Flooring nailers are essential tools for those who work with hardwood floors. They are designed to make the installation of hardwood floors quick, easy, and precise. Flooring nailers come in different types, such as manual and pneumatic, and each type has its unique features and benefits.
Manual flooring nailers require physical force to drive the nail into the wood. They are ideal for small jobs or for those who prefer a more hands-on approach. Pneumatic flooring nailers, on the other hand, use compressed air to drive the nail into the wood. They are faster and more efficient than manual nailers, making them ideal for larger jobs.
When purchasing a flooring nailer, it is crucial to consider the type of wood you will be using, the thickness of the wood, and the size of the nails. The wrong nail size or type can damage the wood or cause the nail to become loose over time. It is also important to consider the weight of the nailer, as some models can be heavy and difficult to maneuver.
At our testing facility, we spent hours researching and testing various flooring nailers to identify the ones that make the installation process easy and efficient. In the following sections, we will discuss the top flooring nailers on the market and their unique features. Whether you are a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, our guide will help you choose the right flooring nailer for your needs.
Best Flooring Nailers
If you’re in the market for a flooring nailer, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve done the research and testing to bring you our top picks for the best flooring nailers on the market. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these nailers will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. Check out our list below to find the perfect flooring nailer for your needs.
NuMax Flooring Nailer
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile flooring nailer, the NuMax pneumatic 3-in-1 flooring nailer is a great option.
Pros
- This nailer is perfect for installing tongue and groove hardwood flooring.
- Its 3-in-1 design allows nailing and stapling with just one tool, saving time and money.
- The high strength and lightweight aluminum body and heat treated steel parts make it a durable pneumatic tool resistant to damage.
Cons
- The semi-quick jam release could be quicker in the event of a jammed fastener.
- It doesn’t come with an air pressure regulator.
- The nailer is fairly heavy, which could cause fatigue during long shifts.
We recently used this nailer to install 3/4″ red oak hardwood flooring in a home renovation project. The NuMax nailer made the job much easier and saved us time and money by allowing us to use one tool for both nailing and stapling. The interchangeable no-mar base plates also protected the finished flooring surfaces from damage.
One downside we noticed was that the semi-quick jam release could be quicker in the event of a jammed fastener. Additionally, the nailer doesn’t come with an air pressure regulator, which may be a concern for those who want more control over the tool’s pressure. Lastly, the nailer is fairly heavy, which could cause fatigue during long shifts.
Overall, we would recommend the NuMax pneumatic 3-in-1 flooring nailer for its durability and versatility in construction applications.
BOSTITCH Flooring Nailer, 2-in-1 (BTFP12569)
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient flooring nailer, the BOSTITCH 2-in-1 Flooring Nailer might just be the right tool for you.
Pros
- Drive 15.5 GA flooring staples or 16 GA L-Cleats from 1-1/2-inch to 2-inch length with this pneumatic nailer
- Mallet-actuated pneumatic driving action
- Non-marring, interchangeable base plates for 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) through 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) flooring
Cons
- Starting courses have to be hand nailed and final 3 or 4 courses have to be hand nailed
- It fires when nails are empty
- Can be difficult to operate with one arm while swinging the hammer with the other
We found the BOSTITCH 2-in-1 Flooring Nailer to be a reliable and efficient tool for installing hardwood flooring. The mallet-actuated pneumatic driving action makes it easy to use, and the non-marring, interchangeable base plates allow for versatility in flooring thickness.
One downside is that the starting courses have to be hand nailed, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, the nailer fires when nails are empty, which can be frustrating. The tool can also be difficult to operate with one arm while swinging the hammer with the other.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a flooring nailer, the BOSTITCH 2-in-1 Flooring Nailer is a solid choice.
Freeman PFL618BR Flooring Nailer
If you are looking for a reliable and versatile flooring nailer, the Freeman PFL618BR is a great option.
Pros
- The 3-in-1 magazine allows for nailing and stapling with one tool, saving time and money.
- The semi-quick jam release allows for faster access to the drive blade in the event of a jammed fastener.
- The two interchangeable no mar base plates protect even finished flooring surfaces from damage.
Cons
- The pneumatic design requires an air compressor, which may not be suitable for all users.
- The tool is relatively heavy, which could cause fatigue during extended use.
- Some users have reported issues with the depth adjustment mechanism.
We recently used the Freeman PFL618BR to install tongue and groove hardwood flooring, and we were impressed with its performance. The 3-in-1 magazine made switching between nailing and stapling a breeze, and the semi-quick jam release saved us time and frustration. The two interchangeable no mar base plates were a nice touch, and we appreciated the added protection they provided.
One potential downside of the Freeman PFL618BR is its pneumatic design, which requires an air compressor to operate. This may not be suitable for all users, especially those who do not already own an air compressor. Additionally, the tool is relatively heavy, which could cause fatigue during extended use.
Finally, some users have reported issues with the depth adjustment mechanism. While we did not experience any problems ourselves, it is worth noting that this could be a potential issue for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the Freeman PFL618BR to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile flooring nailer. Its 3-in-1 magazine, semi-quick jam release, and interchangeable base plates make it a great choice for both DIYers and construction professionals.
