Roofing Nail
Nails & Construction Fasteners · roof nail · shingle nail · cap nail
Definition: A roofing nail is a short, heavy-gauge nail with a large flat head that holds shingles and roofing felt without pulling through, and it is almost always galvanized.
Anatomy
■ Head■ Shank■ Point
Governing standards: ASTM F1667
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7/8 in · 11 ga | — | 3/8 | — |
| 1-1/4 in · 11 ga | — | 7/16 | — |
| 1-3/4 in · 11 ga | — | 7/16 | — |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electro-galvanized | zinc-coated steel | — | Standard roofing |
| Hot-dip galvanized | zinc-coated steel | — | Longer life |
| Stainless / copper | varies | — | Coastal or specialty roofs |
Materials
- Galvanized steel
- Stainless steel
- Copper
- Aluminum
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Big head will not pull through
- Corrosion-resistant coating
- Cheap in quantity
Cons
- Short — only for surface layers
- Wrong length leaks
- Rust streaks if uncoated
Typical Uses
- Asphalt shingles
- Roofing felt
- Flashing
- Vinyl siding
Alternatives & Related
- Ring Shank Nail — Extra pull-out resistance for underlayment
- Framing Nail — Longer collated nails for sheathing
Where to Buy
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FAQ
What size roofing nail for shingles?
1-1/4 in is standard for three-tab and most architectural shingles; the nail must penetrate 3/4 in into the deck or through it, per the shingle instructions.
Why are roofing nails galvanized?
The roof is the wettest part of a building. A zinc coating keeps the nail from rusting and streaking the shingles.