Hand Nail Vs Gun Nail Roofing

However most manufactures claim that either method is a viable option.

Hand nail vs gun nail roofing.

A hand nailed roof is hands down a better roof than using a nail gun. Taking into consideration the same size nail is used. Click here to view my recommended gear page to see which roofing hammer and tools i believe are the best. Hand nailing shingles is better than using a nail gun or a pneumatic nailer because it allows the roofers to feel the nail placement and ensure optimal installation.

I have roofing crews that can hand nail just as fast as a gun. There just are not many shinglers that have the skill level to keep up with a man with a gun. If this is the case hand nailing should be preferred over the use of a nail gun. A hand nailed roof trump s a gun nailed roof any day.

But it s important for these roofers to always test their tools before using them. Hand nailed roofs most nails come out during tear off. Over or under pressurized nail guns can result in nails that are either driven too hard or not driven deeply enough. Some roofers think that using a nail gun delivers the same level of precision as hand nailing.

A good contractor will inspect the roof sheathing after it is removed to determine if nail misses are likely to occur. Hand nailing can be fast but the same man at the same skill level doing the same job will perform faster using a gun and compressor. Nails not places correctly will cause roof failures and this is very common with nail guns. Hand nail installers are quick to feel a nail miss the wood sheathing while nail gun operators have to rely on sounds and intuition.

I have also torn off both hand nailed roofs and gun nailed roofs.