What Size Finish Nails do I Use for Trim?
Published on
May 1, 2022 at 8:16:00 AM PDT May 1, 2022 at 8:16:00 AM PDTst, May 1, 2022 at 8:16:00 AM PDT
Fastener FAQs: What Size Finish Nails do I Use for Trim?
A homeowner who's handy around the house can do quite a bit for themself, including adding or replacing trim. A do-it-yourself installation of baseboard trim is itself not difficult. That being said, you can easily ruin the entire project by using the wrong nail size. That is why when it comes to nailing the baseboard, size matters! Here is everything you need to know about what size finish nails to use for trim
Table of Contents
The Problem with Using the Wrong Nail
What Size Finish Nails to Use for Trim
Advice for Using 18 Gauge Finish Nails
Follow the General Rule of Thumb
Order Finish Nails Online
The Problem with Using the Wrong Nail
The problem with using the wrong nail sizes is two fold. A nail that is too short fails to penetrate deeply enough to secure the trim properly. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a too-long nail risks splitting the material and ruining everything from the wiring and plumbing in the assembly.
Trim is a house defining feature you're sure to love, if you handle the project correctly. This is why it’s important for you to get the nail size decision right when fixing trim to the wall.
What Size Finish Nails to Use for Trim
To nail baseboard trim, we suggest finish nails from 2”( 6d) to 2.5” (8d). These are typically 15 gauge finishing nails to 18 gauge brad nails. You can use a different gauge, though, depending on the nail gun. As a simple example, when fastening ¾-inch base trim over drywall, 2.25-inch 16 gauge nails will work well. To reiterate, the ideal length boils down to the thickness of your trim pieces.
Advice for Using 18 Gauge Brad Nails
The major downside of using a smaller gauge, like 18, is that these are narrower and won’t have the greatest holding power. You should only use an 18 gauge brad nail for smaller trims, like those up to ½”.
Follow the General Rule of Thumb
A great way of looking at this is by sticking to the general rule of thumb when it comes to nailing. It’s generally accepted that the ideal nail length for fastening different materials should be three times the thickness of the material. All it takes is a little bit of math!
Order Finish Nails Online
Now that you know a little more about what size finish nails to use for trim, go ahead and order your finish nails. Fastener USA makes it incredibly easy to find exactly what you're looking for. Begin shopping our online catalog now.
What Size Finish Nails for Quarter Round?
What Size Finish Nails for Baseboard?
What Size Finish Nails for Crown Molding?