Reasons Why Roofers Use Nails Instead of Staples

Whether you’re installing a new roof or repairing an old one, there are specific standards that every contractor must meet. However, there’s still confusion when it comes to staples and roofing nails in Stockbridge. Keep reading to learn more about this great debate from Preferred Roofing.  

The Great Debate

For decades, this debate has divided the roofing industry. Contractors and handyman have several factors to consider when facing with this age-old decision between nails and staples for their roofing jobs. When it comes to the project budget, everyone wants to save money where they can and staples are cheaper than nails. For the price, you can cover more ground–or in this case roof–with a package of staples than you would a package of nails. They have a good holding strength which is a must for homes in areas that prone to hurricane-force winds. Staple guns are easier to hold and maneuver compared to a traditional nail gun and faster depending on the person holding the gun. In recent years, however, the industry has shifted, favoring the coil nailer for its ability to carry more nails compared to the stick nail gun. Roofers don’t have to reload as offer when they use a coil nailer even though some say it’s heavier than a traditional nail gun.    

Placement and Precision

Ultimately, the difference between a nailed roof and a stapled roof comes down to the quality and skill of the roofer. While staples are easier and more cost-effective, poor placement and spacing will compromise the roof’s integrity. If you’re using staples, you have to slow down and position the gun so the staple goes in perpendicular to the top edge of the shingle. Crooked staples reduce the holding strength, making it easier for the next storm or hurricane to pull these off. It only takes between 5-10 pounds of force to remove a shingle with three-quarter inch staples. Your next roofing project will be a breeze because all you have to do is give the shingle a tug to remove it, however, it really shouldn’t be that easy.

Building Codes

Staples require precise placement in order to be effective. For this reason, more contractors and building inspectors prefer nails. To protect homeowners from sloppy staples jobs, some states have building codes that require galvanized or stainless-steel nails. In the Southeast, there are buildings code specifically designed to protect homes from hurricane-force winds. These codes require a certain number of nails for each shingle as well as reinforced plates between the roof joints and the walls. For discount building materials in Stockbridge, GA, you’ll find everything you need at Preferred Roofing.