I'm getting ready to install 3/4 T&G Brazilian Cherry over a 23/32 OSB subfloor. My question is which cleat length and gauge should I use. I have seen some guys say 2" is the proper length, but others have said 1 3/4" is the right length so it doesn't blow out/through the bottom of the subfloor, especially undesirable with OSB flooring. My logic says to use 1 3/4", but what is the industry standard? Also what gauge of cleat should be used, I would think using an 18 gauge would prevent less tongue splitting, but again want to trust in the experts knowledge of the best use.

Thanks

I would never put down such a beautiful wood having OSB as the only underlay. Better to screw some 1/2 inch ply over it, minimum.

I am no expert but when I looked into the proper length to use for my flooring 3/4" plywood and 5/8 bamboo the proper cleat was 1 1/2". That should be pretty close to what your looking at. I checked Home Depot, Lowes, and Lumber Liquidators and the only thing they sell is 2" staples and cleats. However from what I read you lose 1/2 the holding power of the fastener when you use one that is too long and it blows through the bottom of the floor. I would suggest 1 1/2" just to be safe. I ended up ordering them from Amazon because I couldn't find them locally. As far as gauge some people swear by 18 because you will split the tongue less but I used 16 since that's the type my gun used and didn't have any problem with it. Lastly if its any help I ended up using 3,000 for 800 square feet. I bought too many and now have about 2,000 extra.