When undertaking DIY projects that require fastening various materials together, staples are often the supply of choice for their convenience and effectiveness. But with different gauges, lengths, and crown styles available, it helps to understand the applications and benefits of specific staple types. Let’s take a closer look at 16 gauge staples, including 1 inch crown options, to see why they are such a versatile choice.
What Is Staple Gauge?
Staple gauge refers to the thickness of the staple wire. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. 16 gauge staples are a common mid-range option that provide good holding power without being too bulky or flimsy. Here are some key things to know about 16 gauge:
- Wire diameter: Approximately 1/16 inches (.0625 inches)
- Used for: Medium-duty applications like flooring, subflooring, trim, insulation, siding
- Can hold: Cardboard, thin wood, vinyl, felt
- Not for: Extra heavy-duty like decking or fencing
16 gauge staples are thinner than lower gauges like 13-15 but provide more strength than 18-20 gauges. Their wire diameter allows puncturing into denser materials without breaking. Manufacturers offer 16 gauge staples in a variety of lengths for different projects.
The Benefits Of 1 Inch Crown Staples
One unique style within 16 gauge 1 inch crown staples are those with a 1 inch crown. The crown refers to the arched top U-shape of the staple that hooks underneath the fastened materials to hold them tightly in place. Staples with longer 1 inch crowns have some key advantages:
- Wider grip: Provides more surface area underneath materials for stronger holding power. Less likely to pull free over time.
- Accommodates thickness: The 1 inch span can easily fit over and grasp materials up to 1/2 inch thick without recoiling back out.
- Concealed fastening: The long crown hides more of the staple body inside joined materials, leaving a lower profile. Better for finishing appearances.
- Won’t puncture opposite side: Able to securely fasten thick multi-layer projects without the staple point breaking through to the other side.
Common Applications for 16 Gauge, 1 Inch Crown Staples
Given their durability andgripping design, these staples excel at multi-layer projects:
- Floor and subfloor installation: Fasten plywood or OSB subflooring to joists through carpet pad/foam underlayment.
- Roofing felt: Attach felt overlay securely through underlying roof decking.
- Wall sheathing: Staple sheathing through house wrap weather barrier for a water-resistant seal.
- Insulation: Fasten fiberglass or cellulose between framing members and vapor barrier.
- Underlayment: Join roof or floor underlayment like tar paper between layers.
- Soffit/trim installation: Attach soffit or trim boards through housewrap or Tyvek.
- Packing/shipping crates: Build sturdy, reusable crates from wood boards.
Key Specs to Consider
When shopping for 16 gauge, 1 inch crown staples, pay attention to:
- Length: 1⁄2″, 3⁄4″, 1″, 11⁄2″, 2″ available for different depths. Measure project thickness.
- Material compatibility: Steel, aluminum or stainless for corrosion resistance with certain substrates.
- Packaging: Box, sleeve or bucket. Consider quantity needed.
- Brand: Reputable manufacturers ensures quality and performance.
With the right specifications, 16 gauge, 1 inch crown staples can expertly fasten many household remodeling, building, and craft projects. Their mid-range dimensions neatly join a variety of common construction and furnishing materials both efficiently and inconspicuously.