Best Nailers & Staplers For Different Uses

Below, we outline what might be the best nailers and staplers for different uses, such as:

Nailers and staplers for flooring in generally

Nailers for hardwood flooring specifically

Nailers for baseboards

Nailers for crown molding

Cordless nailers for crown molding

Nailers for trim

 

Let’s take a look!

 

(*Friendly Disclosure – links to retailers or brands on this page may include affiliate links, and we may receive a commission when you purchase through these links)

 

Top Rated Flooring Nailer & Stapler List

Flooring Nailers & Staplers

Best Cheap Flooring + Finish Nailer & Stapler – Freeman PFBC940 (on Amazon)

Best Value Flooring Nailer/Stapler For The Money – Freeman PF18GLCN (on Amazon)

Best Cheap Flooring Nailer & Stapler – NuMax SFL618 (on Amazon)

Best Flooring Nailer For Professionals, Or Most Powerful Flooring Nailer – BOSTITCH MIIIFN (on Amazon)

 

Hardwood Nailers

Best Cheap 18 Gauge Hardwood Floor Nailer – Freeman PFBC940 (on Amazon)

Best Cheap 15.5 & 16 Gauge Hardwood Floor Nailer – NuMax SFL618 (on Amazon)

 

Nailers For Baseboards

Best Cheap 18 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards – WEN 61720 18 Gauge Brad Nailer (on Amazon)

Value For Money 18 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards – PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (PCC790LA) (on Amazon)

Value For Money 18 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards – DEWALT DWFP12231 Pneumatic 18-Gauge 2-Inch Brad Nailer Kit (on Amazon)

Best 15 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards – BOSTITCH N62FNK-2 15-Gauge 1 1/4-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch Angled Finish Nailer

 

Nailers For Crown Molding

Best Cheap 15 & 16 Gauge Nail Gun For Crown Molding – Hitachi NT65MA4 (on Amazon)

Best Cheap 18 Gauge Nail Gun For Crown Molding – WEN 61721 18-Gauge 3/8-Inch to 2-Inch Pneumatic Brad Nailer (on Amazon)

 

Cordless Nailer For Crown Molding

DeWalt DCN660D1 20V MAX Cordless Lithium-Ion 16 Gauge 2-1/2 in. 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer Kit (on Amazon) 

 

Nailers For Trim

Best Nail Gun For Thick or Heavy Trim – Hitachi NT65MA4 1-1/4 Inch to 2-1/2 Inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer with Air Duster (on Amazon)

Best Nail Gun For Medium Trim – WEN 61720 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer (on Amazon)

Best Nail Gun For Very Thin or Delicate Trim – Hitachi NP35A 1-3/8″ 23-Gauge Pin Nailer (on Amazon)

 

Best Flooring Nailers & Staplers

Flooring nailers & staplers can be used by DIY’ers and also professionals.

Most of the best flooring nailers & flooring staplers are great value for money, so they might work out cheaper than renting the tool, even if you are only using them for one job of say 400 to 500 sq feet.

A large factor in choosing the best flooring nailer or best flooring stapler for you, is whether you intend on installing:

Standard hardwood tongue and groove flooring

Engineered Flooring

Or dense flooring like Bamboo flooring and other exotic type floor material

 

We’ve discussed the best flooring nailer and best flooring stapler brands like Freeman, NuMax, DeWalt and BOSTIICH.

Let’s take a look.

 

Best Flooring Nailer & Stapler Reviews

Freeman PFBC940 4-in-1 18 gauge Mini Flooring Nailer/Stapler 

The Freeman PFBC940 is a pneumatic (air powered) 18 gauge flooring, AND finish nailer and stapler gun.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those looking to nail 1/4 inch to 5/8 inch engineered or solid tongue and groove flooring

Those looking to drive 18 Gauge Brad nails from 5/8” to 1-5/8”, AND/OR 18 gauge Narrow Crown Staples with ¼” crown from ½” to 1-5/8” in length

Those looking for a flooring nailer/stapler, and finish nailer/stapler all in the one tool

Those looking for a pneumatically operated tool

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those primarily looking to primarily install dense bamboo and exotic type floors

Those looking for the top rated commercial flooring nailer/stapler on the market

Those who want a super steady and accurate foot adjustment

 

What’s Good About It?

Provides great value for money – one of the cheaper but more flexible flooring nailers/staplers on the market

4 in 1 tool – floor nailing, floor stapling, finish nailing, finish stapling

Drives both Brad nails and Narrow Crown Staples

Can be used for finish work such as trim, crown molding, shoe molding and cabinet backing

Equipped with a quick release nose for easy jam clearing, tool-free depth adjust and a reload indicator

Very lightweight at only around 4 lbs

Includes mini flooring tool, air connector, adjustment tools, lubricant oil, an instruction manual, and safety goggles.

 

What’s Not So Great?

It takes some time when you first get the tool to get the foot set and adjusted to make sure the nails fire exactly how you want them to. But, once you get used to it, it works great

Not a nailer/stapler for using on angles

Works great on all engineered hardwood, but struggles on some bamboo flooring

Needs oiling up everytime you use – but takes only a minute or two (oil is included in the kit)

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

A compressor kit for a flooring nailer

Staples – Senco L15BAB 18 Gauge by 1/4-inch Crown by 1-1/4-inch Length Electro Galvanized Staples (5,000 per box) (on Amazon)

Nails

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the Freeman PFBC940 on Amazon

 

NuMax SFL618 3-in-1 Pneumatic Flooring Stapler/Nailer with White Rubber Mallet

The NuMax SFL618 is a pneumatic flooring nailer & stapler.

It is a 3 in 1 tool that shoots 15.5 gauge flooring staples, as well as both T and L nail cleats.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those who want to install both flooring staples and cleats

Those who want separate and interchangeable base plates for 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch and 3/4 inch solid tongue and groove flooring

Those installing tongue and groove flooring and standard hardwood primarily

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those primarily looking to primarily install dense bamboo and exotic type floors

Those looking for a combo flooring nailer that also doubles as a finish nailer

 

What’s Good About It?

