Start a Nail Against Vinyl Without Denting It

The Problem

A hammer that glances off a nail head leaves a crescent dent in whatever sits behind it. In framing lumber that's cosmetic; in vinyl siding, a J-channel, or plastic trim, the dent is permanent — there's no filling or sanding it out, only replacing the piece.

The Technique

1. Start the nail with light taps until it stands on its own.
2. Keep your thumb pressed flat against the vinyl, right beside the nail, while you drive it.

That's the whole trick: your thumb occupies the spot a glancing blow would hit. In the words of the crew member who taught the creator: your thumb will heal, the vinyl won't.

The 20-second video shows the hand position — worth the click through to the source.