Some roofing nails last a lifetime, while others have a lifespan of 20 to 50 years. Roofing nails are available in lengths ranging from one to two inches. Roofers seek to use the right length of nail so that the deck (or OSB) is completely pierced by the nail. The puncture must be complete so that the entire tip of the diamond passes over the wood.
While a roofing nail must be long enough to penetrate the roof deck, it may be too long. A 3-inch (or larger) nail could go through the deck and stick out through the roof of the attic. If a roofing nail is too long, it could cause leakage problems or even pose a safety hazard to people in the attic. Repair the resulting hole with asphalt roofing cement (meets ASTM D4586) and place another nail nearby (but not in the same location).
If you have additional roof layers, such as a roof layer, the nails must be long enough to penetrate through the roofing material to the roof cover. While nails may look like a small part of the roof, they are actually important because they hold together throughout the operation. This is an overview of how these parts influence nail selection, what can happen when the roof has nails of the wrong size, and what you can do about it. What size nail would you recommend if it's a roof with a groove and tab finished in Cape Cod and you don't want to risk going through it? Also keep in mind that nails are sold by the pound and, if you are a professional roofer, it may be beneficial to buy them in bulk to reduce costs.
For the best performance, you should use annular roofing nails made of hot-dipped galvanized steel. Choosing the right roofing nails and nailing them correctly is essential to getting the best performance out of your roof. While most shingles are usually similar in thickness, the thickness of the terrace, which connects the roof to the house, can vary depending on your preferences. Under most building codes in North America, 12 gauge is the minimum nail thickness allowed on a roof.
Conversely, poorly nailed nails (nails not drilled enough) can give way to air bubbles, making the roof more vulnerable to wind damage. Required by the International Building Code, proper nailing is essential for the optimal performance of roofing shingles. Futureroof recommends galvanized roofing nails as fasteners, unless installation is done in areas with high wind or salt water. Because most roofing-related projects can be hazardous, the best thing to do is to work with a professional roof inspector who can meticulously evaluate your roof and help you identify the next steps.
