Lately, we have been doing a ton of roofing projects for the government and one thing we noticed is that the government always wants us to use stainless steel roofing nails. The request seems odd because you can not buy this nail at Home Depot, Lowes, Menards or even at your local roofing supply store. So what gives? Why stainless steel? Where Can You buy it?

Pic from my last project

Why Stainless Steel?

304 and 316 stainless steel have high chromium and nickel added to the steel which provides them with a strong resistance to heat, abrasion, and corrosion (salty atmosphere). If you need a nail that will last forever, these are the best of the best. In my opinion though, it is overkill and you really only need to use stainless steel nails if you are installing a wood shake / wood shingle roof that has been fire treated or has some sort of preservation treatment. The chemicals in these two treatments will eat through a regular nail. You must use stainless steel when installing these products.

Two Types Of Stainless Steel Roofing Nails

304 Stainless Steel nails are the weaker of the two, but don’t let that fool you. A 304 nail is top tier and can be used in almost any roofing application. If you are roofing near the ocean or you have a chemically treated roofing product, you will need to use 316 to meet all the warranty specs. However, it’s always worth talking to the manufacturer and see what they say.

Pro Tip: Do not mix metals. Don’t use a stainless steel nail on copper and vice versa. If you are installing aluminum flashing, use an aluminum nail. Some metals do play well together but in general it’s just not a good idea.

Some Samson strong tie roofing nails. I really like these but harder to find.

Where Can You Buy Stainless Steel Nails?

At the time of this article, I have spent over $50,000 on stainless steel nails and have bought from various suppliers. Here are a few suppliers I have bought from and my experience buying from them.

1. Fastners USA – This company is based out of California so I use them often when I am on the west coast and need stainless steel nails fast. Their website can be a little clunky at times but their customer service is acceptable and normally respond quickly when you e-mail them or call them.
2.  Nailgun Depot – This company is based out of Ohio, so a pretty good option when you are in that area if you need nails quick. I have found their prices to be slightly lower that some of the other providers, but their shipping seems to be a little slower as well.
3. Maze Nails – At the time of this article, Maze nails was suppling 304 stainless hand nails but I did not see 316. They are located in Illinois. To be honest, I have not ordered from them yet because I am normally using 316 and they don’t carry it. However, they appear to be reputable and would have no problem ordering from them.
4. Manasquan Fasteners – This company is located in New Jersey and has a huge selection of stainless steel nails. I found this company when researching for this article and will be trying them soon.

For the average person, stainless steel nails are overkill and you don’t need it. The cheapest nail you can find will last longer than your asphalt roof. I just don’t see the point. These are only nails you want to use if you are installing wood shake or something like that.