There are a few vital components involved in any kind of metal roofing construction or related job, and proper fasteners are always on this list. Among a few different kinds of fasteners, metal roof nails are popular and effective - and there are several qualities that make this the case.
At Supply Maverick, a division of Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we're proud to offer the very best selection of metal roofing fasteners on the market, from metal roofing screws to various metal roofing nails and more. Here are some of the main characteristics that make metal nails ideal for metal roofing projects of any kind.
Materials With Quality Protections
For starters, metal roofing nails are typically made from materials that offer several forms of protection from the elements and other risks. These materials and their benefits include:
- Stainless steel: This material is corrosion-resistant and able to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use. It also has a high tensile strength, meaning it can hold up against heavy loads and pressure.
- Galvanized steel: This type of steel is coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion, making it a durable option for outdoor use. It's also cost-effective and widely available.
- Aluminum: While not as strong as stainless or galvanized steel, aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust. It's often used in coastal areas where saltwater exposure is a concern.
Coatings
In addition to their base materials, metal roofing nails can also be coated for added protection against the elements. Some common coatings include:
- Zinc: This coating provides an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion.
- Ceramic: A ceramic coating can increase a screw's heat resistance and durability, making it suitable for extreme temperatures or harsh environments.
- Epoxy: An epoxy coating offers excellent chemical and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for industrial or commercial applications.
Drive Types
Metal roofing nails come in different drive types, which refer to the shape of the head and how the screw is driven into place. The most common drive types are:
- Phillips: This is one of the most popular drive types, featuring a cross-shaped recess that requires a Phillips screwdriver to install. It provides good grip and is easy to use, but can slip out of the recess if not properly aligned.
- Hex: The hex drive type has a hexagonal head that requires a hex driver or socket wrench for installation. It offers more torque and less slippage compared to Phillips, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
- Square: Also known as Robertson, this drive type has a square-shaped recess that requires a square driver for installation. It provides excellent grip and prevents slippage, making it popular for woodworking projects.
- Star/Torx: The star or Torx drive type features a six-pointed star-shaped recess that requires a special Torx driver for installation. This drive type offers better torque and prevents cam-out, making it suitable for high-torque applications.
- Hex/Allen: The hex or Allen drive type has a hexagonal-shaped recess that requires an Allen key for installation. It is commonly used in furniture assembly and bicycle maintenance due to its compact size and ability to fit in tight spaces.
Shank Type
Metal roof nails also come in several different shank types, such as smooth shank, ring shank or screw shank. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different applications.
- Smooth Shank: This type of shank is the most common and features a smooth surface without any ridges or grooves. It is suitable for general use and can be easily hammered into most materials without splitting or causing damage.
- Ring Shank: As the name suggests, this shank type has rings or spirals along its length that increase resistance to withdrawal. It is commonly used in roofing installation to provide better holding power and prevent nails from backing out over time.
- Screw Shank: Similar to ring shanks, screw shanks also have spiral threads along their length that provide excellent holding power. They are commonly used in decking and flooring installation to prevent boards from shifting or popping up.
As you can see, there are several specific qualities of metal roof nails that make them ideal for various metal roofing jobs. From holding power to corrosion resistance, it is important to use the right type of nail for your specific project.
At Supply Maverick, we offer the best selection of metal roofing fasteners on the market, from metal roofing nails to metal roofing screws and much more. Contact us today to find the perfect fasteners for your next metal roofing project!
