Best Nail Gun For Hardie Trim 2021 – Reviews & Top Picks

You’ve probably seen houses with beautiful siding. You may have even felt jealous when the house next to yours has a much more attractive exterior.

It’s natural to take pride in your home and want it to look the best on the street. James Hardie trim has been around for a while, making houses look gorgeous.

Best Nail Gun for Hardie Trim

But just how do you get that gorgeous trim? It’s easier to install than you probably think. The most important thing you’ll need is a great nail guns. The Best nail gun for Hardie trim will get the job done right.

Our Favorite Picks of 2021 Compared:

5 Best Nail Gun For Hardie Trim – Reviews

1. Metabo HPT Framing Nailer, The Pro Preferred Brand

Most everyone who is familiar with power tools of any kind is familiar with the brand Hitachi. Metabo HPT was formerly known as Hitachi Power Tools. Metabo HTP is the same great and reliable brand just under a new name.

The framing nail gun is an amazing and durable nail gun to get any job done easily and efficiently. Anyone can use it and it is a great tool for securing Hardie trim to the outside of your home.

Metabo HPT Framing Nailer, The Pro Preferred Brand

This nail gun also features a two-piece anodized aluminum magazine that makes repairs a cinch. Metabo has included a selective actuation switch that allows for snappy switches between sequential and contact nailing. To top it all off, a great rubber grip adds stability while using.

Metabo HPT isn’t the preferred brand of Pneumatic nailers for nothing. Year after year they have won multiple surveys. This nail gun lives up to the expectation with the ability to use up to 3 ½” nails. It is amazing for flooring, framing, roof decking and Hardie trim.

Pros:

  • Simple maintenance and repair
  • Switch between sequential and contact nailing easily
  • Lightweight, 7.5 lbs.
  • High quality, anodized material
  • Up to 3 ½” nails

Cons:

  • Expensive

2. Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic Framing

This set is an incredible value, including various types of nailers and a carrying bag for the entire set. You can’t get a much better deal than that. Let’s start with the types of nail guns included in the set.

This set includes a framing nailer, finish nailer, straight brad nailer, and a narrow crown nailer. Conveniently, all these fit great in the rugged carrying bag.

Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic Framing

The best nailer for a Hardie trim job is going to be the framing nailer as it can support nails of up to 3 ½”. But since all of these nailers are great for heavy duty and fine detail, you will probably find yourself using each of them at least once during your job. Freeman has outstanding merit and high-quality products. The tools you get are guaranteed to be durable and tough.

All of the nail guns included have adjustable depth for any application. They are also all fit with an anti-dust air filter to keep the inside of the tool free of debris. The 360-degree exhaust also allows debris to flow away from the tool. These nail guns also have quick jam release noses and do not use oil.

Pros:

  • Oil-free nail gun
  • Air filter and anti-dust cap
  • Comes with 4 nail guns and one carrying case
  • Adjustable depth

Cons:

  • Unreliable warranty

3. MAX CN565S3 “SuperSider” Siding Coil Nailer

When you’re looking for a nail gun that has everything, the SuperSider has it all from power to a beautiful design. This nail gun is perfect for Hardie trim and siding and every other use you could think of as well. One of the best features about this nailer is its beautiful design.

The design looks great, but is also super functional and keeps you comfortable while you’re working. The easy twist adjustable deflector keeps you safe from flying debris while you work.

Especially helpful is the 360 adjustable exhaust deflector. This deflector will keep the exhaust and debris away from the tool and away from the user. The SuperSider really has the user’s protection in mind.

MAX CN565S3 “SuperSider” Siding Coil Nailer

Another great feature of the SuperSider is the anti-double fire mechanism. This built in feature keeps you from accidentally firing twice in the same spot. This is a great way to protect you, your project, and preserve your nails. With an easy-load nail magazine, this nailer doesn’t get any more convenient. It also has a convenient rafter hook and carrying case.

The SuperSider has many great features but it definitely doesn’t lack in power. The SuperSider can fire 3 ½” nails at intense levels of power. This nail gun will get the job done.

Pros:

  • High power and outstanding durability
  • Multiple protection features for the user and tool
  • Anti-double fire prevention
  • Fires up to 3 ½” nails

Cons:

  • Very expensive

4. 3PLUS HCN45SP 11 Gauge 15 Degree

This nail gun is a great option at the best price on the list. The great price on this one doesn’t make it any less durable or efficient. The 3PLUS nailer can do the job at high power and can attach a gorgeous Hardie trim to your house.

The 3PLUS nail guns drives ¾” to 1 ¾” nails into basically any surface. It is great for attaching siding and shingle spacing. When using this tool for roofing and shingle spacing, the anti-skid side pads really come in handy.

These pads will keep the nail gun from sliding off the roof or other surface while you’re working.

3PLUS HCN45SP 11 Gauge 15 Degree

To further create a great work experience, the magazine holes up to 120 coil nails at a time. This saves large amounts of time and energy and gives you more focus on the job at hand. The adjustable depth gives the nails a consistent fit for a beautiful Hardie trim.

