What Type of Nailerdo I Need?

With so many types of nailers on the market, it can be a bit challenging to pick the right nailer to buy. Unfortunately, there is no one type of universal nailer, which can be used with a wide variety of nails for a wide variety of projects. These are specialized tools, which must be purchased for the specific application in which they will be used. 

The controlling factor here is the type of nails that the tool uses. Just as there are a host of different types of nails used in construction of a home, there are a host of different nailers used for those nails. A carpenter will typically have a number of different types of nailers, each of which is used for a specific part of the home building project. 

Fortunately for us, the names of these various nailers tell us what they are used for. In most cases, they can be used for some other purposes, at least those purposes which would use the same types of nails as their stated purpose. 

Different Types of Nailers 

There are five basic categories of nailers on the market. If one has all of them, they can pretty much do all the carpentry work on a home. Framing Nailers The heaviest duty nailers out there are framing nailers. These are designed to drive nails up to 3-1/2 inches long into dimensional construction lumber. The magazines on framing nailers are generally angled, allowing the nailer to fit into tighter areas than would be possible with a straight magazine. The name of the game with framing nailers is heavy duty. A carpenter may run a thousand nails a day through one of these; and they’re long nails, which require a lot of force to drive. Porter-Cable has an awesome framing nailer with their FR350A. 

Siding and Roofing Nailers 

Siding and roofing nailers are almost identical. With many manufacturers, the same nailer can be used for both purposes. The nailer is designed for a shorter nail, generally 1-1/2 to 2 inches long, which are provided in a coil, rather than a straight line. For this reason, these are often referred to as coil nailers. The main reason for the coil is that these are large headed nails, which need more space between them. To attempt to put them in-line would mean that a gun could only hold about 50 nails. 

These nailers are also excellent for installing roof and wall sheathing. The high magazine capacity allows for fast work, while the larger nail head diameter holds both wood and foam sheathing well. Hitachi has a quality siding nailer and the Stanley Bostitch RN46 is an excellent roofing nailer. 

Flooring Nailers 

Nailing hardwood floors requires a very specialized nailer, which is only used for that purpose. Hardwood floors are cut tongue and groove. They are nailed in the lower part of the groove. These nailers are very different than others in that they don’t have a trigger; instead, a hit from a mallet is used to trigger the nailer. This helps ensure that the wood flooring pieces are snug against each other. This type of nailer has a long handle, allowing it to be used without kneeling on the floor. The Rasmond RMM4 is an example 

Finish Nailers 

Finish nailers are designed for driving 15 or 16 gauge finish nails, up to 2-1/2 inches long. This is ideal for installing baseboard and casing, along with windowsills, cabinet facing and stair treads. The small head on the nailer creates a small hole, which is easily filled to hide it. Finish nailers differ from brad nailers in the size of nails that they can use. 

Many carpenters will use both a finish nailer and a brad nailer when installing trim. The finish nailer is used to mount the trim, through the thicker part of the casing or baseboard. This way, it is driving the nail into the rough frame studs for the door or window. The brad nailer is then used on the think part of the casing, attaching it to the finish frame of the door or window. The DEWALT D51257K comes with a nice starter set. 

Brad Nailers 

Brad nailers are the finish nailers smaller cousin. The nails look essentially identical, with the exception of their size. These nails are 18 gauge (thinner) and are one to two inches long. As such, they are not as strong as finish nails, but their smaller size makes the holes even easier to conceal. 

As already mentioned, brad nailers are used in conjunction with finish nailers for installing trim, especially door and window casing. They are also used extensively in cabinetmaking. The smaller brads are excellent for putting pieces of a carcase (that’s the casing of a dresser) or kitchen cabinet together. If a finish nailer were used for this, there is too much chance of the nails coming out through the side of the plywood. Please note that cabinet of this type are typically glued together and nailed. The combination makes for a much stronger assembly. Bosch BNS200-18 has some great features for a Brad nailer. 

Pin Nailers 

A pin nailer is somewhat like a brad nailer, but for smaller diameter headless nails. They take 23 gauge pins, which makes the size of the pins roughly half of the size of 18 gauge brad nails (0.0226” vs. 0.0403”). However, the lack of a head makes the hole size less than half. That means that in many cases, the wood will swell back over the hole, eliminating the need to fill it. By nailing into the darker part of the wood grain, you can help hide the pin and its hole. 

