Nailing tar paper on a roof is a fundamental step in the roofing process, crucial for creating a durable and weather-resistant barrier. In this guide, we’ll explore the proper techniques and considerations for nailing tar paper on your roof using a nail gun.

The Essentials

Before diving into the specifics, let’s go over some essentials regarding nail guns and tar paper:

Nail Guns (Pneumatic or Cordless): Nail guns come in various types, but for roofing applications, pneumatic nail guns are most commonly used. These tools use compressed air to drive nails into the material with precision and speed. Cordless nail guns powered by batteries are also available.

Tar Paper (Roofing Felt or Underlayment): Tar paper, often referred to as roofing felt or underlayment, is a material laid over the roof deck before shingles or other roofing materials. It provides an additional layer of protection against moisture and serves as a slip-resistant surface for roofers.

Steps to Nail Tar Paper on Your Roof

1. Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear

Before you start, ensure you have the following:

• Nail Gun: Use a roofing nail gun with the appropriate nail length.
• Compressor (for pneumatic nail guns): Make sure it’s functioning correctly.
• Roofing Nails: Use galvanized or stainless steel roofing nails.
• Tar Paper: Roll out the tar paper sections and cut them to size.
• Safety Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate footwear.

2. Prepare the Roof

Inspect the roof deck for any protruding nails or debris. Make any necessary repairs or adjustments before laying the tar paper.

3. Position and Align the Tar Paper

Start at the bottom edge of the roof and roll out a section of tar paper. Ensure it’s correctly aligned, leaving an overhang at the eaves. Overlapping sections should be a minimum of 2 inches to prevent moisture infiltration.

4. Secure the Tar Paper

Using your nail gun, follow these guidelines for nailing the tar paper:

• Nail Spacing: Place nails every 6 to 12 inches along the edges of the tar paper and every 12 to 18 inches in the field.
• Nail Depth: Set the nail gun to the appropriate depth to ensure the nails penetrate the roof deck but don’t overdrive and damage it.
• Angle and Placement: Insert nails at a slight angle, typically around 45 degrees, to enhance holding power. Nail placement should be approximately 1 inch from the edge of the tar paper.

5. Trim Excess Tar Paper

After nailing, trim any excess tar paper at the roof’s edges and peaks using a utility knife for a neat, finished appearance.

6. Continue Layering

Repeat the process, overlapping subsequent tar paper sections and securing them in the same manner. Ensure each new section covers the nails of the previous one.

Additional Tips

• Work in Good Weather: Avoid working in windy or wet conditions to prevent tar paper from tearing or getting wet.
• Inspect for Wrinkles: Smooth out any wrinkles in the tar paper as you go to maintain a flat, even surface.
• Install Flashing: Install flashing around roof penetrations (chimneys, vents) before applying tar paper.

Conclusion

Nailing tar paper on your roof is a crucial step in creating a robust roofing system that can withstand the elements. By using the right nail gun and following the correct nailing procedures, you’ll ensure a durable and weather-resistant underlayment for your roofing project. Always prioritize safety and precision to achieve the best results.