Best Hardwood Floor Nailer of 2024 | Pro Guide & Top 8 Picks

Let us get one thing straight; wooden floors are something that looks exceptionally exquisite.

The looks that it can offer are something that any of the carpets can offer, no matter how good and how premium-looking one you get.

However, one thing that makes people think twice is the cost of labor that is involved.

But what if you can take matters into your own hands. Yes, we are talking about getting the best hardwood floor nailer and start installing them on your own. You can cut down the cost substantially. Now, you might ask how you will get your hands on one of the worthy ones.

Well, that is why we are here. We will make sure that getting one of the well-performing nailers is as easy as saying the word “wood.”

Flooring Nailer Vs Stapler

Many think that a nailer and a stapler are the same things. Well, even though they do shoot projectiles from the head, they are not the same. Now, you might ask that if they are used for installing the wooden flooring at the place, how are they different?

First of all, the nailer is a tool that is primarily used for handling the woods that are very hard. As these types of woods are usually brittle, the tool’s structure and operational procedure are the most suitable among the two. When we talk about brittle, we are including Brazilian cherry, bamboo, walnut, and other hardwoods.

On the other hand, the stapler is for the ones that are not that brittle. That includes all of the woods that are not that hard in general. These have a unique operational procedure that will make them handle the softwood properly. As a result, the chances of the material getting damaged will be considerably low in comparison.

So, in a nutshell, if you are working with a flooring material that is relatively hard and brittle, then the nailer is the one that you would want to use. And for any other type of material, the stapler should be your go-to tool.

What Type of Nail Gun for Hardwood Flooring

There are usually two types of these tools. One of them is automatic, and the other one is pneumatic. As the name suggests, the automatic ones are going to be fully electric. Instead of relying on a compressor, this one is going to rely on battery power. That battery on the lower side is going to power the entire operation.

On the other hand, the pneumatic ones will need a compressor. There is no electricity involved, nor will you need a battery. Because of using gas for the pressure and power, these are going to have an edge when it comes to power. That is why they can penetrate through tough and hard surfaces easily.

Considering the fact that the pneumatic ones have a comparatively higher amount of power, we think it is safe to state that the type of nail gun that would be ideal for hardwood flooring would be pneumatic ones.

Obviously, you can make the electric ones work. In fact, many people opt for the electric flooring nailer when they can not access the pneumatic versions. However, the best possible results can only be gained by using pneumatic ones.

Top 8 Best Hardwood Floor Nail Gun Reviews

As we have mentioned earlier, we are here to make choosing one of the well-performing ones easier for you. And for that, we did our research and managed to find eight of the worthy ones. So without wasting any more of your time, here is a detailed review of each of our picks:

1. NuMax SFL618 Pneumatic 3-in-1  2″ Lightweight Nail Gun for T-Cleats, L-Cleats

Product Specification:

• Type: Pneumatic
• Head: L-cleats, T-Cleats, and Staples
• Material: Mostly aluminum

Let us talk about the overall design first. The weight of the unit is pretty minimal. It features a construction of aluminum that keeps the weight low. And the ergonomic handle that it comes with will make it easier for you to hold it with full comfort.

On that note, the handle is pretty extended. That extension is going to prevent the chances of you getting achy backs. And the light strike bumper that it boasts will make sure that the fastener impact is reasonably low.

Aside from the design, the unit is exceptionally versatile. It features a three-in-one mechanism that will let you switch the head from T-cleats to L-cleats to staples in just a matter of seconds. You will not have to purchase a dedicated device for using those.

You will also find a rubber mallet on the front that will make it easier for you to move the flooring material in place. The quality of the materials that the manufacturer has opted for makes this one achieve a considerably high durability level.

2. Freeman PFL618C 3-in-1 Pneumatic 2″ Flooring Nailer Gun

Product Specification:

• Type: Manual
• Head: Works with T-cleats, Crown staples, and L-cleats
• Material: Mostly of aluminum and anodized aluminum

Among all of the units that are in the market, the versatile ones would be the best nail gun for hardwood floors. And a perfect example of that would be this one that is being offered by Freeman.

First and foremost, the unit is highly capable. It is ideal for the installation of flooring materials that are from ½ inches to ¾ inches. And it is capable of working with three different types of fasteners. You can make it work with crown staples, T-cleats, and lastly, L-cleats that are from 1-1/2 inches to 2 inches.

Apart from being exceptionally versatile, the overall construction of the tool is pretty solid. Instead of opting for regular materials, the manufacturer has opted for high-strength aluminum. As a result, it achieves a relatively higher lifespan.

