Hi All,

DIY'er New to the forum...I have just purchased approx 500 sq ft of the Triangulo Engineered tigerwood flooring, 1/2" x 5 1/4" . I am installing this over(3/4"?) plywood subfloor.I have researched this job a bit and I already have the compressor, experience with a brad nailer as well as experience installing pergo (cough), and engineered click. My questions are in regards to the stapler, I am considering pulling the trigger on a Bostitch EHF1838K stapler-will this be a good/correct choice for this flooring? (I def want to purchase the stapler in lieu of renting- since i will be installing on the second floor in the near future) also, is 18Ga 1 1/2" staples adequate for my application. I have checked the manufacturers website as well as others, but have no luck determining this...any help from the pros/experienced would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Joe

Joe, thats what I use. Call the manufacturer if you have any doubts

Thanks Stephen, I have confirmed with Triangulo support that 1 1/2" 18Ga is correct for my application....can someone recommend a decent finish nailer for face nailing the first and last rows?

with this floor you need to carefully follow the mfg's installation guidelines particularly regarding acclimation for which you will need a moisture meter. Most mfg's nailing schedules want 1 fastener within 1" to 3" of each end and 6" to 8" between. With wide boards they also recommend a bead of Liquid Nail or any other construction adhesive on the non nailing side for extra holding power. Adjust your fastener so that it doesn't split the tongue by going to deep but enough so it doesn't protrude adjusting the air pressure will accomplish this but keep an eye on it as you proceed. When the mfg doesn't provide the info you need they tell you to go by the NWFA guidelines. You can find them on my website www.decker-consulting-inspections.vpweb.com. Particularly pay attention to the relative humidity requirements as you may have to get a humidifier to keep the rh at the minimum of 40% to 50% requirement for this product. Low humidity can cause face checking, end lift and delamination if not adhered to. This is not a mfg defect if it occurs it is considered homeowner responsibility to follow the environmental requirements. Moisture readings before and after installation should be documented by taking photos of the readings and store for safe keeping.