You might already know by now that Hardie siding is pretty popular among the homes of the US.
According to statistics, there are more than eight million homes that have this. The reason behind so much popularity is that it is exceptionally resistant to bugs and harsh weather.
Additionally, it is fireproof and waterproof as well. However, installing these can be a bit of a hassle, at least it was for us. But after picking the best nail gun for hardie siding, it became a piece of cake.
However, we struggled a lot when it came to choosing one. And we are going to make sure that you do not have the same experience.
Best Nail Gun for Hardie Siding and Trim
While trying to get one of these, we did a bunch of research and did a lot of testing. And from the information and experience we gained from those; we can conclude that these are the models that are actually worth getting for Hardie siding and trims:
1. WEN 61721
So, what makes an offering the best nail gun for hardie siding? If you ask us, we would say that it has to have a hassle-free operational mode. And that is what WEN is exactly offering with this product!
The thing that makes it achieve a hassle-free operational mode is the nose latch. It will make it easier to work with jams.
And as the mechanism is easy to work with, releasing the jams will not take that much time. Your workflow will be smooth and mostly uninterrupted.
It can work with the 18 gauge brads ranging from 3/8 inches to 2 inches when it comes to compatibility. Also, operational pressure is from 60 to 115 PSI. With the adjustable knob, you can switch to any PSI at any given time. And thanks to the NPT air fitting, the air will not find any way to leak.
It even utilizes a high-capacity magazine. The mag can hold up to 106 nails. And with that amount of nails, frequently reloading the magazine will not be something that you would have to do.
It even has a quick releasing mechanism for the magazine. That will let you easily get the mag out.
There is a depth adjustment wheel. By adjusting that, it would be possible to drive nails with the maximum amount of accuracy. Also, you will find an exhaust on the rear.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
It will basically offer a hassle-free operating experience. And as the magazine is pretty large, it will not be necessary to reload it frequently.
2. NuMax SFR2190
It will be pretty hard to work with Hardie siding with a relatively heavy nailer. However, if you pick this one from NuMax, you will not have to worry about that one bit.
This one features a construction of lightweight material. And even though the magnesium body is pretty light in weight, it is fairly durable.
It should be capable of going through heavy-duty tasks without showing any problems at all. So, you can expect to get extended use out of it.
The tool also has an ergonomic handle. It will let you securely hold onto the device while working with it. That will increase the overall accuracy, and you should be capable of driving the nails with the highest amount of precision.
Also, the trigger has two firing modes. One mode is for single shots, and the other is for quick fires.
Besides that, it comes with a reasonably powerful delivery system. It can offer up to 90 PSI, which means it would be able to drive nails in thick materials pretty easily.
And, the depth adjustment mechanism will enable you to gain proper control over the power of each fire.
Thanks to the non-marring tip on the nose, there will be no need to worry about the tool leaving dents, scratches, and dings on the surface of the workpiece.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
The lightweight nature is basically what makes it the best nail gun for hardie trim. It is also pretty durable and has a powerful pressure delivery system. Also, the handle is ergonomic, and it is comfortable to get a proper hold of it.
3. PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA
You might be looking for the best nail gun for siding that is cordless and does not require any hose to run. Well, if that is the case, have a look at what PORTER CABLE is offering here.
As we have mentioned above, this is a 100 percent battery-operated device that will not require any hose, compressor, or gas cartridges.
That means you are going to have the maximum amount of mobility, and there will be nothing limiting you from working hard-to-reach places.
The device also packs a proper motorized design. Its motor can offer consistent firing power throughout the charge.
As a result, even when the battery level is a bit low, there will be no flaws on the Hardie siding. Also, the firing power will not change if the climate condition changes.
There are a plethora of adjustable settings as well. And you can adjust all of them without needing any tools. The weight of the unit is also relatively low.
Thanks to its lightweight nature, it will be easier to move it around. Even the center of gravity is at the right place. That will increase the overall comfort while using it.
Other than that, there is a multifunctional LED light on the front. With that, you can easily work in dark and poorly-lit environments.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
The fact that it is battery-operated and can offer a consistent firing power throughout the entire charge makes it worth getting, according to us.
