Guide
Product Line Do it Best Building Materials

Do it Best Building Materials: Professional-Grade Essentials with Proven Performance Specs

Do it Best delivers building materials that work exactly as promised. Their 10D vinyl-coated sinker nails feature 111 count per pound, checkered heads that prevent hammer slipping, and diamond points for fast penetration. Not fancy. Just reliable fasteners, paints, and plumbing supplies that contractors trust for daily work.

Skip Do it Best if you need cutting-edge materials or specialty finishes. They focus on proven basics — the nails, primers, and PVC cements that show up on every job. As a member-owned cooperative, they provide independent retailers with products, marketing, logistics, and technology support while maintaining local ownership.

A large metal warehouse building with tan/beige corrugated siding and brown trim, featuring an extensive lumber storage syste

Professional Fastener Specifications That Matter

Do it Best’s 10D vinyl-coated sinker nails pack 111 nails per pound in 11 gauge thickness — thinner than standard 9 gauge for 10D — making them easier to drive but with slightly less shear strength. That vinyl coating isn’t decoration. It lubricates the wood fibers, reducing friction during driving.

The checkered head design prevents hammer slipping, countersunk heads sink flush with wood surfaces, and diamond points allow fast penetration into harder materials while smooth shanks provide permanent structural connections. These aren’t exterior nails — vinyl-coated nails are intended for interior use only and don’t provide corrosion resistance.

SpecificationValue
Size10D (10-penny)
Length2-7/8”
Gauge11 ga
Head TypeCountersunk Checkered
Head Diameter9/32”
Point TypeDiamond
Count per Pound111 nails

Compatible with standard framing lumber and plywood but NOT with pressure-treated lumber (ACQ or copper-based treatments) due to accelerated corrosion risk. That’s not a minor detail when you’re framing with treated plates in Montana’s wet spring conditions.

Paint and Primer Performance Data

Do it Best delivers specific coverage and drying specs that matter for scheduling. Their oil-based exterior primer covers 400 square feet per gallon with professional-grade performance features. The primer falls under their Paint Department Do-It-Best Primers class.

The primer resists bleeding from redwood and cedar — critical when you’re priming mountain homes with natural wood siding. Dries to touch in 2-4 hours with a 24-hour recoat window, letting crews prime in the morning and topcoat the next day. Mildew-resistant formulation handles Montana’s variable humidity without breaking down.

Their barn paint dries even faster — 30-60 minutes to touch. That matters when afternoon thunderstorms roll through the Mission Valley. Quick dry times mean less weather risk and faster project completion.

Industrial warehouse and lumber yard facility with metal buildings featuring corrugated siding and roofing

NSF-Certified PVC Cements for Code Compliance

Do it Best PVC cements aren’t generic adhesives — they’re NSF-certified for potable water systems and ASTM D-2564 compliant for code-approved installations.

The cements work on Schedule 40 PVC up to 4” diameter and Schedule 80 up to 2” diameter. Low VOC formulations meet SCAQMD regulations — increasingly important as air quality standards tighten. Professional plumbers appreciate cements that pass inspection without questions about certification or compliance.

Interior showroom of a building supply store featuring multiple product display areas and departments

Temperature-Specific Equipment Lubricants

Do it Best’s seasonal bar oils show they understand regional conditions. Their winter formula operates from -20°F to 40°F — matching Montana’s winter temperature range perfectly. Available through their Tools Department in the Accessories-Chain class.

The all-season formula includes tackifier additives that reduce throw-off at high chain speeds. SAE 30 winter weight flows properly in cold conditions without thinning out when equipment warms up. These aren’t rebadged automotive oils — they’re formulated specifically for chainsaw bar lubrication with the right viscosity and adhesion properties.

Interior showroom of a building supply store featuring an elegant design center with extensive material sample displays

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Do it Best sinker nails different from common nails?

Sinker nails are thinner (11 gauge vs standard 9 gauge for 10D) and have smaller heads, making them easier to drive but with slightly less shear strength. The checkered head prevents hammer slipping, and countersunk design sinks flush with wood surfaces. Choose sinkers when you need fast driving and flush finish. Pick common nails when maximum shear strength matters more than ease of driving.

Can Do it Best vinyl-coated nails be used for exterior framing?

No. Vinyl-coated nails are intended for interior use only and don’t provide corrosion resistance for exterior projects or pressure-treated wood. They’re also incompatible with ACQ or copper-based pressure treatments due to accelerated corrosion risk. For exterior work, choose hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel fasteners.

What’s the actual coverage for Do it Best primers?

The oil-based exterior primer covers 400 square feet per gallon on properly prepared surfaces. That’s real-world coverage, not theoretical maximum. Figure less on rough or porous surfaces, more on previously painted smooth surfaces. Always calculate 10-15% extra for touchup and waste.

Are Do it Best PVC cements approved for drinking water systems?

Yes. The PVC cements carry NSF certification for potable water systems and meet ASTM D-2564 standards. They’re approved for Schedule 40 PVC up to 4” and Schedule 80 up to 2”. Low VOC formulations also meet SCAQMD air quality regulations. Keep your certification documentation for inspector review.

What temperature range works for Do it Best winter bar oil?

The winter formula operates from -20°F to 40°F — designed specifically for cold-weather cutting. SAE 30 weight maintains proper flow at low temperatures without excessive thinning when the saw heats up. Switch to all-season formula above 40°F for better high-temperature performance.

Ready to Get Started?

Our building materials specialists can help you find the right Do it Best products for your project.