Face nailing hardwood floors is a popular method of installation for DIYers and professionals alike. It’s a relatively easy and straightforward process that can save you time and money. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of face nailing hardwood floors, the tools and materials you’ll need, and the benefits and drawbacks of this installation method. Let’s jump right in!
What Is Face Nailing?
Face nailing is a process of installing hardwood floors using nails. These nails are typically driven into the tongue of the hardwood boards, and then covered with a putty or filler to conceal them. The goal of face nailing is to ensure that the boards are securely fastened to the subfloor and create a tight, seamless floor.
Tools and Materials Needed
To face nail hardwood floors, you’ll need the following materials and tools:
- Hardwood boards
- Nails specifically designed for hardwood floors
- Hammer
- Floor nailer
- Putty or filler
Step-by-Step Process
The process for face nailing hardwood floors is as follows:
- Lay out the hardwood boards in the desired pattern.
- Use a floor nailer to drive nails into the tongue of the boards.
- Use a hammer to drive the nails further into the wood.
- Fill the nail holes with putty or filler.
- Sand the floor to ensure a smooth finish.
Benefits of Face Nailing Hardwood Floors
There are several benefits of face nailing hardwood floors, including:
- It’s relatively easy and straightforward to do.
- It’s a fast process, saving you time and money.
- The results are usually satisfactory.
- The putty or filler used to fill nail holes can be matched to the color of the hardwood boards.
Drawbacks of Face Nailing Hardwood Floors
While face nailing hardwood floors has its advantages, there are some drawbacks as well, such as:
- It can be difficult to drive the nails deep enough into the tongue of the boards.
- The putty or filler used to fill the nail holes can be difficult to match to the color of the boards.
- The nails can sometimes be visible through the putty or filler.
- The floor can be prone to squeaking.
Conclusion
Face nailing hardwood floors is a popular and cost-effective method of installation. While it’s relatively easy to do, there are some drawbacks as well. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of this method before deciding to go ahead with it. If you’re still unsure, it’s best to consult a professional floor installer for advice.
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