The Hidden Power of Roofing Nails: Why They Matter for Your Asphalt Shingle Roof

When I decided to replace the roof on my Hattiesburg home last summer, I was all about the big decisions: picking the perfect shingle color, debating architectural versus three-tab styles, and making sure the warranty would last for decades. But I’ll let you in on a little secret to my roofing contractor at Matlock Roofing & Construction opened my eyes to something I hadn’t even considered: roofing nails. These tiny pieces of metal might not make it onto your Pinterest board, but they’re the unsung heroes that hold your asphalt shingle roof together. Whether you’re in Hattiesburg, Petal, Purvis, or Sumrall, MS, understanding the role of roofing nails can make or break your roof’s performance. Let’s dive into why these small details deserve your attention and how they contribute to a durable, watertight roof.

The Mighty Role of Roofing Nails

Roofing nails aren’t just there to keep your shingles in place they’re the glue that ensures your roof can stand up to Mississippi’s wild weather. From blistering summer heat to torrential downpours and gusty winds, nails are what keep your shingles secure through it all. I learned this the hard way when a neighbor in Purvis had to call for a roof repair because their shingles started flapping after a storm. The culprit? Poorly chosen nails that couldn’t handle the wind.

At Matlock Roofing & Construction, a trusted roofing contractor in Hattiesburg, MS, we’ve seen how the right nails make all the difference. When installed correctly, they prevent shingle blow-off, stop leaks before they start, and even help maintain your roof’s warranty. But if the wrong nails are used or they’re installed carelessly, you’re looking at costly repairs and potential water damage. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Choosing the Right Type of Roofing Nails

Not all nails are created equal, and picking the right ones depends on your home’s location and needs. Here’s a quick guide to the main types of roofing nails:

• Galvanized Steel Nails: These are the workhorses of roofing nails. Coated to resist rust, they’re perfect for most climates, including the humid summers we get in Hattiesburg and Sumrall. They’re durable, affordable, and a go-to for most asphalt shingle roofs.

• Aluminum Nails: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, these are a solid choice for many homes. However, if you’re near the coast, where saltwater air can wreak havoc, aluminum might not hold up as well as other options.

• Stainless Steel Nails: These are the premium choice, built for extreme weather zones. They’re pricier, but if you’re in an area prone to hurricanes or heavy storms, they’re worth the investment for long-term durability.

When I had my roof replaced, my contractor at Matlock explained that they use galvanized steel nails for most jobs in Petal and Hattiesburg because they strike the perfect balance of strength and affordability. But they also stressed the importance of matching the nail type to the environment—something I’d never thought about before.

Nail Length and Placement: Getting It Right

Ever tried hammering a nail into a piece of wood only to have it bend or pop out? Roofing is no different a nail length and placement are critical. For standard asphalt shingles, nails need to be at least 1¼ inches long to penetrate the roof deck properly. If your roof has multiple layers or thicker shingles, longer nails might be required.

Placement is just as crucial. Each shingle has a designated nailing zone, usually a strip above the cutouts where the nail should go. Driving 4 to 6 nails per shingle, depending on local wind requirements, ensures a secure hold. During my roof installation, I watched the crew at Matlock Roofing & Construction use a chalk line to mark the nailing zones. It was like watching a master painter—every nail was driven flush, not too deep or too shallow, to keep the shingles locked in place.

Common Nail-Related Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve heard plenty of horror stories from friends in Sumrall and Purvis about roofing jobs gone wrong, and nails are often the culprit. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong Nail Material: Choosing nails that aren’t suited for your climate—like aluminum in a high-humidity area can lead to rust and weakened shingles.

• Nailing Outside the Zone: If nails miss the designated nailing area, they won’t hold the shingle securely, increasing the risk of blow-off or leaks.

• Underdriving or Overdriving Nails: Nails that aren’t driven flush can either fail to grip the shingle or puncture it, creating entry points for water.

• Ignoring Local Building Codes: Every area, including Hattiesburg, has specific codes for nail type and placement, especially in high-wind zones. Skipping these can void your warranty and leave your roof vulnerable.

These mistakes aren’t just annoying they can lead to premature roof failure and costly repairs. That’s why working with a professional roofing contractor in Hattiesburg, MS, like Matlock Roofing & Construction, is so important. They know the local codes and manufacturer guidelines inside and out.

The Waterproofing Connection

As a homeowner, I never realized how much roofing nails tie into waterproofing. But as Matlock, also a top waterproofing contractor in Hattiesburg, explained, nails are your roof’s first line of defense against water intrusion. If nails are poorly placed or start to rust, water can seep under the shingles, rotting the wood decking, fostering mold, and even damaging your home’s interior. I once saw a friend in Petal deal with a leaky ceiling because of shoddy nail work—it turned a small roof repair into a major headache.

Proper nail installation ensures that your shingles stay sealed, directing water off the roof and preventing it from sneaking into vulnerable spots. It’s a small detail that protects your entire home, from the attic to the living room.

Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor

You don’t need to be a roofing expert to ensure your nails are up to par. When I hired Matlock, I asked a few simple questions to make sure the job was done right:

• What type of nails are you using, and why are they the best choice for my home?

• How many nails will you use(per shingle, and do they meet the manufacturer’s requirements?

• Are you following local building codes for nail placement and wind resistance?

A reputable roofing contractor will be happy to answer these questions and show you their process. Matlock’s team walked me through every step, even pointing out the galvanized nails they used and explaining how they’d hold up in our Mississippi climate.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Underestimate the Power of Nails

Roofing nails might be small, but they’re the backbone of a strong, long-lasting asphalt shingle roof. From battling wind and rain to keeping your home watertight, these tiny components play a massive role in your roof’s performance. Whether you’re in Hattiesburg, Petal, Purvis, or Sumrall, MS, choosing a roofing contractor who pays attention to details like nail type, length, and placement is essential for a roof that stands the test of time.

At Matlock Roofing & Construction, we sweat the small stuff so you don’t have to. Ready to upgrade your roof or need a roof repair in Hattiesburg, MS? Give us a call at (601) 299-4219 or visit matlockconstruction.com for a free consultation.