The Best Nails to Use on a Roof: A Complete Guide
When it comes to roofing, even the smallest details—like the nails you choose—can make a huge difference in the performance and longevity of your roof. Using the wrong type of nails can lead to leaks, shingle blow-offs, or premature roof failure. Here’s a breakdown of the best nails to use for different roofing projects.
1. Galvanized Roofing Nails
Best for: Asphalt shingles, most standard residential roofs.
Material: Usually made of steel with a galvanized (zinc) coating to resist rust.
Why they’re great: The zinc coating protects the nail from moisture and corrosion, extending its life.
Length: Typically 1 ¼ to 2 inches for asphalt shingles.
Tip: Use hot-dipped galvanized nails over electro-galvanized for better corrosion resistance.
2. Stainless Steel Nails
Best for: Coastal areas, cedar shingles, high-moisture climates.
Material: Solid stainless steel.
Why they’re great: They won’t rust, even in salty sea air or high-humidity environments.
Length: 1 ½ to 2 inches, depending on material thickness.
Tip: These are more expensive but worth it for long-term durability in harsh climates.
3. Copper Roofing Nails
Best for: Slate, tile, and historical roofing projects.
Material: Solid copper.
Why they’re great: Extremely durable, naturally corrosion-resistant, and compatible with copper flashing to avoid galvanic corrosion.
Length: Varies by application (often 1 ½ to 2 inches for slate).
Tip: Often used on high-end or historic roofs where longevity and aesthetics matter.
4. Aluminum Roofing Nails
Best for: Lightweight metal roofs in non-coastal areas.
Material: Solid aluminum.
Why they’re great: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, though not as strong as steel.
Length: Usually 1 ½ inches or more, depending on the roof material.
Tip: Avoid in areas with saltwater exposure—aluminum can corrode faster in salty air.
5. Nail Shank Types
Choosing the right shank (the part of the nail under the head) is just as important as the nail material:
Smooth Shank: Easiest to drive, but less holding power.
Ring Shank: Grooved surface grips wood better, making it ideal for asphalt shingles.
Spiral Shank: Twists into the wood for strong holding power—great for high-wind areas.
6. General Nail Selection Tips
Length Rule: The nail should penetrate the roof deck by at least ¾ inch or completely through the sheathing.
Head Size: Wide enough to hold the shingle without tearing it.
Quantity: Use 4 nails per shingle (6 in high-wind zones).
Placement: Drive nails flush with the shingle surface—not overdriven or underdriven.
Bottom Line:
For most asphalt shingle roofs, hot-dipped galvanized ring shank nails are the go-to choice. For coastal, cedar, or premium roofing materials, stainless steel or copper nails offer superior longevity. Always match your nail material to your roofing material and climate for the best results.