What are the best roofing nails for asphalt shingles?
What code requires
The International Residential Code calls for galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum or copper roofing nails with a shank of at least 12 gauge (0.105 inch) and a head of at least 3/8 inch, long enough to penetrate 3/4 inch into the deck or through it. Shingle manufacturers repeat those basics in their instructions and may add more.
Galvanizing: hot-dipped vs electro
- Hot-dipped galvanized: a thicker zinc coating that lasts longer, the safer choice for a roof meant to last decades.
- Electro-galvanized: a thinner coating, widely used in coil nails and generally acceptable inland, but more prone to rust over time.
- Stainless: for salt air or special roofing; overkill for most North Georgia homes.
Coil nails vs hand nails
Most crews use wire-collated coil nails in pneumatic guns, which meet the same specs. The gun setting matters as much as the nail: overdriven nails cut into the shingle and lose holding power, and underdriven nails stand proud and keep the shingle above from sealing.
Smooth or ring shank
Ring shank nails resist pulling out better and some roofers prefer them for wind-exposed roofs. Smooth shank nails meet code when used to spec.
What not to use
- Bright, uncoated nails, which rust and stain.
- Staples, which many shingle manufacturers no longer allow.
- Small-headed siding or finish nails that pull through the shingle.
Most shingles call for four nails each, and six for high-wind installs or very steep slopes. See wind damage to roofs in Georgia and OSB vs plywood roof decking.