Best Nail Gun For Hardie Siding 2023 – The Ultimate Guide

Are you looking to construct a Hardie siding at home? In the modern housing construction sector, Hardie siding is highly widespread. The sturdy fiber cement boards weigh a fair amount. Therefore, for accurate nail placement, you must have the best nail gun for Hardie siding.

A great nailer will make things easier by keeping the board securely attached to the bolts. When nailing Hardie planks properly, the precision and reliability of a siding nail gun are crucial.

In response, we have created a helpful guide that includes 5 of our top siding nailer options. We chose these products after conducting a lot of research and reading a lot of user feedback.

You’ll also receive a useful buyer’s guide so you’ll know what to look for in a nail gun for Hardie siding.

Let’s dive in:

Why should you use a nail gun for Hardie siding?

As opposed to using conventional manual nailing techniques, using a nail gun for Hardie siding can offer several advantages. You should think about using a nail gun for the following reasons:

Speed: When compared to manual nailing, using a nail gun can make installation proceed much more quickly. You can cover a larger area faster with a nail gun because it can precisely and quickly shoot nails.

Efficiency: A nail gun can make your job easier and more precise. It lowers the possibility of misfiring or broken nails by enabling you to insert nails into the material exactly and with less effort.

Reduced stress and fatigue: Using a nail gun can lessen the physical strain and fatigue caused by manual nailing. This can enable you to work for longer periods with greater convenience, lowering your risk of injury and relieving the physical strain of the task.

Improved holding power: Nails driven with a nail gun usually have a stronger holding power than nails driven by hand. Your siding will therefore be more stable and less prone to bend over time.

Overall, installing Hardie siding with a nail gun can be quicker, simpler, and more effective while also giving your siding a sturdier and more secure grip.

What Are the Best Nails for Hardie Siding?

Since Hardie siding is a delicate task, you may require particular types of nails in order to get the best results out of it. Thus, you have to know the proper size of nails you want for your Hardie siding project.

Hot-dipped galvanized and stainless steel nails are the best nails for Hardie siding because they can prevent rust and corrosion and also offer you a strain-free operation. The recommended nail size includes 6D or 8D and 1 ¾” to 2 ¾”.

Different types of siding

Here are 3 common types of siding with their pros and cons:

1. Fiber Cement siding

Pros Of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Withstands decay, insects, and fire
• Extended lifespan (up to 50 years)
• Low need for maintenance
• Can replicate the appearance of different Siding materials, such as stucco or wood
• Available in a range of colorings and textures
• Friendly to the environment

Cons Of Fiber Cement Siding:

• The item weighs a lot, thus special installation methods could be needed.
• The drilling and cutting procedure generates harmful particles.
• Initial assembly may cost more than other siding types

2. Wood siding

Pros Of Wood Siding:

• Provides a natural and classic appearance
• Easily replaceable and repairable
• Environmentally friendly
• Able to be stained or painted any color

Cons Of Wood Siding:

• High upkeep demands, such as requiring constant painting, sealing, and cleaning
• Prone to decay, pest infestation, and fire
• After being exposed to the environment, prone to bending, cracking, and splitting
• More pricey than other siding types like vinyl or aluminum

3. Hardboard siding

Pros Of Hardboard Siding:

• Cost-effective
• Can resemble real wood in appearance
• Simple to install
• It is paintable in any color

Cons Of Hardboard Siding:

• Prone to decay and invasion by insects
• Can draw moisture, which causes stiffness and breaking.
• Requires routine upkeep, such as painting and sealing
• Less long-lasting than other siding materials and can require replacement sooner

The most resilient and easy-to-maintain solution overall is fiber cement siding, but it is also the most costly. Although it has a classic appearance, wood siding needs more maintenance than other types. Hardboard siding is less expensive than other siding types but is also less robust.

When selecting siding material, it is crucial to think about these aspects as well as assess your particular requirements and budgetary constraints.

