Nails and hammer are a pretty old couple we all know about. They have been loyal to us whenever there is a need for hanging pictures, shelves or simply jointing some wooden pieces together. I know some of us still believe this old method of nailing is better and convenient since both these tools are so affordable.
But time has changed and people are now interested in tools that are easy plus less time-consuming. We are in an era where nailers are more approachable to use for various nailing needs. And one very popular type is brad nailer.
Today I’m going to share how to use a brad nailer with some other important details related. Stay Tuned till The End!
Table of Contents
How to Use Brad Nailer: Basics, Using Guide, Tips & More…
So, with that intro, you have almost sensed that today’s writing is going to be quite fun and educative for novice users as well. Those who don’t have an idea about using such tools instead of hammers will find the tutorial quite helpful, I promise. I’ll start with general basics about brad nailers all the way through using a method.
General Idea about Brad Nailers
Brad nailer is a typical handheld tool for firing nails. For the tool, you can only use brad nails, however. The nails come with a narrow head at one edge. This is a sort of finishing nail basically. It can vary from half to two inches.
The brad nailers come with a wire that measures 18-gauge. These are basically much thinner than the regular 15 or 16-gauge nails. You’ll see the common types in pneumatic or battery-powered nailers.
The pneumatic version usually comes with an air compressor. This part helps to supply power to the whole tool. On the other side, with a cordless brad nailer, you can also use a rechargeable battery.
Start with Safety.
Before using the brad nailer, you need to assure about safety. Using power tools without proper attire is an obvious way to invite mishaps. So better be ready than being sorry later.
The most important safety wear is a proper glass or goggle for eye protection. You should also avoid clothes that are too loose since they create hinder while working. Brad nailers make really bad noise. So, you need to wear earplugs or earmuffs to keep your hearing unharmed.
Another important note to take seriously is about the space you’re working. Don’t use a brad nailer in a closed space, the echoes of noise will interrupt surely.
Get a Good Hose Adaptor & Teflon Tape.
- You need to get a hose adapter for using brad nailer. Usually, with a pneumatic brad nailer, you need to buy a hose adapter that fits right.
- Also, you should buy some oil and Teflon tape. The tape is important because this will keep hose connected with device securely.
- Once you do the fitting of a hose adapter, wrap some Teflon tape around it. Now connect the adaptor with device tightly. You can use an adjustable wrench to tighten the bond. There should be no air leakage at all.
Oiling the Tool.
- The nailer usually uses an air piston to work. So, you need to use some sort of grease or oil for lubricating. This will help in its functionality.
- You can lubricate using the pneumatic tool oil. Only a few drops will go a long way. After greasing use a tack cloth to wipe off anything tacky.
Loading for Usage.
- Every brad nailer comes with a certain number of nail loading ability. You need to load the device with a specific amount of nail accordingly.
- Next, release air compression so that it can pressurize before starting the tool. Once the compressor is ready to make connections proceed ahead.
- You need to connect one end of the hose with a brad nailer. Another end will straight connect with an air compressor. Make sure the connections are right and tight.
Check & Finish.
- Now start by testing the nailer on a test wood first. See if it can work properly. You need to hold the handle and make a position for nailing.
- There should be no obstacle in between for working properly. Use a 90-degree angle to keep the tool’s tip resting on a wood surface.
- Now it’s time to pull the trigger of a brad nailer. Give it some time to sink the nail inside. If the test round goes well, then it is ready to work for your project.
Some Tips for Easy Usage.
- The brad nailer needs not to be too close to edge of working board. This will lead to splitting wood.
- The type of wood you are using might make an impact on nailing. Some wood tends to split while nailing so you need to be careful while applying.
- Applying too much force while nailing can lead to nails not getting sink properly. So, to avoid bent nails, use firm movements without being fast.
- Some brad nails are not appropriate for certain kinds of woods. The thin design does not allow it to sink completely since the material. So standard hammer and nail technique might be a good option to use in these cases.
Conclusion
That was all about how to use a brad nailer. You can use a brad nailer for wooden trim rejuvenation, treating shaky joints and work with old furniture.
There are also various applications waiting for nose piece attachment once you own a brad nailer. The tasks you can achieve with a quality brad nailer are unlimited. So, this is an ideal tool investment you can make for saving your precious time and money.
If you are curious about the usage more then check out this simple video tutorial. Don’t forget to share how you felt about using brad nailer for the first time in comment section below. Good Luck!