Are you looking to install hardwood flooring in your home? You're going to need a floor nailer.
A flooring nailer is a tool that lets you nail down hardwood flooring. It's one of the many different kinds of nail guns. It makes the floor installation process much easier than if you were to do it by hand. Because it is not an automatic or trigger-powered gun, you must strike the actuator with a rubber mallet. The connection to an air compressor helps you insert the nail cleat at a perfect 45-degree angle.
If you're not sure where to start, we don't blame you. Finding the right one can be overwhelming, especially since this tool isn't something you buy every day. Read on for a complete buying guide and reviews on the best floor nailers.
Floor Nailer Buying Guide
Before diving into the top floor nailers, there are things you should know about this handy tool. Here is a list of five things to watch out for:
Nail Compatibility - Not all flooring nailers are compatible with the same fasteners. Know whether you're going to use L-cleats, T-cleats, or staples before choosing your tool.
Durability - If you plan on using the tool for multiple projects, you might want to get a more durable one. Stay away from plastic constructions and instead rely on steel, aluminum, and other heavy-duty materials.
Accessories - To get the most bang for your buck, see what accessories come with your purchase. Valuable additions include a carrying case, rubber mallet, and hex wrenches.
Warranty - Even the highest-quality floor nailer on the market could go out on you. Protect your investment by choosing a product with a good warranty.
Price - Price isn't the most critical factor, but it's something you should keep in mind. While you don't have to spend a fortune, the price often reflects the quality of the design.
Types of Floor Nailers
The two main types of floor nailers are manual and pneumatic. Whether you choose a manual or pneumatic tool, consider the other factors mentioned above. If you're not installing hardwood floors and carpet instead, you'll need a carpet stretcher.
In most cases, the only advantage of a manual floor nailer is that it's cheaper. The product itself costs less, plus you won't need to buy an air compressor or hose.
Despite being more expensive and requiring more setup, pneumatic floor nailers tend to be more desirable. They're lighter, easier to fit in tight spaces, and less likely to jam.
5 Best Floor Nailer Reviews 2022
Now that you've read our buyer's guide, it's time to dive into the reviews. Here's an overview of the top five tools for your project:
1. DEWALT DWFP12569
For nearly 100 years, DIYers and construction workers alike have relied on DEWALT. Thus, it's no surprise that the DWFP12569 pneumatic flooring nailer with sequential firing is number one on our list.
The nailer and stapler combo tool is perfect for driving 16-gauge L-cleat nails as part of a typical hardwood flooring project. If you happen to be working with a softer wood, you can use the tool to drive 15.5-gauge staples. This 2-in-1 functionality will serve you well for whatever kind of flooring your installing.
While the DWFP12569 isn't as powerful as other models, its pressure range of 70-100 psi is enough to get the job done, especially for wood planks. This lower power requirement means you can get by with a weaker air compressor.
Best of all, the DWFP12569 is super easy to use. Its lightweight design increases productivity and prevents strain on the muscles. You'll also appreciate the long, ergonomic handle that lets you maintain good posture during the installation.
The DWFP12569 might be one of the more expensive tools, but it's well worth the money. Wether you're a home remodeling contractor or DIY enthusiast, once you use it for the first installation, you won't tackle another project without it.
Specifications:
- Fastener type: 15.5 GA staples or 16 GA L-cleat nails
- Fastener length: 1-1/2 – 2 inches
- Magazine capacity: 100
- Weight: 10.6 pounds
Pros
Cons
2. Freeman PFL618C Pneumatic
If you thought the 2-in-1 functionality of the DWFP12569 was impressive, check out the Freeman PFBC940 pneumatic nailer. It acts as a 3-in-1 as it drives not only L-cleats and staples but also T-cleats, making it a quite versatile flooring nailer.
The ergonomic handle and padded grips make it easy to use during long projects. While the design is more compact than other models, it's on the heavier side. Keep this weight in mind if you need to move it around the job site.
