Ethan Clarke
Plastic and paper collated nails are held together in strips by either plastic or paper. While plastic collated nails are more readily available and less expensive, paper collated nails have a few benefits of their own. Paper collated nails are less likely to jam, hold more nails per strip, and are safer and cleaner to use. However, they are more expensive and more susceptible to damage from moisture. So, while both types of nails have their advantages and disadvantages, the choice between the two depends on specific requirements and constraints.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Plastic collated nails are cheaper than paper collated nails. |
| Availability | Plastic collated nails are more readily available than paper collated nails. |
| Ease of use | Paper collated nails are less likely to jam and have fewer occurrences of jambs. |
| Safety | Paper collated nails are safer than plastic collated nails as they produce less flying debris. |
| Cleanliness | Paper collated nails are cleaner than plastic collated nails as they do not leave small pieces of plastic behind. |
| Durability | Plastic collated nails are more durable than paper collated nails, which can get damaged by moisture if water-resistant paper is not used. |
| Head style | Plastic collated nails have larger heads than paper collated nails. |
| Compatibility | Paper collated nails are designed to fit all 28° to 34° pneumatic nailer tools. Plastic collated nails are available in various angles, including 0°, 15°, 20°, 21°, 22°, and so on. |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of plastic collated nails
Plastic collated nails have dominated the market, but paper collated nails have seen a recent resurgence. The choice between the two depends on your framing requirements and project conditions. Here are some pros and cons of plastic collated nails to help you decide which option is best for your needs:
Pros of Plastic Collated Nails:
- Plastic collated nails are compatible with a wide range of nail guns, although it is important to ensure that your specific nail gun supports them.
- They are more durable and resistant to breakage compared to paper collated nails, ensuring consistent performance even in demanding conditions.
- The plastic collation reduces the likelihood of nail jams, allowing for uninterrupted and efficient nailing.
- They are moisture-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor or high-moisture applications.
- They are generally more readily available in local hardware stores and big box stores.
- They are more affordable than paper collated nails.
- They have a larger head, making them a good fit for sheathing or similar applications.
Cons of Plastic Collated Nails:
- They can leave behind debris when fired, with small pieces of plastic shooting out of the nail gun and onto the job site. This can be a safety hazard, particularly in tight quarters, and may require the use of eye protection.
- They are more prone to flagging, which is when pieces of plastic get stuck under the nail head, creating an uneven surface and preventing nails from seating fully.
- They hold fewer nails per strip than paper collations, requiring more time to be spent switching out nails throughout the day.
- They are more susceptible to breaking apart from abuse on the job site.
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Pros and cons of paper collated nails
While plastic collated nails have dominated the market, paper collated nails have gained popularity in recent years. Paper collated nails offer several advantages, but they also come with certain drawbacks. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of paper collated nails:
Pros of Paper Collated Nails:
- Reduced Jamming: Paper collated nails are less prone to jamming in nail guns. The paper strip breaks down more easily, reducing interruptions during the nailing process.
- Enhanced Holding Power: The paper strip firmly secures the nails, reducing the chance of nails becoming dislodged during installation.
- Less Flying Debris: Paper collated nails produce less flying debris when fired. The bits of paper are pushed into the wood instead of flying around the site or towards the user.
- Safer and Cleaner: The reduced debris makes paper collated nails safer to use, and they also require less cleanup.
- Holds More Nails: Paper collated nails typically hold about 10 more nails per strip, resulting in less time spent switching out nails during the day.
- Environmental Benefits: Paper collation is considered more environmentally friendly as the paper strips are biodegradable and recyclable, reducing waste and environmental impact.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Paper collated nails are often more cost-effective due to a less expensive manufacturing process, making them a budget-friendly option for framing projects.
Cons of Paper Collated Nails:
- Moisture Susceptibility: Paper collated nails can be affected by moisture if water-resistant paper is not used, which can ruin the collation.
- Prone to Damage: Paper collated nails are more susceptible to damage than welded-wire nails, which are highly resistant to job-site abuse.
- Flagging: Paper collated nails may leave paper stuck under the nail head, creating an uneven surface and preventing nails from seating fully.
