The improper fasteners for your roof installation can cause costly repairs, water intrusion, and ultimately structural issues. There are so many items on any given market, that range from the traditional nails to newer screws and staples, that selecting the right one is done by becoming acquainted with the specific needs of your project and climate.
The article that follows will walk you through the major types of roofing fasteners and help you decide what will provide you with the safest, longest-lasting result for your particular roofing installation or repair.
Comprehending Your Roofing Fastener Choices
Each of these three broad categories of roofing fasteners serves a unique purpose and possesses unique strengths, based on what you need for your project.
Roofing Nails
Roofing nails are still the most prevalent for most installations under regular conditions, particularly for asphalt shingles. They have large, flat heads, thereby distributing the weight over the roof material evenly. Galvanised steel nails are resistant to corrosion, and stainless steel nails also provide extra strength for harsh coastal conditions.
Ring-shank nails grip better than smooth-shank nails. There is more contact of the ridged surface with the wood, and they are ideal for areas prone to stronger winds or more severe temperature changes.
Roofing Screws
Screws possess greater holding strength and are less likely to back out with age than nails. Screws are well-suited to metal roofing and are being used more commonly for shingle installations when optimum security is required.
Self-drilling screws are time-saving since they do not need pre-drilling pilot holes and allow precise penetration. The thread profile also creates a mechanical lock that opposes material shrinking or expansion with temperature variations.
Roofing Staples
Staples have the quickest installation. Staples are adequate for underlayment and light roofing. Sadly, staples have lower hold rates than screws or nails and are perhaps unacceptable in building codes for main roof attachment anywhere.
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Determinants of the Choice of Fasteners
Climate Considerations
Your local conditions determine the choice of the type of fastener as you search leaders such as https://www.briconindustries.com.au/. Windy conditions require an increased holding-power fastener such as ring-shank nails or screws. Coastal conditions with salt air exposure require stainless steel or heavily galvanised material for corrosion resistance.
Areas that are subjected to extreme variations in temperature require fasteners that will allow thermal expansion and contraction without loosening. Screws will hold up to those conditions better than nails because they are threaded.
Roofing Material Compatibility
Various roofing materials demand various roofing fasteners to function optimally. Roofing nails that are galvanised, for instance, are best suited for asphalt shingles, whereas metal roofs usually call for speciality screws that have rubber washers in them to avoid water penetration.
Slate and tile both need fasteners that won’t crack and damage the material in the process of installation. Stainless steel screws or nails are usually used under these circumstances because they are durable and won’t rust.
Building Code Requirements
Local building codes require a minimum number of fasteners in your area by type, size, and spacing. The codes usually specify local wind loads, seismic activity, etc.
Always seek the latest codes requirements prior to your project start because codes change and will probably be different from the adjacent jurisdictions. Certain jurisdictions require special fasteners or additional fasteners in addition to the standard manufacturer’s requirement.
Protecting Your Investment with the Right Decision
Quality roofing fasteners are an investment in your home’s value and protection for years to come. Quality fasteners well suited to your roofing material and your environment will provide you with decades of maintenance-free service.
Research on your own to your own specifications, learn local building codes, and consider your local area’s special environmental concerns. If unsure, consult your local specialists, who have experience with the conditions in your area and can recommend fasteners to hold your roof securely for years to come.
