A clout is a relatively short, thick nail with a large, flat head used for attaching sheet material to wooden frames or sheet.

The large head does a good job of tacking materials into place, whilst the galvanised finish ensures they’re suitable for exterior use.

Typical uses are for fixing roofing felt to the top of a shed and in timber fence palings. They are usually made of galvanised mild steel, but copper clouts are also available.