15 OR 16 gauge for crown molding?

[Mike]

I know it was probably discussed here before...(i've search but did not find my answer)

so I have some crown molding to install in my house.... so is a 16ga good enough? or a 15ga? I already have a 18ga....

TIA

[David]

you'll get over 200 hits on Google Groups if you type in "15 ga nailer" Dave

[Dave Jackson]

What size does your 18ga shoot? 2" would work. However, I've completely switched from 16 ga to 15 ga fasteners for interior trim. (I do a lot of trim) The 15 ga actually has a head on the nail whereas the 16 ga are "T" nails that pull out easier. This makes a difference especially when nailing doors up. I haven't used my 16 ga in years now...... --dave

[loutent]

Hi Mike,

I am not a pro, but have installed quite a bit of crown in our house (and some relatives!) over the years.

I just completed some crown in our FR and decided that I would actually back it up with pre-cut triangles that I shot into studs/rafters.

After installing these 'wedges', I applied a dab of glue and shot the crown using 1.25 brads.

For the wedges, I used 2.5 (16 ga), but at least they were through solid material and not just hanging out there (hate the thoughts of that for some reason).

Lou

[Mike O.]

It kinda depends on were it's installed. We don't use anything smaller than 15ga on crown if we shoot it to a ceiling either through rock or to a nailer. If we install it on top if cabinets where we have wood to wood we'll use pins.

Mike O.