Screw Roofing Nail

Umbrella head is designed for preventing the roofing sheets from tearing off around the head of the nail, as well as offering an artistic and decorative effect. The twist shanks and sharp points can hold wood and roofing tiles in position without slipping.

- Length is from the point to the underside of the head.

- The umbrella head is attractive and has high strength.

- Rubber/plastic washer for additional stability & adhesion.

- Twist ring shanks offer excellent withdrawal resistance.

- Various corrosion coatings for durability.

Complete styles, gauges and sizes are available.

What Is A Roofing Nail

One kind of fastener made especially for attaching roofing components, like shingles, to a roof deck is a roofing nail. In order to endure severe weather conditions and avoid rust, these nails are usually composed of galvanized steel or other metals that are resistant to corrosion. The big, flat head of roofing nails gives them a firm grip and aids in distributing stress uniformly throughout the roofing material to avoid damage.

The shaft of a roofing nail is typically smooth or slightly ridged, which helps it penetrate the roofing material and roof deck without splitting the wood. Some roofing nails are also equipped with a ringed or spiral shank, which enhances their grip and holding power, especially in high-wind areas. The length of the nail varies depending on the thickness of the roofing material, with longer nails used for thicker or multi-layered roofing systems.

Roofing nails are available in various sizes, with the most common being 1 to 1.5 inches in length. They are typically used for securing asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other roofing materials, ensuring a secure, weather-tight roof. Proper installation of roofing nails is crucial, as incorrectly placed nails can lead to leaks, shingle blow-off, or other roofing failures.

What Are Roofing Nails Used For

Roofing nails are specialized fasteners designed specifically for securing roofing materials, such as shingles, tiles, and metal sheets, to a building’s roof structure. These nails play a critical role in ensuring the durability and stability of the roofing system, protecting the interior of the building from water damage, harsh weather conditions, and other external elements. Understanding the primary uses of roofing nails helps ensure their proper application and enhances the overall performance of the roof.

1. Securing Roofing Shingles
One of the most common uses of roofing nails is to fasten asphalt shingles to the roof deck. Roofing nails are driven through the shingles into the decking material (typically plywood or OSB) to hold the shingles in place. These nails are designed with a wide, flat head that prevents the nail from pulling through the shingle, ensuring that the shingles stay securely in place throughout their lifespan.

2. Fastening Underlayment and Felt Paper
Roofing nails are also used to secure the underlayment or felt paper that goes beneath the roofing materials. The underlayment acts as an additional layer of protection against moisture and serves as a barrier between the shingles and the roof deck. By securely fastening the underlayment with roofing nails, homeowners ensure that the roof's waterproofing layer remains intact and functional.

3. Mounting Roof Vents, Flashing, and Other Accessories
In addition to securing the main roofing materials, roofing nails are often used to fasten roof vents, flashing, and other essential roofing components. Flashing is placed around chimneys, skylights, and vents to prevent water from leaking into the roof structure. Roofing nails hold these pieces in place, ensuring that the flashing is properly sealed and does its job effectively.

4. Enhancing Roof Stability in High Winds
Roofing nails are vital in regions prone to high winds, such as coastal or storm-prone areas. When properly installed, these nails help prevent shingles and other roofing materials from being blown off during strong storms, providing enhanced roof stability.

Different Types Of Roofing Nails

Smooth Shank Roofing Nails

Smooth shank roofing nails are the most basic and commonly used type of roofing nails. These nails have a smooth shaft, which makes them easy to drive into materials, but they offer minimal holding power. Smooth shank nails are generally used for light-duty roofing jobs or in less demanding environments where maximum holding strength is not a critical factor.

Ring Shank Roofing Nails 

Ring shank roofing nails have a series of rings or ridges around the shank, which provide extra grip and holding power when driven into roofing materials. These nails are ideal for securing roofing materials in areas prone to high winds or other environmental stresses. The added friction of the rings ensures the nails remain securely in place over time, making them a preferred choice for high-quality roofing installations.

Screw Shank Roofing Nails 

Screw shank nails feature a threaded shaft that provides superior holding power compared to smooth and ring shank nails. The threaded design helps prevent the nails from pulling out, making them an excellent choice for installations that require extra security, such as in areas prone to high winds or heavy snow loads. Screw shank roofing nails are often used for securing heavier roofing materials like slate or clay tiles.

Cupped Head Roofing Nails

Cupped head roofing nails have a slightly concave head, which allows the nail to better hold roofing materials in place without damaging the surface. The cupped head is especially beneficial when installing shingles, as it prevents the nail from pulling through the material. These nails are commonly used for securing asphalt shingles and other soft materials.

Stainless Steel Roofing Nails 

Stainless steel roofing nails are known for their resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for coastal or high-moisture environments. These nails are durable and long-lasting, even in harsh weather conditions. Stainless steel roofing nails are commonly used in marine, coastal, or high-humidity areas where standard galvanized nails may rust over time.

Aluminum Roofing Nails 

Aluminum roofing nails are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a popular choice for specific roofing applications, particularly in residential roofing. They are less prone to rusting than steel nails and can be a cost-effective option when dealing with mild environmental conditions.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Screw Nails for Different Roofing Materials

When selecting roofing screw nails, it’s important to choose the right type to ensure a secure and durable connection, regardless of the roofing material. The correct fastener enhances the roof’s integrity and prevents leaks, ensuring longevity and protection from the elements. Here’s a guide on how to choose the right roofing screw nails for various roofing materials.

1. Asphalt Shingles
For asphalt shingles, roofing screw nails with a large, flat head and a strong, corrosion-resistant coating are ideal. Stainless steel or galvanized nails are commonly used for asphalt roofs because they prevent rust and maintain their holding strength under various weather conditions. Additionally, self-drilling roofing screw nails are often preferred because they make the installation process easier, especially when working with multiple layers of shingles.

2. Metal Roofing
When installing metal roofing, the nails used must have a strong, rust-resistant coating, like galvanized or coated steel, to withstand exposure to rain and humidity. Self-tapping roofing screws with a rubber washer are essential for metal roofs to ensure a water-tight seal. The rubber washer helps prevent leaks around the screw hole, which can be a major issue in metal roofing installations.

3. Wooden Roof Decks
For wooden roof decks, roofing screw nails should be designed to penetrate deep into the wood and create a strong bond. It’s crucial to select nails that are made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, particularly if the roof will be exposed to moisture or coastal environments. The size and length of the nail are also important — a longer nail will provide better hold, ensuring that the shingles stay securely in place.

4. Tile Roofing
Tile roofs require roofing screw nails that are sturdy and capable of holding the weight of the tiles. Brass or stainless steel nails are the best options for tile roofing, as they won’t rust and will withstand the additional weight of the tiles. Also, consider nails with a low-profile head to avoid damaging or cracking the tiles during installation.