Correct nails for aluminum drip edge and flashing?
#1
04-27-13, 06:34 AM
Correct nails for aluminum drip edge and flashing?
I just had my roof installed yesterday. I noticed that the nails used to secure all the aluminum on the roof are steel. I'm assuming they're electro-galvanized or a zinc roofing nail, but I'm wondering if they should be aluminum. Everything from the drip edge, chimney apron, step flashing, and box vents are all aluminum, but the steel nails were driven through them. The exposed nail heads were covered with caulk (clear OSI Quad), but I'm more worried about the oxidation that may occur between the steel and aluminum and the longevity of the nails.
#2
04-27-13, 07:16 AM
You didn't say what type roof you had installed. Asphalt, steel, etc. You should not be able to see the nails on the drip edge, as it is nailed from the top, and covered with the shingles. If they edge nailed it, it is wrong. Maybe you could post a couple of pictures of the job and the concerned areas so we can see what you see.
#3
04-27-13, 09:19 AM
Group Moderator
I think you are correct. Aluminum should be nailed with aluminum nails. Copper should be nailed with copper nails. Unfortunately I almost never see it actually done and most of my rental houses have everything done with electro galvanized nails because that's what runs through a nail gun. If protected from the weather I suppose it's a ok solution if for no other reason than cost, especially if your's is already installed.
#4
04-27-13, 10:23 AM
I'm not a roofer but I've seen aluminum drip edge fastened with galvanized nails for years. It doesn't appear to hurt anything and the nails are covered by the shingles. It might contribute to a shorter life of the drip edge causing it to need replacing when the next roof is installed.
