The Roofing Nail With Plastic Washer is a common fastener used in asphalt shingle and metal roofing projects. Its plastic washer helps seal the nail hole, offering improved waterproofing and wind resistance. This guide explains what these nails are, how they work, and how to choose the right type for a durable roof. It covers materials, sizes, installation steps, and maintenance to help homeowners make informed decisions.
What Is A Roofing Nail With Plastic Washer
A roofing nail with a plastic washer consists of a galvanized or stainless steel shaft and a molded plastic washer placed under the head. The washer spreads the load and creates a seal against the roof surface, reducing water intrusion at the fastener point. These nails are designed for shingle applications and are typically used with asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, and some light metal roofing systems. They are known for ease of installation and reliable sealing when driven correctly.
Materials And Sizes
Common materials include hot-dip galvanized steel for durability in humid climates and stainless steel for coastal or chlorine-rich environments. The plastic washer is typically UV-stabilized polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chosen for chemical resistance and flexibility. Nail diameters range from 0.105 to 0.131 inches, with shank lengths commonly from 1 inch to 1 1/4 inches or longer for thick roof decks. Washer diameters usually vary from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch, providing an adequate seal without excessive counter-sinking.
When selecting size, match the shingle thickness, deck material, and required pullout resistance. Too short a nail may fail to penetrate the decking, while too long a nail can damage the roof structure. The plastic washer should sit flush against the surface without curling or splitting under pressure.
Key Benefits
Waterproofing And Wind Resistance: The washer helps seal the entry point, reducing water infiltration and improving wind uplift resistance on exposed fasteners. Fast And Simple Installation: The broad head and smooth shank allow rapid driving with a hammer or nail gun. Corrosion Protection: Galvanized or stainless bodies resist rust, extending service life in challenging climates. Compatibility: Suitable for most shingle installations and compatible with standard roofing nails and staples.
Installation Tips
Before installation, inspect the roof surface for debris and ensure proper ventilation and weather conditions. Use a clean, sharp hammer or a pneumatic nail gun set to the manufacturer’s recommended depth. Drive nails straight to avoid header damage and ensure the washer seats evenly without tilting. Avoid overdriving, which can deform the washer and compromise the seal. For high-wind areas, consider using additional fasteners or alternate sealing methods as directed by local building codes.
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Best practices include: starting each row with a consistent pattern, avoiding driving nails near edges where shingles curl, and ensuring nails do not protrude through the underside of the decking. If a washer cracks or shows signs of wear, replace the nail promptly. Periodically inspect roof valleys and eaves where UV exposure and weathering are greatest.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting
Common problems include loosening fasteners due to thermal expansion, washer cracking under temperature fluctuations, and improper seating causing leaks. If a washer is deformed, replace the nail and washer combination to restore sealing integrity. In areas with extreme heat, check for plasticizer migration that could harden the washer, reducing elasticity. For roofs with heavy foot traffic or metal components, consider alternative fasteners designed for those materials.
Quality control starts with choosing nails from reputable manufacturers, verifying corrosion resistance ratings, and ensuring the washer material is compatible with the roofing substrate. Regular inspections after storms help identify loose nails or damaged washers before leaks develop.
Alternatives And Comparisons
Compared with plain metal roofing nails, nails with plastic washers provide better sealing and reduced leakage risk on shingles. However, for certain metal roofs or high-heat environments, cleat-style fasteners or rubber-adhesive sealant systems may offer superior performance. Stainless steel nails deliver greater corrosion resistance than galvanized options but at a higher cost. Some jurisdictions approve caps or simulated countersunk screws for aesthetic or durability reasons, though they may require different installation tools.
When evaluating options, consider climate, roof type, deck thickness, and local code requirements. For shingle roofs in coastal or salt-prone areas, stainless steel nails with robust washers may be recommended to maximize longevity.
Buying Guide And How To Choose
Key factors include material compatibility, washer size, and fastener length. For asphalt shingles, select nails with a washer diameter that adequately covers the nail hole and prevents capillary action. Ensure the shank length penetrates the deck securely but does not penetrate through the roofing material beyond the deck. Check that the plastic washer is UV-stabilized, impact-resistant, and designed to resist cracking under freeze-thaw cycles. Look for nails that meet or exceed ASTM standards for roofing fasteners and the specific products recommended by the shingle manufacturer.
Cost considerations involve price per pound and per box, plus bundled options in weather-resistant packaging. When buying, verify that the nails are compatible with your nail gun if using pneumatic equipment, and confirm that the color and finish align with roofing aesthetics where relevant.
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Maintenance And Longevity
Routine roof inspections should include scanning for loose nails, damaged washers, and signs of water staining around fasteners. Replace any nail with a cracked washer, visible corrosion, or a deformity in the head. In areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall, more frequent checks are advised to prevent progressive leakage. For long-term performance, consider re-nailing or resealing sections of the roof that show wear after severe weather events. Proper storage of unused nails protects the plastic washers from UV exposure and temperature fluctuations before installation.