When it comes to attaching cedar shingles, choosing the right fastener is critical for ensuring the longevity and durability of your project. In this technical guide, we will explore the technical details and considerations when deciding between nails and staples for securing cedar shingles.

Nails for Cedar Shingles:

1. Type of Nails:
2. Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails are recommended for cedar shingles. These materials resist corrosion, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of cedar over time.

3. Nail Length:
4. Use nails that are at least 1.5 times the thickness of the cedar shingle. For example, if your shingle is 1/2 inch thick, use nails that are at least 3/4 inches long.

5. Nail Gauge:
6. Nails with a gauge of 15 or 16 are suitable for cedar shingles. These gauges provide the necessary strength without causing splitting in the wood.

7. Nail Head Type:
8. Choose nails with a small head, such as a finish nail head. This ensures a flush finish and minimizes the chances of splitting the shingle.

9. Spacing:
10. Nail shingles about 1 inch above the exposure line and space nails 1 to 2 inches apart from each other horizontally.

Staples for Cedar Shingles:

1. Type of Staples:
2. Use stainless steel staples with a 1/2-inch crown. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for cedar shingles.

3. Staple Length:
4. The staple length should be at least 1.5 times the thickness of the cedar shingle, similar to nails.

5. Crown Width:
6. The 1/2-inch crown provides adequate holding power without damaging the wood.

7. Staple Spacing:
8. Similar to nails, staple shingles about 1 inch above the exposure line and space them 1 to 2 inches apart horizontally.

Choosing Between Nails and Staples:

• Nails are a traditional choice for cedar shingles, providing strong and reliable attachment. They are well-suited for projects where aesthetics and a flush finish are essential.

• Staples are a viable option for cedar shingles, especially when speed and ease of installation are priorities. They still offer good holding power and can be a practical choice for experienced installers.

General Tips:

• Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for nails or staples, as specific requirements may vary based on the type of cedar shingles you are using.

• Ensure that your fasteners are resistant to corrosion, as cedar is susceptible to moisture-related issues.

• Proper installation techniques are crucial. Maintain uniform spacing and drive the fasteners at the correct angle to prevent splitting and ensure a tight fit.

Conclusion:

In the debate of nails vs. staples for cedar shingles, both options are technically viable. The choice largely depends on your project requirements, your level of experience, and your preferences for appearance and speed. Understanding the technical details and selecting the right fasteners is key to ensuring the beauty and longevity of your cedar shingle installation.