In the world of roofing, the choice between using nails or staples for securing asphalt shingles is a critical decision that can affect the longevity and integrity of your roof. In this article, we will provide a clear and concise comparison of nails and staples for asphalt shingle applications, considering the technical details and practical uses of each fastening method.

Nails for Asphalt Shingles

Type: Roofing Nails

Size: 1.25 to 1.5 inches

Material: Galvanized steel or stainless steel

Head Type: Round, large head

Technical Details

Roofing nails are the traditional choice for securing asphalt shingles. They are specifically designed to withstand the harsh outdoor conditions and provide reliable, long-lasting performance. Here are the technical aspects to consider:

1. Material: Roofing nails are typically made of galvanized steel or stainless steel to resist rust and corrosion, ensuring the integrity of your roof over time.

2. Shank: The shank of roofing nails is smooth, which allows for a tight, secure fit when driven through shingles. This minimizes the risk of shingle tear and ensures a strong connection.

3. Head: Roofing nails feature a large, round head that provides ample holding power and prevents the shingles from lifting in high winds.

4. Length: Roofing nails are generally 1.25 to 1.5 inches long, designed to penetrate the shingles and secure them to the roof deck effectively.

Staples for Asphalt Shingles

Type: Crown Staples

Size: 1 inch

Material: Galvanized steel

Head Type: Flat, narrow

Technical Details

Staples, particularly crown staples, are an alternative to nails for asphalt shingle applications. They offer some technical variations compared to nails:

1. Material: Like roofing nails, staples used for shingles are often made of galvanized steel, providing corrosion resistance.

2. Shank: Crown staples have a flat, narrow shank that may not provide as much grip as the smooth shank of roofing nails. This can be a factor to consider, as staples might not be as resistant to pulling forces.

3. Head: Staples feature a flat, narrow head. While this provides a low-profile appearance, it might not have the same resistance to wind uplift as the larger, round heads of roofing nails.

4. Length: Staples used for shingles are typically 1 inch long. This shorter length means that they may not penetrate as deeply as nails.

Practical Uses

Roofing Nails:

• Ideal for areas with high wind exposure, as the large head provides superior wind resistance.
• Recommended for steep-slope roofs where gravity plays a significant role in holding the shingles in place.
• Suitable for areas with frequent temperature fluctuations, as they allow the shingles to expand and contract.

Crown Staples:

• Can be used in regions with mild weather conditions where wind uplift is not a significant concern.
• Commonly used in applications like underlayment and sheathing rather than the final layer of shingles.
• May offer time-saving benefits due to the ease of using a staple gun compared to a nail gun.

Conclusion

In the debate of nails versus staples for securing asphalt shingles, it’s important to consider the technical aspects and practical uses of each fastening method. Roofing nails, with their large round heads and smooth shanks, are the traditional choice for a reason. They provide superior wind resistance and secure the shingles effectively.

On the other hand, crown staples offer a quicker installation process and can be suitable for specific applications, particularly in regions with milder weather conditions.

Ultimately, the choice between nails and staples for asphalt shingles will depend on your specific roofing project’s requirements, your local climate, and the type of results you aim to achieve. Be sure to consult with a roofing professional to make the best choice for your roofing needs.