What Size Roofing Nails Should I Use?

There are some simple strategies for determining the correct roofing nails. If you understand the different materials that are commonly used in roofing, you’ll be able to choose the right size nails to use in your next roof project. A few simple measurements will help you determine the size of nails to use and prevent any potential extraction of the roofing nails. You should also know about the various sizes of shingles to choose the proper ones. metal roofing prices

Roofing nails are usually one to six inches long. The length is directly related to the thickness. Nails over six inches are called pikes and are seldom used on a roof. Nails between one and two inches are the most commonly used lengths. For roofing over a wood roof, a nail should be at least one and a quarter inches long. Wood shingles and metal roofs generally require a longer nail.

To determine the correct nail size, look at the various styles available. The basic and most affordable type of roofing nails is the smooth shank nail. You can also choose from corrugated and annular roofing nails. These nails are designed with rings along the shank for extra grip. Choose whichever type suits your roof best! You’ll be glad you took the time to learn about the different types of roofing nails. There’s nothing more satisfying than putting up a roof with a great looking roof.

In a single layer, the nail should be three-fourths of an inch long and penetrate the roof deck about an eighth of an inch. Using a pneumatic nailer can help with this task, but remember to carefully adjust the setting to ensure that the nails penetrate the roof deck correctly. Otherwise, you may end up with overdriven nails or underdriven nails. In both cases, you risk corrosion, raised tabs, and buckling.

If you are installing shingles over old ones, make sure to select the proper sized nails for the job. Generally, you should use three-inch nails for an inch-thick shingle, while two-inch nails should be used for a 3/4-inch thick layer. Choosing the correct size nail will ensure that your roof looks good for many years. And, remember, the wrong size nails can affect the structure of your roof and its attachment to the deck.

If you live in coastal areas, stainless steel roofing nails are a better choice. Galvanized nails resist rust formation and are suitable for asphalt shingles. However, if you’re not sure, you can opt for galvanized or stainless steel roofing nails. The International Building Code requires that nails be corrosion-resistant on the outside. To avoid rust, stainless steel nails are corrosion-resistant and are ideally suited for homes with slate and ceramic roofs.