What Kind Of Nails For Face Nailing Hardwood Floors

Essential Considerations for Choosing the Right Nails for Face Nailing Hardwood Floors

Face nailing hardwood flooring is a classic installation method that involves securing the flooring planks to the subfloor from above. While it may seem like a simple process, choosing the right nails is crucial to ensure a sturdy and long-lasting installation. Here are some essential aspects to consider when selecting nails for face nailing:

Nail Type

The type of nails used for face nailing hardwood floors is typically a common nail or a flooring cleat. Common nails have a pointed tip and a flat head, while flooring cleats are L-shaped nails with a flat head and a sharp point at the end of the "L". Flooring cleats provide greater holding power due to their L-shape, but they can be more difficult to drive in.

Nail Length

The length of the nails should be approximately 1.5 to 2 inches, depending on the thickness of the hardwood flooring and the subfloor. Nails that are too short may not provide enough penetration into the subfloor, while nails that are too long can damage the flooring or the subfloor.

Nail Gauge

The nail gauge refers to the thickness of the nail. For face nailing hardwood floors, a 15- or 16-gauge nail is typically used. Thicker nails provide greater holding power, but they can also split the hardwood if they are driven in too forcefully.

Nail Material

Nails for face nailing hardwood floors are typically made of steel or galvanized steel. Steel nails are less expensive but more prone to rust, while galvanized steel nails are more corrosion-resistant. Galvanized steel nails are a good choice for areas with high humidity or moisture.

Other Considerations

In addition to the above factors, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when selecting nails for face nailing hardwood floors:

The angle at which the nails are driven in should be approximately 45 degrees.
Nails should be spaced approximately 6 to 8 inches apart along the edges of the planks and 10 to 12 inches apart in the field.
A nail set can be used to countersink the nail heads below the surface of the flooring.

By carefully considering the type, length, gauge, material, and other factors mentioned above, you can select the right nails to ensure a successful face nailing hardwood floor installation.