4. DEWALT DWFP12231
We believe that the brand DEWALT does not require any introduction. They have been in the power tool market for a long time, and most of their offerings are highly reliable. And an excellent example of that reliable factor is this unit.
Are you wondering why we are praising its reliable factor? Well, it is electric and has a high-quality motor inside. It does not require any maintenance at all.
And it should operate for an extended period of time without showing any performance issues. What more can you ask from the best nail gun for hardie trim?
Even if there is nothing more to ask for, it offers more! There is a depth-of-drive adjustment mechanism that has dedicated detents for different sized nails. So, working with the hardie siding nails for nail gun will be a pretty easy task with this one.
Alongside that, the jam releasing mechanism is totally tool-free. It will let you easily remove the jammed nails.
There is an adjustable belt hook on the bottom, which will make it possible to carry the tool on the body. Also, the package includes a case. That will make the storing task hassle-free.
It even integrates a rubber grip on the handle. For that reason, you should be capable of comfortably working with it for an extended amount of time. There is an exhaust on the rear as well. That will keep the workspace clean.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
It utilizes a highly reliable motor that will last for a long amount of time. Also, there is a depth-of-drive adjustment knob, and it comes with a storage case.
5. BOSTITCH BTFP12233
Another go-to brand for many in the case of power tools is BOSTITCH. Their offerings are also highly reliable, and this specific model can illustrate that properly.
The first thing that makes it highly reliable is the Smar Point technology. That will make sure that each of the nail placements is highly precise.
It even has a relatively smaller nose, and it does not require any compressing. And that smaller nose will increase the accuracy even further.
Other than being accurate, it is also mess-free. It does not require any lubing or oil to operate. For that reason, there is going to be a slim chance of the tool leaving oil stains on the Hardie siding. There is a tool-free jam releasing mechanism as well. Because of that, its jam release will become a hassle-free process.
It even boasts a proper dial-a-depth control system. That will make sure that the nails are countersink properly.
And with proper hardie siding nails for nail gun, it will be possible to drive nails without leaving any marks or unintentional spots on the surface.
This tool even has an exhaust on the rear. You will also find a belt hook that integrates a pencil sharpener. The trigger also has two modes, and switching between them is a pretty easy task.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
This is another reliable nailer that can offer praiseworthy overall performance. Also, it integrates Smart Point technology that will offer the maximum level of accuracy.
6. NEU MASTER NTC0040
User-friendly design is always a plus point in our books. It makes using any tool feel like handling butter. Well, Neu Master had the same thing in their mind. And that is why they have brought out this model in the market.
First, let us talk about the user-friendly factor. This one has an ergonomic handle. It would be possible to work with the tool for an extended amount of time without facing any fatigue.
And the soft rubber coating will make sure that you can hold it with a maximum amount of comfort.
The unit is pretty versatile as well. It has two different operational modes. You can use it as a nailer or as a stapler. And as it is electric, there will be no need to go through the hassle of managing a compressor, gas, hose. Basically, using it will be a breeze.
There is a non-marring nose as well. This rubber nose will do a great job in terms of leaving a flawless finish.
And, you will not have to worry about having scratches, dents, and dings on the surface. It even has an adjustable power knob. With that, you can increase or lower the overall power of each fire.
Lastly, the unit is going to come with 200 staples. And most importantly, it will include 800 brad nails.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
This unit from Neu Master has a user-friendly design, making operating the device feel like taking a walk in the park. Also, there is a rubber non-marring tip, and the package includes 800 brad nails.
7. CRAFTSMAN CMCN618C1
While there are plenty of well-performing nailers out there, there are not that many that can offer a consistent firing power in every climate condition. And this one from Craftsman is one of those few.
Like we mentioned, this one has a proper motor inside. That motor can offer a consistent firing power, even when the environment around is pretty harsh.
Also, the power will not degrade when the charge is low. So, you can maintain consistency in your work.
