When nailing hardwood flooring in place, at what angle should the nails typically be driven?

When installing hardwood flooring, nailing at an angle of 45 to 50 degrees is the standard practice. This angle allows for better grip and holding power of the nails in the tongue and groove of the flooring boards. By driving nails at this angle, it helps the flooring maintain its position securely, reducing the risk of movement or loosening over time.

Using the appropriate angle ensures that the nail penetrates deeply enough into the subfloor while still providing the necessary support for the hardwood boards. This method also minimizes the potential for splintering or damaging the wood, which can occur when nails are driven in at a steeper angle, such as 60 to 70 degrees, or a shallower angle, which may not provide sufficient hold.

Driving nails straight down at a 90-degree angle is not effective for hardwood flooring because it can fail to engage properly with the flooring's tongue and groove design, leading to instability. Therefore, nailing at the optimal 45 to 50-degree angle is essential for achieving a durable and long-lasting installation.