These are great for using when putting together detailed wood trim, especially complicated pieces, like trim for cabinetry, wood fireplace mantles and crown molding. However, don’t count on a pin nailer to hold things for a long time. The headless pin isn’t as secure as an actual nail with a head. But as long as the pieces are glued, the pin will hold it securely while the glue dries. It also provides good reinforcement for shear, where the stress is across the pin, rather than trying to pull it out. The Stanley Bostitch HP118K is a good choice for a pin nailer. 

Stapler 

Staplers, often referred to as upholstery staplers, are used some in construction as well; although many carpenters simply use a hammer stapler instead. The places where a stapler are useful include: installing insulation, putting on tar paper for roofing, and putting on waterproof house wrap (such as Tyvek). The Porter Cable US58 is a great stapler. 

Pneumatic or Cordless – the Great Question 

One of the biggest questions for most people is whether to buy pneumatic (air driven) or cordless. Each of these technologies has its advantages and disadvantages. 

Pneumatic (air driven) nailers have been around longer. They are less expensive to buy and less expensive to operate. There is little that can go wrong with them if properly oiled, so they provide years of trouble-free service. The biggest problem is that an air compressor is needed. If there is no electricity available on site, than a generator is needed to power the compressor. This can be extremely inconvenient for small repairs or punch lists. 

A cordless nailer uses batteries and a gas cartridge to power it. The gas is burned, providing the power to drive the nail. This makes these nailers a little more expensive to operate than their pneumatic cousins. They are also more expensive to buy. The big advantage of cordless nailers is convenience. Since an air compressor isn’t needed, the carpenter can take their nail gun anywhere, whether there is power available or not. This is great for small projects and punch lists. 

Besides the cost, the other disadvantage of cordless nailers used to be that the batteries wouldn’t get you through a day’s work. However, with the higher charge capacity of Li-Ion batteries, these nailers will go all day long, driving as many as 6,000 nails on one charge. 

Some Important Options to Look For 

While nailers are very similar, there are a few important options that one should look for when buying them: 

Tool-less Jam Removal – Most quality nailers have nosepieces that open without a tool (old ones required Allen wrenches) to remove jammed nails. Jamming can happen anytime that a nail hits something hard, such as another nail. 

Too-less Depth of Shot – Controlling the depth of shot is important for any type of nailing. Some applications require the nails to just go flush, without sinking the heads, others require countersinking the heads. A quality nailer will not only have a way of setting the depth, but it will not require any tools. 

Weight & Comfort – When one is using a nailer all day, a difference of a pound of weight can make a huge difference. In addition, many quality nailers come with rubber overmolded handles, providing an extra degree of comfort. 

Low Nail Lock-Out – Firing a nailer without any nails in it can cause the hammer (the metal piece that pushes the nail in) to jam or even cause damage to the nailer. A very few nailers are made with this lock-out feature to protect the nailer from this type of damage. 

Trigger Options – There are two basic types of trigger operation on nailers: sequential and dual-contact firing (commonly referred to as “bump fire”). Sequential firing requires that the trigger be pulled for each nail. Bump fire allows the nailer to drive a nail every time the tip comes in contact with the work surface, as long as the trigger is held down. Some nailers have only one of these, some have both options switchable, and some have both options, but require changing the trigger (which may be an accessory). 

Conclusion 

Regardless of the type of nailer you choose to buy, keep in mind that you will have this tool for many years. Therefore, buy what you are going to be comfortable using, even if it does cost a bit more. When buying cordless nailers, keep in mind other cordless tools you have. Many people prefer to stick with one brand, as they can use the same batteries back and forth. Check the reviews for all types of nailers by the same manufacturer before buying. Sometimes, they make an excellent product for one type of nailer and a mediocre one for another type. 

Author’s Bio: This very informative article was written by Ryan Hill, an expert when it comes to different types of power tools and hand tools. Do visit his blog to get more information about different nailers like air nailer combo kits.

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Repair and Maintenance of Apartment

My brother is sending his carpenter on his apartments to do some repairs as per request of one of his tenants. He would do some strengthening of structures, inspect some loose threads and will see that everything will be in proper living condition before leaving g the area. The carpenter brought along some tools and told me that he needs the likes of reidsupply.com for fasteners to fasten and thread some areas in the kitchen and garage. 

His supply ran out of stock and he would still need a few to finish the repair. Well keeping up 6-row apartment is not that easy as you have to see to it that every unit should be maintained and cared for. The owner should save some of its earnings to pay for emergency repair and regular maintenance to upkeep the beauty and durability of apartments. A well-maintained place of living will last longer than those improperly kept.