Other than being consistent, it is reasonably accurate as well. Thanks to the wide-depth settings, you can drive nails precisely on the Hardie siding and trim.
Also, it will not be necessary to use any tool to adjust that setting because it is tool-free. Even the jam releasing mechanism is tool-free.
There are stall settings as well. And there will be no need to worry about using any tools to adjust those too. Also, the body is pretty light in weight.
It even has the right center of gravity, which will go a long way in offering an optimal amount of balance.
The handle has an ergonomic design too. It even has a contoured shape, and there is over-molding, which will make it comfortable to grip and hold.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
The motor of this one can offer consistent firing power all the time. Also, the accuracy this tool offers is highly praiseworthy. It even has tool-free adjustable mechanisms.
8. NuMax SFL618
On the hunt for a nailer that is light in weight and easy to use? Look no more because NuMax is probably offering the right model for you!
First and foremost, the body of the unit is lightweight aluminum. Thanks to being lightweight, carrying it and moving it from one place to another will not be an issue at all.
Although it is reasonably light, it is not one bit behind in terms of durability. The build quality is stellar, and it should last for a long amount of time.
Apart from being lightweight and durable, it is pretty easy to use too. Due to it having an ergonomic handle, you are sure to get a comfortable grip over it.
Also, the handle has a rubber coating, which will let you get a secure grip. So, you can work for hours without worrying about any fatigue.
The secure grip will also offer you a higher amount of accuracy. It also utilizes an excellent base to keep the unit steady and stable.
That means you will be able to precisely drive nails while carrying out Hardie siding and trim tasks. And it makes light strikes, which will lower the impact while driving the nails.
As the base is replaceable, you will not have to worry one bit if the included one gets damaged for some reason. You can replace it pretty easily.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
We think this is worthy of purchase because it has a lightweight body, yet it is highly durable. Also, it is pretty easy to control, and the accuracy it offers is pretty praiseworthy.
9. Freeman PCN65
Are you worried about leaving marks on the Hardie siding and trims? Well, if you opt for this product that is by Freeman, worrying about that will not be a requirement.
To start with, it integrates an excellent non-marring tip on the nose. Due to this rubber nose, it will not leave any scratches on the surface.
Also, it will not cause any dents or dings. It is pretty accurate as well. That trait will make you capable of driving nails with extreme precision. Basically, the end results will be flawless.
Additionally, it has a lightweight body. For being light in weight, it will not be a problem to move it and carry it.
And the magnesium body is reasonably durable as well. It is capable of going through heavy usage without showing any structural problems. In other words, it will last for a long amount of time.
The unit even has an ergonomic handle. Because of that, you will be capable of holding it for a long time without facing any discomfort.
And as there is a rubber coating on the exterior, there will be no need to worry about your hands slipping while operating the machine.
Lastly, there is a depth adjustment mechanism. With that, you can switch to different depth settings and drive hardie siding nails for nail gun in the right place.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
As it has a proper non-marring tip on the nose and has a lightweight yet durable body, we would say that this one is also 100 percent worth the money.
10. NEU MASTER NTC0023
Not satisfied with the capabilities that most of the nailers have? Want something that boasts a high amount of power? Then have a look at what Neu Master is offering here.
The most standout feature of this one is that it integrates spiral-drive technology. This technology will make it achieve the ability to offer full power for each of the shots.
And with that amount of power, you can drive all of the nails consistently while carrying out Hardie siding and trimming tasks.
Even the battery it utilizes is highly capable. It has a 20 volts rating and has a good amount of capacity as well. With a full charge, it can last for up to 1100 shots.
That means you will not have to worry about charging the device that frequently. Also, it passed the 1000 charging cycles test. So it will operate optimally for a long time.
Other than that, the device is pretty versatile as well. It can work both like a staple gun and a nail gun. And it is compatible with ¼ inches crown staples that are from 5/8 inches to 1 inch.
Also, the 18 gauge nails that it can drive are from 5/8 inches to 1-1/4 inches in length.
It even has a non-marring rubber tip. That will ensure that it does not leave any marks or scratches on the surface. You will also find LED lights on the front. By turning that on, you can work in dimly lit environments.