- Availability: Paper collated nails may not be as readily available as plastic collated nails, which can be a significant consideration when choosing nails for a project.
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Cost comparison between the two
When it comes to cost, 21-degree paper collated framing nails are often the more cost-effective option compared to plastic collated nails. The manufacturing process for paper collated nails is generally less expensive, making them a budget-friendly choice for construction projects.
However, it's important to consider that paper collated nails are typically the most expensive type of collation when compared to other options like welded-wire nails. The cost of paper collated nails can be justified by their performance benefits, such as reduced jamming and increased crew productivity.
On the other hand, plastic collated nails are usually more readily available in local hardware stores and can save you some money. However, this comes at a cost. The strips of plastic collated nails are more susceptible to breaking apart during use and can create additional cleanup work due to the small pieces of plastic that shoot out of the nail guns.
When deciding between paper and plastic collated nails, it's essential to consider your project requirements, nail gun compatibility, and budget constraints. If you require enhanced holding power and reduced jamming, paper collated nails may be the ideal choice. However, if weather resistance and durability are critical for your project, plastic collated nails could be more suitable despite their higher price point.
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Availability of each type
Plastic collated nails have dominated the market, with many manufacturers offering this type. They are readily available in hardware stores and online, with suppliers such as Home Depot, Nail Gun Depot, and Everwin Pneumatic stocking them. They are also available in a variety of lengths, including 2 inches, 3 1/2 inches, and 3 1/4 inches.
In contrast, paper collated nails have been less prevalent in the market, with fewer manufacturers offering them. However, there has been a recent increase in their use, and they can be found at suppliers such as Paslode and Duo-Fast. They are also available from online retailers like Amazon and eBay. Paper collated nails are generally more expensive than plastic collated nails.
The availability of each type of nail may vary depending on the region and the specific supplier. Some sources indicate that plastic collated nails are more readily available, while others suggest that paper collated nails are becoming more accessible. It is always a good idea to check with local hardware stores and construction suppliers to determine the availability of each type in your area.
It is worth noting that the choice between plastic and paper collated nails may depend on factors such as the type of nail gun being used, the specific application, and personal preferences regarding cleanliness, safety, and cost. Some nail guns are designed to work with specific types of nails, so it is important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from experts in the field.
While plastic collated nails are widely available, it is important to consider the environmental impact of plastic waste. Paper collated nails can be a more sustainable option, but they may be more susceptible to moisture damage if water-resistant paper is not used. As such, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type of nail collation before making a decision.
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Compatibility with nail guns
Nail guns are designed to accommodate nails of specific angles, collation types, lengths, and gauges. Most framing nailers, for example, operate at fixed collation angles of 21°, 28°, 30°, or 34°. Using a nail with the wrong angle or collation method can result in feed failures or jams. It is important to refer to the manufacturer's manual or the label on the tool to confirm the correct specifications.
The nail head style is also a crucial factor. Some building codes restrict the use of exposed clipped head nails, requiring full round head nails instead. Additionally, the collation type, such as plastic, paper, or wire, also plays a role in compatibility. Plastic collated nails, for instance, tend to have a larger head and leave plastic fragments on the job site, which may interfere with finish quality. Paper collated nails, on the other hand, create less mess, but are more susceptible to moisture and humidity, which can lead to feeding issues or misfires.
It is worth noting that some nail guns offer versatility in collation types. For example, the Bostitch F21PL nail gun can use both plastic and paper collated nails, while certain Paslode and Duo-Fast nail guns have been successfully tested with paper collated nails.
When selecting the right collated nails for your nail gun, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your project, including the environmental conditions and the desired finish quality. Additionally, factors such as cost, availability, and ease of use may also influence your decision. Ultimately, it is crucial to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consider the unique specifications of your nail gun to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic collated nails are the most economical type of framing nails. They are also more readily available in local stores.
Plastic collated nails are more susceptible to breaking apart from abuse on the job site. They are also more likely to cause jamming and will leave pieces of plastic stuck under the nailhead.
Paper collated nails are less likely to cause jamming and are therefore more productive. They are also safer and cleaner to use, with less flying debris.
Paper collated nails are more expensive than plastic collated nails. They are also more prone to damage from moisture if water-resistant paper is not used.
