What Roofing Nails Are Usually Made of and How to Choose Them

Roofing nails are essential for a durable roof system, and selecting the right material, size, and coating directly affects longevity and performance. This article explains what roofing nails are usually made of, how they differ, and how to choose the correct nails for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes, and tile underlayment.

Application	Common Nail Material	Typical Shank/Head
Asphalt Shingles	Hot-dip Galvanized Steel	Ring Shank, Large Head
Wood Shakes/Shingles	Stainless Steel (304/316)	Ring Shank, Countersunk Head
Metal Roofing	Aluminum Or Stainless Steel	Smooth Or Ring Shank, Large Washered Head
Copper Roofing	Copper	No Coating, Smooth Or Ring Shank

Common Materials Roofing Nails Are Usually Made Of

Roofing nails are usually produced from a few core metals: steel (galvanized or stainless), aluminum, and copper. Each metal has specific corrosion resistance, strength, and cost characteristics that match different roofing materials and climates.

Galvanized Steel

Hot-dip and electro-galvanized steel are the most common choices for general roofing tasks. Hot-dip galvanized nails have a thicker zinc coating and superior corrosion resistance compared with electro-galvanized nails, making them suitable for asphalt shingles in typical climates.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel (commonly 304 and 316 grades) is used where corrosion exposure is severe, such as coastal areas, cedar shakes, and architectural metal roofs. Stainless steel nails resist rust and staining better than galvanized nails, especially where contact with treated lumber or salt spray is likely.

Aluminum

Aluminum nails are lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant, making them common with aluminum or light-gauge metal roofing systems. Aluminum is softer than steel and should not be used with heavy loads or where high holding power is required.

Copper

Copper nails are used for historic or premium copper roofing and flashing. Copper provides excellent longevity and aesthetic patina, but it is expensive and should be matched to copper roofing to avoid galvanic corrosion with dissimilar metals.

Nail Coatings And Corrosion Protection

Coatings extend nail life when exposed to weather. The most common coatings are hot-dip galvanizing, electro-galvanizing, and specialty polymer coatings. Choosing the right coating depends on environment and roof material compatibility.

Hot-Dip Galvanized

Hot-dip galvanizing involves immersing the steel in molten zinc, producing a robust, uneven coating that adheres well. This method yields the best sacrificial protection against rust and is recommended for most shingle applications unless stainless steel is specified.

Electro-Galvanized

Electro-galvanized nails have a thinner zinc layer applied electrically. They are useful for short-term exposure and some interior applications, but they offer less long-term corrosion resistance than hot-dip galvanizing.

Polymer-Coated And Stainless Options

Polymer coatings add an extra barrier and reduce friction during driving. Stainless steel requires no coating and is preferred where maximum longevity and minimal staining are necessary.

Nail Types By Shank And Head: Holding Power And Application

Nail performance is determined by shank type and head design. Ring shank nails provide superior pullout resistance while smooth shank nails are easier to drive and remove. Head size and shape control holding area for shingle tabs and metal panels.

Ring Shank Vs Smooth Shank

Ring shank nails have circumferential ridges that bite into the substrate and resist uplift, which is critical for high-wind zones. Smooth shank nails rely more on friction and are less resistant to pullout under cyclic loads.

Head Types: Large, Smooth, And Washered

Roofing nails often feature a wide, flat head to distribute load on shingle tabs. Metal roofs commonly use nails with large washered heads or neoprene-washered screws to seal penetrations. Large heads reduce tear-through and help secure shingles or underlayment reliably.

Standard Sizes And What They Mean

Roofing nail sizes are often described by penny (d) sizes or length in inches. The most common lengths for residential roofing nails range from 1 inch to 1 3/4 inches, depending on sheathing thickness and whether installation is through sheathing into framing.

Selection Based On Sheathing And Framing

A typical guideline for asphalt shingles is to use nails long enough to penetrate the roof sheathing and embed at least 3/4 inch into the decking or penetrate through the sheathing into the framing. For 1/2 inch sheathing over rafters, 1 1/4 inch to 1 5/8 inch nails are common.

