Building Homes or Extensions/hardwood flooring

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Expert: - 2/22/2008


Question
When useing cleats on 3- Quarter hardwood how much pressure should I have my pneumatic floor nailer set for? How far does the nail have to go in the groove of the flooring?

Answer
I do not understand your reference to cleats.  I suspect your gun will need about 90 PSI if it is like any of the floor nailers I have used.  The depth of the nail will probably not be affected much by the pressure, it is typically controlled by the driver.  The problem will more likely be when your air pressure gets lower, just before it cuts back in, some of the nails may not be driven enough.  You should always have a hammer and a nail set for such problems.  The nail should be completely into the wood so that the next board can be driven onto the tongue with no or minimum interference.  If the hail head is slightly up on a few, the next board will usually drive on.  If it is up too much to get the next board tight you will have remove it and set the nail heads enough to get them out of the way.

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Dan Griffin

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I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

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I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

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My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

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I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

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