When installing vinyl siding, using the right type of nails is crucial for getting a secure and long-lasting installation. The nails you use need to be corrosion-resistant, have the proper length, gauge, and head size to hold the siding in place without causing any damage. Here are some quick answers to common questions about what type of nails to use for vinyl siding:
Page Contents
- 1 Galvanized Roofing Nails
- 2 Aluminum Nails
- 3 Stainless Steel Nails
- 4 Proper Nail Length
- 5 Nail Gauge
- 6 Nail Head Style
- 7 Ring Shank vs Smooth Shank
- 8 Hand Nailing vs Nail Guns
- 9 Nail Location
- 10 Conclusion
- 11 Nail Size Comparison Table
- 12 Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Nail Types
- 13 Tips for Choosing the Right Vinyl Siding Nails
- 14 Vinyl Siding Nail Troubleshooting
- 15 Conclusion
Galvanized Roofing Nails
Galvanized roofing nails are one of the most popular options for vinyl siding installation. The galvanized coating helps protect the nails from rusting and corrosion over time. Roofing nails have a thin shank which makes driving them easier without cracking the vinyl. They typically come with a 3/8 to 1 inch diameter plastic washer head in order to securely fasten the siding while allowing room for expansion and contraction.
Aluminum Nails
Aluminum nails are another corrosion-resistant option often used for vinyl siding. The aluminum does not rust or corrode easily. Aluminum nails are lightweight and easy to work with. They are a good choice for coastal areas or other regions where rust is a major concern. The recommended size is generally 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inch aluminum nails with a 3/8 to 1/2 inch diameter plastic washer head.
Stainless Steel Nails
Stainless steel nails provide maximum corrosion resistance and strength for vinyl siding applications. They are more expensive than galvanized or aluminum options but will last indefinitely without rusting. Stainless steel siding nails are recommended to be ring shank with a smooth shank under the head. The ring shank gives added holding power. Go with a nail size of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches and a plastic washer head size of 3/8 to 1/2 inch.
Proper Nail Length
For the nail length, you want to choose a size that will fully penetrate through the vinyl siding and sheathing and into the studs or furring strips behind it. Nails that are too short can loosen over time while nails that are too long can penetrate electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall. Most vinyl siding nail manufacturers recommend a nail length of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches for proper fastening into the structural framing.
Nail Gauge
The gauge or thickness of the nail shaft is also an important factor for vinyl siding nails. You want a thinner nail shank that is easy to drive through the vinyl without cracking it, but the nail still needs enough thickness and strength to securely hold the siding in place. Most vinyl siding nails are 11 or 12 gauge thickness. 11 gauge is approximately 1/8 inch diameter and 12 gauge is around 1/10 inch diameter.
Nail Head Style
Vinyl siding nails require a plastic washer head, sometimes called a umbrella head. The recommended head size is generally between 3/8 and 1/2 inches in diameter. The plastic washer head allows the nail to be driven flush with the vinyl siding without any damage. It provides a smooth surface and allows room for expansion and contraction of the siding.
Ring Shank vs Smooth Shank
You can choose between a ring shank nail or a smooth shank nail. Ring shank vinyl siding nails have rings circling the shank just under the head which provides extra gripping power in the wood. Smooth shank nails are easier to drive in but may not grip as tightly in some applications. Both work well for vinyl siding, just ensure the nail is designed specifically for vinyl.
Hand Nailing vs Nail Guns
Vinyl siding nails can be installed either by hand nailing with a hammer or using a pneumatic nail gun. Nail guns allow for quicker installation and easier driving of the nails. They also reduce the risk of cracking or distorting the vinyl from hammer strikes. Be sure to adjust the nail gun pressure so the nails are snug but do not cause any indentations in the siding.
Nail Location
Proper nailing location is key for securely installing vinyl siding. Nails should be centered in the nail slots that run vertically along the panels. The nail heads should fit snugly against the siding but not be overdriven causing distortions. Allow 1/32 inch clearance between the siding and nail head for thermal expansion and contraction of the vinyl. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended spacing between nails.