Great price for a 3 in 1 tool that is this high quality

Interchangeable base plates for ½”, 5/8” and ¾” Solid T&G Flooring

Uses any brand 15.5 gauge Flooring Staples and 16 Gauge T and L Cleats from 1-1/2” to 2” in length

Includes wooden no-mar rubber mallet

Large nail magazine – 100-120 staples/cleats

Long reach handle

Includes oil, wrenches, and a no-mar white rubber mallet

Body is made of die cast aluminium – very strong

 

What’s Not So Great?

Can jam every few hundred nails, but if you keep it oiled, this problem is minimised. You also get tools to remove the plate and remove the jams if necessary – so it isn’t a huge issue

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

L Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail Setting Tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon)

T Nails if required

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Staples if required

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the NuMax SFL618 on Amazon

 

Freeman PF18GLCN 18-Gauge Cleat Flooring Nailer for Bamboo and Exotic Flooring (Best Flooring Nailer For Bamboo and Dense Floors)

The Freeman PF18GLCN is a pneumatic 18 gauge nailer – that fires L cleats.

It is used for both dense flooring, AND tongue and groove flooring. Very versatile!

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those, who in particular, want to install dense/exotic hardwood, strand woven bamboo, Brazilian teak, cherry, engineered flooring and other exotic flooring

Those who also want to install standard solid tongue and groove flooring

Those who only want to install with L cleats

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those who want to install T cleats and staples

 

What’s Good About It?

Very few jams – great parts and constructions!

Designed and made to handle dense wood flooring

Includes three Interchangeable Base Plates for installing 3/8” – ¾” solid tongue and groove floors

Drives 18 Gauge L-cleats ranging from 1-1/4” to 1-3/4” in length

Very solid die cast aluminium body

Has a no-mar foot 

Is safe for pre-finished flooring

Has a light strike bumper and extended reach handle

Comes with oil, wrenches, fibreglass mallet with a white, no-mar head, and user manual

 

What’s Not So Great?

Because it’s designed with heavy duty in mind, its not the cheapest nailer on the market

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

1.5 Inch 18 Gauge L Cleats – Freeman FN18L150 18-Gauge Cleats (on Amazon)

1.75 Inch 18 Gauge L Cleats – Freeman FN18L175 18-Gauge 1.75-Inch Cleats (on Amazon)

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the Freeman PF18GLCN on Amazon

 

Freeman PDX50C 3-in-1 Flooring Cleat Nailer and Stapler

The Freeman PDX50C is a pneumatic flooring nailer and stapler.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those who want to install 1/2″ – 3/4″ Solid Tongue and Groove thickness Flooring including Hickory, Maple, Oak

Those who want to shoot 16-gauge T-Cleats and L-Cleats, as well as, 15.5-gauge flooring staples ranging 1-1/2” to 2”

Can be used on both engineered and hardwood floors

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those looking to install dense flooring like bamboo and exotic flooring

 

What’s Good About It?

Shoots T-Cleats, L-Cleats and staples

Interchangeable base plates for 1/2 in. – 3/4 in. Solid Tongue and Groove or Engineered Flooring

No mar foot protects your floors

Weighs only 9.5 pounds

Very rarely jams!

Body of the nailer/stapler is very strong!

 

What’s Not So Great?

Not a super cheap nailer – but the quality is great!

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

L Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail/Staple setting tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon)

T Nails is you want them

Staples if you want them

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the Freeman PDX50C on Amazon

 

Freeman PFL618BR 3-in-1 Pneumatic Flooring Nailer

The Freeman PFL618BR is a pneumatic flooring nailer and stapler.

It shoots staples, along with T cleats and L cleats.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those in particular looking to install ½” – ¾” Solid Tongue and Groove Flooring including Hickory, Maple, Oak

Those who are OK with a limit of 15 and 16 gauge staples and cleats

Those who want to shoot staples, L cleats and T cleats

Those looking to drive 15 ½” Gauge ½” Crown Flooring Staples, and 16 Gauge T and L Cleats.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those looking to install dense flooring like bamboo and exotic flooring

 

What’s Good About It?

Great for 1/2- to 3/4-inch nail-down flooring

Drives T-cleats, L-cleats, and staples – don’t need to change the magazine for each type

Magazine capacity of 120 staples or 100 cleats

Two interchangeable floor plates to use for ½” and ¾” Tongue and Grove Flooring – these are non-marring

Comes with carrying case, oil, wrenches, goggles, and a no-mar white rubber mallet.

 

What’s Not So Great?

You need to get the air pressure right for this one – too much and the nails blow straight through, and too little and nails won’t fire properly. Once you have this adjusted – it’s great

Needs oiling every time you use it

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

L Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail/Staple setting tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon)

T Nails is you want them

Staples if you want them

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the Freeman PFL618BR on Amazon

 

DEWALT DWFP12569 2-N-1 Flooring Tool

The DEWALT DWFP12569 is a pneumatic floor nailer and floor

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those looking to shoot 15.5 gauge Staples and 16 gauge L Cleat Nails – 1-1/2″ to 2″ in length

Those looking to install on flooring 1/2″ (12.7 mm) through 3/4″ (19.1 mm) thick

Those looking to install standard hardwood and engineered flooring

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

People looking to install with 18 gauge nails

People looking to install flooring thicker than 3/4″ (19.1 mm) thick

 

What’s Good About It?

Shoots both staples and L cleat nails

Interchangeable, Non-marring base plates adjust to 1/2″ (12.7 mm) through 3/4″ (19.1 mm) flooring

Long handle for comfort during floor installation

Lower CFM requirements means less compressor run-time – 3.7 SCFM

Magazine capacity of 100

Operating pressure of 70 – 100 PSI

Includes mallet, oil, wrenches, 1/4″ (6.4 mm) air fitting with dust cover

 

What’s Not So Great?