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The George Nelson Pendant Range

The George Nelson pendant range is an iconic collection of designs that hark back to American modernism. Designed in 1947 for Howard Miller, Nelson’s architectural background helped him create the simple sculptural lamps from self-webbing plastic and a steel wire frame.

The bubble-like product was at once outer-worldly and evocative of ancient Chinese paper lanterns – an appropriate symbol of the tussle between modernity and traditionalism in the 1950s. They were discontinued in 1979, but reissued by Modernica in the 1990s. Modernica were faithful to Nelson’s original designs, instead taking creative license to name the various shapes. The ball, the cigar and the saucer—as we now know them—have since remained a modern classic. They are part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, but are just as popular in homes worldwide.

The bubble lamps diffuse a cosy, glare-free yet abundant light, and their elegant simplicity looks striking in any interior space. Pendants are becoming increasingly popular in interior design, and a George Nelson bubble lamp can be easily incorporated into your home. Their versatility means they look great mounted alone or in multiples, or suspended at staggered heights for a dramatic effect.  The neutral shade complements any colour scheme and also means they won’t look dated in a few years. Nor will you have to change your light features if you decide to redecorate. They are fun, but not limiting.

Adding a George Nelson bubble lamp can really tie together a design scheme. There are many cheap imitations on the market however, so look to an authentic dealer such as Geoffrey Harris to buy yours. Consider the cigar shape for a small room, or group together a few to create your own streamlined chandelier. The regal cigar offsets a vintage style living area perfectly, as does the classic saucer shape. Alternatively, mount a ball lamp for a more contemporary feel. Remember to not feel restricted however—these pendants work equally well in the kitchen or dining room as they do the bedroom or the hallway.  Experiment with different shapes, different sizes and different heights to find your own personal way to introduce a piece of modern art into your home.

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Quick Home Improvement

Improving your home doesn't have to be expensive and time consuming. You can do some nice little touches and small repairs in few minutes only and it will not take so much effort. Your home defines your character and it should harmonize with your lifestyle and the way you want people to see your personality. Here are some tips on how you can do some improvements in your home sweet home quick and easy.  

This infographic is brought to you by QuickQuid.

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Home Learning of Guitar

If there’s one thing that occupies my family now is our new guitar which the girls are so engrossed in learning. They have their favorite piece of music and they’re learning it on their own through various ways like online tutor, support and mentoring of friends and other ways. After they finished their school assignments and projects they would devote some time for learning some of their guitar lessons. 

I myself want to learn before but I don’t have the luxury of time. I leave learning to my girls who try to sneak some minutes of guitar playing even at busy school assignments. They’re so enthusiastic and I wonder how they will react if I buy gretsch guitars for sale because for sure they will love it. Just seeing it makes me so sure that once they get their hands on it they will enjoy playing it. My kids really love musical instruments and it shows.

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How to Grow Inside

Growing with hydroponics and capturing pictures of the plants is quite easy once you've gotten all the supplies and hps grow lights down! Get some great carbon filter and other gear from TheLaShop.com. Although it is very important to find cheap supplies for hydroponics (so that you don’t break the bank), it is very possible to keep everything quality while still at a lower price. LA shop has been known for making products not only cheaper, but easier to purchase as well. Reviewers have mentioned products being fifty dollars cheaper than other rival sites, and customer service was always great. 

Hydroponics is a great hobby to start up, and can even be a business in a small town. Growing your plants indoors enables you to not have to worry about the weather constantly and will allow you to not deal with any natural disasters such as floods and thunderstorms that could ruin a whole season. All the products available have been through testing so that they are ensured to help you and be efficient for your garden. 

One of the things that LA shop Hydroponics is known for actually is their customer service. If any product arrives damaged or dysfunctional, they are more than happy to help with no hassle! Not many companies are like that nowadays so the customers are very appreciative. If you want to give hydroponics a try, start at your library and take out a few books so you can learn what really goes into it! It is a very rewarding experience and is an easy way to maintain your plants. Growing with hydroponics is very easy once you get the hang of it and can be very rewarding since you don't have to go outside.

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Safety in Riding Horses

In our hometown in Laguna I had an experience riding the horse in big basket placed on each side of the horse. My brother and I were side by side riding with our Uncle who was young then. We would go up the mountains without hardship because Uncle can control his horse very well. He’s also into some kind of horse riding apparel when he sets for a day of work in our mountain. 

He said it’s safer when you wear the right one because it’s designed for tough riding and it has some protection specifically for horse riders. Now that he’s passed away already few years ago I never think that I’ll ever ride a horse again with such happiness and confidence. Well maybe but I’m not so sure really!