Other than that, the non-marring base plate that it boasts will make sure that it does not cause any damage to the flooring material that you are handling. The magazine is also of high-quality anodized aluminum.

It even sports an air filter along with a dust cap that will ensure that the internal components are protected from debris. Also, the semi-quick releasing mechanism will offer you the ability to easily access the drive blade. So unjamming it will be a pretty easy task for you. The drive blade sports a one-piece construction as well.

3. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer DCN680B

Product Specification:

• Type: Automatic
• Head: Micro nose
• Material: Mostly of aluminum

Dealing with compressors can be a bit of a hassle. Well, that is why we have selected an automatic brad nailer for hardwood floors that is worth recommending, which is this one.

First of all, this one does not require any sort of compressor. It is 100 percent battery-powered. That means there will be no need for you to deal with the compressor, gas, and hose. So handling it around will be like taking a walk in the park for you.

Other than the type of tool, this one utilizes a brushless motor for driving the nails. As the motor is highly efficient, you can expect it to offer you a longer amount of run time. Also, because of being efficient, it will not overheat that easily as well. So you can carry out most of the flooring tasks with one full battery charge.

Aside from the motor, this one has a micro nose. That type of nose enhances the sight and the overall accuracy. That means each of the nails that you are going to drive through the hardwood would be highly precise.

It even has a depth adjustment mechanism that will offer you further control over the operation. You can precisely adjust the countersink of the nails. And the best part about that mechanism is that it is tool-free. Even the jam release mechanism is tool-free.

4. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer Kit CMCN618C1

Product Specification:

• Type: Automatic
• Head: 18 gauge finish nailers
• Material: Lightweight aluminum

Are you on the lookout for a well-performing floor nailer for 3/4 hardwood? Want something that is fully cordless? Well, you can stop your search right here because CRAFTSMAN has got the thing that you were looking for all this time.

Like the other automatic ones, this one does not require any sort of compressor. That means you will not have to handle around any hose, nor will you have to replace the compressor when working with the flooring material. Instead of gas, it relies on a high powerful 20 volts battery.

The power of the unit is highly praiseworthy. It can provide consistent firing power in different working environments. For that reason, the finish that you are going to get on your floor will be consistent in each of the areas. And the consistency is further enhanced for the depth adjustment mechanism that it has.

On that note, the mechanism does not require any sort of tool for adjustments. Even the jam and the stall mechanism are tool-free. That means there will be no need to carry a small tool with you all the time.

Other than that, this one features a highly ergonomic design. The body is reasonably light, and the center of gravity is in the optimal place. As a result, you should get the maximum amount of comfort when you are operating it.

5. Powernail Model 50F Electric Power Flooring Nailer

Product Specification:

• Type: Pneumatic
• Head: Works with the fasteners that are from ¾ inches to 3/8 inches
• Material: Aluminum

If you were searching for the best pneumatic hardwood floor nailer that does not require any sort of mallet to operate, you should definitely put this one on your consideration list.

Unlike some of the other pneumatic tools, this one does not require any sort of mallet for the operational procedure. It can drive 18 gauge floor cleats without it! That operational mechanism makes this one hassle-free to use when you are installing hardwood flooring material on the floor.

Aside from the operational mechanism, this one is fully adjustable. You will have precise control over the speed and the depth of the nails that you are going to fire on the floor. Also, it is compatible with fasteners that are from ¾ inches to 3/8 inches, which means you will have a wide variety of nailers to work with.

Other than the compatibility, the foot of the tool is also adjustable. By adjusting it appropriately, you should be able to protect the flooring material from scratches. For the adjustable foot, the chances of it loosening up the flooring material will be considerably low.

Alongside that, this one is compatible with the interlocking flooring systems. You will not have any trouble working with the flooring material that uses tongue and groove. Also, it does a proper job in handling the L-shaped cleats.

6. PORTA-NAILS 402A Manual Hardwood Flooring Nailer

Product Specification:

• Type: Manual
• Head: Works with groove and tongue flooring fasteners
• Material: Mostly of aluminum

Extended handles can make it easier for you to work with different fasteners and hardwood flooring materials. And that is what you are going to find in this one that is from PORTA-NAILS.

To start with, it comes with an extended handle. It would not be necessary for you to bend too much when you are operating it, which will lower the chances of you ending up with back pain. Also, the shoe is angled. As a result, getting a proper angle on the flooring material will be a fairly easy task for you.

