Is a 18ga air nailer ok for crown moldings. I want to get one but I don’t know if I should go 18, 15 or 16 ga.
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Crown needs the nail to pass about an inch into the stud and ceiling. An 18g nailer, say one that takes a 2 in. nail may just be on the on edge of doing this. I would go with a 16g nailer with 2 1/2 in nails (but then I already have one, so the decision is easy to make).
Jim
For the wider, heavier, crown I prefer my 15ga. It shoots the longer nails, with a slightly bigger head (More holding power). But note that it leaves much larger holes (rectangular, about 1/8") to be puttied.
If you don't yet have a trim nailer, and will be buying one for this project, you're probably good to go with the 16ga. It shoots the long nails, and the heads will hold fine. For best results, just use a few more nails.
Unless you're the lead dog, the view just never changes.
I'm of the same opinion as yes mam. But don't forget good glue.
Who Dares Wins.
Go for the angled 15. The 16's have a straight magazine that marks the wall or ceiling when nailing crown. It also has rectangular nail heads so you have to twist the gun sideways when nailing casings and other vertical pieces. On base, the 16 has to be held upside down to keep the nail head going with the grain. Again the magazine hits the wall.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
Edited 11/21/2004 11:36 pm ET by Hammer
I think you're backwards Hammer. The 16 has the straight magazine, the 15 is angled. But you're right about the angled magazine being more convenient.
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!" Then get busy and find out how to do it. T. Roosevelt
oops! Thanks, I stand corrected.Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
Gauge: 15Fastener Range: 1-1/4"— 2-1/2"Finish: Bright Basic/Galvanized
View ImageFinishProâ„¢ 35TOOL SPECIFICATIONS Power (in/lbs): 384 Height: 11.9" (302 mm) Length: 13.4" (340 mm) Weight: 4.7 lb (2.1 kg)
Fastener Capacity: 110 Reg. Operating Pressure: 70—120 psig (4.8—8.3 bar) Mode of Operation: Available with either Dual Action or Restrictive Trigger activating mechanisms
The FinishPro 35 angled finish nailer's lightweight, well-balanced construction enables the users to work all day by reducing fatigue and increasing productivity. The FinishPro 35 drives 1-1/4" — 2-1/2" finish nails for maximum versatility.
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If the crown is to be painted I opt for the 16ga to get 2 1/2" length, but if it's prefinished crown 18ga 2" will have to do. So if I found a 18ga 2 1/2" that would be choice.