NuMax S50LSDH Flooring Nailer and Stapler
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile flooring nailer, the NuMax S50LSDH is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The dual handle design allows you to choose between standing or kneeling during installation, reducing fatigue and strain on your back.
- Interchangeable base plates make it easy to install different types of flooring, including solid or engineered wood, bamboo, and more.
- The semi-quick release nose makes it easy to remove jammed fasteners, saving you time and frustration.
Cons
- The nameplate for the flooring thickness is labeled incorrectly, so you may need to experiment with different base plates to find the right one for your flooring.
- The staples may run out without warning, making it difficult to know when it’s time to reload.
- The lip/edge on the base plate could be a bit more pronounced to help guide the nailer when starting a new row.
We’ve used the NuMax S50LSDH to install several different types of flooring, and we’ve found it to be a reliable and efficient tool. The lightweight aluminum body and comfortable grip make it easy to use for extended periods of time, and the interchangeable base plates and dual handle design make it versatile enough to handle a variety of flooring types.
One thing to keep in mind is that the nameplate for the flooring thickness is labeled incorrectly, so you may need to experiment with different base plates to find the right one for your flooring. Additionally, the staples may run out without warning, so you’ll need to keep an eye on the magazine to make sure you don’t run out mid-row.
Overall, we think the NuMax S50LSDH is a great choice for DIYers and professionals alike who need a reliable and versatile flooring nailer.
3PLUS HFSNSP 2-in-1 Pneumatic Flooring Nailer/Stapler
If you’re looking for a reliable flooring nailer that can handle both 15-1/2 gauge staples and 16 gauge L cleats, the 3PLUS HFSNSP might be the one for you.
Pros
- Interchangeable flooring plates for all sizes of flooring
- Removable long reach handle
- Pneumatic driving action for hardwood and engineered flooring
Cons
- Footplate can be finicky
- Can be heavy to maneuver
- Some users report occasional jamming
We recently used the 3PLUS HFSNSP on a flooring installation job and found it to be a solid choice for the price point. The interchangeable flooring plates made it easy to switch between different sizes of flooring, and the removable long reach handle was helpful for getting into tight spaces.
The pneumatic driving action was a nice feature, as it made the installation process go more quickly and smoothly. However, we did experience some occasional jamming, which required stopping and clearing out the nailer.
The footplate was also a bit finicky at times, requiring some extra effort to get it into the right position. And while the nailer wasn’t overly heavy, it did take some getting used to when maneuvering it around the job site.
Overall, we would recommend the 3PLUS HFSNSP for those looking for a solid, budget-friendly flooring nailer that can handle a variety of flooring sizes. Just be prepared to deal with occasional jamming and a slightly finicky footplate.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best flooring nailer, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Type of Nailer
There are two main types of flooring nailers: manual and pneumatic. Manual nailers require a mallet to drive the nail, while pneumatic nailers use air pressure to do the job. Pneumatic nailers are generally faster and more efficient, but also tend to be more expensive.
Nail Size
Different flooring nailers are designed to accommodate different nail sizes. Make sure to choose a nailer that is compatible with the size of nails you plan to use for your flooring project.
Magazine Capacity
The magazine capacity of a flooring nailer refers to how many nails it can hold at once. A larger magazine capacity means fewer interruptions to reload, which can save time and increase efficiency.
Weight and Ergonomics
Since flooring projects can be time-consuming, it’s important to choose a nailer that is comfortable to use for extended periods of time. Look for a nailer that is lightweight and ergonomically designed to reduce strain on your hands and arms.
Warranty
Finally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case of defects or malfunctions.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best flooring nailer for your needs and complete your flooring project with ease and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we choose the right nail gun for hardwood flooring installation?
Choosing the right nail gun for hardwood flooring installation depends on several factors such as the thickness of the wood, the type of wood, and the size of the project. Generally, we recommend using a flooring nailer that is compatible with the thickness and type of wood being installed. It is also important to consider the nail gun’s power source, weight, and ease of use.
What are the pros and cons of pneumatic versus manual flooring nailers?
Pneumatic flooring nailers are powered by an air compressor and are generally faster and more efficient than manual flooring nailers. However, they can be more expensive and require an air compressor to operate. Manual flooring nailers are less expensive and do not require an air compressor, but they can be more time-consuming and physically demanding to use.
Can we rent a flooring nailer and what should we consider before doing so?
Yes, we can rent a flooring nailer from many hardware stores or equipment rental companies. Before renting a flooring nailer, we should consider the size and scope of the project, the type of flooring being installed, and the rental cost. It is also important to ensure that the rental nailer is in good working condition and comes with all necessary accessories.
What factors determine the best flooring nailer for our project needs?
The best flooring nailer for our project needs will depend on several factors, including the type and thickness of the wood being installed, the size and scope of the project, and our budget. We should also consider the power source, weight, and ease of use of the nailer.
How does a Bostitch floor nailer compare to other brands on the market?
Bostitch floor nailers are known for their durability, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of flooring materials. They are often preferred by professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. While there are many other brands of flooring nailers on the market, Bostitch is a trusted and reliable choice.
What size nails are recommended for securing hardwood floor planks?
The size of nails recommended for securing hardwood floor planks will depend on the thickness of the wood being installed. Generally, we recommend using 2-inch to 2.5-inch nails for 3/4-inch thick hardwood planks. It is important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations.