I'm planning to replace all the doors in my 1970s house next weekend, and while I already own a compressor and an 18-gauge brad nailer, I'm looking to upgrade to some cordless options for this project. I'm thinking about getting a 16-gauge brad nailer but have seen mixed opinions on what's best for someone like me who isn't a professional framer or carpenter. I also have future projects in mind, like flooring and general house maintenance including baseboards and moldings. Would a 16-gauge nailer be the right choice for securing the doors, or could I just use my existing 18-gauge brad nailer with a few extra nails at the jambs?
3 Answers
For a DIYer like you, I'd suggest having at least two nail guns. A 15-gauge nailer is a solid choice for general carpentry and works great for door jambs. You can also use an 18-gauge for more delicate finishes. If you're feeling adventurous, you might even consider picking up a 23-gauge for super fine work. But honestly, 15-gauge really covers a lot of ground, so it could be your main tool for these projects.
I personally stick with a combination of a 15-gauge and 18-gauge nailer for most of my projects, especially door jams. It's versatile and works for just about anything you can throw at it. If you can, skip the 16-gauge—15 and 18 will cover most needs!
It's really about what you need. I went with an 18-gauge for finer details, but looking back, I'd probably choose a 16-gauge or even a 15-gauge for more versatility. For door frames, definitely lean towards the 15-gauge—it handles the weight of doors better than an 18-gauge. Just make sure you’re set on keeping things sturdy!
Exactly! The 15-gauge will provide the strength needed for door frames, especially with all the opening and closing involved.