Our Favorite Nail Gun For Hardie Siding

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The 5 Best Nail Gun For Hardie Siding Reviews

1. BOSTITCH N66C Coil Siding Nailer

The Bostitich N66C coil siding nail gun makes a good balance of efficiency and portability. It is comfortable to use in difficult-to-reach areas and only weighs 4.08 pounds, making it simple to hold.

It lasts longer because of the sturdy aluminum housing. Additionally, it has good resistance to corrosion and rust. With consistent nailing power, driving 100 nails is possible in a minute. The side-loading magazine with a patented design is our favorite. This makes it possible for you to refill the nails as needed.

This nailer’s nail-locking feature, which prevents inadvertent fire, adds to its value. The nose-piece of this device has a carbide insert to provide long-term effectiveness. Aside from that, it also includes a comfy rubber foot for additional safety.

The reloading display will let you know when it’s time to reload the nails, which you will appreciate. You will also discover that its rapid, adjustable depth guide is useful for obtaining the desired depth. Ultimately, the rubber handle’s overmolding provides extra support and ease while working.

Key Features

• Sturdy and long-lasting aluminum casing
• Overmolded ergonomic grip
• Nail-locking system
• Adjustable depth guide

What We Like

• Steady performance and efficiency
• The side-loading magazine for rapid reloading
• Comfortable rubber foot
• Higher nailing power
• Carbide nose piece

What We Don’t Like

• Built quality requires a bit of improvement

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2. Freeman PCN65 Pneumatic Coil Siding Nailer

Freeman PCN65 is the best pneumatic nail gun for Hardie siding. It has several user-friendly features. First and foremost, it is portable and lightweight, making it simple to grasp and transport. The robust magnesium casing assures smooth operation and longevity.

This nail gun’s polycarbonate body minimizes overheating and ensures user security. Furthermore, the well-constructed rubber grip features superior ergonomics to provide pleasing friction and ease.

We are happy with the no-mar safety feature, which keeps the workspace neat and also stops unintentional shooting. An adjustable depth guide fits the desired depth well.

You’ll discover a transparent bucket in which the remaining nails are visible. There’s an adjustable 360° air exhaust that eliminates dirt and dust from the work surface. Additionally, the safety trigger lock device eliminates inadvertent shooting. The bump-firing mechanism aids in accurate nail driving as well.

Key Features

• Robust magnesium casing
• 360° adjustable air exhaust
• Bump-firing lever
• No-mar safety feature

What We Like

• Durable and user-friendly
• Lightweight
• Easy and safe to operate
• Ergonomic grips for better control
• Adjustable depth guide

What We Don’t Like

• Incompatible with various types of nails

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3. Metabo HPT NV65AH2 Coil Siding Nailer

Looking for the best nail gun for James Hardie siding? Then, the Metabo HPT NV65AH2 coil siding nailer could be the right option for you. With this simple-to-use nail gun, you may choose between consecutive and contact nailing by simply flicking a switch. A quick and simple refilling mechanism is another advantage.

This tool drives various fasteners, adding more flexibility. With the aid of the tool-free depth adjuster, you can choose the depth that you want. In addition, you can guide the exhaust air away from your face with the adjustable air deflector.

Besides that, it ensures simple transportation and is highly useful at only 4.8 lbs. It has a plastic-coated frame to provide more security. You are protected from expelled debris thanks to this addition.

Metabo also provides a 5-year manufacturer warranty against any flaws. However, because of its higher efficiency, this is the ideal tool for professionals.

Key Features

• Consecutive and contact nailing method
• Quick refilling system
• Durable plastic-coated frame
• Tool-less depth guide

What We Like

• Flexible option
• Desired actuation mechanism
• Easy to transport
• Integrated air exhauster
• 5-year warranty period

What We Don’t Like

• A bit pricey

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4. MAX USA CORP SuperSider CN565S3 Siding Coil Nailer

MAX USA CN565S3 is a professional-grade coil siding nailer with a lot of useful features. It is an ideal choice for siding, fencing, external trimming, exterior sheathing, and clamping projects. Besides, it is the most flexible choice that is accessible.

