What Size Finish Nails For 3/4 Quarter Round? The Best Guide (2024)

by Collin

3/4″ finish nails are the appropriate size for the quarter round.

Choosing the right size finish nails is critical when installing quarter-round molding. The wrong size nails can split or damage the molding, or the nails may not hold the molding securely in place.

If you’re wondering what size finish nails for 3/4 quarter round, you’ve come to the right place. Today I will cover this topic.

The size of the nails you’ll need will depend on the thickness of your molding. For 3/4″ quarter round molding, you’ll need 1″ finish nails. Be sure to predrill your holes to avoid splitting the wood.

This article explored the different sizes of finish nails and which size is best for 3/4 inch quarter round molding. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional carpenter, understanding the right size of finish nails can make all the difference in achieving a clean and secure installation.

Table of Contents

What Size Finish Nails For 3/4 Quarter Round?

For 3/4 quarter round, you should use finish nails 1 inches long.
There are a few factors to consider when selecting the correct size finish nails for your project. The most important factor is the thickness of the quarter-round. For example, if you use 3/4″ quarter round, you must use 1″ finish nails.

Another thing to consider is the type of wood you are using. Softer woods like pine or cedar require smaller nails, while harder woods like oak or maple require larger nails.

If you are unsure of what size finish nails to use, it is always best to err on the side of caution and go with a larger size. This will help to prevent the quarter round from splitting when you nail it into place.

Here is a quick rundown of what size finish nails to use for various thicknesses of quarter round:

  • 3/4″ quarter round – 1″ finish nails
  • 1″ quarter round – 1-1/4″ finish nails
  • 1-1/4″ quarter round – 1-1/2″ finish nails

Now that you know what size finish nails for 3/4 quarter round to use, let’s look at how to install it.

How Many Finish Nails Do I Need For 3/4 Quarter Round?

You will need approximately 16 finish nails for 3/4 quarter round.

What Size Finish Nails For 3/4 Quarter Round? The Best Guide (1)


If you plan on installing quarter-round molding in your home, you might wonder how many finish nails you need to get the job done. Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out the answer.

The first thing you need to know is the size of the quarter round molding you’ll be using. The most common size is 3/4 inch, but you can also find 1/2 inch and 1 inch options. Once you know the size, you can calculate the number of nails you’ll need using the following formula:

Number of nails = (length of molding in feet x 12) / 4

For example, if you’re using 3/4 inch quarter round molding that’s 8 feet long, you would need (8 x 12) / 4, or 24, nails.

Keep in mind that this is just a general estimate. You may need more or fewer nails, depending on the specific project you’re working on. And if you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have a few extra nails on hand.

How To Install Quarter Round With Finish Nails?

  • The first step is to cut the quarter round to the desired length.
  • Next, hold the quarter round in place and mark where you must make your cuts. Once you have your marks, cut the quarter round to size with a saw.
  • Now that your quarter round is cut to size, it’s time to install it.
  • Begin by holding the quarter round and predrilling holes for your nails. Once your holes are drilled, it’s time to nail the quarter round into place.
  • Start at one end and work to the other, driving the nails in at a 45-degree angle. Be sure to countersink the nails, so they are flush with the surface of the quarter round.
  • Once you have all the nails in place, it’s time to fill the holes with wood putty. Be sure to match the putty to the finish of your quarter round. Once the putty is dry, sand it down so that it is flush with the surface of the quarter-round.

And that’s it. You’ve now successfully installed quarter round using finish nails.

What Is The Best Way To Install Quarter Round?

Cut the quarter round at a 45-degree angle and fit it snugly into the corner.
This versatile trim can be used in various ways, from hiding gaps to creating a built-in look. And while it may seem daunting, installing quarter-round is quite easy. Plus, I’ll show you some tricks to make the job easier.

So, let’s get started.

The first thing you need to do is measure the space where you’ll be installing the quarter round. Then, cut the quarter round to size using a miter saw.

Next, apply a bead of construction adhesive to the back of the quarter round. Then, press the quarter round into place.

Once the quarter-round is in place, you must caulk the seams. This will help create a seamless look and prevent any water damage.

Finally, use a nail gun to secure the quarter round in place. Begin by nailing the quarter round’s top and bottom. Then, work your way down the sides.

