Brad nails vs screws

Message

rwalkerphl · #1 Post by **rwalkerphl** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 7:15 am

Hi Guys,

I am having some issues with using screws on my O10 cabs. I am using Arauco ply for the cabs, and as much as half the time, the ply is splitting, even though I am pre-drilling.

I am thinking about investing in a brad nailer, and wanted to get opinions on whether this is the right way to go?

Thanks,
Robin.

Tim A · #2 Post by **Tim A** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 7:39 am

Absolutely. Get an 18 gauge nailer, saws and routers will go right through them with no ill effect. If you don't have a compressor already get one large enough to run the spray gun for Duratex, if you're so inclined.

rwalkerphl · #3 Post by **rwalkerphl** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 7:43 am

Great, thanks Tim! I already have the compressor, so I am good to go.

mjm · #4 Post by **mjm** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 3:35 pm

The 18 gauge nailers really speed things up. But if I need to pull the ply together I use # 6 cabinet screws. They will help with the splitting out problem caused by drywall screws.

Tom · #5 Post by **Tom** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 3:47 pm

Quarter inch air staplers can't be beat for stapling plywood boxes together. The brad nailer is my second choice.

WB · #6 Post by WB » Mon Apr 28, 2008 4:30 pm

Tom wrote:Quarter inch air staplers

What size staples are you using? What works best for joining 1/2" plywood?

Tom · #7 Post by **Tom** » Mon Apr 28, 2008 4:36 pm

I use a one inch long staple, and set the nailer to sink it below the first layer of plywood. Some brad nailers will shoot a quarter inch staple as an option. Staples don't blow through as much as brads IMO.