What Size Roofing Nails For Shingles?
The size of roofing nails for shingles depends on the type and thickness of the shingles, as well as the specific building codes in your area. However, some general guidelines can help you choose the right size:
- Length: Roofing nails need to be long enough to go through the shingle and at least 3/4 inch into the roof deck or through the thickness of the roof deck, whichever is less. For standard asphalt shingles, nails are typically 1 to 2 inches long. For architectural shingles, which are thicker, you might need nails that are 1 1/4 to 2 inches long.
- Gauge: The most common gauge for roofing nails is 11 or 12 gauge. This refers to the thickness of the nail. A lower gauge number indicates a thicker nail.
- Head Diameter: It’s ideal for the head of the nail to be at least 3/8 inch in diameter to hold the shingle securely.
When in doubt, consult the shingle manufacturer’s recommendations and local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for nail size and type to ensure proper installation and compliance.