Aside from the handle and the shoe, this one has a unique operational mechanism that lowers the chances of fatigue occurring. It will also increase the overall strength of the impact, making it easier for you to drive nails on the hardwood flooring materials.

Even the head is compatible with a wide range of nails. You can make this one work with the T-headed fasteners that are 2 inches and 1-1/2 inches. Also, it can bind the 5/8 inches, ¾ inches, and 33/32 inches wood exceptionally well.

Other than the capability of handling different fasteners, it comes with a mallet that will offer you the ability to work with groove floorings. You are also going to receive a rugged case that will make storing and carrying all of the accessories around a piece of cake.

7. BOSTITCH Power Flooring Nailer BTFP12569 for 1 1/2 inch to 2-inch Cleats

Product Specification:

• Type: Pneumatic
• Head: Compatible with 16 gauge and 15 gauge fasteners
• Material: Aluminum with rubber coating on the handle

While you are in the market for the best solid hardwood floor nailer, you might want to get something that includes interchangeable base plates. In that case, you should have a look at what BOSTITCH is offering here.

First of all, this one is capable of driving the 15.5 gauge fasteners to the flooring. You can also work with the 16 gauge L-type ones. It even works with the flooring cleats that are from 1-1/2 inches to 2 inches in length. That means you will not have to worry about compatibility that much.

Aside from the compatibility, this one utilizes a highly powerful pneumatic action. Because of how powerful the pneumatic action is, it will be pretty easy for you to drive nails on hardwood flooring materials. You do not have to struggle that much.

Other than that, the base plates that it comes included are interchangeable. And each of them has a non-marring foot on the bottom. For that reason, worrying about the flooring getting damaged when you are working with it will not be something that you would have to do.

This tool features an ergonomic design as well. The handle comes with a rubber grip, which will make it comfortable to hold on to. Even the handle is long in size, enabling you to work with it for a long time without facing any back pain issues.

8. Dewalt Dwfp12569 Floor Nailer 2-in-1 Tool Solid Flooring Fasteners

Product Specification:

• Type: Pneumatic
• Head: Works with 15.5 gauge and 16 gauge fasteners
• Material: Lightweight aluminum

The manufacturer Dewalt is well-known for offering well-performing and highly reliable tools in the market. And this nailer that we are going to have a look at is not an exception in that regard.

Before anything else, let us describe to you the fasteners that it is compatible with. You can make this one work with the 15.5 gauge and the 16 gauge L-type fasteners. It even works with cleats that are between 1-1/2 inches and 2 inches in length.

Alongside that, this one is exceptionally lightweight. The overall weight of the unit is 10.6  pounds. Because of being that lightweight, handling it around will be a fairly easy task. You will not face any back pain or fatigue even when you decide to work for a prolonged amount of time with this one.

Aside from being lightweight, the baseplate of this one is also interchangeable. And each of the baseplates will come with non-marring feet. For the non-marring feet, it would not damage the upper surface of the hardwood flooring.

You will also have the ability to adjust the depth of the feet by considering the size of the flooring you are working with. Also, it has a lower CFM requirement, which will result in longer runtime. And the long handle that it comes with has a rubber coating on it. As a result, you should have a comfortable hold over it.

What to Look for Before You Buy a Flooring Nailer Gun

You have to consider a couple of important factors before you jump into making a purchase decision. By considering those, the chances of you ending up with something that is worth the money will be exceptionally high. That being said, the factors that you should consider when you are in the market are:

Type

First and foremost, you should consider the type of nailer. Generally, you will find two of them in the market. One will be automatic, while the other one will be manual. The manual one will be pneumatic, which means it will rely on gas for driving the nails into the flooring material.

On the other hand, the other type is the automatic ones that will rely on a battery for the operation. The power will basically depend on the battery and the motor that it utilizes. Usually, the ones that have a higher voltage battery and a brushless motor are the most powerful ones.

That being said, if we were to recommend one, we would pick the pneumatic ones. As we have mentioned above, these have higher firing power than the automatic ones. However, there are plenty of powerful electric ones on the market. You would have more than enough amount of driving power with those ones.

Compatibility

As you have figured out from going through the reviews, each of these tools is compatible with a different set of fasteners. For that reason, before you pick one of these up, you have to consider the type of fastener you plan to work with. After considering that, you should pick the one that can work with that specific fastener.

For example, if you are planning to install the hardwood flooring with the 15.5 gauge L-type cleat nails, you should make sure that the head of the device is capable of working with it.

And as there are no adapters available for these devices, if you get something that is incompatible, chances are you will have a useless tool lying around in your tool cupboard. Considering that, we would highly recommend checking the compatibility before making any purchase.

