Are you wondering how many coil nails you need per square of shingles? Well, you've come to the right place! It's important to remember that the number of coiled nails can vary and largely depends on the recommendations of the shingle manufacturers.

Yes, that's right — there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. But don't worry! We're here to guide you through this process and help you understand why this variation exists. So, let's start this exciting journey of home improvement knowledge! But first, we want to define what coil nails are.

What Are Coil Nails?

Coil Nails are a collection of nails arranged in a circular formation, connected by a metal strip, and loaded into a nail gun. Widely favored across various industries, they are particularly useful in roofing applications, as they provide a sufficient quantity of nails to complete a roof without requiring frequent reloading. Another popular application is for siding, and people sometimes wonder if the same nailer can be used for the two applications. The short answer is yes, but is not always recommended.

Also, a coil nail gun is a powerful tool created to insert nails into various materials such as wood and sheet metal, simplifying construction and remodeling tasks.

Which Coil Nails Are for Shingles?

There are various materials that coil nails are made, and every one of them fits a different project. We want to share our expert recommendations for your coil nails to last longer and endure the weather in your area.

• Hot dip galvanization is ideal for shingles that are guaranteed 30 to 40+ years.
• Stainless steel coil nails are also a great option for preventing rusting and are often used in humid climates near bodies of water. 
• For shingles with a lifespan of 20 years or less, electro-galvanization is suitable, while hot-dipped galvanization is preferred for longer-lasting shingles. 
• Ring shank Hot dip or stainless steel options are recommended in wind-prone areas to withstand hurricanes and avoid potential shingle loss.

Remember that the nails' duration is related to the weather you are using them. 

How Many Square Feet Will a Pack of Shingles Cover?

Understanding how much area a pack of shingles will cover is essential for calculating materials accurately. Typically, one bundle (or pack) of shingles covers about 33.3 square feet, which means you’ll need three bundles to cover one roofing square (100 square feet).

However, coverage can vary depending on the type of shingles you choose. Architectural shingles, for example, are thicker and heavier than three-tab shingles, so the bundle coverage may differ. Manufacturers often note this on the packaging to guide contractors and homeowners.

When calculating, remember to account for:

• Starter strips and ridge caps: These are not included in the main bundle coverage and will require additional shingles.
• Roof pitch and design: Complex rooflines with valleys, dormers, or hips will use more shingles due to cutting and overlapping.
• Waste factor: Most contractors add 10–15% extra shingles to their order to cover mistakes, cutting waste, and future repairs.

How Many Coil Nails Would I Need?

Most shingle manufacturers typically recommend using four nails per shingle in the main area of your roof and five nails per square in the first row of roofing. This amounts to approximately 320 nails or 100 square feet. It is advisable to use five nails per shingle for high wind areas, totaling around 480 nails per square.

A 1.5-inch roofing nail generally possesses a large 11-gauge shank and an oversized, 3/8-inch flathead. Available in hot galvanized, providing durability against the elements. 

Pro Tip: Ask your provider the quantity of nails that come in a box to ensure you get enough to complete your roofing project.

How Many Boxes of Coil Nails Are Needed per Roofing Square?

When planning your roofing project, it’s important to know exactly how many boxes of coil nails you’ll need to finish the job without interruptions. A roofing square, which equals 100 square feet, typically requires 320 to 480 nails. The exact number depends on whether you’re installing four nails per shingle for standard conditions or five nails per shingle in areas with higher wind exposure.

Since most coils contain around 120 nails, and each box usually includes several coils, the math works out to about 1 to 2 boxes of coil nails per roofing square. This ensures you have enough fasteners to secure shingles properly and meet manufacturer recommendations.

Here’s a practical guide for reference:

• Standard roofs (4 nails per shingle): Expect to use about 1 to 1.5 boxes per square.
• High-wind zones (5 nails per shingle): Plan for closer to 2 full boxes per square.
• Large or multi-roof projects: Buying in bulk saves money and guarantees consistency across the job.

Additional things to keep in mind:

• Check box counts: Not all suppliers package the same number of coils per box.
• Plan for extras: Having a few additional coils on hand is better than pausing work to restock.
• Choose the right type Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails will perform best and last longest, especially in humid or coastal environments.

Make your Roof Last Longer with FastenerUSA

Now you know much more about how many coil nails you'll need per square of shingles and the best type for your project! Remember, the lifespan of your roof significantly depends on the choice of coil nails, so make sure to choose wisely. 

At FastenerUSA, we provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and supply high-quality nails to meet your roofing needs. We proudly offer free shipping on every order, ensuring you get your necessities without any extra cost. For people in the construction business, we provide attractive bulk discounts to help you save on large-scale projects. 

We understand the significance of time in construction projects, so we have immediate availability of products and a swift delivery time of 3 to 5 days. So why wait? With FastenerUSA, give your roof the longevity it deserves with the right coiled nails! Contact us today.