Here are some common applications where narrow crown vs wide crown staples are typically used:
Narrow Crown Staples:
Flooring – For attaching thin laminate, vinyl, wood flooring. Sits flush.
Roofing felt – Slight crown passes through felt but not shingles above.
Insulation – Thin crown compresses insulation without protruding.
Drywall – Hangs firmly flush against surface without bumps.
Thin trim/molding – Sits subtly behind surface without raised edges.
Wide Crown Staples:
Decking – Wider crown fully penetrates thicker deck boards.
Fencing – Secures sturdy pickets and rails through multiple layers.
Siding – Anchors siding panels and faces firmly from behind.
Thick trim – Offers strength to fasten moldings wider than 1/2″.
Subflooring – Grips plywood/OSB securely without pulling loose.
Framing – Used for squaring walls/floors during construction phases.
So narrow crowns are best for flush joining of thin materials while wide crowns provide strength for driving through heavier assemblies.