What Nails Do You Need For Roofing?

Posted on 18/07/23

Roof Blog


When it comes to roofing, one of the most important components is the nails. Nails are used to secure the shingles and ensure that the roof remains stable and intact. However, various types of fixings and fastenings are available, and it can be challenging to choose the right one for your roofing project.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of nails that are used for roofing and which one is best suited for your project.

Introduction to Roofing Nails

Roofing nails are specifically designed for roofing projects. They are made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or galvanised steel to ensure that they are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. The length of the nails is also an important consideration. They should be long enough to penetrate through the shingle and into the roof deck, but not so long that they penetrate through the deck and into the attic space.

Types of roofing nails

There are four main types of roofing nails:

Common Nails

Common nails are the most basic type of nail and are not specifically designed for roofing projects. They are made of steel and have a smooth shank with a flat head. While they can be used for roofing, they are not recommended as they do not provide the same level of holding power as other types of roofing nails.

Roofing Nails with a Smooth Shank

Roofing nails with a smooth shank are also known as smooth-shank nails. They are made of galvanised steel and have a smooth, cylindrical shank with a large, flat head. These nails are ideal for roofing projects as they provide good holding power and are easy to install.

Ring Shank Roofing Nails

Ring shank roofing nails have a spiral thread around the shank that provides extra holding power. They are made of galvanised steel and are ideal for areas that experience high winds or heavy rainfall. The spiral thread helps to prevent the nails from backing out and ensures that the roof remains stable and intact.

Screw Shank Roofing Nails

Screw shank roofing nails have spiral thread-like ring shank nails, but they have a smaller head that is designed to be countersunk into the shingle. They are made of stainless steel and are ideal for use in areas that experience extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes and tornadoes.

Length of Roofing Nails

 

The length of the roofing nail you need will depend on the thickness of the shingle and the roof deck. For most asphalt shingles, you will need nails that are at least 1 inch long. If you are using thicker shingles, such as wood shingles, you will need longer nails. It is important to check the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of shingle you are using.

 

The Gauge of Roofing Nails

 

The gauge of the nail refers to the thickness of the shank. The higher the gauge number was, the thinner the shank will be. For roofing projects, you will generally need nails that are between 10 and 12 gauge. Thicker nails provide more holding power and are ideal for areas that experience high winds or heavy rainfall.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, choosing the right type of nail for your roofing project is an essential aspect of ensuring that your roof remains stable and intact. There are several different types of nails available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to consider the specific requirements of your project, such as the thickness of the shingle and the roof deck, as well as the weather conditions in your area, when choosing the right type of nail.


By following the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of shingle you are using and ensuring that the nails are properly driven into the roof deck, you can help to ensure the long-term effectiveness of your roofing system.


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