The importance of nails is visible when you are constructing your shelf or altering your furnishings. Nevertheless, keeping all types of nails can be difficult as well as the wrong type of nail can ruin your woodworking project.
There are various sorts of nailers which have their unique specifications. You have to explore the different types and decide which one suits your job the best. Besides, you may need to use more than one nail for your projects sometimes.
This article will accompany you by providing comprehensive information regarding nail sizes and types for nail guns. It will be beneficial for figuring out which one may serve your purpose effectively.
Nail gun nail sizes
Nail sizes for nail guns have their advantages which can not be replaced with others. Use the nail sizes that go together perfectly with the substance you are using.
For example, 4d to 10d nails come in tiny sizes, which are used for finishing. They are too small to be seen on trims. Again 1d and 16d nails are used for framing and more powerful than 4d to 10d nails. Here ‘d’ signifies the length of the fastener.
- 16d Nail-
- They are generally used in attaching wall plates and other framing-related projects.
- They can glide into wooden frames easily.
- The textured head of the nail prevents nail guns from tumbling.
- 10d Nail-
- These nails do not pierce deeper in the wooden frame.
- Ideal for connecting two flat boards
- Applicable for framing studs, roof truss, or floor beams
- 8d Nail-
- Perfect for replacing the larger nails
- It can be used for toenailing and attaching sub-floors
- Commonly used for trimming strips, sheathing as well as attaching wall plates.
- 6d Nail-
- They are typically used for attaching flat wood trims.
- As they are too small, they do not damage the surface.
| Nail sizes | Length | |
| In. | Mm. | |
| 2d | 1.00 | 25.4 |
| 3d | 1.25 | 31.7 |
| 4d | 1.50 | 38.1 |
| 5d | 1.75 | 44.4 |
| 6d | 2.00 | 50.8 |
| 7d | 2.25 | 57.1 |
| 8d | 2.50 | 63.5 |
| 9d | 2.75 | 69.8 |
| 10d | 3.00 | 76.2 |
| 12d | 3.25 | 82.5 |
| 16d | 3.50 | 88.9 |
| 20d | 4.00 | 101.6 |
| 30d | 4.50 | 114.3 |
You may also find nails for a specific gauge. This gauge depicts the thickness of a nail. A nail seems thinner when the gauge number is higher, and the nail will be wider when the number is lesser.
| Gauge | In. |
| 3 | 0.26 |
| 4 | 0.24 |
| 6 | 0.20 |
| 8 | 0.17 |
| 9 | 0.15 |
| 10 | 0.13 |
| 11 | 0.12 |
| 12 | 0.11 |
| 13 | 0.09 |
| 14 | 0.08 |
| 15 | 0.07 |
| 16 | 0.06 |
| 18 | 0.05 |
| 23 | 0.03 |
Determining the application of nails is a significant contemplation along with the length of the nails. Consider the thickness of your material while piercing the nails into the board.
- 15-gauge nails
- For base or large trims
- For permanent installation of heavy, solid-core door
- For casing through drywall
- 16-gauge nails
- For base or other large trims
- For casing through drywall
- 18-gauge nails
- For small to medium casings
- For crown molding
- For chair rail
- 21-gauge nails
- For small painted moldings
- For stained moldings
- For small to the medium casing
- 23-gauge nails
- For small painted moldings
If you’re searching for a far-ranging nail, experts may suggest the 18-gauge nail because of its versatility.
Types of nails for nail guns
There is a wide range of nails available in the market. Determining the best type of nail depends on the variety of your nail gun. You will require distinct nails depending on whether you are applying for finishing, fixing, or framing.
- Brad nails: They are also referred to as wire nails. These nails are the smallest and the thinnest in the nail family. They are smaller than other nails as they are configured from a fine 18-gauge wire. As they have less holding strength, they are perfect for panel installation, molding, and lightweight decorative trims. They can easily be concealed in the pieces of the wooden board because of their small size. They provide a cleaner touch-up than other nails.
- Finish nails: They are very similar to brad nails which are formed from 15 or 16-gauge wire. As they are weighty, they can handle heavy material and freight. The finish nails are generally appropriate for baseboards, crown molding, and larger trims. As they provide additional support than the brad nails, people choose them for installing larger woodwork. These nails leave tiny holes, so you have to fill them or paint over them to conceal them.
- Framing nails: Framing nails are usually larger, thicker, and broader. They are used to fix giant wood projects, such as installing roofs, walls, and subflooring. The 3 ½ inches long framing nails are the most suitable nails for framing.
Yes, it is possible to use a 30-degree version of nails in a 34-degree nailer. The magazines of most of the 34-degree nailers are designed to receive nails varying from 30 to 34 degrees of collation angle.
Yes, you can easily use a 30-degree version of nails in a 34-degree nailer. Most of the 34-degree nailers are designed to receive nails varying from 30 to 34 degrees of collation angle.
Conclusion
Nails are one of the essential tiny tools while doing outdoor or home renovation projects. But to understand which nail is best for your nail gun in the world of nails is tough. There are several types of nail guns driving different shapes and sizes of brads, nails, and staples. However, you will be benefited after reading this article to recognize nail sizes and types for nail guns.
Do not worry if all the information and details seem overwhelming to you. Never forget that you only can achieve the best outcome when you use the appropriate equipment. Grasp the proper nails next time you know the nail sizes and types for nail guns you may require for your projects. The suitable one will increase your work’s speed, and you will be able to enjoy more while completing your wooden projects.