Old rusted iron nails are so grown into wood that it often is very difficult to remove them without damage to surface layers (e.g. in polychrome sculpture.) The author found that a rapid strong heating of the nail (with electrodes or an induction reheater) can be very helpful. Wood directly adhering to the nail is scorched, rust is loosened and the nail can be easily removed. Further critical testing is necessary to evaluate the limits of application.