View Full Version : Best nails for molding installation?
kbuchholtz
Jun 11, 2008, 02:05 PM
Hello. I have a lot of molding to install throughout my home. Baseboards, door trim, crown molding, and quarter round. I have an air compressor and am going to get a nailer to put up all the molding. I'd like to get just one nail gun. Will a 16 gauge finisher do the job for all the moldings? The baseboard is pretty thick and I have to use the larger 11/16 quarter round due to gaps on the floor.
My concern is the finishing nailer might split the quarter round. But it is on the thicker side, and I think brads would be too light for the baseboard.
Any suggestions on the nail gun to get?
Thank you.
ac101
Jun 11, 2008, 02:38 PM
Go for the 16ga finish nailer I use one for trim all the time. I use 2in nails for quarter round and base, 2 1/2 for crown. I have used both the angled and the straight models I like the angled model best but either will work just fine. The nails won't split the trim just don't be tempted to use the gun to push the trim into place while nailing and don't nail to close to any edge (more of a problem with crown that has thin edges than anything else). If I missed anything post back and let me know. GOOD LUCK, AC
kbuchholtz
Jun 11, 2008, 06:59 PM
Exactly the kind of answer I was hoping for. You sold me on the 16ga. Thanks!
ballengerb1
Jun 11, 2008, 07:57 PM
I agree with AC and use my 16g nailer a lot. I also have some pin nailers for really fine material but your quarter round is pretty stout. Your bigger question is will you use this gun enough to go with areally nice $275 nailer or should you buy a cheapy for about $100. Menards and Home Depot have a lot to pick from, a lower quality and price but still acceptable would be Campbell Hausfeld.
ac101
Jun 11, 2008, 09:39 PM
Ballenger gave you a good recommend on the campbell hausfield if your not using it daily I actually have one ,pretty good little gun but for daily use I use a paslode or my stanley bostitch I love them both but a lot more expensive than the campbell. GOOD LUCK, AC
glavine
Jun 16, 2008, 09:02 PM
You'll need a finish nailer for base and crown and the outer edge of casing. A brad gun for the inner edge of casing. Look to spend 80 to 100 for a brad gun and 150 or more for the finish nailer, as far as nails go. I like 2 1/2 for base crown outter edge of casing and 1 1/4 for inner edge of casing