What do you use a 18 gauge brad nailer for?

18-Gauge Brad Nailer Uses

They provide a strong bond between wood objects while reducing the need to apply putty to an unsightly nail hole. Due to the thin size of the nails it drives, brad nail guns are perfect for attaching narrow, thin pieces of wood to larger wood objects.

Also question is, can you use 18 gauge nails for baseboards?

Both are commonly used for installing baseboard, chair rail, door and window casing, crown molding, and door frames. One advantage to 15-gauge nails is that they are collated at an angle, which allows the nose of the nailer to reach into tighter spaces. Brad nailers use smaller 18-gauge nails up to 2 inches long.

Likewise, what is the difference between a brad nailer and a finish nailer? Brad Nailer vs Finish Nailer Comparison. The primary difference between a brad nailer vs finish nailer is that the brad nail gun shoots 18-gauge nails whereas 16-gauge or 15-gauge nails are used in the finish nailer. With a brad nailer, you can attach thin trims and moldings without the need for using putty.

Also asked, should I get a 16 or 18 gauge nailer?

“16 gauge is the most versatile type of nail to use. It can penetrate and support thick boards and hold them in position permanently. You should only get a 18-gauge brad nailer, if you're willing to attach trim molding and other delicate trim pieces.” An 18-gauge fastener is smaller than 16-gauge fastener.

Can I use 18 gauge nails for trim?

For trim purposes you should be looking at using 15-, 16-, 18-, or 23- gauge nails. Brad nails are thinner in cross section allowing them to leave a smaller, neater hole which can be filled up and smoothed down easily. This makes brad nails the perfect choice for all your trim applications.

34 Related Question Answers Found

Can I use 16 gauge nails in an 18 gauge nail gun?

Like 15-gauge nailers, most 16-gauge guns shoot nails up to 2-1/2 in. You'll pay about the same for a name-brand 16-gauge nailer as you would for a 15-gauge gun. 18-gauge brad nailer. If you plan to buy only one trim nailer, this is the size to get.

What kind of nail gun do you use for baseboards?

A finish nailer is a versatile tool, and drives either 15- or 16-gauge nails. They are used for smaller projects than framing nails, such as crown molding, baseboards, cabinets, chair rails, decorative trim, millwork, and hardwood flooring.

What kind of nail gun do I need for trim?

Buying or Renting Nail Guns

If you can afford it, buy both a 15-gauge finish nailer and an 18-gauge brad nailer. The two guns make a winning combination. The 15-gauge nails, ranging in length from about 1-1/4 in. to 2-1/2 in., are strong enough to secure door jambs and other heavy trim materials.

What size nail gun do I need?

Nail Gun Nail Sizes

So before you go out and purchase a box of plastic-collated nails, you need to take what style of nail gun you'll be using into consideration. Framing nailers use thicker, angle nails ranging between 1 ½” to 3 ½”, though for most framing applications a minimum nail length of 3” is recommended.

What kind of nails do you use for quarter round?

Attaching Quarter Round

A finish nail gun, fitted with 1.5- or 2-inch finish nails, works well. You can also drive finish nails the old-fashioned way -- with a hammer.

What's the difference between 18 gauge and 16 gauge?

Why? A 16 gauge sink is 0.0625″ thick, while an 18 gauge sink is 0.05″ thick, which is only 20% less. There is no noticeable difference between the two gauges, however at the same price range, 16 gauge is “better” (thicker is better!).

When would you use a 18 gauge brad nailer?

What is an 18 gauge brad nailer used for? Brad nailers are used for on wood where splitting might be an issue or where you would want a thinner nail for less of a hole. They have many uses but they are most commonly used for: Trim work.

What does 18 gauge mean for earrings?

Range of Gauges for Body Jewelry

Here is how gauges compare to diameters in inches and millimeters: 18 gauge = 0.04 inches (larger than 1/32-inch), 1.0 millimeters (ear, nose piercings) 14 gauge = 1/16-inch, 1.6 millimeters (tongue, navel, labret, nipple, septum piercings) 8 gauge = 1/8-inch, 3.3 millimeters.

What is thicker 16 gauge or 18 gauge?

Gauge is the standard unit of measure for sheet steel and wire products. The lower the number, the thicker the steel. Therefore, 16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge steel. The reason we promote using 16 gauge steel for your sinks versus 18 gauge is 16 is more rigid.

How do you install baseboards without a nail gun?

Hold the finishing tool in one hand, and line it up with your nail. With your other hand, hammer the end of the finishing tool to drive your nail into the trim- nick free. Using spackling compound or wood putty, smooth over the nails completely. Caulk along the top and bottom of the molding.

Can you use brads in a finish nailer?

The smaller brad nailer does not have the same holding power as a finish nailer because it technically doesn't use nails. ?The great advantage of using a brad nailer vs finish nailer is that because brads are thin gauged and the head is much smaller, you won't have to use wood putty to cover the hole.

How do you install quarter round without a nail gun?

How To Install Quarter Round Molding Without A Nail Gun

Step 1: Cut molding.
Step 2: Lay molding against wall, flush with the floor.
Step 3: Hammer your finishing nail almost all the way into the wall.
Step 4: Use the nail set to drive the nail the rest of the way in.
Step 5: Finish with sealant.
Step 6: Cover nail heads.

What is the diameter of an 18 gauge nail?

steel wire gauge as used for nails

Gauge	Inches	Millimeters
16½	0.058	1.47
17	0.0540	1.372
17½	0.051	1.30
18	0.0475	1.207

How much psi do you need for a nail gun?

Framing nail guns require the most air pressure because they typically use 3- to 3 1/2-inch nails that are driven into framing studs during the construction process of rough framing. Typical air pressures for this application range between 130 psi (pounds per square inch) and 100 psi.

What do you use Finish Nailer for?

Finish nailers are designed to nail moldings and smaller trim boards onto assemblies with ease.
The finish nailer is also much faster than nailing finish nails using a hammer, allowing the trim carpenter or woodworker to be far more productive.

How do you hide Brad nail holes?

They are sticks of colored wax, available at most any Home Depot or hardware/lumber store. Rub the stick over the hole so it goes in, rub off excess with a paper towel or rag. You can even use kid's Crayolas if you warm them up a bit so they are softer.

Do I need a brad nailer?

For detailed woodwork and trim, where you need more holding strength than a micro pin can provide, a brad nailer is typically the top choice among contractors and weekend warriors alike. Brad nails are formed from a fine, 18-gauge wire, which means they are smaller in diameter and typically have less holding strength.