Nails Or Staples For Roofing Felt

Put fasteners at least every 8 inches.

Nails or staples for roofing felt.

Cap nails are typically made of steel and feature a plastic cap to prevent roof leaks hence their name. When the shingles are installed the felt is not going anywhere. Although staples are allowed in some jurisdictions they do not provide the same holding power. Staples can be used for tacking it down but not recommended to hold.

However always consult your local building authority for exact code requirements. When estimating nail or staple usage for your roofing project you should budget 400 nails or staples per square. The reason they want you to use felt nails is to prevent blow offs if left exposed or high wind areas. Back in the day all i used was staples and or roofing nails now plastic tops are the norm.

Felt staplers are designed for roofing felt housewrap insulation weather stripping light wood assembly and more. Others will tell you that cap nails are more effective. Many roofers will tell you that staples are fine for installing the synthetic underlayment. Both options often depend on the slope of the roof itself.

The preferred fastener is galvanized roofing nails with a minimum 12 gauge shank and head diameter of at least 3 8 inch. Roll out about 10 feet of felt and fasten with staples or roofing nails with plastic washer heads.