First off, although strong, it is lightweight, weighing only 5 pounds. It is convenient and comfortable to use due to its compact design. This tool includes a good grip as a safety mechanism that enables you to operate comfortably without getting fatigued. Additionally, it lessens vibration.

Additionally, this machine has a 360-degree variable exhaust that guarantees your security by directing air away from your face. Also, it helps to clean the work area of debris and particles. The most appealing feature we loved in this nailer is its double-firing method.

Along with this, there is a simple nail-loading magazine that reduces reloading time. Its integrated carrying case makes it easy to maintain as well. Overall, this could be great value for the money with its durable construction and user-friendly qualities.

Key Features

• Anti-double firing method
• Simple twisted flexible deflector
• 360° adjustable exhaust
• Inbuilt rafter hook

What We Like

• Simple nail-loading magazine
• Easy to maintain
• Great value for the money
• Compact and easy to transport
• Useful carrying case

What We Don’t Like

• The depth adjuster is fairly loose

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5. DEWALT DW66C-1 Coil Siding and Fencing Nailer

Your best option is going to be DEWALT DW66C-1. It is a lightweight device that weighs only 4.9 lbs. As a result, you have more flexibility. It is strong and long-lasting thanks to its solid aluminum shell. In our opinion, it is the best cordless nail gun for Hardie siding.

The rubber foot is quite useful and pleasant since it protects the work area from the damage. Additionally, the adjustable rafter attachment on this coil siding nail gun allows you to comfortably work the whole day.

Plus, this fencing nailer includes a variable exhaust that you can manage quickly without the need for tools. It also comes with a comfy rubber handle that has an excellent ergonomic design. This reduces fatigue in the arm and minimizes vibration during operation.

It can also operate wire mesh and plastic coil nails to provide optimum performance. The tool-free depth guidance allows you to accurately tighten fasteners. Therefore, it is feasible to finish difficult siding operations by precisely changing the nail depth.

Key Features

• Convenient rubber foot
• Excellent ergonomic handle
• Tool-free adjustable rafter hook
• Sturdy and long-lasting aluminum casing

What We Like

• Reliable rubber foot guards against injury
• Simple to use and control
• Adjustable rafter hooks make convenience possible.
• Precise fastener placement by tool-free depth adjustability.
• Compact and robust design

What We Don’t Like

• There is no carrying case available

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What to Look for in The Best Nail Gun for Hardie Siding | Buying Guide

The features that you look for in the Hardie siding nail gun are the following:

Nailer Type

The type of nail gun is the very first feature to consider before you purchase a nail gun for Hardie planks. There are different types of nail guns for Hardie siding. Coil siding nailers, framing nailers, and roofing nail guns work great for Hardie planks. We recommend coil siding nailers as the best choice since they have great driving power and nailing capacity.

Source of Energy

You can either choose battery-powered nail guns or nailers that are powered through air compressors. Framing nailers operate through an air compressor and provide maximum driving power and efficiency. On the other hand, battery-powered cordless nail guns are a good choice for their excellent mobility. Choose one according to your task.

If you have a heavy-duty task, you should opt for a pneumatic nailer that drives through an air compressor. Because pneumatic nail guns offer greater power and efficiency. But a cordless option will come in handy if you want easier maneuverability.

Nail Gauge

Hardie siding requires specially shaped nails. Therefore, choosing the appropriate nail gauge is very crucial for installing Hardie boards. A 15 or 16-gauge nail will be great for installing Hardie boards. The nail must have a length of 2 inches to serve this specific purpose.

Stainless steel and hot-dipped aluminum are the best nails for Hardie siding. Because these nails can overcome any rust and corrosion.

