Putting up vinyl siding is not an easy job. It’s more than simply tacking panels to your house; it’s about getting it done in a productive fashion that’s going to allow your panels to function in the long run in terms of aesthetics, durability, or functionality. One of the most frequently asked questions that homeowners and DIYers ask is: “Are roofing nails for siding?”
Understanding Vinyl Siding
I’m not going to get into specific nails just yet; before we get to that point, we must look at what vinyl siding is and what properties make choosing nails so critical.
What Is Vinyl Siding?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) siding, or vinyl siding, is a common type of exterior cladding. It’s well-liked for its longevity, low maintenance and affordability. Vinyl siding is also lightweight and flexible (unlike wood or fiber cement siding), so it is relatively easy to install.
Vinyl siding is one of the few materials that can easily be shaped without sacrificing its detail. It is engineered to expand and contract with temperature changes. This versatility allows it to hold up to the wear and tear of fluctuating climates, but also means specific installation techniques are essential. If the siding can’t move freely, over time, it can buckle or warp.
Expansion and Contraction: Why They Matter
Changes in temperature cause vinyl siding to heat up and expand and cool down and contract. Thus, it is important to leave room for growth. Manufacturers typically suggest providing a 1/4 inch space between siding and trim for movement. In cold climes, where temps may dip below 40°F, this gap should be increased to 3/8 inch.
Vinyl siding panels have slotted holes to allow that movement. These allow the nails to grip the panels without preventing them from shifting slightly as the material expands or contracts. That design feature is one of what makes proper nail placement so critical.
Vinyl Siding Materials and Their Installation Requirements
Vinyl siding has a variety of styles that include horizontal panels, vertical panels, shingles, and shakes. Every type comes with specific demands for installation, yet the fundamentals of nail placement and permitting movement stay the same. Whether you’re putting up the more traditional lap siding or decorative shakes, the level of detail required to achieve a long-lasting and appealing end result is the same.
Roofing Nails: An Overview
In order to determine if roofing nails have a suitable application for vinyl siding, let’s first take a closer look at what roofing nails are and the sort of environments they are generally used in.
What Are Roofing Nails?
Roofing nails – These are designed specifically for fastening roofing materials like shingles, underlayment, and roofing felt. They are distinguished from other types of nails because their heads are wider and flatter than normal nails, and their shanks are shorter, which gives them great holding power and will help distribute force across the nail head uniformly.
What Are Roofing Nails Made Of?
Most roofing nails are made of durable materials that can withstand outdoor environments. These materials include:
- Galvanised Steel: Rust and corrosion-resistant; suitable for perpetual outdoor exposure.
- Aluminum: Light, corrosion-resistant, used extensively for softer materials.
- Stainless steel: Offers excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in coastal areas without high salt exposure.
Standard Sizes and Dimensions
Common roofing nail sizes include:
- Shank Diameter: Minimum 1/8 inch.
- The head diameter: On nails must be at least 5/16 inch, which is large compared to other types of nails.
- Size: 3/4 inch to 2 inches, depending on what you are going to mount.
While these characteristics are great for holding roofing materials, some may wonder if the same applies to vinyl siding.
Benefits of Not Using Roofing Nails for Vinyl Siding
It might seem like a good idea to use roofing nails, but roofing nails are not designed for vinyl siding. Here’s why:
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The Limited Ability to Move Can Cause Damage
The primary drawback of utilizing roofing nails for siding is that they may limit movement. Vinyl siding must be allowed to expand and contract freely, but roof nails are sometimes driven too tight, pinning the siding down. In contrast, as temperatures change dramatically, this can result in buckling, rippling or warping, particularly where there is extreme temperature variation.
Over-Driving Nails
Roofing nails are made to be fired flat on the roofing surfaces. But if they are over-driven into vinyl siding, they can deform the siding or prevent it from moving as intended. On the flip side, under driven nails could allow the siding to shift and be subjected to wind damage.
Aesthetic Concerns
Face-nailing is when the nail is hammered through the face of the material, and roofing nails are often used for this. Securing the siding this way does not look very good and can ruin the aesthetic of your home. Also, face-nailing creates a buckling risk, since the siding can’t float.
Improper Nail Placement
Nails for vinyl siding should go in the middle of the slots to enable movement. But roofing nails are not always suitable for this requirement, and poor positioning can also increase the risk of destruction.
How to Choose the Right Nails for Vinyl Siding
Using the right type of nails is important for a successful vinyl siding installation. Here’s what experts say you should do:
Ideal Nail Types
Galvanized Nails: One of the most popular nail types, Galvanized steel nails resist rust and corrosion.
Aluminum Nails: These nails are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them popular for their longevity and compatibility with vinyl siding.
Vinyl Siding Nails — Some manufacturers make nails specifically for vinyl siding. These nails are designed to fulfill every aspect of the proper installation.
Recommended Dimensions
Length: Nails should be long enough to penetrate the wall sheathing by a minimum of 3/4 inch. The recommended length of a nail is typically 1–3/4 inches.
Head Diameter: A minimum 3/8 inch head diameter is recommended for a good bite.
Shank Diameter: The strength of a nail is proportional to its diameter; ideally, you’d want a shank diameter of at least 1/8 inch.
Nailing Vinyl Siding the Right Way
Selecting the correct nails is only one part of the equation. All the nailing techniques contribute for a successful installation. Make sure your vinyl siding is installed right with these steps:
Center the Nail in the Slot
Always be sure to anchor the nail in the center of the slotted hole for the siding to expand and contract freely.
Leave Room for Movement
Do not drive the nails so tight. Leave a gap of about 1/16 inch between the nail head and siding panel.
Keep Nails Straight and Level
Make sure nails are straight into the wall when driving them, as angled nails will distort the siding and can contribute to buckling.
Avoid Face-Nailing
Do not drive nails directly through the face of the siding.) Always, use the Holes you see (slotted Holes).
Manufacturer Guidelines: Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Most manufacturers will have certain recommendations for type, placement, and spacing of nails. Make sure to check the instructions for your specific type of siding.
Alternative Fastening Methods
If nails aren’t the right choice, or you’re seeking alternatives, consider these:
Specialized Siding Screws
Siding screws have great holding power and less of a chance to impede movement. But they take longer to get installed.
Clips
There is also clips for fastening vinyl siding. They provide movement and a tidy, professional finish. But not all siding types work equally well with them.
Conclusion
This begs the question, can you use roofing nails on siding? It’s technically possible, but it’s not advised. Roofing nails aren’t made for vinyl installation, and they can cause myriad problems, from buckling and warping to aesthetics.
Rather, use nails that are specially made for the installation of vinyl siding. Be careful about how you nail it together and remember to leave room for the siding to expand and contract. Following these tips will help you achieve a long-lasting, beautiful, professional-looking siding project.
If there’s any doubt, don’t be afraid to reach out to a pro contractor for assistance. A beautiful and lasting exterior for your home starts with proper installation.
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