Little bit bigger than most flooring nailers and staplers at 10.6 lbs

Doesn’t come with a case

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

L Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail/Staple setting tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon)

Staples if you want them

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

A case if you want to buy one

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the DEWALT DWFP12569 on Amazon

 

BOSTITCH MIIIFN 1-1/2- to 2-Inch Pneumatic Flooring Nailer

The BOSTITCH MIIIFN is a pneumatic flooring nailer.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those looking to shoot 1-1/2-inch to 2-inch L cleats

Those looking to install 1/2 inch and 3/4-inch hardwood flooring

Those looking to install pre finished floors

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those looking for a cheap flooring nailer

 

What’s Good About It?

Shoots L cleats

420 inch-pounds of driving power

Made with an extra wide composite base plate – 1/2- and 3/4-inch interchangeable base plates

Pre-finished floorboard adapter foot won’t scuff or scratch floors

Decent magazine capacity at 110 rounds

Constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum – very strong

Includes  FloorGuard graphite mallet, pre-finished-flooring adapter foot, and two base plates (1/2 inch and 3/4 inch).

Operating pressure of 60 and 100 psi

 

What’s Not So Great?

The extra power and quality on this tool, and its professional design, means it sin’t cheap

Slightly heavier for a flooring nailer/stapler at 11.2 lbs

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

L Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail/Staple setting tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon)

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

A case if you want to buy one

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the BOSTITCH MIIIFN on Amazon

 

BYNFORD 18 GA Hardwood Flooring Stapler Nailer W/CONVERSION KIT to Normal Stapler

The BYNFORD is a pneumatic flooring nailer that uses 18 gauge nails and staples.

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer For?

Those who want a flooring nailer/stapler for 18 gauge staples and nails

Those who want to install standard hardwood tongue and groove flooring – For conventional T&G Hardwood floors with middle tongue (not lowered tongue)

Those who want to install floors up to floors up to 9/16 inch

 

Who Is This Flooring Stapler/Nailer Not For?

Those who want a  flooring nailer/stapler that can do 15 gauge nails and staples

Those who want a flooring stapler/nailer that can do bamboo flooring and lowered tongue and groove flooring

 

What’s Good About It?

Designed for floors from 5/16 – 9/16 inches

Uses standard 18 gauge narrow crown staples AND 18 gauge brad nails up to 1-9/16″

Shoe easily adjusts to different floor thicknesses

Easily converts between stapler and brad nailer

 

What’s Not So Great?

Not for bamboo or dense flooring

There are other nailers/staplers available that are more flexible in uses

 

What Else Do You Need To Use This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

18 gauge, 1/4 Crown, 1-1/4 inch Staples – Senco L15BAB 18 Gauge by 1/4-inch Crown by 1-1/4-inch Length Electro Galvanized Staples (5,000 per box) (on Amazon)

18-Gauge, 1/4 Crown, 1-Inch Staples – Senco L13BABN 18-Gauge by 1/4-inch Crown by 1-Inch Leg Electro Galvanized Staples, 5000-Per Box (on Amazon)

A compressor kit for your nailer/stapler

Other relevant flooring supplies for your needs

A case if you want to buy one

 

Where Can I Check Out This Flooring Stapler/Nailer?

View the BYNFORD 18 GA Hardwood Flooring Stapler Nailer on Amazon

 

Best Flooring Nailer & Stapler: Buyer’s Guide & FAQ

Other Names For A Flooring Nailer/Stapler

Flooring Cleat Nailer

Flooring Nailer

Flooring Stapler

Pneumatic flooring nailer

Hardwood flooring nailer

Wood Floor Nailer

Flooring Nail Gun

 

What Is A Flooring Nailer/Stapler?

A flooring nailer or flooring stapler is a gun type tool that fires fasteners (nail cleats, or staples, or both) into flooring.

They are mainly pneumatically powered tools i.e. are powered by an air hose and air compressor.

 

What Is A Flooring Nailer/Stapler Used For, and What Does A Flooring Nailer/Stapler Do?

Flooring nailers and flooring staplers are used to fasten the following the following types of flooring:

Solid Tongue and Groove Flooring including Hickory, Maple, Oak etc.

Engineered wood (solid wood or plywood with a heat and moisture resistant tough veneer on top)

Bamboo flooring and exotic flooring (these floors are dense)

 

Types of Flooring Nailer/Stapler

Flooring Nailers and Staplers can be split into types based on whether they do the following:

  1. Are they just a flooring nailer/stapler, or a flooring stapler/nailer AND a finish stapler/nailer? (pure flooring nailers and staplers usually have the long handle for added comfort when performing the flooring install)
  2. What sort of fasteners does the tool shoot – just cleats, or cleats and staples? Also, what gauge of fasteners?
  3. What type of floor is the tool designed to install – hardwood, engineered wood, or bamboo and exotic floors?

 

Flooring Nailer/Stapler Bits & Accessories

Nails/Cleats

Staples

Air compressor for nailer/stapler

Nail/Staple setting tool

Mallet/Hammer

Knee Pads

 

How To Choose A Flooring Nailer/Stapler

Decide on the following things in choosing the best flooring nailer/stapler for you, and a pick a nailer/stapler that possesses the features or design that match up with your answers:

1. Will you be installing hardwood, engineered flooring OR an exotic flooring like bamboo? Get the Freeman PF18GLCN for bamboo and other dense floors.

2. Do you need a tool that fires nails/cleats, or staples, or both?

3. What gauge and length of fasteners (staples and nails/cleats) do you need?

4. Do you need a nailer that fires a specific type of cleat i.e. L cleat or T cleat?

5. Do you need a tool that is a flooring nailer/stapler, as well as a finish nailer/stapler?

6. Do you need a tool that has an extended handle if you will mainly be doing flooring work?

7. What thickness of floor will you be installing? Make sure the baseplate has the ability to adjust to this thickness

8. Will you be installing pre-finished flooring? If so, make sure to tape the baseplate, or make sure it is a non-marring and non marking baseplate that won’t damage the flooring – refer the the user manual for further advice

 

 

Best Flooring Nailer/Stapler For…

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer For The Money

For a cheaper option – the Freeman PFBC940 4-in-1 18 gauge Mini Flooring Nailer/Stapler.

Overall, the Freeman PF18GLCN 18-Gauge Cleat Flooring Nailer is very flexible and provides value for money.

