Do you nail or screw aluminum fascia?

When it comes to installing aluminum fascia, one of the first questions that comes up is whether it’s better to use nails or screws for fastening it in place. Both nails and screws have their pros and cons when used with aluminum fascia, so it’s important to understand the differences between the two fasteners before making a decision. In this article, we’ll compare and contrast nails vs. screws for aluminum fascia installation so you can determine which is the better choice for your particular project.

Key Differences Between Nails and Screws for Aluminum Fascia

There are a few key differences between using nails vs. screws for aluminum fascia:

Holding Power

Screws provide a stronger, more secure hold than nails when fastening aluminum fascia. The threads on a screw grip the aluminum better than a nail shank. This gives screws greater resistance against pulling out under pressure or weight strain.

Reusability

Screws can be removed and reused more easily than nails if adjustments need to be made. Nails tend to damage the aluminum when removed.

Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel screws provide excellent corrosion resistance when used with aluminum. Some types of nails are more prone to rusting over time.

Installation Method

Screws require pre-drilling holes, while nails can typically be hammered directly into aluminum if done carefully. Nails are faster to install but screws allow more precision placement.

When to Use Nails for Aluminum Fascia

Here are some situations where using nails for aluminum fascia may be appropriate:

Temporary Installation

If the fascia will only be installed temporarily, nails allow for quicker fastening. This can be useful for mock-ups or temporary weather protection during construction.

Thicker Aluminum Sheets

Nails can provide sufficient holding power on thicker aluminum sheets (0.040” or greater). The added thickness gives nails more material to grip.

Limited Access for Screwguns

In tight spaces where screwguns won’t fit, a hammer and nails may be the only installation option. Nails can be tapped in place in confined areas.

Budget Conscious Projects

Nails are less expensive than screws, so using nails may help keep material costs lower on projects with tight budgets.

When to Use Screws for Aluminum Fascia

Here are situations where screws are the better choice for installing aluminum fascia:

Permanent Installation

For permanent aluminum fascia that will be subjected to wind, rain, snow loads, and other forces over many years, screws provide maximum holding strength.

Thinner Aluminum Sheets

With thin aluminum sheets (less than 0.040”), screws help prevent the fascia from buckling or deforming over time. Nails may loosen more easily.

Accessible Installation Areas

In installation areas where a screwgun can fit for driving screws, this method allows for precise fastener placement and consistent depth control.

Heavy Fascia Sections

For heavy aluminum fascia sections, or fascia being used in high wind zones, screws provide stronger resistance to pull-out under extreme loads.

Screw and Nail Options for Aluminum Fascia

When selecting fasteners for aluminum fascia, you’ll need to choose products specially designed for use with aluminum:

Aluminum Fascia Nails

– Aluminum nails – Made from aluminum for maximum compatibility with aluminum fascia. Need to be hand nailed carefully to avoid splitting.

– Stainless steel ring shank nails – The ridges on these nails grip aluminum well. More corrosion resistant than other steel nails.

– Silicon bronze nails – Greater corrosion resistance than other bronze nails. The silicon alloy performs well in aluminum.

Aluminum Fascia Screws

– Stainless steel screws – Choose screws made specifically for aluminum, not standard steel screws. Resists corrosion.

– Hardened aluminum screws – Lightweight aluminum screws that drill and install easily while providing strong holding power.

– Ceramic coated screws – Steel screws with a ceramic coating to resist corrosion while giving high mechanical strength.

Installation Best Practices

To get the best results from your aluminum fascia installation, follow these recommended practices:

Nail and Screw Spacing

– Space fasteners every 8”-12” along the length of the fascia for adequate support. Closer at corners and high wind zones.

– Use two fasteners at each rafter or stud location, one in the top and one in the bottom of the fascia.

Pre-Drilling Holes

– Always pre-drill slightly undersized pilot holes for screws to prevent cracking or twisting the aluminum when driving them in.

Nail and Screw Depth

– Drive nails and screws deep enough that the heads sit flush with the surface of the aluminum but do not puncture all the way through.