That’s it. You’ve successfully installed quarter-round. Now, enjoy your new space.

Do I Need To Use A Finish Nailer For Quarter Round?

If you’re wondering whether you need a finish nailer for quarter round, the answer is probably yes. Quarter round is a type of trim used to cover the gap between the baseboard and the floor. It also covers the gap between the door frame and the wall.

Finish nailers are specifically designed to shoot nails into trim without splitting it. This makes them essential for any trim work, including quarter round.

Now let’s take a look at a real-life example. Let’s say you’re doing some trim work in your living room and need to install some quarter-round.

You could try to use a hammer and nails, but you’ll likely split the trim. This is where a finish nailer comes in. With a finish nailer, you can quickly and easily install quarter round without causing any damage to the trim.

So, if you plan on doing any trim work, ensure you have a finish nailer on hand. It will make your life much easier, and your trim work will look great.

Do I Need To Use Anything Else Besides Nails For Quarter Round?

No, nails are the only thing you must use for quarter round.

What Size Finish Nails For 3/4 Quarter Round? The Best Guide (2)


If you’re wondering if you need to use anything else besides nails for quarter round, the answer is no. You can nail the quarter round directly into the baseboard.

However, you can use quarter-round clips for a more secure hold. These clips attach to the baseboard and hold the quarter round in place. They’re especially helpful if you have pets or small children who might bump into the quarter round and knock it loose.

First, measure the length of the quarter round to install quarter round clips. Then, mark where to place the clips on the baseboard. Drill pilot holes at the marked locations and screw the clips into place. Finally, nail the quarter-round into the clips.

Here’s an example of how to install quarter round with clips:

  1. Measure the length of the quarter round.
  2. Mark where you’ll need to place the clips on the baseboard.
  3. Drill pilot holes at the marked locations.
  4. Screw the clips into place.
  5. Nail the quarter round into the clips.

FAQ

Can I Use A Brad Nailer For Quarter Round?

A brad nailer is not recommended for quarter round because the nails are too small and may not hold the quarter round in place.

Is There A Special Way To Cut Quarter Round?

No, there is not a special way to cut quarter round. You can use a miter saw, hand saw, or power saw to cut it.

What Is The Best Way To Remove Quarter Round?

The best way to remove quarter round is to use a utility knife to score the paint or caulk line where the quarter round meets the baseboard. Then, using a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver, pry the quarter round away from the wall.

What Is The Best Way To Remove Quarter Round?

The best way to remove quarter round is to use a utility knife to score the paint or caulk line where the quarter round meets the baseboard. Then, using a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver, pry the quarter round away from the wall.

Can I Reuse Quarter Round?

Yes, you can reuse quarter round as long as it is in good condition and the same size as the space you are trying to fill.

What Else Do I Need To Know About Quarter Round?

A quarter round is a type of trim used to finish the edge of a floor or piece of furniture. It is made of wood or plastic and is available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Sum Up

Finally, when installing 3/4 inch quarter round molding, choosing the right size of finish nails is critical. Utilizing 1 1/4 inch trim work finish nails will give a secure hold without harming the molding.

Using a nail gun with a depth control option is also critical to ensure that the nail is driven in just enough to fasten the molding without leaving an ugly hole.

You can produce a professional-looking finish that will endure time by choosing the right size of finish nails and utilizing the proper tools. By the ways, the most common size finish nail for a 3/4 quarter round is a 15-gauge nail.

Hopefully, you are clear now about what size finish nails for 3/4 quarter round. If you still have any questions, feel free to comment below.

What Size Finish Nails For 3/4 Quarter Round? The Best Guide (2024)

FAQs

What size finish nails for quarter-round trim? ›

This type of nails have smaller heads than standard nails. Quarter round is narrow, typically about 3/4 inch wide, or less, measured along its two straight edges. A finish nail gun, fitted with 1.5-inch micro pin nails or 2-inch brad nails, works well for this project.

What is the best finish nail length for trim? ›

Generally, a 2-inch finishing nail with a gauge of 15 or 16 is a common choice for attaching baseboard trim to the wall. However, if you are using thicker or harder wood for the baseboard, you may want to use a longer or thicker nail to ensure a secure hold.