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer For Bamboo and Strand Bamboo

The Freeman PF18GLCN 18-Gauge Cleat Flooring Nailer is designed specifically for this fucntion.

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer For Oak

It depends if the oak is pure hardwood tongue and groove, or if it’s oak with an engineered surface.

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer On The Market

In our opinion, the Freeman PF18GLCN 18-Gauge Cleat Flooring Nailer might be because it’s extremely flexible.

Although, the Freeman PFBC940 4-in-1 18 gauge Mini Flooring is a flooring nailer/stapler AND a finish nailer/stapler.

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer for Professionals

The BOSTITCH MIIIFN 1-1/2- to 2-Inch Pneumatic Flooring Nailer is worth a look for professionals.

 

  • Best Flooring Cleat Nailer

Is depends what you want to use it for – but, a flooring cleat nailer is just another phrase for a flooring nailer.

 

  • Best Pneumatic Flooring Nailer

All the above listed flooring nailers are pneumatic/air powered

 

  • Best Manual Flooring Nailer

You can check out the BOSTITCH MFN-201 Manual Flooring Cleat Nailer Kit.

 

  • Best Engineered Flooring Nailer

Freeman PF18GLCN 18-Gauge Cleat Flooring Nailer

 

  • Best Cheap Flooring Nailer

Freeman PFBC940 4-in-1 18 gauge Mini Flooring Nailer/Stapler

 

  • Best Flooring Nailer Brands

Freeman and NuMax are very well known brands, and DeWalt makes great flooring nailers too

 

 

Features To Look For In A Flooring Nailer/Stapler

What type of cleats does the nailer shoot – T or L cleats?

What gauge nails/cleats and staples can the gun shoot (15 gauge are usually for standard flooring, and 18 gauge nails are usually for bamboo)?

What length nails/cleats and staples can the gun shoot?

What size crown are the staples that the stapler shoots?

What type of flooring is the flooring nailer/stapler designed for – standard tongue and groove, OR more bamboo and dense woods?

What capacity of staples and nails can the magazine hold?

How much does the nailer/stapler weigh?

How many functions can the tool perform – can it be used as a flooring nailer/stapler, ASWELL as a finish nailer/stapler?

Does the nailer/stapler work for BOTH hardwood and engineered floors?

What thickness of flooring does the base plate on the nailer or stapler adjust to?

Does the tool come with an adapter for installing on pre-finished floors (so there is no scratching)?

 

Safety Tips For Using A Flooring Nailer/Stapler

Wear knee pads if required

Wear goggles if required

Keep your hands well away from the nose when firing fasteners

 

How To Use A Flooring Nailer/Stapler – Tips

Make sure to oil your flooring nailer/stapler every time you use it

Make sure to get the plate adjusted properly

Make sure to get the PSI/air pressure adjusted properly

 

All of these things can significantly reduce jamming of nail cleats and staples – which effect how fast you can carry out your work

 

 

Best Flooring Nailer & Stapler Resources

1. http://freemantools.com/

2. http://numaxtools.com/

3. http://www.dewalt.com/

4. http://www.bostitch.com/

 

Best Hardwood Floor Nailers

When we say hardwood floors – we are talking T & G hardwood materials like Maple, Pecan, Beech, Cherry, Oak, Pine, Birch, Walnut, Hickory and more.

Hardwood floors are in comparison to both engineered/laminate floors, and dense floors like bamboo.

We put this guide together this information to help you pick the best hardwood floor nailer for fixing into these type of floors listed above.

 

Best Hardwood Floor Nailer: Reviews

Freeman PFBC940 4-in-1 18 gauge Mini Flooring Nailer/Stapler – Best Cheap Hardwood Flooring Nailer

 

What’s Good About It For Nailing Hardwood? 

Quite Cheap

Designed for use on ¼” – 5/8” engineered or solid tongue and grove flooring, cabinet backing, shoe molding and other

Lightweight – Only weighs 4 lbs

70 – 115 psi (consider this for your air compressor)

100 nail capacity

Is compatible with – All 18 Gauge Glue Collated Brad Nails 5/8” to 1-5/8” in length, and 18 gauge Staples with 1/4″ Narrow Crown from 5/8″ – 1 5/8″ in length

360° Adjustable Exhaust

Tool-free Adjustable Base plates for different thickness/depth floors

Air Filter/Anti-Dust Cap, Can shoot Brads & Staples At 45° Angle and at 90° Angle

Oil-Free Design

Quick-Jam Release

Comes with mini flooring tool, air connector, adjustment tools, lubricant oil, an instruction manual, and safety goggles.

 

What Could Be Improved?

A little annoying to switch out the base plate sometimes

Not for bamboo flooring

Only does brad nails and staples – doesn’t do T or L cleats if you want to use them

Only does nails and staples up to 1-5/8 inch – not built to do 2 inch long nails if you want to use them

Will need to buy another nailer if you want to do 15 or 16 gauge staples, nails or cleats

  

What Else Might You Buy With This Nailer?

Some users choose to buy extras like these with this nailer:

18 Gauge Staples – NS18-125 Freeman 18Gstaple 1-1/4″ 1K Blister 1000Pk (on Amazon)

Pancake Air Compressor –PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where To Check It Out?

View the Freeman PFBC940 on Amazon

 

NuMax SFL618 3-in-1 Pneumatic Flooring Stapler/Nailer with White Rubber Mallet – Value For Money Hardwood Flooring Nailer

What’s Good About It For Nailing Hardwood? 

Quite affordable

Interchangeable base plates for ½”, 5/8” and ¾” Solid T&G Flooring

Uses any brand 15.5 gauge Flooring Staples and 16 Gauge T and L Cleats from 1-1/2” to 2” in length

Includes a oil, wrenches, no-mar mallet and tool

2.5 CFM @ 90 PSI – recommended 3 gallon air compressor at the least

Made of die cast aluminium – quite strong

120 nail capacity

 

What Could Be Improved?

Not a true tool for professionals – but fantastic for DIY’ers.

  

What Else Might You Buy With This Nailer?

