We use different types of roofing nails to attach roofing tiles and sheet metal to roofs, fasten roof shingles and install roofing felt for waterproofing. There are many types of roofing nails available, each made from different materials and with different sizes. All roofing nails have flat heads with short shanks. For easy inserting, the tips of the nails have sharp edges to prevent damage to the wood or breaking the shingles.
Roof nails are crucial in determining how long your roof will last. Old Time roofing makes sure to provide added strength to the outer roof (shingles and metal sheeting), as well as the inner roof (trusses and support structures). During stormy or windy weather, nails are added strength to both the outer roof (shingles, metal sheeting, etc.) and the inner roof (trusses & support structures). Different roofing sections require different nails, depending on the structural requirements as well as the environmental needs.
Types of Roofing Nails
It is important to choose the right type of nail, as each one has an impact on how secure your roofing is.
Aluminum Nails
Aluminum nails are used extensively for metal roofs as well as composite and asphalt shingle roofs. These nails are not suitable for areas such as Tampa, where salt is abundant. Use stainless steel nails in coastal areas. Because of the salty atmosphere, it is best to avoid using aluminum nails in coastal areas and counties. Salt can quickly cause aluminum to rust and deteriorate. This can lead to shingle hold problems and blowoffs. You don’t want missing shingles on your beach house because aluminum was used in place of stronger stainless steel. Because of their low cost, aluminum nails are very popular for roofing. We use these nails in simple roof projects across the country.
Stainless Steel Nails
Stainless Steel nails are best for tile and slate roofs. Copper nails provide additional mildew and algae prevention. Steel nails are more corrosion-resistant than aluminum, and they are less expensive than the galvanized options that we will list below. Contractors prefer stainless steel roofing nails for areas where salt can cause problems, However, costs must remain low. Stainless Steel nails are stronger and we use them as fasteners for harder roof tiles like ceramic or slate. Overall, stainless is a great option for roofing nails. It’s better than aluminum, but it is not as good as the next option.
Galvanized Nails
Galvanized nails are used in asphalt roofing. They resist rust better than other nails due to their zinc coating. Galvanized roofing nails made from galvanized steel are also known as “hot dip galvanized roofing nails” or “galvanized nails”. These nails have a steel base and a coating of zinc chemicals. This zinc coating makes a nail extremely rust-resistant and we use them to replace roofs in coastal areas. It’s also the best nail you can use for any roof that has a warranty.
The nail’s zinc exterior makes them stronger than aluminum and stainless steel alternatives. Galvanized steel is the best roofing nail option and a popular choice for certified roofers who back their work with a solid warranty.
Size of Roofing Nails
Roofing nails usually measure between 1 and 6 inches or the shank (nail) length. The shank is twisted with a tip that has a diamond shape. This allows the nail’s tip to be twisted with a diamond-shaped tip.
There are two types of shanks: ring shanks or smooth shanks. Ring shanks are larger and more suitable for areas with high winds. Because they are cheaper than ring shank nails, smooth shank nails are more popular in roofing. They are not as strong and we recommend not to use them where there is high wind.
Shank Diameter
According to the 2018 edition of the International Building Code (IBC), fasteners for asphalt shingles must have a minimum 12-gauge shank. It is not uncommon to find nails with a shank width of 13 inches. However, they must be at least 12 gauge (2.67mm) in order to comply with the IBC.
Head Diameter
The minimum head diameter of a roofing nail must be 9.5mm according to the IBC. You can find nails with a head width greater than 9.5mm. However, we don’t recommend to use them.
Shanks that measure 1-2 inches are best for thinner roofing materials, such as shingles. You use longer nails to attach thicker materials such as tiles.
Why Nails Are Important In Roofing
You probably don’t see the nails when you look at your roof. The nails are an important part of your roofing system. They are essential to ensure that the roof surface remains intact. Your roof must have all nails in the same place. There should be enough space between each unit. They should also be able to move into tiles or shingles easily without becoming uneven. Failure to secure the nails properly could lead to roof parts falling apart. These must be secured well to avoid any possible slipping or premature wear.
Our Expert Services
Old Time Roofing offers quality workmanship to better suit your needs in:
Roofing materials that we work with:
Get a Free Estimate
Old time Roofing is located in Florida which is a geographic location that produces unique weather patterns. Florida is prone to hurricanes and high winds, these events have been increasing in the past few years. Every year, there is at least one severe and windy storm that hits the region.
These periodic events are becoming more frequent, roofs need to be built for them. Old Time Roofing designs roofs that exceed the manufacturer’s specifications as a standard of operation. We are committed to excellence by using nails that can withstand high winds in roofing projects. Old Time Roofing can help you with questions regarding roofing attachment standards or building codes in Tampa FL. If you are looking to get a roofing quote contact us today!