Pros:

  • Fits ¾” to 1 ¾” nails
  • Adjustable shingle spacing
  • High-capacity, 120 coil nail magazine
  • Trigger to switch between shingle shot or bumper fire
  • High quality and affordable

Cons:

  • Cannot fit larger than 1 ¾” nails

5. BOSTITCH Framing Nailer, Round Head

BOSTITCH is a brand that is known for outstanding performance and durability. This nail gun is amazing for Hardie trim and other home improvement uses with a variety of great features. The depth control on this nail gun is 1 ½” to 3 ½” inch nails. This is amazing for exterior uses as the larger nails can secure the siding perfectly.

This awesome tool is like 2 nail guns in one. It includes 2 quick change nose pieces so you can use this nailer on metal or framing. It also features skid pads, rubber grip, and a lightweight design to keep you totally comfortable when working for long hours.

BOSTITCH Framing Nailer, Round Head

To add convenience to the experience, this nailer features adjustable rafter hooks to hang from multiple surfaces while you’re working. This keeps it from becoming a hazard laying around your work space. The magazine can hold up to 60 nails. This cuts down on loading time and makes your job go faster.

Pros:

  • 60 nail magazine capacity
  • Easy to use
  • Adjustable rafter hook
  • 2 Quick change nose pieces
  • Durable and versatile

Cons:

  • Jams easily

How to Choose the Right Nail Gun for Trim

Nail Gun for Hardie Trim

After reading through the list, the choices are all overwhelmingly great. This can make choosing the best nail gun for Hardie trim somewhat difficult. However, there are many factors to consider when choosing the proper nail guns. We’ll take a closer look at the factors that play into choosing the right nail gun for Hardie trim.

Read More:Best Nail Gun for Baseboards 2020 – Reviews & Top Picks

How durable is the nail gun?

When choosing the top quality nail gun for Hardie trim, durability is a big factor. Because a nail gun is an investment, you want to be sure you’re getting a durable, quality tool that will last you a lifetime (or at least several years.) Brands like BOSTITCH and Metabo HPT (formerly known as Hitachi) are renowned for their durability. That doesn’t mean that other nail guns don’t have great durability features as well.

A reputable brand is a safe choice but when choosing a lesser known brand, consider factors like power level and material. A durable steel housing is a great material.

Is there enough depth adjustment for my trim?

As you’ve probably figured by now, nail guns range drastically in size of nail and depth adjustment. This simply means how far in and what size nail can be driven in by the nailer. The nail gun for Hardie trim would need to be capable of 2” long nails. When applying Hardie siding and trim to your home, 2” nails are the most recommended size.

What additional features do you need for your nail gun?

While nail guns are relatively simple tools for a user of any experience level, added features can make the experience more comfortable for a novice or more technical for a pro. There are a few universal features we recommend for every nail gun.

The nailer should be lightweight. This ensures that you can work for long periods of time without getting exhausted or uncomfortable. A high capacity magazine is also a must have. This feature would allow the user to have more nails loaded into the gun at a time.

A 360-degree exhaust and debris deflector is a great feature to look for. This not only protects the user but will extend the life of the tool as well. The less debris getting trapped in the tool, the longer it will live.

Bump mode, anti-double fire, and safety lock are all important features as well. The nail gun for Hardie trim should have a bump mode. This allows the nail gun to continuously fire nails and will save loads of time on a project. The anti-double fire and safety lock will prevent accidents on the job site.

How to Install Hardie Trim

 

1. Trim the Hardie Trim prior to installation

Measure the length the pieces of trim will need to be and cut them accordingly. This can be done with a saw.

2. Attach Hardie Trim Flat Tabs 

The first step in setting up your Hardie trim to be installed is to attach the flat tabs. Using your nail gun of choice, attach the flat tab to the backside of the trim using four staples. This is best accomplished using a pneumatic staple gun.

3. Attach Hardie Trim to the Building

Once you have prepared the flat tabs to the back sides of the trim, you can begin attaching the trim to the side of the building. Position the trim to the side of the building and attach using 2, 6d siding nails fastened through the Hardie Trim flat tabs.

4. Remove Laminate Sheet

As soon as the Hardie trim boards are nailed in place, the laminate sheeting should be removed.

Here is a helpful video by James Hardie on installing Hardie Trim to your home.

Additionally, here is Hardie’s official guide for installing trim.

FAQ’s

How much does Hardie Trim cost?

The cost of Hardie trim will depend on many factors. It will depend on the type of trim you choose and the amount you will need to cover your house. Siding can cost anywhere from $.70 to $5.25 per square foot. Generally, the overall cost will be anywhere from $4,700 to $13,300.

How do you attach Hardie Trim?

Hardie trim is relatively easy to install and can be attached with the right tools. The best tool to use to attach Hardie trim is a proper nail gun. The Hardie trim should be cut to size and then attached by nailing it to the side of the building with a nail gun.

Can Hardie board be sanded?

Hardie trim can be sanded, but because of the soft material it is not recommended. But, there is good news. Hardie trim is very easy to repaint or refinish and it does not need to be sanded or primed before.

How long does Hardie board last?

Hardie board can last many years because it is a fiber-cement material. This material can last at least 50 years. James Hardie warrants Hardie board for 50 years, but the material can last much longer than that. Painting and maintenance will prolong the life even more.

Conclusion

The clear winner of this roundup is the Metabo HPT nailer. This nail gun outshines the other in many areas. Unlike other nail guns on the list, it exceeds are expectations in power and durability. There is no shortage of power on this nail gun. It also has great safety features and a depth adjustment of up to 3 ½”. This nailer is clearly the Best nail gun for trim.

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