Weight

Another thing you should consider when you are in the market for one of these is the overall weight. And we would recommend you to pick up the ones that are relatively lightweight. Those will be easier to work with. Also, carrying them around will be an easy task for you.

Usually, the ones that feature the construction of lightweight aluminum are the lightest. Those are the ones that you would want to opt for if you want something that is easier to handle around and easier to carry.

Durability

The durability will mostly depend on the type of material that is utilized for the overall construction. As you have seen, almost all of the units that we have included in our review section are of aluminum. However, the quality of the aluminum is not the same for each of them.

Usually, the ones that are of high-quality aluminum have a higher level of durability. Those can handle heavy-duty workloads without any issues. And you would get extended use out of them without facing any sort of issues.

Base Plate

One of the most crucial components of these tools is the base plate. The base plate is what is going to make contact with the hardwood floors when you are going to work with them. Considering that, you would want to pick up something that will not cause any damaged to the surface of the flooring material.

That being said, the ones that do not cause any damage to the flooring material as you drag on them are the non-marring ones. And those are the ones that we would recommend you to pick up. There will be no need to worry about causing any scratches when you are working with it.

Also, do makes sure that the base plates are interchangeable. If you happen to get a tool that does not have an interchangeable mechanism, you will be stuck with one baseplate. And baseplates do get damaged over time. So if the one that you are stuck with is damaged at one point, you need to get yourself a whole new tool.

Handle

Another crucial component of these tools is the handle. The first thing that you must consider for the handle is the design. Make sure that it features an ergonomic design because working something that is no ergonomic is not really that enjoyable.

Alongside that, if you happen to get one that does not have an ergonomic design, working for a prolonged amount of time will become impossible for you. Also, consider if it is extended or not because you have to bend down too much without an extended handle. And that can cause back pain and fatigue.

Besides that, you have to ensure that the handle has some sort of rubber coating on it. That coating will offer you a comfortable hold. Also, it will offer you a higher level of control, which will eventually let you drive nails with an extreme amount of precision.

Depth Adjustment Mechanism

Aside from all of the factors, the one thing you have to emphasize heavily is the depth adjustment mechanism. Ensure that the one you are shooting for has this mechanism because, without it, you would not be able to work with flooring materials with a different thickness.

Alongside that, do make sure that the mechanism can be adjusted without any tools. If it requires a tool, you need to carry it with you all the time when you are working with the device, which is not that convenient.

Jam Releasing Mechanism

Another mechanism that you should consider when you are purchasing one of these is the jam-releasing mechanism. Make sure that the release lever is easy to access, or else you will struggle a lot when there are any jams. And jams are something that will surely occur once in a while.

Like the depth adjustment mechanism, you must make sure that the jam release mechanism does not require any tool to maneuver.

Frequently Asked Questions about Flooring Nailer

1. Are manual nailers better than automatic ones?

When it comes to power, manual nailers are powerful than automatic ones. However, if you want to have a hassle-free operational procedure, the automatic ones would be a better choice because they do not need any hose, nor do they require any compressor cans.

2. Do all of the floor nailers jam over time?

Jamming is one of the factors that are quite common for nailers. However, some of the models have a unique head design that will lower the jams. Nevertheless, almost all of these tools will have an easy to maneuver jam releasing mechanism.

3. Can I use a stapler for installing hardwood flooring material?

Not really. The staplers are not ideal for materials that are usually brittle and hard. Those are ideal for soft and less brittle materials. Considering that, it would be safe to say that you can not really use a stapler for hardwood flooring material.

4. Which type of handle is easier to work with for the nailers?

The tools that come with an extended handle are the that are easier to work with. Bending too much is not necessary for those. Also, do consider if the handle has a rubber coating on the surface or not.

5. Do all of the nailers have an interchangeable base?

Some of the nailers in the market might not have an interchangeable base. Those will have a fixed base. And you will be stuck with the one that comes attached to them.

Final Words

By getting the best hardwood floor nailer, it would be possible for you to cut down the labor cost and get the looks that you were exactly looking for on your floor. That being said, we would like to assure you that all of the models that we have reviewed will surely offer you a reliable overall performance.

Autem Decker

This is Autem Decker. Main Author of ‘TheHomeDigs‘. You may not find her on the list of top 10 contemporary Canadian interior designers, but everyone who knows her says she was born to be an interior designer.

She makes her plan in her head and draws them in her years-old diary with a note in the corner. The way she plays with color and shape amazes us.

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