Depth Control

Hardie siding is a quite challenging task. To get a perfect finish, keeping the board securely stuck in the nailer is important. And a tool-free depth adjuster can do the task for you. It also provides maximum flexibility and control over the project.

This also allows you to get the desired nailing depth according to the task. So, look for a user-friendly nail gun that features a toolless depth adjuster option.

Magazine type

Considering the type of magazine is very important to achieve a successful Hardie siding project. Various nail guns for Hardie siding come in different sizes ranging from

1¼ to 2½ inches. This standard length can deal with most of your demanding siding projects. You should choose one that best suits your task.

We would recommend picking a magazine type with sideway loading. Because this can minimize reloading time.

Ease of Operation

Ease of operation is one of the most useful features you should consider in the best nail gun for Hardie board siding. You should look for a nailer that ensures your safety and comfort while working. We suggest choosing a lightweight nail gun that is easy to use. Make sure the nail gun has enough ergonomics to reduce fatigue and vibration while you work.

Jamming Frequency

Frequent jamming is a very common issue with nail guns. Nail guns tend to stick nails in the magazine so often. Therefore, you should look for a nail gun that can lessen this problem. We recommend buying a nail gun that has an anti-jamming mechanism to prevent nail jamming or one that comes with a quick jam-releasing system to clear off stuck nails from the magazine.

Durability

Looking for a durable and robust nail gun is necessary because Hardie siding is a high-end task. We suggest choosing a nail gun with either aluminum or stainless steel construction. They are more reliable than their plastic counterparts.

Bump Mode

You should also think about the bump mode of the nail gun. Look for a selective trigger mode in your nail gun that allows you to switch between sequential firing and contact firing mode.

Warranty

Lastly, you should also take the warranty period of your nail gun into account. Usually, durable nail guns come with a significant warranty period along with 24/7 customer service. Do your research, review customer feedback, and finally purchase a nail gun from a renowned brand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: What size nails for Hardie siding?

The nails used for Hardie siding are 6d, which range in length from 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches. The thickness of your materials will help you choose the appropriate size. Additionally, ensure that your nailer is appropriate for shooting nails of that length.

Q: What nail gun do you use for Hardie siding?

You can go for any of the best nailers for Hardie siding that ensure smooth nailing. We recommend Freeman PCN65 as the best for Hardie board since it comes with sturdy construction and has greater nailing capacity.

Q: Can I use a regular nail gun for siding?

Yes, you can use a regular framing nailer for siding if it comes with a considerable nail size. However, you won’t get the best performance as a siding nailer offers. But Brad nailer for Hardie board will not do so great since it has a small nailing power.

Q: Can I use a roofing nailer for the siding?

Sure. A roofing nailer for Hardie siding will suffice. But it will not offer the best outcome that a siding nailer provides.

Q: What is the best nail gun for Hardie siding?

We recommend “BOSTITCH Framing Nail Gun” as the best nail gun for Hardie siding. Because it is a high-performing nail gun with a lot of useful features. Its magnesium body improves the mobility factor and allows you to work with convenience. Besides, the build quality is also durable to handle challenging tasks.

Q: Can I Use Hardie Siding with Bright Finish Nails?

No, it is strongly prohibited to use Hardie siding with Bright Finish nails. You should better use hot-dipped galvanized nails and stainless steel nails for this purpose.

Final Summary

Now that you have the best nail gun for Hardie siding in hand. Remember that Hardie board siding is a sensitive task and it requires consistent nailing with precision. But when you have the best tool aside, it’ll be a breeze for you.

First things first, maintaining your safety is very crucial. Follow proper instructions before nailing a Hardie plank, otherwise, you may end up hurting yourself. Make sure to wear safety measures before starting the project.

We have reviewed the best options available in the market. Now, it’s your turn to do your research and opt for one that meets your requirements. We hope that this guide will help you limit your choices.