Allow for Thermal Expansion

– Leave a 1/8” gap between fascia board ends and use oversized holes to allow for aluminum’s thermal expansion and contraction.

Use Proper Tools

– Use screwguns on slow speed settings and hammer gently with nails. Set air pressure low if using pneumatic nailers.

Conclusion

For most aluminum fascia applications, screws provide the best long-term performance thanks to their superior holding strength and corrosion resistance. Nails may be suitable for temporary installations or very thick aluminum sheets, but won’t grip as tightly long-term, especially on thin aluminum. Stainless steel or ceramic coated screws are ideal for preventing corrosion while giving a durable fastening solution. Be sure to pre-drill properly sized pilot holes and space the fasteners evenly every 8-12 inches. Follow the recommendations in this article and you can install aluminum fascia that will stand up to the elements while maintaining a beautiful appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I nail or screw aluminum fascia?

In most cases, screwing is better than nailing for installing aluminum fascia. Screws provide stronger holding power and can be removed and reused if needed. Pre-drilling pilot holes is important to prevent cracking or buckling the aluminum.

What size screws should I use for aluminum fascia?

#8 or #10 size stainless steel or ceramic coated screws are recommended for aluminum fascia. Use pan head or washer head screws. Make sure to select screws designed for use with aluminum.

How close together should I space aluminum fascia screws?

Standard spacing is 8-12 inches between screws. You may want to space them closer together near corners or in high wind areas for maximum holding strength. Use two screws per rafter location.

Can I use standard nails for aluminum fascia?

Regular steel nails have a high risk of corroding and failing over time when used on aluminum fascia. Use nails made specifically for aluminum such as aluminum, stainless steel, or silicon bronze nails.

What problems can occur from nailing aluminum fascia?

Nails tend to loosen over time as aluminum expands and contracts. The holes can deform, allowing the fascia to work loose. Corrosion can also occur around steel nails. Screws resist loosening better while providing more holding strength.

Comparative Table of Fastener Options

Fastener Type	Holding Power	Corrosion Resistance	Reusability	Installation Method
Aluminum Nails	Good	Excellent	Low	Hammered
Stainless Steel Nails	Good	Very Good	Low	Hammered
Silicon Bronze Nails	Good	Better	Low	Hammered
Stainless Steel Screws	Excellent	Excellent	High	Screwgun
Hardened Aluminum Screws	Very Good	Excellent	High	Screwgun
Ceramic Coated Screws	Excellent	Very Good	High	Screwgun

Example Fascia Installation

Here is an overview of the process for installing aluminum fascia with screws:

Parts Needed

– Aluminum fascia boards
– Stainless steel fascia screws
– Screwgun with depth setting
– Drill bits for pilot holes
– Non-hardening sealant

Step 1 – Measure and Cut Fascia

Measure along eave length and rafter locations. Cut boards to length, allowing for proper gaps at ends and rafters.

Step 2 – Attach Rafter Brackets

Screw rafter brackets spaced 24” on center to hold fascia in place.

Step 3 – Drill Pilot Holes

Drill undersized pilot holes in aluminum to prepare for fascia screw installation.

Step 4 – Fasten Fascia

Apply sealant to back of aluminum. Fasten fascia with screws in pilot holes every 8-12”, 2 screws per rafter.

Step 5 – Repeat Along Eave

Install remaining fascia boards, trimming miters at corners and leaving proper end gaps.

Following proper installation techniques will result in long-lasting, securely fastened aluminum fascia. Let us know if you have any other fascia installation questions!

Conclusion

In summary, screws are typically the best choice for installing aluminum fascia due to their superior holding strength and ease of removal if needed. Stainless steel or ceramic coated screws resist corrosion while providing durable fastening. Be sure to pre-drill pilot holes with a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter to prevent cracking the aluminum when driving them in. Space the screws evenly every 8-12 inches and use two screws at each rafter location. With the right preparation and proper installation techniques, you can achieve a secure, lasting aluminum fascia installation.