Conclusion
In summary, the best nails for vinyl siding are corrosion-resistant nails like galvanized, aluminum, or stainless steel. Use 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inch nails with plastic washer heads and an 11 or 12 gauge shank. The nail head should fit snugly in the siding nail slots while allowing room for movement. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper nail type, size, quantity, and location will ensure a secure and lasting vinyl siding installation.
Nail Size Comparison Table
| Nail Type | Length | Gauge | Head Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Roofing | 1 to 1 1/2 inches | 11 or 12 | 3/8 to 1 inch |
| Aluminum | 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches | 11 or 12 | 3/8 to 1/2 inch |
| Stainless Steel | 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches | 11 or 12 | 3/8 to 1/2 inch |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Nail Types
| Nail Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized |
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| Aluminum |
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| Stainless Steel |
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Galvanized Nail Advantages
- Inexpensive option
- Provides good corrosion resistance
- Readily available at most hardware stores
- Can be used with hand nailing or nail gun installation
Galvanized Nail Disadvantages
- May eventually rust or corrode over time
- Does not provide the highest level of corrosion resistance
- Not as strong or durable as stainless steel nails
Aluminum Nail Advantages
- Highly corrosion resistant for coastal or wet environments
- Lightweight and easy to work with
- Softer metal less likely to crack vinyl siding
- Good holding strength in wood
Aluminum Nail Disadvantages
- More expensive than galvanized nails
- Does not have as much strength as steel
- Special nails required for aluminum siding
Stainless Steel Nail Advantages
- Maximum corrosion resistance and longevity
- Very high strength and holding power
- Can outlast other nail types
- Best option for permanent and secure installation
Stainless Steel Nail Disadvantages
- Most expensive nail type for vinyl siding
- Harder to drive than galvanized or aluminum
- May split or crack more brittle vinyl
Tips for Choosing the Right Vinyl Siding Nails
Here are some top tips to help choose the optimal vinyl siding nails for your installation:
- Check the vinyl siding manufacturer’s recommendations for proper nail type and sizes.
- Select nails designed specifically for vinyl siding installation, not standard nails.
- Choose galvanized, aluminum, or stainless steel nails for corrosion resistance.
- Get nails with a plastic washer head to prevent vinyl distortion.
- Use ring shank nails for maximum gripping power.
- Nail length should fully penetrate siding, sheathing, and framing.
- Thinner 11 or 12 gauge nails are easier to drive without cracking vinyl.
- Allow small clearance between nail head and siding for expansion.
- Consider stainless steel nails for highest strength and longevity.
- Make sure nails are centered in the nail slots on the siding panels.
Vinyl Siding Nail Troubleshooting
Issues sometimes arise when the wrong nails are used for vinyl siding or they are installed improperly. Here are some vinyl siding nail problems and solutions:
Siding Distortion or Cracking
- Use plastic washer-head nails to prevent distortion.
- Ensure nail heads fit snugly but are not overdriven.
- Consider switching to thinner 11 gauge nails.
- Set nail gun pressure low to prevent cracking.
- Switch from hammer nailing to nail gun installation.
Loose or Falling Siding
- Check that nail length penetrates framing adequately.
- Use ring shank nails for better holding power.
- Ensure nails are placed properly in the center of nail slots.
- Consider increasing nail quantity per panel.
- Verify nail spacing matches manufacturer specifications.
Rust Stains on Siding
- Switch to aluminum or stainless steel nails for more corrosion resistance.
- Use galvanized nails with a thicker zinc plating.
- Increase nail head coverage with larger plastic washers.
- Remove surface rust and re-nail affected areas.
Leaks Around Nails
- Check for adequate nail head coverage and tight seal.
- Use a 1/2 inch plastic washer nail head for more coverage.
- Caulk around any leaking nail heads.
- Remove siding panel, re-nail, and re-install with proper nail seal.
Conclusion
Vinyl siding provides low maintenance and durability when installed properly with the right nails. Galvanized, aluminum, and stainless steel siding nails with plastic washers and proper length and gauge are ideal for vinyl siding projects. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for nail selection, quantity, and placement helps ensure the siding will remain securely fastened and properly sealed against the elements. With the right nails and proper installation techniques, vinyl siding can last for decades and provide aesthetic appeal with very little upkeep required.