How to Buy a Roofing Nail Gun

Confused on how to buy a roofing nail gun? There are some things to consider before you rush out to buy a nail gun to do that roofing project. Knowing what types of guns are available, the accessories you need, and safety procedures you should take are all important in purchasing a roofing nail gun.

Types of Roofing Nail Guns

Pneumatic Nail Guns

Pneumatic nail guns pump nails through a cylinder with the help of an air compressor. These are the most common types of guns used, but can be very dangerous if not used properly. Air is built up inside the nail canister and when you pull the trigger, a "door" opens and the nail is pushed out at tremendous speed. If you are considering this type of nail gun, then make sure you also take the proper safety precautions.

Solenoid Nail Guns

These type of guns use electromagnetic polarization that shoves the nail from the solenoid into the wood. Solenoid guns have a tendency to last longer than other nail guns because there are less parts to go wrong. If you expect a project to last a long time or plan to complete more than one project, then a solenoid nail gun is the way to go.

Shingles

Spring Loaded Nail Guns

As the name indicates, the nails are shot out of the gun with high-tension springs that are pulled back with electricity. These guns are simple in their architecture and can be cheap in cost. If you are on a budget but want a more efficient way to nail in the roof, then pick up one of the spring loaded kind.

How to Buy a Roofing Nail Gun

Any of the above guns will work for a roofing project, of course; it just depends on what you can afford and what equipment you already have or may need. In order to find the gun that is perfect for you, actually go to a hardware store to see the guns. Pick up the gun and see if it can be handled easily. You want a gun that you can maneuver quickly because the purpose of using a roofing nail gun is efficiency over a hammer, and being able to move the gun quickly is important. Don't buy a roofing nail gun that you can't even lift.

When in doubt on how to buy a roofing nail gun, ask someone. Of course, find someone in the hardware store who is knowledgeable in the equipment, not just someone who can read a fact card (because you can do that!). Lowes and Home Depot typically hire people who have experience in the area where they work so chances are you will be talking to someone who has actually used a nail gun.

Accessories

You can't just buy a nail gun, take it home, and start using it. There are some things you need:

  • Nails. What good is a nail gun without nails? Either check out the fact tag or the product box to see which nails you need to purchase.
  • Extension cords. Depending on which gun you buy, you may need additional extension cords for the electric guns or the air compressor if you get the pneumatic gun.
  • Air Compressor. Again, depending on the gun you buy, you may need an air compressor. This is only for the pneumatic gun.

Safety

When working with any industrial equipment, safety is always important. Some things you need to purchase if you don't have them already.

  • Safety glasses. Debris can fly up, pieces of flak can hit you in the face, and dust can get in your eyes, so cover them up with wide safety glasses.
  • Thick boots. Not shoes. Not flip-flops. Not sneakers. Get steel-toed boots if you can, but thick construction boots made from leather should protect your feet well enough.
  • Keep covered up. Wear jeans and thick socks. Also, get a hard hat, especially if more than one person is using a nail gun.

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