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Do You Nail or Staple Roofing Felt?

Published in Roofing Installation 2 mins read

You can generally use either nails or staples to secure roofing felt to the roof decking. While both fasteners are common choices for this purpose, the most crucial factor is always to consult the specific roofing felt product's application instructions provided by the manufacturer.

General Fastening Methods for Roofing Felt

Traditionally, installers have used both nails and staples for attaching roofing felt, also known as underlayment, to the roof deck before the final roofing material (like shingles) is installed.

  • Roofing Nails: These are short, wide-headed nails designed to hold materials securely without tearing. They provide excellent holding power and are less prone to pulling through the felt, especially in windy conditions.
  • Staples: Often applied with a hammer tacker or a pneumatic stapler, staples offer a quick and efficient method for fastening felt. They typically have a wider crown (the top part that bridges the two legs) to help distribute the holding pressure over a larger surface area, minimizing tears.

The Importance of Manufacturer's Instructions

While both nails and staples are widely used, it is essential to check with your roofing felt product's application instructions. Manufacturers often have specific recommendations or even requirements regarding the type of fastener to be used.

Why Manufacturer Guidelines Matter:

Adhering to the manufacturer's instructions is critical for several reasons:

  • Warranty Validity: Using fasteners or installation methods not approved by the manufacturer could potentially void your product's warranty.
  • Optimal Performance: Manufacturers test their products extensively and recommend fasteners that ensure the best performance, durability, and weather resistance of the felt. This is particularly important for the underlayment, which serves as a crucial protective layer for your roof system.
  • Specific Product Requirements: Some advanced synthetic underlayments or specialized felt products might have unique requirements for fastener type, size, or spacing to achieve their intended protective qualities.

For more information on the role of underlayment, you can refer to resources on the purpose of roofing felt. For instance, IKO provides insights into The Purpose of Roofing Felt.

In summary, while you have the flexibility to use either nails or staples in general, always prioritize the specific guidance provided by the roofing felt manufacturer to ensure proper installation and the longevity of your roof system.