Can you face nail hardwood flooring?
Face nailing is the common practice used to nail the first few rows of boards in place because it is difficult to maneuver hardwood floor nail guns close to the wall. The proper way to face nail is to countersink the nails with a nail punch and fill the remaining hole with coordinating wood putty.
Where do you face nails on hardwood floors?
Face-nail each board in the first row at the point of every joist and set the nail with a nail-set. Face-nail the entire first row and remember to keep the board lengths random. It is necessary to face-nail the first row because the pneumatic floor nailer not fit against the wall.
Can you hand nail hardwood flooring?
Hardwood flooring nails may be invisible, but you can drive them by hand. Since the late 19th century, the majority of hardwood flooring boards installed in U.S. homes have been milled with a tongue and groove.
Can you face nail tongue and groove boards?
We always recommend face nailing shiplap and tongue and groove when installing it on your walls, ceiling, and as exterior siding. Face nailing means that you shoot your nail at a 90 degree angle to the board through the flat (or face) of the board.
Is it better to nail or staple hardwood floors?
Nails and staples differ in their holding properties. A staple will give a stronger, less-forgiving hold because of its two-pronged construction. Nails allow for a more natural expansion and contraction of the hardwood floorboards with fewer problems.
Can I use a finish nailer for hardwood floors?
Finish Nailer If you’re handy with a finish nail gun, you can use it to install a hardwood floor. A finish nail gun, designed for trim work, shoots a near-headless nail that does not mar the surface look of the wood, which makes a finish nailer effective for installing hardwood floors as well.
What gauge nails to use for hardwood flooring?
The two gauges of nails typically used for hardwood floors are 16- and 18-gauge. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the nail. Use the specific gauge of nail recommended by the manufacturer for your floor. This will depend on the hardness of the wood, its thickness and whether it is solid or engineered.