When it comes to roofing, the importance of securing materials cannot be overstated. Roofing nails are a crucial component of the roofing process, but their exposed heads can pose a challenge. To ensure a watertight, secure, and long-lasting roofing system, it’s essential to apply the right material over roofing nails. In this article, we’ll explore the best materials for this purpose, focusing on accuracy and clarity for both technical and non-technical audiences.

Purpose of Covering Roofing Nails

Roofing nails are used to attach roofing materials to the roof’s structure. However, their exposed heads create openings through which water can penetrate, potentially causing leaks and structural damage. Covering these nails serves two primary purposes:

1. Waterproofing: The material used over the nails acts as a waterproof barrier, preventing water from infiltrating the roofing system.

2. Sealing: It provides an additional layer of protection against wind-driven rain, preventing moisture from penetrating through the nail holes.

Best Materials for Covering Roofing Nails

1. Roofing Cement (Asphalt Plastic Cement)

Roofing cement, often known as asphalt plastic cement, is a popular choice for covering roofing nails. It has several advantages:

• Waterproof: Roofing cement creates an effective waterproof seal when applied correctly.

• Adheres Well: It adheres well to roofing materials and is easy to work with.

• Flexibility: It remains flexible, allowing it to accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the roofing materials.

2. Roofing Nails with Built-In Caps

Some roofing nails come with built-in caps, designed to cover the nail head and create a watertight seal. These caps are often made of plastic or rubber. The advantages of this option include:

• Efficiency: Saves time and labor as it combines nail securing and head covering in one step.

• Consistency: Ensures uniform and effective head coverage.

3. Roofing Tape or Roofing Fabric

Roofing tape or fabric is another option for covering roofing nails. It is typically used in combination with roofing cement. The benefits include:

• Reinforcement: Roofing fabric adds extra strength to the seal, making it more durable.

• Versatility: It can be used to cover an entire area or specific nail locations, depending on the needs of the project.

Proper Installation

Regardless of the material chosen, proper installation is crucial for effective nail head coverage:

1. Clean Surface: Ensure the surface is clean and free from debris, dust, or moisture before applying any material.

2. Apply Evenly: Whether using roofing cement, caps, or tape, apply the material evenly over the nail heads, ensuring full coverage.

3. Overlap Seams: If using fabric or tape, overlap seams by at least 2 inches to create a continuous barrier.

4. Inspect and Maintain: Regularly inspect the covered nails and perform maintenance as needed to ensure ongoing protection.

Conclusion

Selecting the best material to apply over roofing nails is essential for safeguarding your roofing system against water infiltration and damage. Roofing cement, roofing nails with built-in caps, and roofing fabric or tape are all effective choices. Ensure that you follow proper installation procedures to maintain the integrity of your roof and extend its lifespan. With the right material and correct installation, you can enjoy a durable, watertight, and long-lasting roofing system.