Some users choose to buy extras like these with this nailer:

2 Inch L Cleat Nails – BOSTITCH FLN-200 2-Inch Flooring L-Nail, 1000-Per Box (on Amazon)

Nail Setting Tool – Porta-Nail 42620 Flooring Nail/Staple Setting Tool (on Amazon) 

Pancake Air Compressor –PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where To Check It Out?

View the NuMax SFL618 on Amazon

 

Best Hardwood Floor Nailer: Buyer’s Guide & FAQ

What Is Hardwood Floor?

Hardwood floor is flooring generally made of solid woods like Maple, Pecan, Beech, Cherry, Oak, Pine, Birch, Walnut, Hickory and more.

This is in comparison to say a laminate/engineered flooring which comes with a veneer surface, and is composed of layers.

Common thicknesses of hardwood floors are 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch, but 3/8 inch and thinner thicknesses are also used.

Pros of hardwood floors are that they can be sanded and re-finished several times, and they are very sturdy and durable.

Cons are that they can be expensive to install, they don’t retain heat or dampen sound, and they can be prone to expanding and shrinking in the seasons.

 

What Makes A Floor Nailer Good For Hardwood Floors?

Two things:

1. Floor Supplier Instructions

You should always refer to the manufacturer’s or floor suppliers instructions for the type (cleat or staples), length and positioning of the fasteners along the floor. Make sure the floor nailer you purchase fires these types of cleats or staples

 

2. Capabilities Of The Nailer

The nail gun manufacturer will normally tell you what types of flooring their nail gun is designed for.

Make sure the nailer is designed for the type and thickness of hardwood you want to install – mainly, check that the nailer fires the type (which gauge?) and length of cleats or staples you need to use.

 

What Is A Floor Nailer Used For On Hardwood?

There is 2 main types of nailing for hardwood flooring:

1. Face Nailing

The first row from the wall is usually face nailed and set. Some people prefer to hand nail these, while others like to use a pneumatic nail gun.

These nails shoot through the sub floor into the joists.

 

2. Nailing Into The Tongue Joint

The second lot of nails are shot usually with an angled long arm nail gun through the tongue joint of the hardwood.

 

Types of Hardwood Floor Nailers

There are two main types:

1. The flat guns used for face nailing – usually 18 gauge

2. The long armed angled guns used for nailing into the tongue – usually 15 to 16 gauge

 

Hardwood Floor Nailer Bits & Accessories

The most common accessories and extras for hardwood floor nailers are:

Cleats (L and T cleats)

Staples

Nail Setting Tool

Mallet (for shooting/driving nails on the angled long handle guns)

Base plates (for different thickness floors)

 

How To Choose A Floor Nailer For Hardwood

Read the installation instructions from the hardwood supplier and/or manufacturer

Read the product description and manufacturer instructions of the nailer to see what the gun was designed for – hardwood, engineered/laminate, or dense/exotic floor like bamboo?

Check for other features on the gun like an adjustable baseplate, ability to fire the cleats or staples you need to fire etc.

 

Features To Look For In A Hardwood Floor Nailer

What is the main design of the nailer – standard nailer, or long handled angle nailer?

Is the tool a 2 in 1, 3 in 1, or 4 in 1 tool – if so, what are the full list of functions?

What type of nails does the tool fire – L cleats, T Cleats, staples or a combination?

What gauge are the nails – 15, 16, or 18 gauge?

What length are the nails – 1.5 to 2 inches long is usually good for hardwood floors?

What thickness flooring is the base plate adjustable for – ½”, 5/8” and ¾”?

Is a mallet included if a long handle nailer?

How many nails does the magazine hold?

 

BIG ONE – most people forget about the compressor, but…

A compressor with the following features is usually OK:

Tank capacity of at least 3 gallons (check the CFM, cubic feet of air per minute consumption of the nailer)

Provides 70-115 PSI (check the recommended PSI of the nailer)

 

How To Use A Hardwood Floor Nailer

The flat nailers sometimes used for face nailing are operated using your finger on the trigger.

The long handle nailers used for tongue nailing are operated by sitting the nailer and baseplate into the hardwood, and striking the shaft knob with the mallet.

 

Best Hardwood Floor Nailer: Resources

1. http://numaxtools.com/

2. http://freemantools.com/

 

Best Nailer For Baseboards

The best nailer for baseboards is a finish nailer for heavy baseboards, or a brad nailer for medium to light baseboards.

We explain below in the buyer’s guide what to look for in different nailers for different thicknesses and types of baseboards.

As a main point though, the gauge and type of nail is just as important as the nail gun when selecting a tool for your own applications.

Also, as most nailers are pneumatic, take into account the CFM of the nailer (cubic feet of air per minute), and consider that for existing or new air compressors.

Let’s have a closer look at the best nail gun for baseboards …

 

Best Nailer For Baseboards: Reviews

WEN 61720 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer – Best Cheap 18 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards

What’s Good About It For Nailing Baseboards?

Very cheap price

18 gauge brad nails means it’s quite flexible for most finishing nailing

WEN designed this nailer to be ideal for trim work and light assembly

Lightweight at 3 pounds

Shoots 18 Gauge, 3/4″ to 2″ Brad nails – great for a range of finishing tasks

60–100 PSI Operating Pressure

Comes with a 1/4 inch NPT air inlet fitting

1.8 CFM (cubic feet of air per minute) – probably want at least a 3 to 6 gallon air compressor for this

100 Nail capacity

Aluminium body

1 year limited warranty

Comes with oil, S3 Hex & S4 Hex adjustment wrenches, and a custom carrying case

 

What Could Be Improved?

Comes with a straight magazine and not an angled magazine. Angled magazines can be better for operating at awkward angles

Not the most precise nailer (more expensive nailers will be more accurate and precise), but it is accurate enough to get the job done

This is a nail gun only – it does not accept staples

It does struggle with fitting and shooting SOME 2 inch long brad nails. If you really need 2 inch long nails, potentially look at a different gun

 

What Else Might You Buy With This Nailer?

