Clavos are decorative nailheads often found in Mexican homes and businesses. The nailheads are carved or molded to resemble flowers and other patterns, and they are an amazing decoration; one or two clavos can change how an entire room looks by adding a Mexican flair. Like most decorations, though, the clavos can suffer from lack of care. Just because these nailheads are sturdy doesn't mean they can be used anywhere or just left alone.

Metal Care, Cleaning, and Environment

Clavos are made of metal, so keep the type of metal in mind when you choose a place for it. Metal that rusts easily may not work well outside if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain. You also need to clean the clavos, using a method appropriate for the type of metal, so that the pattern remains visible. If you want to decorate with clavos, you don't want it getting covered up with corrosion or dirt. Also be sure to keep nearby plants trimmed back so that you don't accidentally obscure the clavos.

Traffic Patterns

Clavos sit flush against a surface, but the decorative part of the head can stick out. It's not a good item to place in areas that are narrow and that see a lot of traffic. Someone moving furniture, for example, could scrape against the nailhead, creating a gouge or dent. A low-placed clavos could scrape someone's leg. If the pathway or space near the clavos is wide open, then that's less of a problem. But just keep in mind that the nailhead can stick out and catch things and people.

Placement and Coordination

You don't have to have all the same pattern of clavos or all the same material. But the placement of the clavos can make a gate or door look unbalanced if you don't plan the placement or the amount well. If this doesn't sound like a care issue, hang on; when you have a door or gate that looks unbalanced, it can subtly affect your preference for using that door or gate. You could find yourself avoiding that part of your property, as strange as it seems, which can lead to neglecting the door or gate and making it look uncared for as a whole. 

Clavos can be custom made and are not very intrusive. They add a wonderful aspect to your home and are well worth seeking out.

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