This paper presents a finite element modeling method for a certain type of nailed joint between glulam beams. The joint in question is a traditional arrangement of a horizontal beam and a vertical pillar but here there is also a nailed steel plate inserted on the two sides in order to strengthen the joint. Experimental results and a comparisons of simulated and experimental results are made. The model includes the elastic and plastic orthotropic behaviour of wood and the elastic and plastic behaviour of nails. The nail joint between the steel plate and the wood is modelled as an elastic-plastic surface to surface connection with elastic-plastic properties. Also the reinforcing effect of nails in the nail-affected volume of wood is taken into consideration by raising rolling shear yield limit in the affected wood volume.The comparisons show that the model works well and give results that are comparable to experimental results.