Some users choose to buy extras like these with this nailer:

Brad Nail Variety Pack #1 – Senco A209909 18-Gauge-by-1-2-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads (on Amazon)

Brad Nail Variety Pack #2 – Senco A209809 18-Gauge-by-5/8-Inch to 1-1/4-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads (on Amazon)

Pancake Air Compressor – PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where To Check It Out?

View the WEN 61720 18 Gauge Brad Nailer on Amazon

 

Note: We were going to list the Hitachi NT65MA4 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer as the Best 15 Gauge Nailer For Baseboards. However, there are two main flaws:

1. There’s no-where to put the nail set

2. The max depth setting of this tool is very sensitive (the tool has to sit perfectly flat on the surface – otherwise the nails don’t set properly).

 

Best Nailer For Baseboards: Buyer’s Guide

What To Consider When Buying

Consider these main 3 things:

 

1. The thickness and type of nail you are shooting (the lower the number of the gauge, the bigger and stronger the fastener/nail)

  • 15-16 Gauge Nailer 

Strong holding power.

Shoots 15 to 16 gauge nails , that are usually up to 2-1/2 in. long in length nails. These nails have the most holding power.

Use for: thickest and biggest baseboards. Are also good for other heavier duty finishing applications like holding up heavy pieces of trim that hang on walls or ceilings.

Don’t use these on small or thin baseboards as it can split them.

 

  • 18 Gauge Nailer 

Medium holding power.

Usually called a brad nailer because they shoot mainly brad nails. Brad nails are generally 1 & 1/4 inch to 2 inches long.

This is the most flexible and commonly used nailer for most people as brad nails are mid size between the 15/16 gauge and pin nail fixings.

Use for: standard size baseboards and standard trim.

 

  • 23 Gauge Nailer

Light holding power.

Usually called a pin nailer. Shoots pin nails that are very thin, with no head. They are 1/2 to 1 inch in length pins.

Use for: small and light/thin baseboards and small trim.

 

NOTE: these nailers are different to a flooring nailer for example that shoots L & T cleats.

 

2. Features of the nailer

Does the nailer have a straight magazine, or an angled magazine?

Angled magazine can help you get into a greater range of spots – including awkward tight spots like miter joints. But, a straight magazine will usually get the job done.

So, ask yourself, can I nail the baseboard with a straight magazine, or would an angled magazine be easier to use?

 

3. Compatibility with air compressor

Most nailers are pneumatic i.e. they work with an air compressor. Beginners often overlook this.

If you already have an air compressor – look at the CFM, which is cubic feet of air that a nailer requires per minute.

A pancake compressor (of around 3 to 6 gallons capacity) should be fine for most nailers, but some of the high range nailers might need more.

 

Other Practical Buyer Tips

Ideally, you can use 15 or 16 gauge nails for the main lower and mid part of the baseboards. 18 gauge can be used on thinner parts of the baseboard and around the door intersections

If you want to use just one type of gauge, 18 gauge 2 inch long brad nails should be OK for most applications.

Some people prefer to use a thicker 15 gauge nail on wood, compared to 16 or 18 gauge on MDF.

 

Best Nailer For Baseboards: Resources

1. http://www.wenproducts.com/

 

Best Nailers For Crown Molding

When it comes to the best nail gun for crown molding, different people have their different preferences.

However, there are three major considerations all nail gun users installing crown molding have to make:

  • Type of nail gun – finish, brad or pin nailer
  • Type, Gauge and size of nails the nailer shoots
  • Whether they want a straight nailer or angled magazine nailer
  • + some other considerations we mention in the buyer’s guide below

The guide below is intended to be short, and list for you the best nailers for molding – and, the reasons why!

 

Best Nail Gun For Crown Molding: Reviews

Hitachi NT65MA4 1-1/4 Inch to 2-1/2 Inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer with Air Duster

What makes this nail gun good for crown molding?

Designed for installing crown and base moldings, window and door casings, chair rails, cabinets, exterior trim and staircases.

15 gauge will provide and extremely strong fixing for your crown molding

Will accept 15-gauge nails ranging in length from 1-1/4 inch to 2-1/2 inch at 34 inch

Also comes in a 16 Gauge version – 1 to 2-1/2 inches nails, 16-gauge

34 degree Angled magazine – can make it easier to get into awkward spaces between the ceiling and wall

Affordable price

Air duster features for clearing away dust and debris

Easy to clear nail jams

Feature to switch between sequential or contact nailing

Drive dial – adjust the depth your set into the crown molding

Lightweight – weighs only 4.2 pounds

Comes with a carrying case, safety glasses and a no-mar tip.

Can load 100 nails in the magazine

 

What are some potential improvements?

The three biggest drawbacks with this gun are (probably more an issue for professionals than a DIY user):

  • No belt clip for hooking to your belt for extended use
  • Doesn’t come with oil or lubricant – you’ll have to get your own (although oil is fairly cheap)

 

What else might you need with this nail gun?

15 Gauge Nails 2 inch length – Senco A302000 15-Gauge by 2-Inch Bright Basic Finish Nail (on Amazon) 

15 Gauge Nails 2.5 inch length – Senco A302509 15 Gauge by 2-1/2-Inch Electro Galvanized Finish Nail (on Amazon) 

A Pancake Air Compressor – PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

Oil/Lubricant

 

Where to check this nail gun out?

View the Hitachi NT65MA4 on Amazon

 

Best Nail Gun For Crown Molding: Buyer’s Guide

What Is Crown Molding?

Crown molding can be any type of molding, and is usually used to finish the top edge of a wall where it meets the ceiling in a room.

Crown molding on the interior or exterior can have different profiles and decorations, and is usually plaster, wood or MDF.

 

What Is A Nail Gun?

There are many different types of nail guns and nailer tools.

A nail gun is a tool that shoots nails of different gauges and lengths into different materials to fix them to one another.

They are usually pneumatically powered – powered by air supplied by an air compressor.

But, can also be cordless/battery powered and sometimes manual or electric.

 

Types of Nail Guns For Crown Molding

Although there are many types of nail gun tool for different applications, a nail gun for crown molding is usually a nailer used for finishing type tasks.