Pros
Cons
Why Should You Purchase This Product?
The thing that makes it purchase-worthy is the spiral-drive technology. It makes the nailer highly capable and offers it an extra oomph.
How to Install Fiber Cement Siding?
Getting a good nailer for Hardie siding and trim will not get you anywhere if you do not know how to work with fiber cement siding.
That is why we have decided to include this short guide. And we believe this guide will be pretty easy to follow and will make it easier for you to work with fiber cement siding.
That being said, the steps that you need to follow to install one of these is as follows:
Step 1: Prep Work
Before getting into handling the tools and installing the cement siding, you will need a bit of preparation.
Fiber cement siding needs to be installed at about 6 inches or higher than the grade level. And there should be a 1 to 2 inches gap in between the horizontal surfaces.
You should also leave ¼ inches gap in between the siding and flashing above the windows and doors. Now, if you are working alone, we would recommend getting some overlap gauges to get some extra support.
Step 2: Attach the Strips
Start by working with the 1-1/4 inches strips of the siding. Attach them on top of the 1/8 inches strips. It will provide the proper angle.
Then, start nailing the first row and leave 1/8 inches gaps between the boards. Those gaps will allow the boards to caulk. Use the blind nailing method and do not predrill any nail holes.
Step 3: Work with the Joints
Center the joints over the studs. However, this might not be necessary if you are using metal off stud joiners.
But the joints should be butted together with a four inches wide strip. And they should be loosely together, and the strips are going to be 30 pounds in weight.
Ensure that the felts are overhanging from the previous row and there is good enough space in the rear for keeping the water from running just in case the caulking fails. Also, each of the rows should overlap one another by maintaining a 1-1/4 inches or higher gap.
The task of aligning the siding can get easier if you use a spacer stick. But do make sure that you have cut the length of the exposed part while using the spacer stick.
Step 4: Check the Rows
Using a level or a square, check the lining of the rows. Check from the corner and make sure that they are lining up correctly. While notching the siding around the windows and doors, hold the siding in place and mark each of the ends.
To determine how deep the notch is, use a spacer stick and hook them up with the previous row.
Then measure starting from the top of the stick and to the door and window unit. Make sure that you measure twice because this measurement is going to play an important part.
Step 5: Cut the Gables and Finish the Procedure
Finally, you need to cut gables at a certain angle. Start from the piece of the scrap siding and use proper angles. Make sure you mark each of the parts.
Once you are done with cutting the gables, paint the fiber cement siding as soon as possible. Prime the bare siding and topcoat any of the exposed cuts using 100 percent latex paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What nail gun for hardie trim?
Hardie trims are generally thick, and we would recommend using 16 gauge nailers for placing them.
These nailers are going to shoot 16 gauge nails, and they are thicker and have more holding power than 18 gauge nails. However, if the pieces you are working with are not that thick, you can use 18 gauge nailers.
2. What kind of nail gun do you use for hardie boards?
There are three kinds of nail guns available. They are electric, pneumatic, and cordless. The electric ones are going to have cords, while the cordless ones are not going to have any cables attached to them.
And the pneumatic ones are going to use a hose and air compressors. You can use any of the kinds for this task.
3. What nails to use for hardie trim?
The nails are basically going to depend on the nailer that you are using. If you have a 16 gauge nailer, you would need 16 gauge nails, while for 18 gauge nailers, 18 gauge nails would be necessary. However, the size of the nails should be 2 inches.
4. What do you fasten Hardie board with?
To fasten the hardie boards, use 2 inches nails. And to make sure that the nails can hold the boards properly for a long amount of time, use corrosion-resistant nails. Here, stainless steel nails would perform the best.
5. Should you caulk Hardie board siding?
It would be better not to caulk hardie boards. However, if the joints do not look like they should, you might have to caulk them.
Final Words
Without getting the best nail gun for hardie siding, attaching the hardie siding boards and working on the trims will become a nightmare. And we hope that we were able to make it easier for you to choose one.
