What Finish Nails Do I Use For Quarter Round Trim Molding?
Published on
May 2, 2022 at 8:39:00 AM PDT May 2, 2022 at 8:39:00 AM PDTnd, May 2, 2022 at 8:39:00 AM PDT
What Size Finish Nails do I Use for Quarter Round Trim Molding?
Thin strips of molding at the bottom of baseboards conceal the transition between the wall and floor. Also, they add a finishing touch to the room. Located at the bottom of baseboards, molding that's referred to as quarter round has a very defined, quarter-circle shape.
Most quarter round molding is made of wood. It is a popular idea to go with an unfinished option to paint or stain in your preferred color.
This makes for a fun and rewarding do-it-yourself project around your home. Before you can have the trim molding you've seen on HGTV, though, you need to learn what size finish nails to use for quarter round.
Table of Contents
Advice Against Using the Wrong Nail
What Size Finish Nails to Use for Quarter Round Trim
The General Rule of Thumb
Order Finish Nails Online
Advice Against Using the Wrong Nail
There are two problems with using the wrong size nail. A nail that is too short will not penetrate deeply enough actually to secure the trim. On the other hand, a nail that is too long risks splitting the material and ruining everything. This is why it is so important for you to get the nail size decision right when fixing trim to the wall.
When the Nail is Too Short
If the nails are too short, they won’t penetrate the trim and the wall adequately. This will prevent the quarter round from being secured properly, causing it to pull away from the wall or baseboard over time. Short nails won’t provide the necessary hold, especially in high-traffic areas or spots prone to shifting or impact.
When the Nail is Too Long
On the other hand, using excessively long nails can also pose a problem. Long nails can drive too far into the wall or floor, potentially damaging the underlying structure. They might even pop out through the face of the trim, which could crack or splinter the delicate wood.
What Type of Nails to Use
For quarter round trim, the type of nail is just as important as its size. Generally, you want to use 18-gauge brad nails or 23-gauge micro pins.
18-Gauge Brad Nails
These nails are a popular choice because they provide enough holding power without splitting the trim. They are thick enough to secure the molding but delicate enough not to cause damage.
23-Gauge Micro Pins
Micro pins are excellent for very small or delicate trim. If your quarter round is thin or made from softer wood, 23-gauge micro pins are the best option to avoid breakage.
What Size Finish Nails to Use for Quarter Round Trim
Experts tell us that because it’s finish trim, you will need to install quarter round trim with finish nails. This type of nails have smaller heads than standard nails. Quarter round is narrow, typically about 3/4 inch wide, or less, measured along its two straight edges. A finish nail gun, fitted with 1.5-inch micro pin nails or 2-inch brad nails, works well for this project.
Which Nail Gun for Quarter Round
When installing quarter round, using the right nail gun makes the job much easier and ensures a professional finish. The ideal nail gun for this task would be:
- 16-Gauge Finish Nailer: This nailer provides enough power for larger, thicker trims but may be too much for more delicate work.
- 18-Gauge Brad Nailer: Often the best choice for quarter round trim, as it provides the right balance of strength and delicacy.
- 23-Gauge Pin Nailer: Perfect for very thin quarter round or softwood trims that are prone to splitting.
How to Install Quarter Round
Installing quarter round requires precision and attention to detail. Follow these steps for a successful installation:
- Measure and Cut the Trim: Measure the length needed and cut the quarter round to size. Be mindful of angles when making your cuts, as the corners and edges will need to fit perfectly.
- Position the Trim: Place the trim where it needs to be installed. Make sure it is flush against the wall and the floor.
- Secure the Trim: Using your chosen nail gun and nail size, carefully secure the trim to the wall. Start by nailing at one end and work your way to the other.
- Fill Nail Holes: After securing the trim, use wood filler to fill any visible nail holes. Sand and paint over the filler to achieve a seamless look.
Additional Tips to Install Quarter Round
- Pay Attention to Angles: Quarter round often requires angled cuts, which can be tricky. Use a miter saw and practice your cuts to ensure they fit snugly.
- Avoid Overdriving Nails: Be cautious when driving nails. If the nails are driven too deep, they can crack or damage the trim.
- Check for Gaps: Ensure there are no gaps between the trim and the wall or floor. If you notice any, use caulk to seal them.
The General Rule of Thumb
The ideal nail length for fastening different materials should be three times the thickness of the material. Ideally, you want to select finish nails that are long enough to penetrate the thickness of the quarter round molding and the drywall. At the same time, you want to leave enough left over to go at least 1/2 inch into the wall's base plate. All it takes is a little bit of math, and you can figure out exactly how long your finish nails need to be!
Order Finish Nails Online
Now that you know a little more about what size finish nails to use for quarter round molding trim, the only thing left to do is order your finish nails. Fastener USA makes it incredibly easy to find exactly what you're looking for, including the lengths mentioned above. Begin shopping our online catalog now and very soon, you'll have everything you need for your DIY project.
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