These nailers are either a:

Finish nailer (shoot 15 to 16 gauge nails) – thickest, strongest and biggest nails

Brad nailer (shoots 18 gauge nails) – somewhere in between

Pin Nailer (shoots 23 gauge nails) – thinnest, weakest & smallest nails

 

These nail guns are in comparison to say roofing or framing nailers that are used for different types of tasks altogether.

When we say finishing tasks, we are talking baseboards, moldings of different types, door and window trims, cabinet making etc.

 

There are also other things that will define the type of nailer like:

How it is powered

If it has a straight or angled nail magazine (angled are better for awkward angles)

If it’s a 2 in 1 tool, or shoots multiple types of nails and fixings, or can be used for several types of applications

 

What Is A Is A Nail Gun Used For When Working With Crown Molding?

For most crown molding fixing, you’ll want to use a finish nailer (15 or 16 gauge), or sometimes brad nailer (18 gauge).

Crown molding needs to hang on the wall, and most crown molding isn’t super thin or delicate.

A finish nailer (or brad nailer) will give you a strong hold, but particularly with the finish nails, you’ll have to putty up the larger nail holes.

For VERY thin, small and delicate crown molding, consider using a pin nailer – so you don’t split the molding.

 

Nail Gun Bits & Accessories

Nails – finish nails, brad nails or pin nails

Air Compressor

 

How To Choose A Nail Gun For Crown Molding

  1. Consider the size, weight and thickness of crown molding you are installing
  2. If you want maximum strength of hold – consider a 15 or 16 gauge finish nailer. For medium weight and thickness molding, a brad nailer should be considered
  3. Do you have an existing air compressor? If so, consider whether it’s suitable for the nail gun
  4. Decide if you want a straight or angled nail gun – angled can be better if you need to get into tight spaces (but angled magazines usually take bigger nails)

 

Features To Look For In A Nail Gun For Crown Molding

How it’s powered

Gauge of nails it shoots

Length and type of nails it shoots

Straight or angled nailer

If it’s multiple tools in 1

CFM of the nailer (cubic feet of air per minute it uses)

PSI of the nailer (air pressure required)

Whether it comes with an air hose

Whether it comes with a battery

How many nails it holds

Settings for shooting the nails e.g. sequential or contact nailing, depth of nail drive

Adjustable exhaust

Look at what the nailer is actually designed for, along with the nails you buy

 

How To Use A Nail Gun

  1. Load the nail magazine
  2. Lubricate/oil the hose and gun if air  nailer
  3. Attach the air hose (or attach the battery if cordless)
  4. Set the air pressure on the compressor
  5. Adjust the settings of the gun – type of nail shooting, depth of nail shooting etc.
  6. Mark or set out where you will be fixing the crown molding
  7. Turn the gun on, or turn the compressor on
  8. Use the nail gun

 

Best Nail Gun For Crown Molding: Resources

1. http://www.hitachipowertools.com/

 

Best Cordless Nailer For Crown Molding

The best cordless nailer for crown molding will usually be a finish nailer, or brad nailer.

For durability and strength of fixing, a good option is to go with the thicker 15, 16 and sometimes 18 gauge nails that these nail guns provide.

We’ve already discussed that most nail guns for crown molding are pneumatic/air powered.

But, below, we look to review and discuss the best battery powered nail guns for installing and fixing crown molding.

 

Best Cordless Nailer For Crown Molding: Reviews

DeWalt DCN660D1 20V MAX Cordless Lithium-Ion 16 Gauge 2-1/2 in. 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer Kit

What makes this cordless nailer good for crown molding?

Designed specifically for baseboard, crown molding, casing and decorative trim installation

No air hoses or air compressor to deal with – simply charge and attach the battery

It’s a 16 gauge finish nail gun – plenty of strength and holding support for thicker and heavier crown molds

Drives 16GA 20 degree finish nails that are 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″ in length

Has a 20V MAX* 2.0Ah Battery – can drive up to 800 nails per charge

20 degree magazine angle – good for getting the gun into awkward wall and ceiling angles

Has the ability to set nails in 3/4 inch hardwood

Lights which light up the workspace, and provide tool feedback

Tool free stall release lever – in the event of tool stalling

Tool free nail jam release

Tool free nail depth setting – good for countersinking nails

No mar tip – so you don’t mark your crown molding

Belt hook – good when you are up in the air or moving around to hold the tool on your belt

Two nail actuation modes – 1. sequential and 2. speed/production mode

Compatible with all DeWalt 20 volt batteries

110 nail capacity

Includes tool, charger, battery, and plastic carry case

 

NOTE: this is the updated version of the older 18V Battery Cordless DeWalt

 

What are some potential improvements?

5.2 lbs weight – not light, but not super heavy

Not a cheap tool

Not quite as much power as some air nailers – but definitely close

 

What else might you need to use it?

1.5 Inch 20 Degree 16 Gauge Nails – DEWALT DCA16150 1-1/2-Inch by 16 Gauge 20-Degree Finish Nail (on Amazon)

2.5 Inch 20 Degree 16 Gauge Nails – DEWALT DCA16250 2-1/2-Inch by 16 Gauge 20-Degree Finish Nail (on Amazon) 

 

Where can you check it out?

View the DeWalt DCN660D1 on Amazon

 

Best Cordless Nailer For Crown Molding: Buyer’s Guide

If you missed it, you may want to read our guide on the best nail gun for crown molding.

We mention the key things to look out for in nail guns when working with crown molding.

Specifically when looking for cordless nail guns, you want to look for the following things:

Voltage of the battery

What other batteries is the tool compatible with

Approximately how many nails one charge of the battery can deliver

How much do extra batteries cost in case you need them

How long does the battery take to charge

What is the maximum power capacity of the tool i.e. can it drive nails into hardwood as well as softer drywall trim?

 

Best Cordless Nailer For Crown Molding: Resources

1. http://www.dewalt.com/

 

Best Nail Gun For Trim

The best nail gun for trim depends on the type of trim you are installing.

Some people seem to prefer a 15 or 16 gauge finish nailer – as finish nails provide the strongest fixing among nail guns for finishing activities.

