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What Size of Finish Nails Should You Use for Crown Molding?

Published on
March 3, 2023 at 3:07:32 PM PST March 3, 2023 at 3:07:32 PM PSTrd, March 3, 2023 at 3:07:32 PM PST

Crown molding is often installed where the ceiling meets the wall. This element is installed with minimal effort and adds elegance and grace to interior walls.

It should be no surprise that many contractors and homeowners choose this element. However, they usually wonder what size finish nail for crown molding or what nail gun would be ideal.


To dispel any doubts, we have compiled the following information to assist you in installing crown molding with the proper finish nail sizes.


Crown Molding: Why Use It?


One of the reasons people decide to use crown molding is its easy installation for home improvement projects.


In addition, numerous prefabricated decorative ceiling skirting designs and patterns are available. Once installed, they can be painted to match the wall or ceiling color.


Many people love having crown molding in their homes for the following reasons:

  • It adds a touch of elegance to any room.
  • Crown molding is an excellent way to conceal damage to a building's walls.
  • Additionally, it may give you access to a greater selection of finishes.
  • If you plan to sell your home shortly, crown molding is an excellent investment that you should consider making.



Choosing the Right Finish Nail Size for Crown Molding

Selecting the proper finish nails is essential if you intend to nail crown molding. We recommend following these steps before making the finish nails selection.


Find What You Are Nailing To


Crown molding usually is nailed to wall and ceiling studs and joists. Studs are located on the home's walls, whereas joists are on the ceiling.


A simple technique to recognize studs is to listen closely to the sound they produce when knocked. A hollow sound indicates no stud, while a more solid sound indicates the stud has been located. You can also use a stud finder for this step to make things easier.


Mark the stud's location, then knock again to locate the next one, and so on. Then, calculate their distance apart.


Most studs in walls constructed with 2X4 are spaced 16 inches in the center; however, certain studs in walls built with 2X6 can be spaced up to 24 inches in the center.


Depending on the size of the room, ceiling joists are often stick-framed, with either 12", 16", or 24" in the center.



Get the Right Finish Nailing Tools

The next step is the most crucial: determine the nail size, gauge size, and nail gun you must utilize.


Size of Finishing Nails


Finish nails are significantly thicker than brad nails. They have stronger holding power.


Because the studs are typically 3 ½", the drywall is ½," and the most common crown molding is 1/2",2-inch nails with a compressor, and a finishing gun is recommended forms of crown molding.

For the corners, use glue and 1-inch brad nails.


For crown molding that is exceptionally thick (or if you have plaster ceilings), 16 gauge finish nails with a length of 2 ½” “ is recommended.



The Finishing Gun


The most typical method for applying crown molding is with a finish nailer. We recommend following these simple instructions while utilizing any sort of nail gun:

  1. Before utilizing the finishing gun to attach the crown molding, we recommend practicing with wood scraps.
  2. As previously advised, use the stud finder to locate and mark the joists and studs.
  3. Install the crown molding on the wall, ensuring it is flush and aligned correctly.
  4. Hold the nail gun flat on the surface of the crown molding. Begin in the middle; fire a nail into the crown molding's top and bottom.
  5. Use wood putty or drywall compound to fill in the remaining small holes.


Choose Fastener USA Is Choosing Quality


You require a dependable supplier of materials, especially for high-quality nails. We provide the necessary selection and convenience to accomplish your tasks reliably and on time.


Our nails are available in various angles, gauges, heads, and grades of corrosion resistance. We also carry stainless steel for outdoor projects and are available in MiniPak, TrimPak, Box, and Variety packs.

Place an order with us and enjoy the benefits of working with a reputable, secure company with national and international reach.


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