TL;DR: Watch this video of owner John Elliott explaining the roof damage caused by improper nail placement.
When it comes to properly installing a new roof in Raleigh, Durham, and surrounding North Carolina areas, many homeowners assume that as long as the shingles look good from the ground, the job was done right. However, the “truth about your roof” often lies in the small details that you can’t see—like nail placement.
At Jackson Roofing & Gutters, we see the consequences of poor roof installation all the time. Continue reading to learn why something as simple as a nail can lead to a massive headache down the road.
The Importance of Precise Nail Placement
Nail placement is absolutely critical when installing shingles. To ensure a watertight seal, a nail should be placed just inside the edge of the shingle. If a nail is placed too far away from that edge, it creates an opening for trouble.
The “2.5-Inch Rule” You Need to Know
Why does that tiny distance matter? It all comes down to how water moves between your shingles.
- Water Travel: When nails are placed improperly, water can get in between the seams of the shingles.
- The Distance: Once water gets under those seams, it can actually travel up to 2.5 inches across the shingle.
- The Result: We often see staining on the underlayment or the shingles themselves where water has been sitting.
The Hidden Danger: Rust and Leaks
When water travels those 2.5 inches and reaches an exposed or poorly placed nail, it leads to rusting. Over time, a rusted nail becomes a direct path for water to enter your home, leading to a potential leak and an expensive repair.
This is a classic example of improper installation. It might look fine for the first year, but the damage is happening silently underneath.
Get the Truth About Your Roof
Don’t leave your home’s most important defense to chance. If you want to do it right the first time, get the truth about your roof and the peace of mind that comes with choosing Jackson Roofing & Gutters. Call us today at 919-229-9189 or fill out our web form HERE.