Tar paper, also known as roofing felt, plays a vital role in protecting roofs from water infiltration. To secure it efficiently, you need the right type of nails designed for this purpose. In this article, we will provide clear and concise information about tar paper roofing gun nails, including their technical details and common uses.
Technical Details
Tar paper roofing gun nails have specific characteristics that make them ideal for securing roofing felt:
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Length: These nails are typically short, ranging from 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length. The short length ensures that they penetrate the tar paper without the risk of piercing through the roof deck.
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Shank Diameter: Tar paper nails have a thin shank, usually with a diameter of 0.120 inches (3.05 mm). This thin shank reduces the likelihood of damaging the roofing material.
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Flat Head: The nails have a flat, wide head, providing a secure grip on the roofing felt. This helps prevent tearing or pulling of the tar paper during installation.
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Galvanized or Coated: To resist corrosion and rust, tar paper roofing gun nails are often galvanized or coated with a corrosion-resistant material. This ensures the longevity of the fasteners and the roof’s integrity.
Common Uses
Tar paper roofing gun nails are specifically designed for securing tar paper or roofing felt during roofing projects. Here are their common uses:
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Underlayment Installation: Roofing felt, when used as an underlayment, provides an additional layer of protection beneath roofing shingles or other roofing materials. Tar paper nails are used to secure the felt to the roof deck.
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Repairs and Patching: In cases where portions of the roof need repairs or patching, tar paper nails are employed to reattach or secure new sections of tar paper.
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Flashing Installation: Roof flashing, which prevents water from penetrating roof joints and valleys, may also be secured with tar paper roofing gun nails.
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Temporary Fixes: In emergency situations, such as during storm damage, these nails can be used for temporary fixes until a more permanent solution can be implemented.
Installation Tips
Here are some tips for correctly installing tar paper roofing gun nails:
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Spacing: Space the nails evenly and as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper attachment of the tar paper.
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Positioning: Nails should be positioned so that the roofing felt lies flat and smooth. Overdriving or underdriving nails can lead to issues.
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Overlap: Ensure proper overlapping of tar paper sections to create a watertight barrier, and secure the overlaps with nails.
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Safety: Always exercise safety precautions when using nail guns, including wearing protective gear and following manufacturer guidelines.
Conclusion
Tar paper roofing gun nails are essential for securely fastening roofing felt or tar paper in various roofing applications. Their specific design, featuring short length, thin shank, and a wide head, ensures efficient and secure attachment without damaging the roofing material. Whether you’re a professional roofer or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the technical details and proper use of these nails is crucial for a successful roofing project.