I am going to construct a fence from 1×4 Alaskan yellow cedar. I need to use stainless nails to attach the pickets to the backer rails but I really do not want to use my framing nailer purely for aesthetics ( large nail hole). I am thinking about using my 16 Guage finish nailer with 2″ nails or my 18 guage finish stapler with 1 1/2″ staples. I would use 12 fasteners per picket instead of the 6 for the framing gun. Would this work or would it not hold up in the long run? Any other ideas?
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Replies
get a MAX coil siding gun..nails are .092-.099 looks just like a regular coil nailer but siding nails...bostich nails work the new triple galv. or SS. Hitachi nails fit too.
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations.
I cannot imagine using 12 fasteners per picket.
Use the air nailer ... adjust the depth setting so the heads are just driven flush, or a little proud.
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!" Then get busy and find out how to do it. T. Roosevelt
Staples are uglier than nails IMO. Finish nails will just let the boards pop off the first time they move a little and the dog can easily push out anywhere. Use good nails. Senco weatherex are a good choice. Screws are a waste of time, not that you would consider using them. Use a speed square to line up the nose of the nailer as you go and the nails won't be as noticeable.
Use the framing nailer or the stapler with stainless bullets, but nail in from the back instead of through the face of each picket. That way it's your neighbor who'll see all the nail holes, LOL....
And you don't need that many fasteners. Two 2" framers per joint or three staples and it oughta hold. If you're unsure, squirt some PL premium in there before you nail.
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
I have used deck screws with a screw gun and that looked good.Its a little slower but it stays on well and looks good.
Jon1,
Actually, three years ago, I built a fence for a HO that didn't want to see any fasteners. It was 6' H, by almost 300' L. I used senco 15 Ga. Galv. finish nails. I angled them slightly so as to give a bit more grab. Fence still looks great...drive by it every day. No complaints. I've got pics. Fifteen years between fence jobs seems about right for me! Not my cup of tea.
Peace