galvanized nails ensures durability and longevity.