Code, Manufacturer, And Warranty Requirements

Roofing manufacturers and building codes often specify nail materials and lengths. Using nails that don’t meet these requirements can void warranties and fail inspections. Always check shingle manufacturer instructions and local building codes before purchase.

Wind Uplift And Fastener Specifications

High-wind areas require specific fastener types (often ring shank or more nails per shingle) and pattern layouts. Code-compliant installations in wind zones may mandate additional fasteners or specific materials like stainless steel in coastal areas.

Compatibility With Roof Materials And Risk Of Galvanic Corrosion

When different metals touch in a wet environment, galvanic corrosion can occur. Matching nail metal to the roof material (for example, copper nails for copper roofs) prevents electrical potential differences and extends service life.

Treated Lumber And Chemical Reactions

Pressure-treated lumber contains chemicals that accelerate corrosion of ordinary steel nails. Use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel fasteners with treated wood to avoid premature rust and failure.

Practical Selection Guide For Common Roofing Situations

Choosing the right roofing nail depends on roof type, climate, substrate, and budget. The following concise recommendations reflect common U.S. practices and manufacturer guidance.

• Asphalt Shingles: Use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel ring shank nails with a large head; length sufficient to penetrate sheathing and embed into framing.
• Wood Shakes/Shingles: Use stainless steel ring shank or copper nails to avoid staining and to resist weathering.
• Metal Roofing: Use aluminum or stainless steel fasteners with neoprene washers or large-headed nails/screws to seal penetrations and prevent corrosion.
• Copper Roofs/Flashings: Use copper nails to maintain metal compatibility and avoid galvanic action.

Installation Tips To Maximize Nail Performance

Proper installation affects fastener durability as much as material selection. Drive nails square to the surface, avoid overdriving or countersinking, and place nails according to the roofing layout to reduce tearing and leaks.

Fastener Placement And Pattern

Follow the shingle manufacturer’s nailing pattern, which usually specifies nail positions across the nailing strip and number of nails per shingle. Incorrect placement is a leading cause of wind damage and warranty denial.

Avoiding Overdriving And Underdriving

Overdriving a nail can split shingles or crush the substrate, while underdriving leaves the head proud and vulnerable. Use a proper roofing nail gun with adjustable depth or a controlled hammer technique.

Maintenance, Inspection, And Replacement Considerations

Periodic roof inspections should include checking exposed fasteners for rust, sealant failure, or pullout. Rusty or backed-out nails should be replaced promptly with the correct material and sealed to prevent leaks.

When To Replace Fasteners

Replace fasteners during re-roofing or when corrosion, movement, or repeated leaks are observed. For re-roofing over existing shingles, consider upgrading to higher-corrosion-resistant fasteners if the roof is in a harsh environment. Proper replacement extends the service life of the new roof covering.

Buying Guide And Cost Considerations

Price varies by material: hot-dip galvanized nails are economical, stainless steel and copper are more expensive. Factor long-term durability and warranty compliance into cost decisions; cheaper fasteners can raise lifecycle costs due to earlier failures.

Quantity And Packaging

Roofing projects often require thousands of nails; buying in bulk reduces unit cost. For nail guns, ensure compatibility with coil or strip nails and the proper shank and head configuration. Confirm product specifications against manufacturer and code requirements before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Nails

Common homeowner and installer questions focus on corrosion, length, and compatibility. Answers hinge on site conditions, roof type, and manufacturer requirements.

• Are stainless steel nails always necessary? Not always; stainless is recommended in coastal or corrosive environments and for premium roofing materials.
• What nail length is best for shingles? Typically 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 inches depending on sheathing thickness; ensure adequate penetration into the framing if required.
• Can aluminum nails be used with asphalt shingles? Generally not recommended due to lower strength unless the manufacturer specifically approves them.

Choosing the right roofing nails is a critical part of a successful roofing job. Material, coating, shank type, and proper installation all determine the roof’s resistance to wind, corrosion, and long-term wear. Adhering to manufacturer instructions and local code ensures performance and warranty protection.