What nailer to use for quarter-round? ›

If you're doing lighter molding, such as quarter-round at the bottom of your wall, or installing a chair rail, an 18 Gauge Brad Nailer is fine for the job.

Are 16 or 18 gauge nails for baseboards? ›

Overall, nails with a gauge of 15 or 16 work well for fastening baseboards. Their size assures good holding power for baseboards to stay in place. If the baseboards are especially thin, you could use an 18-gauge nailer.

How do you hide nails in quarter round? ›

Use paintable wood putty to fill in any nail holes or noticeable gaps. Caulk is an alternative to putty if you installed quarter round with a white finish.

How do you choose the right finish nail length? ›

The rule of thumb with nails... 2 points if you get the pun... is that you should choose a nail that is three times as long as the thickness of the material you are fastening. If you want to hold 1/2" drywall to a stud wall, the length of the nails should be at least 1 1/2". This is a reasonable guide most of the time.

Can I use 18 gauge nails for trim? ›

One of the benefits to an 18-gauge brad is its size. Thanks to a smaller head and diameter, brad nails are easier to conceal in small pieces of wood trim. With a smaller head size, it's possible that the insertion point may not even need to be concealed with wood putty.

What are proper nails for trim? ›

Brad nails are thin fasteners commonly used for indoor projects like applying trim, paneling and moulding. Also called brads, they have a small diameter with a smaller head than other nail types. This allows for a seamless finish with a less visible hole, making them ideal for many woodworking projects.

What gauge nail to use for trim? ›

16-gauge nails are the most versatile size, so a 16-gauge nail gun is a great option if you need it for many different projects. 15-gauge nails are most often used for installing thick trim. 18-gauge and higher-gauge nail guns are best used for fine detail work, furniture repair and thin trim work.

What are 18 gauge nails used for? ›

18-gauge brad nailers are perfect for fragile pieces making them great for decorative molding, paneling, casing, and trim work. It has a nail length of 0.5 to 2.5 inches and the thickness is 0.0475-inch. The best thing is that it is very handy and can provide an intricate finish.

What are 16 gauge nails used for? ›

15 and 16 gauge Finish Nailer

This is ideal for heavier jobs working with thick, dense wood, door trims, casings, or hanging doors. 15-gauge finish nailers are more powerful, and the nails come with round heads giving you the penetrating power and holding power needed for these types of applications.

Can you use a finish nailer for quarter round? ›

You NEED a finish nailer. Your choice of 16ga straight or 15ga angled. The quarter round or shoe molding not only covers any gaps where the floor is short, but covers gaps at the bottom of the base where the floor dips, because it is flexible. You need a finish nailer to do the base molding.

Do I want a 16 or 18 gauge nailer? ›

15- and 16-gauge nail guns use thicker nails up to two-and-a-half inches long, while an 18g nail gun shoots brad nailer nails that are a maximum of two inches. Then you have three-and-a-half-inch framing nail gun nails and much smaller 20- and 23-gauge pin gun staples.

Should I use a brad nailer or finish nailer for baseboards? ›

Should You Use a Brad Nailer or a Finish Nailer for Baseboards? A finish nailer is best for installing baseboards. The strength and holding power of the 16- or 15-guage finishing nails will make the moulding more secure and minimize the need for reinstalling the pieces in the future.

What size nails should I use for trim? ›

15-gauge – For the outer nail on casing (through drywall) and for base trim or other large trim , and sturdy install of door jambs, particularly heavy, solid-core doors. Non-structural interior applications such as crown molding, door casings or chair rail offer the most choice in the tools and fasteners you use.

What size finish nails for shoe molding? ›

They should be no closer than 9 inches to each other. If you're wondering, “Which nails should I use for shoe moulding?” the answer is 2″ brad nails for the nail gun.

What size should trim nails be? ›

You should use between a 15- and 18-gauge nail based on your baseboard size. With these, you can locate nails that are 2.5” in length, making them the ideal length for installing baseboards. If you use a brad nail, you should use a 15-gauge nail that is two inches long.

Can I use 18 gauge nails for baseboard? ›

I put all my baseboard on with 18g brads and its not coming off but could use a few brads here and there after 10 years. Nothing wrong with a Craftsman nailer. I've had my bradnailer for 18 years and no issues. I'd use 16 ga to nail it to the wall, 18 ga to nail outside miter joints.

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