Luckily, transportation is easy thanks to the sturdy case that comes with your purchase. It holds the tool snuggly to prevent damage during transit. It also comes with adjustment tools, mallet, and other accessories. The anti-dust cap protects the internal components from debris, and it has a one-piece drive blade of hardened steel. For added dust protection, consider investing in a dust extractor.
If you want an affordable hardwood flooring nailer without sacrificing quality, the Freeman PFL618C is for you.
Specifications:
- Fastener type: 15.5 GA staples or 16 GA L-cleat and T-cleat nails
- Fastener length: 1-1/2 – 2 inches
- Magazine capacity: 100-120
- Weight: 11.5 pounds
Pros
Cons
3. NuMax SFL618
Next up, we have the NuMax SFL618. Like the PFL618BR, it has 3-in-1 functionality for driving the three most common fasteners. You can switch between these fastener types easily, thanks to the interchangeable base plate. Additionally, the no-mar design does a great job at protecting finished flooring.
The SFL618 also has one of the sturdiest constructions (die-cast aluminum and heat-treated steel) we have encountered. It’s an advantage as it helps the tool withstand any project. However, even with the ergonomic design, it can cause fatigue after several hours but the light strike bumper helps protect against that.
The flooring nailer comes with a mallet, air tool oil, and adjustment tools. The quick-release can clear jams quickly. If you plan on doing lots of types of solid wood flooring installations, the NuMax SFL618 will be your trusty assistant that's in it for the long haul.
Specifications
- Fastener type: 15.5 GA staples or 16 GA L-cleat and T-cleat nails
- Fastener length: 1-1/2 – 2 inches
- Magazine capacity: 90+
- Weight: 15.6 pounds
Pros
Cons
4. Bostitch BTFP12569
The BTFP12569 flooring nailer is similar to the DEWALT DWFP12569 in terms of price and construction. It's a well-made tool with a sturdy build yet lightweight design. It's perfect for working around tight corners and functioning as a cleat nailer — its reliably driving staples and L-cleats.
It comes with a dust cover, interchangeable base plates, and no batteries are required. Of all the products on the list, the Bostitch came out top for a lightweight design. If you want to breeze through your projects while still having a sturdy tool, the BTFP12569 is for you. This flooring stapler can be used for hardwood floors as well as engineered flooring. You can easily pair this up with a portable table saw to cut boards and install them with ease.
It comes with a white rubber mallet and interchangeable base plates measuring 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch, and 3/4 inch for any wood flooring installation including exotic hardwood and brittle wood.
Specifications:
- Fastener type: 15.5 GA staples or 16 GA L-cleat nails
- Fastener length: 1-1/2 – 2 inches
- Magazine capacity: 100
- Weight: 10.2 pounds
Pros
Cons
5. WEN 61741
If you don't want to switch out your tools constantly, get the WEN 61741 nailer and stapler. This 4-in-1 pneumatic floor nailer can drive 18-gauge brad nails, narrow crown staples, and other fasteners.
It's also the smallest of our recommendations, making it ideal for working in small places and taking on the go. Since its small, it also weights less and is ideal for large flooring projects. It comes with a carrying case, two hex keys, and a quick-release nose for clearing jams. Plus a versatile removable spring-loaded flooring shoe.
If you want something that does it all and gets you good value for the money, check out the WEN 61741 — one of the top pneumatic nailers out there. Although just keep in mind that unlike others, it's not a cleat nailer.
Specifications:
- Fastener type: 18 GA brad nails, narrow crown staples, and other fasteners (not L or T-cleats)
- Fastener length: 5/8 – 2 inches in length
- Magazine capacity: 100
- Weight: 3.3 pounds
Pros
Cons
By reading these flooring nailer reviews, it should be easy to find the tool that's perfect for your project. So, as you plan your installation, be sure to bookmark our recommendations and buying guide to help with your decision. Best of luck, and happy nailing!
