What type of fastener is recommended for installing 1/2 inch thick by 2 inch strip tongue-and-groove flooring?

The recommended fastener for installing 1/2 inch thick by 2 inch strip tongue-and-groove flooring is a 1-1/2 inch machine driven fastener. This type of fastener is specifically designed to provide strong and secure holding power while accommodating the thickness of the flooring material. The length of 1-1/2 inches allows for sufficient penetration into the subfloor, ensuring a firm attachment that can handle foot traffic and the natural expansion and contraction of wood.

Using a machine-driven fastener also minimizes damage to the flooring, as it can be driven in quickly and with consistent depth. Unlike other fasteners, this option is less likely to split the wood or cause surface imperfections, which is critical in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the flooring.

In context, other options may not provide the same level of effectiveness for this particular application. A 3/4 inch wood screw would not be long enough to securely anchor the flooring to the subfloor, while a 1-inch finishing nail might not offer adequate holding power for durability. On the other hand, a 2-inch drywall screw would penetrate too deeply, potentially damaging the underlying structure or creating bumps on the flooring surface.