Why Roofers Prefer Roofing Nails Over Staples

In areas where the weather can range from scorching summers to frigid winters, the choice of materials and methods for your home exteriors, especially your roof, becomes critical. It has been observed that professional roofers tend to favor roofing nails over staples. This blog post aims to demystify the reasoning behind this choice.

Greater Holding Power

Roofing nails are designed to provide superior holding power, which is essential in areas where homes are subjected to a wide range of weather conditions. The design of roofing nails, with their larger head and thicker shank, offers a greater surface area for gripping the roofing material and the roof deck. This ensures that shingles stay secure, even in high winds or heavy rain, reducing the risk of damage or the need for costly repairs.

Compliance With Building Codes

In many regions, building codes specifically dictate the use of roofing nails for shingle installation. These regulations are put in place to standardize building practices and ensure the safety and durability of homes. Roofers prefer to comply with these codes not just for legal reasons but also to meet the standards required for certain manufacturer warranties. Using staples, on the other hand, might violate these codes and void warranties, putting homeowners at risk.

Durability and Longevity

The durability and longevity of a roof are paramount to both homeowners and professional roofers. The use of roofing nails contributes significantly to the lifespan of a roof. Nails are less likely to corrode or to become loose over time compared to staples. Nails are made from galvanized steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion, thus ensuring that the roof’s integrity remains intact over many years.

Easier to Install Correctly

Correct installation is vital for the performance of roofing materials. Roofing nails are generally easier for roofers to install correctly with a roofing nail gun. This is because nails need to penetrate the roofing material and the deck beneath it at a precise depth. Staples can be more challenging to position accurately and can lead to misalignment or insufficient penetration, compromising the roofing material’s security.

Better Wind Resistance

Roofing nails offer better wind resistance compared to staples. This is due to their superior holding power and the ability of the larger nail head to distribute force more evenly, preventing shingles from tearing or being blown away. Ensuring a roof’s resistance to wind is not just about immediate safety but also about preventing long-term, wind-related wear and tear.

Suitable for All Roofing Materials

Finally, roofing nails can be used on a variety of roofing materials, ranging from asphalt shingles to wooden shakes. Regardless of the type of shingle a homeowner may choose, roofing nails provide a reliable, strong, and versatile option for installation.

Given their superior holding power, compliance with building codes, durability, ease of installation, wind resistance, and versatility, it is clear why roofing nails are the preferred choice of professional roofers. Homecraft® Inc. remains committed to providing the highest quality roofing services, ensuring every roof we work on is built to last, respecting the preferences of professional roofers and the needs of our clients. Call us today at (302) 798-0302 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment! We serve homeowners in Wilmington and Hockessin, DE, as well as the surrounding areas.