Choosing what kind of ways to nail hardwood floors always offers difference of opinion. In earlier days before actual nailing gizmos were invented in the early 60's, installers would commonly used steel cut nails, similar to today's concrete nails.

During the early sixties the power nailer was introduced (shown left) Installation time was cut drastically. Not until the nineties did pneumatic staplers and nailers come on to the scene.

OK, That's Cool But Which One Should I Use?

Manual nailing with the tool shown above is very strenuous work. Good workout no doubt, but more and more professionals are choosing pneumatic tools with the Stanley Bostich MIIIFS (shown below right). Installation time is cut even more, and the physical exertion is less because the air driven tool requires less effort, perfect for any do it yourselfer that doesn't have a body builder physique. It's important to note, pneumatic tools can require different air pressure settings on different types of hardwoods. Failure to set properly can caused broken tongues that can later lead to squeaky floors.

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