Why is hand nail installation better?
Hand nail installation and pneumatic gun nail installation are two methods used for securing roofing shingles to the roof deck. Here’s the difference between the two and why hand nail installation is often considered better:
Hand Nail Installation:
- In hand nail installation, roofers manually drive nails into the shingles and roof deck using a hammer.
- It requires skill, precision, and physical effort.
- Hand nail installation allows roofers to feel the resistance of the materials, ensuring proper penetration and tightness of the nails.
- It provides greater control over the nailing process and helps prevent over-driving or under-driving the nails.
- Hand nail installation allows for better placement and alignment of the nails, ensuring secure attachment and minimizing the risk of shingle damage.
Pneumatic Gun Nail Installation:
- Pneumatic gun nail installation involves using a nail gun connected to an air compressor to drive nails into the shingles and roof deck.
- It is a faster and more efficient method, allowing for quicker installation.
- Pneumatic nail guns can drive nails with consistent force, which can be an advantage in terms of speed and productivity.
- However, there is a risk of over-driving the nails, as the force generated by the nail gun may not be easily adjustable.
- Improper adjustment or misuse of the nail gun can lead to under-driven or over-driven nails, which can compromise the integrity of the roof.
Why is hand nail installation better?
Hand nail installation is often preferred by experienced roofers and regarded as a better method due to the following reasons:
- It allows for greater precision and control over the nailing process, resulting in secure and properly placed nails.
- Roofers can detect any potential issues, such as soft spots or improper fastening, by feeling the resistance while hand nailing.
- Hand nail installation minimizes the risk of shingle damage and ensures a more aesthetically pleasing roof appearance.
- It offers the opportunity for a more meticulous and detailed approach, especially for complex roof designs or challenging areas.
Ultimately, the choice between hand nail and pneumatic gun nail installation depends on factors such as the roofer’s expertise, the project requirements, and the desired level of quality and craftsmanship. At The Shingle Master, we prioritize quality workmanship and are skilled in the art of hand nail installation, ensuring a secure and long-lasting roof for our customers. We offer hand nail installation as an option on every roof we install!
