Medium Wire Staples

Staple wire thickness is measured by its “gauge.” This is a measurement of a wire’s diameter. The system of identifying wire by its diameter was originally developed 1857 to specify electrical wires by their current carrying capacity. Oddly, the higher the number, the thinner the wire. Wire is referred to as heavy, medium, or fine:

Medium wire measures 18-19 gauge and might be used for materials thicker than paper, but not as thick as wood or roofing used in construction. They’re good for heavy upholstery, paneling, cabinet construction, sheathing, and siding.

Medium wire staples are used in applications such as Fascia and Soffits, Molding, Cabinets, Trim, Case backs, Lattice, Paneling, Drawers, Spring Attachment-Upholstery, Fencing, Floor Underlayment, Hardwood flooring, Furniture Frames, Roof & Wall Cedar Shingles, Pallets and Pallet Repair, Vinyl/Metal Siding, Crate and Box Assembly, Sheathing and many others.

Staple wire is also worked to create the point or teeth at the end of the staple legs, usually chisel-shaped for best penetration of materials. Divergent staples have chisel points pointing outward in opposite directions, causing them to splay outward when applied for a better hold.