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Musical Instruments’ Inventory

Our music ministry in our church is currently having an inventory of all our musical instruments and noting some instruments that need repairs, replacement and proper maintenance. To avoid further damage to some instruments little kids were not allowed to play them during break time as sometimes they sneak in and play on drums and microphones. Last month we bought some accessories and replacements for drum sets and we’re happy with the results because it sounds new again. 

Musical instruments should really be maintained properly in order to perform well and to last longer. Well upon complete inventory they found out that we still need additional acoustic guitar so we can carry it for outdoor services and a new amplifier to replace the old one. We all know that it’s a bit expensive to buy a new one so we’re still canvassing on prices. It’s good to buy high quality classic fender excelsior but we still have to save some money for that kind. When we buy instruments for the church they usually meet and plan first, ask the opinion of others then proceed with canvassing and purchasing.

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Her Son’s Music Interest

My friend’s son is a member of the band in his school and when he reached secondary school he continued with being a member. Their band is always included whenever there’s a parade in town showcasing various schools and organizations in our town. My friend is such a proud Mom always accompanying his son on all performances he attends to. Well it’s kind of tiring sometimes especially when parade is done in the afternoon but she has no complaints as long as her son is happy with his chosen music interest. 

Suddenly the band needs cheap clarinet reeds and she asked me if I know some good suppliers. She’s in immediate search for a good store because their next performance is only two weeks away. I’ve taught her to find online shops so she can search and compare prices. Hope she’ll be able to find soon as they need to arrange their instruments soon.

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Why Hide When You Can Decorate Them?

Source: slipperybrick.com via Race on Pinterest

Cables sometimes ruin the looks of a good home design and we always find it hard to hide them all. I experience this with our computer area in the house where I always think of ideas on how to minimize the clutter and not-so-good looks of cables for computer, printer and internet.  Sometimes I hide it at the back of the table and some at the back of the printer but nevertheless I can't achieve the clean look.  Those cables are so important to me but the area really looks messy most of the times especially that our desktop computers are for my kids.  

Well just looking at the picture above makes me relax at the sight. With this I don't have to hide the cables I just have to decorate them so instead of looking messy it will add a decorative look to the place.  Such fantastic idea and I will surely do it in my computer room and to other place in the house.  This time my creativity will have to surface so I can think of nice decors for the cable.  You can try it too.

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The Warm Softness of Carpet Flooring

Everyone loves to come home to a cozy, warm and beautiful home because it’s the place where we rest from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Most of us spent our hard-earned money to make our home the best place to live but just don’t have the skills to choose the right interior design. This is the reason why my brother’s client in residential construction depends on him on whatever design he has for the home project. His services include advice for the right wall, ceiling, painting, some interior decors, and lightings, flooring options, furniture and some other accessories. 

His opinion is always asked whenever his client wants an additional design or revision on the house. Well not all people have the same requirements and preferences in home design and decors as it depends on their lifestyle, budget allocation and their preferred home style. Most of my brother’s client prefers the traditional beauty of tiles as it can endure all kinds of weather and available in various shapes, colors and styles to match your specific taste. For the stylish client it creates endless possibilities with the mix and match floor design you can do with the tiles. 

But for some who wants comfort, colors and warmth they prefer to look through wide variety of flooring in carpet stores. As most parents would love to protect their kids in their first years of walking they feel safe having the soft carpet to care for the young infant and toddler’s feet. Anyway young and old alike can benefit from the warm and welcoming carpet which can be so foot friendly and stylish with so many designs available. Carpet One will make it all possible with their wide variety of flooring options like carpet, tile, vinyl, laminate and hardwood flooring. Coming home will be more inviting and welcoming with beautiful flooring on your home sweet home.

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Looking Forward to Summer Vacation

Time flies so fast and the first month of the year is running so fast it’s almost the middle of the month. My office mates and I were always talking how fast time is because you’ll be amazed at how the days gone by and few days after now it will be the end of the month. What I’m looking forward now is the most favorite vacation of all which is the summer vacation. This school and summer break is the longest vacation for students in a year so we’re doing all efforts to enjoy being together with the kids. 

I would again love to spend some days in Montalban where we get the best weather and nature while not being far from the city. I would just see to it that I have my prepaid broadband on the go so I’ll stay connected while away from my home internet. I also promise myself to buy a new camera and laptop bag like the northface bookbags I saw recently. I need a tough bag for my precious gadgets and working tool so I want high quality bag which I can only get from known brands. I always want my things organized so I’ll look for something neat and simple but high in quality.

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