Others prefer an 18 gauge brad nailer as they believe brad nails are a more flexible for different tasks overall.

 

Best Nail Gun & Nailer For Trim: Reviews

Hitachi NT65MA4 1-1/4 Inch to 2-1/2 Inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer with Air Duster

What makes this finish nailer good for trim?

Designed for installing trim like –  crown and base moldings, window and door casings, chair rails, cabinets, exterior trim and staircases.

Comes in two models – a 15 gauge, and a 16 gauge model. Both shoot up to 2.5 inch long nails – provides strong fixing for all trim

Very affordable compared to other finish nailers on the market

Will work with a smaller/cheaper pancake type air compressor

Angle magazine – allows you to get into tight spaces and awkward angles around joints and where a straight magazine might get in the way

Fairly lightweight at 4.2 lbs

 

What improvements could there be for this nailer?

No belt clip for hooking to your belt for extended use

Doesn’t come with oil or lubricant – you’ll have to get your own (although oil is fairly cheap)

 

What other extras might you need with this nailer?

15 Gauge Nails 2 inch length – Senco A302000 15-Gauge by 2-Inch Bright Basic Finish Nail (on Amazon)

15 Gauge Nails 2.5 inch length – Senco A302509 15 Gauge by 2-1/2-Inch Electro Galvanized Finish Nail (on Amazon)

A Pancake Air Compressor –PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where can you check out this nailer?

View the Hitachi NT65MA4 on Amazon

 

 

WEN 61720 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer

What makes this brad nailer good for trim?

Designed to be “Ideal For Trim Work and Light Assembly”

Is so cheap, that even if you only use it once, it will pay for itself

Fires 18 gauge brad nails, 3/4 to 2 inches in length. Versatile for both medium trim, and other finishing activities

Extremely lightweight – only 3 pounds

Works with a cheap pancake air compressor

 

What improvements could there be for this nailer?

More of a DIY nailer than a heavy duty production nail gun – while the gun is put together well, it could be more ‘solid’ in terms of construction

Not as many of the nail settings of a more expensive brad nail gun

 

What other extras might you need with this nailer?

Brad Nail Variety Pack #1 – Senco A209909 18-Gauge-by-1-2-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads (on Amazon)

Brad Nail Variety Pack #2 – Senco A209809 18-Gauge-by-5/8-Inch to 1-1/4-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads (on Amazon)

Pancake Air Compressor –PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where can you check out this nailer?

View the WEN 61720 on Amazon

 

Hitachi NP35A 1-3/8″ 23-Gauge Pin Nailer

What makes this pin nailer good for trim?

Designed to be a small nailer for “trim work, molding, cabinetry details, paneling, glazed bead, assembling picture frames”

Good for delicate trim and if you don’t want to fill holes with putty

Shoots 5/8″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-3/16″ and 1-3/8″ length 23 gauge pin nails

Array of settings for nail drive depth

Value for money for the performance and range of features the tool provides

 

What improvements could there be for this nailer?

Struggles to drive nails more than 1 inch deep on harder materials like hardwood – consider a brad or finish nailer if this is an issue

Not a production pinner…more for DIY

 

What other extras might you need with this nailer?

Assorted Pin Nails – GREX P6/MP-3 23 Gauge Multi-Pack Headless Pins (on Amazon)

Pancake Air Compressor –PORTER CABLE 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Kit (on Amazon)

 

Where can you check out this nailer?

View the Hitachi NP35A on Amazon

 

Best Nail Gun & Nailer For Trim: Buyer’s Guide & FAQ

What Is Trim?

Trim can be a number of materials including most commonly drywall, timber, aluminium or MDF.

Trim is a decorative or finish piece used to conceal edges and joints.

Common places where trims are installed are:

Floor and wall joints

Wall and ceiling joints

Windows

Doors

 

Other names for trim are baseboards, crown molding, beading, and chair and picture rails.

 

What Is A Nail Gun?

A nail gun is a tool used to fire nails of different gauges and lengths into materials to fix them to other materials.

 

What Types Of Nail Guns Are There For Installing Trim?

Finish Nailers – 15 or 16 Gauge nails up to 2.5 inches long. Thickest nails and biggest holes to putty up

Used to install thickest and heaviest trim. Thick finish nails provide the strongest fixing. Largest nail holes of the three nails.

 

Brad Nailers – 18 Gauge nails up to 2.5 inches long. In terms of size, these nails are between the finish and pin nails

Used to install medium thickness trim. Brad nails will give you a fixing that is stronger than a pin nail, but not as strong as a finish nail. Sometimes headless nails.

 

Pin Nailer – 23 Gauge nails up to 2 inches long. Mostly headless nails

Used to install very thin, light and delicate trim. Small pin nails will not split thin trim – and are usually headless so you don’t see the nail head in the hole

Can also get micro pin nails which are about 30% thinner in thickness than normal pin nails

 

How Are Nail Guns Used to Install Trim?

Pretty simple – they shoot nails of different sizes into different types of trim.

Depending on the size of the nail, the nail hole may be covered with putty after.

 

Bits & Accessories For Trim Nailers

Nails

If pneumatic – air compressor and air hose

If cordless – battery and charger

Oil/lubricant

 

How To Choose A Nail Gun For Trim

Choose a 15 or 16 gauge finish nailer for…

Thick and heavy trim

Trim that has to hang and hasn’t got the floor to support it

If you need a nail gun for other finish type activities where you want a strong fixing

 

Choose an 18 gauge brad nailer for…

Medium thickness and mid weight trim

If you want a flexible nailer than you can use for other finishing type activities

If you want nail holes you might not have to worry about filling

 

Choose a 23 gauge for…

Very thin or delicate trim you might split with a finish or brad nailer

Very small holes you won’t have to cover

Headless nails

 

Features To Look For In A Trim Nail Gun

Read our guides for useful information on features in each type of nail gun:

Finish Nailers

Brad Nailers

Pin Nailers

 

How To Use A Nail Gun

Refer to the above guides.

 

Best Nail Gun & Nailer For Trim: Resources

1. http://hitachipowertools.com/

2. http://www.wenproducts.com/

 

 

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