Anything that you take care of lasts a long time and it is especially true in case of tools and equipment. It’s like a ripple on a still lake where your one cautious step can increase the longevity of your tool by leaps and bound.
Now, why wouldn’t you want your tools to last long, especially when it’s equipment like a nail gun which not only increases your productivity but also minimizes strain on your health?
A nail gun is a simple tool with a few components that get the job done. However, there are different kinds of nail guns for different occasions based on size, purpose and power generation. Each of these guns requires attention in different aspects, and the user needs to know them to maintain the integrity of the tool.
Pneumatic Standing Nail Gun
There are bigger nailers in the market that are pneumatic powered and have an extended handle and fixated body. Usually, these nailers are used for power hammering the nails into the wooden floor, and they require assistance with certain parts.
Easy Passage
These nailers are powered by compressed air which is stored in a tank and supplied through feeds. So it is a good idea to check the feed on a regular basis since a small particle of shredded wood can build up.
To clean the feed, a fresh piece of cloth can be used, preferably the kind that does not leave behind any lint. The lint from the cleaning cloth can also cause a jam. As an alternative, strong pressure compressed air can also remove specks of wood or dust from the feed.
Secure Connection
The bigger wooden floor staplers have some parts to them, and the connection between them needs to be secured, especially when the machine is pneumatic powered.
If the connections are not tight enough, vacuum space will not be very effective, and the nailer will not be able to perform properly. For the nailer to work up to its caliber, all the screws between the tank, handle and nose joints should be checked.
Precaution should be taken so that the connection doesn’t fall apart. It is easier to tighten the screws than to attach the whole thing together.
Extended Handles
The specialty of the bigger staplers is the extended handle that reaches up to the perfect length for the user. This way, the user does not have to bend down to hammer the nail and also it saves him a lot of time.
However, precaution should be taken so that the handles are not bearing too much weight. Moreover, some models have detachable handles and they should be screwed in properly. Otherwise, the joints will break.
There are rubber grips on the handle to provide better control. If the rubber wears off, it should be changed with another overgrip.
Know where to Staple
The distance from the hand bar to the precision nose is almost out of eyes to reach, and sometimes it can become hard for the user to know where to place the nailer. A trick that the user can employ is to mark the spot and place the tool until the mark is no longer in sight.
If marking appears as additional work, making a mental map can also work.
Manual Nailers
Another promising tool in the wooden flooring realm is the manual nailer gun. These types of the device need a large hammer and manual force for the nails to be driven. The construction looks similar to a pneumatic nailer, but there is a designated surface for the user to hit.
The Right Hammer
As mentioned earlier, manual staplers need hammers, but not the iron with a wooden ladle hammer. Hammer for guns is different and predominantly of two types. There’s a black rubber mallet and a white rubber mallet.
The black mallet is sturdy but leaves a stain whereas the white rubber mallets do not. Most of the nailers come with a white rubber mallet with purchase.
Maintain Composure
Unlike electrical or pneumatic nailers, manual staplers need to be dealt with by hand. A rubber mallet and old fashion strength are what drives these tool. The mechanism is the same, only external force is needed.
Accordingly, using proper pressure is crucial because there is a possibility of damaging the stapler with strong force. An easy technique is to plant the foot at shoulder length and maintain the stance. The user should also take caution while swinging the hammer to avoid unnecessary shoulder strain.
Hand-Held Nailers
Apart from the stand nailers, there’s a more convenient alternative which is handheld staplers, used mostly for reaching small and narrow places. These nailers are very handy and need special care. They can be pneumatic or electric generated.
Lubricate Properly
If the handheld gun is pneumatic, it runs off compressed air pressure. On the other hand, it has a number of aluminum parts and junctions that need to run smoothly. If the joints are not properly lubricated, the nose and drill will not work effectively.
Moreover, there is a high chance of cracking the metal. That is why it is recommended that 4 to 5 drops of air-oil is used for every use. If the gun works for a longer period of time, it should be lubricated more than once per day. Air oil is also necessary for standing staplers that are pneumatically driven.
Hose
A hose is a connector between the air tank where the compressed air is stored and the gun chamber. Air is passed through the hose which targets the piston and drives the nail. If the hose is faulty, air will leak through it, and the piston will not get enough force.
In addition, if the hose is not connected properly, complete vacuum space will not be possible. This will again cause lower power, and the overall outcome will be unsatisfactory. So, after every use, the hose should be inspected properly for any leaks.
Battery Life
For a different purpose or for better mobility, some brands manufacture nailers that run on electricity. It makes things more convenient for the user. Likewise, if used more than its capacity, the battery life will drain out.
Therefore, caution must be applied for the duration of use. The voltage and power output are also co-related; hence, the power source should be compatible with the device. Most staplers require 180v to function properly.
Cord Length
Electrical nailers have a cord attached to it which draws power from the source. Monthly inspection should be done to check if the cord has any torn parts, and the user should be aware of the length of the cord. Knowing the length will help the user to determine whether it will fit the boards.
Proper Pins/Staples
There are different types of pins and staples used for a different purpose. For example, cleats make a stronger joint, and there are regular staples that can be used by any gun. There are also headless pins used by precision tools. The headless pins make a seamless finish, and this can be used at the surface.
Similarly, There are also different sizes of pins, and each machine is compatible with a set of staples. If wrong pins are inserted into the magazine, the internal structure of the precision nose might get damaged. On this account, it is crucial to know which pins to use.
Conclusion
Nail guns are extremely handy and they can finish boarding effortlessly. Accordingly, like any other appliance, proper care should be applied to nail guns as well.
By following the tips and techniques for each type of stapler, the user will be able to prolong the life of the nailers and get the most out of their purchase.
