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Nailer Vs. Stapler

Power nailers and staplers cut down work time drastically for homebuilders, maintenance workers and other professionals working in construction and building repair businesses. Nailers are typically loaded with large numbers of nails in coils and strips. Staplers use fine wire staples that minimize damage to wood and other surfaces. Although hand held tools are still commonly used, pneumatic nailers and staplers (tools powered by compressed air) have become the norm for working on house and remodeling projects.
  1. Nailers

    • Different nailers are available for various types of housework. For example, roofing and framing nailers are used to frame or fasten shingles. These nailers can also be employed to install and repair windows, doors and subflooring. Finishing nailers work well for molding and trip work, door casings, carpentry, furniture assembly and baseboards. For smaller tools that use standard nails rather than strip or coil nails, palm nailers are available for performing work in small or narrow spaces.

    Staplers

    • Although nailers and staplers perform similar functions, staples are normally used for lighter, less-intensive work. However, flooring staplers can be used for heavier, more intensive projects. For example, flooring staplers are optimal for work including subflooring, decking and sheathing. Staplers can be used to install hardwood floors and lay down carpet. They're also handy for assembling wooden furniture or performing upholstery.

    Benefits

    • Some of the advantages present in both nailers and staplers are speed and convenience. Manual work is significantly cut down for workers drilling holes, driving nails and applying fasteners repeatedly for large projects. For instance, high load nailers can fasten more than 140 nails per minute. Also, working with fasteners removes the need to set nails below wood surfaces or other material using a hammer or other manual tool. This reduces the amount of damage to walls and other surfaces caused by hammer marks or overdriving. Other benefits include added dexterity, as experienced users can often operate nailers and staplers using one hand, leaving your other hand free to hold, balance and align objects.

    Warnings

    • Despite their usefulness, nailers and staplers can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Bismark State College recommends that users carefully read instructions and implement extreme caution when using equipment. Workers, as well as personnel in nearby areas, should avoid standing too close to, underneath, or in front of loaded or empty nail and staple guns. Other precautions recommended for workers include: lubricating tools before use; inspecting nailers and staplers for wear and tear; and wearing protective hand and head gear.