Roofers: They're Number One

You may receive various and conflicting advice if you are on the market for a new asphalt shingle roof. For example, your friends or family members may advise you on the best nails to use. However, your roofing contractor is the best person to listen to regarding such issues. You can depend on their skills and experience for a dependable roof.

An experienced contractor will advise you to consider the following when choosing nails.

Shingle Thickness

The type of asphalt shingles you plan to use determines the right nail size. Asphalt shingles are available in three main types:

1. 3-tab asphalt shingles
2. Fiberglass asphalt shingles
3. Architectural asphalt shingles

Shingle thickness determines nail length since each nail must penetrate the shingle and decking material and keep the shingle firmly in place. 3-tab asphalt shingles are thinner than the other two. Hence, fiberglass and architectural shingles require longer nails than 3-tab asphalt shingles.

Roofing Layer

Asphalt shingles aren't the only roofing materials you will nail on an asphalt shingle roof. You will also nail other roof parts, such as sheathing, flashing, and felt. Some materials require different nails, not those roofers use on shingles. For example, felt underlayment requires roofing cap nails (they have relatively large caps) to prevent roof water intrusion.

Area or Climate

The local climate determines the threats your roof faces. Choose roofing nails that can withstand typical threats. For example, neighborhoods that face frequent and strong windstorms require relatively longer nails than areas with low storm threats. The nails should also have rings along their shanks. Such nails keep shingles in place in the face of strong winds.

Similarly, areas with high corrosion risk, such as coastal neighborhoods, require corrosion-resistant nails. For example, copper and stainless steel are better than aluminum nails for coastal houses.

Building Code

Many jurisdictions use building codes to regulate building practices and materials regarding public safety. For example, building codes dictate which nails to use to reduce the risk of storm damage in areas prone to storms. You must use nails that meet the minimum code requirements for your roof to be code compliant.

Cost

Your budget determines the roofing nails you can afford. Many consider cost critical when choosing roofing materials and nails are some of the materials you need. Roofing nail cost depends on material and size (length and thickness). For example, aluminum nails are cheaper than copper nails. Buying more nails leads to a lower price per piece due to economies of scale.

To learn more, contact a professional roofing contractor in your area.