Choosing the right roofing nails is a crucial decision for any roofing project. The type of nail you select impacts the longevity and durability of your roof. In this guide, we’ll provide clear and concise technical information to help you choose the best roofing nails, whether you’re a professional roofer or a DIY enthusiast.

1. Nail Types

There are two primary types of roofing nails:

a. Common Roofing Nails

• Material: Commonly made of galvanized steel, making them resistant to rust and corrosion.
• Shaft: Usually have a smooth, round shank.
• Head: They have a large, flat head to secure roofing materials firmly.
• Common Sizes: Available in various lengths, including 1¾-inch and 2-inch nails.

b. Coil Roofing Nails

• Material: Also made of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance.
• Shaft: These nails have a spiral or ring shank, providing better grip.
• Head: Comes with a smaller, round head.
• Common Sizes: Often used in lengths of 1¼-inch and 1¾-inch.

2. Nail Length

The length of roofing nails depends on the material being secured:

• For asphalt shingles, 1¼-inch or 1¾-inch nails are suitable.
• For wood or tile roofing, longer nails, typically 2-inch or 2½-inch, are needed.

Selecting the appropriate nail length ensures a secure hold without damaging the roofing material.

3. Nail Shank

The shank of the nail determines its grip:

• Smooth Shank: Common roofing nails have a smooth shank and are suitable for asphalt shingles.
• Ring Shank: Coil roofing nails have a ringed or spiral shank, providing enhanced grip and resistance to backing out over time. These are ideal for wood and tile roofing.

4. Nail Coating

Nail coatings are essential for preventing corrosion, especially in outdoor roofing applications:

• Galvanized Nails: These have a layer of zinc coating to protect against rust and are suitable for most roofing materials.
• Stainless Steel Nails: They offer superior corrosion resistance and are best for coastal or high-moisture areas.

5. Nail Head

The shape and size of the nail head determine its holding power:

• Large, Flat Head: Common roofing nails have a broad, flat head that ensures roofing materials are held securely.
• Small, Round Head: Coil roofing nails have a smaller, rounded head that reduces the risk of tearing through thin materials.

6. Nail Collation

When using coil roofing nails, consider the collation type:

• Wire Collated: These nails are held together with wire and are compatible with pneumatic nail guns.
• Plastic Collated: Nails in plastic collation are suitable for coil nail guns. Ensure compatibility with your nail gun.

7. Quantity and Budget

Calculate the quantity of nails required based on your project’s size and the specific roofing material. Purchase a few extra nails to account for any unforeseen circumstances. While cost is a consideration, prioritize quality and longevity over the cheapest options. High-quality roofing nails may cost slightly more but provide greater peace of mind.

8. Brand and Manufacturer

Consider well-established brands with a reputation for producing reliable, durable roofing nails. Read user reviews and seek recommendations from professionals in the roofing industry for trusted manufacturers.

Recommended Roofing Nails

• Grip-Rite PrimeGuard Plus Nails: Galvanized, suitable for asphalt shingles, and available in various lengths.

• Maze Nails Stainless Steel Roofing Nails: Ideal for coastal regions or high-moisture environments due to their stainless steel construction.

• Metabo HPT Coil Roofing Nails: Wire-collated coil nails designed for use with pneumatic nail guns.

• Simpson Strong-Tie Roofing Nails: Known for their quality and compatibility with various roofing materials.

In conclusion, selecting the best roofing nails involves considering the roofing material, nail type, length, shank, coating, head, and collation. Investing in high-quality roofing nails ensures the long-term stability and weather-resistance of your roof. Make an informed decision based on your project’s specific requirements, and consult with professionals for additional guidance if needed.