Over time, roofing nails have changed to accommodate the difficult task roofers face. Roofers use special nails called roofing nails when they attach roofing felt and shingles to a roof.
The difference between types of roofing nails and other nails is the head. Roofing nails have a much larger and flatter head than common nails. The larger head is for securely holding down the material being fastened to the roof, as well as preventing rain from entering the home through the nail hole.
Thanks to the larger head, roofing nails are also used for installing drywall and tile backer boards in bathrooms. Some roofing nails come with a small plastic or rubber washer to help waterproof the hole. Roofing nail sizes range from one inch to one and ¾ inches.
Because roof nails are exposed to the elements for many years, they are made from galvanized iron or aluminum. Galvanized roofing nails have a thin layer of zinc or steel to prevent the nail from rusting. Aluminum is already rust-resistant, so it doesn’t have to be galvanized. Rusty nails will eventually break, which causes leaks and ugly stains on the roof.
Some nails used for roofing have a spiral shank or short threads, which help grab the wood sheathing that is beneath the roofing felt and shingles. The threads and spiral shank also keep the nail from coming out or loosening. When roofing nails come out, tiles can fall off the roof.
Texas Star Knows the Best Roofing Nails to Use
Most roofers use only four nails per shingle. Texas Star’s professionals use 6 nails per shingle, to make sure that they’re firmly, permanently attached.
As you’ve learned from the history of roofing nails, less is not more. More is more, and more is better. And the experts at Texas Star know exactly how to install a beautiful, effective roof that will last for its manufacturer lifetime.
To request a free, no-obligation roof inspection by our professional roofers, simply complete the form in the sidebar, or give Texas Star a call at 972-210-2927 today.
If you’d like to learn more about nail types and uses, don’t hesitate to ask our experts.
