I'm installing 1700 sq ft of 3/4' thick, 3 1/4" wide prefinished oak strip flooring over 3/4 OSB T&G Advantek. The builder is allowing us to save some money by letting us do the floors ourselves. I'm looking for recommendations on pneumatic nailer brands and the type of fastener I should use (there are nails, cleats, and staples). Is there any advantage of one over the others? Also, would appreciate comments on nailers regarding ease of use, reliablity, marring of pre-finished stock, etc. Many thanks.
Per:
I've used nearly all of them and it's hands down with this Bostich pneumatic Stapler. With the way it's built it brings boards together much tighter than the others without having to whack them with the rubber side of the mal. Furthermore a new one comes with felt padding under the plate that sits on top of the floor.
Good Luck with your project 
Ken Fisher
Hardwood Installer.Com
Thank you very much for the excellent advice. Was wondering if, in your opinion, the staples hold as well as the more traditional nails/cleats without splitting the wood. Also, is it tougher to hand nail the staples in the first few courses of wood strip than more traditional nails? Can a nail set be used to countersink staples? My wife is helping me with this project and I would like to avoid getting divorced.
Many thanks.
Many thanks.
Since you are going over 3/4 inch OSB, it would be a good idea to lay the flooring perpendicular to the floor joists to get better strength. If laid inline with the joists, you may experience some movement when walked on.
Per:
You won't be able to use the staples for top or hand nailing as they'll bend on you. Furthermore a nail set doesn't work well with counter sinking staples if you fail to drive the staple in far enough when side nailing/stapling. In that case use a wide blade screwdriver turned sideways to countersink. I would suggest this tool or similiar for top and side nailing if you have alot of area to cover. Cost apprx $190
Not the greatest picture but it's a Porter Cable that can shoot 2 1/2" 16 guage nails.
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