Roofing nails are used in roof installation to fasten shingles, to install roofing felt for waterproofing and to attach roof tiles and sheet metal. There are different kinds of roofing nails, made of different materials and in various sizes.

Roofing nails should be 2^{1/2 "} to 6^" inches long to ensure that it sufficiently penetrates and embeds in the roof sheathing. To calculate the appropriate roofing nail length, add the thickness of the shingles and underlayment to the thickness of the sheathing. Nail shank diameter should be at least 11-12 gauge for roofs.

Stainless steel nails are best used for slate and ceramic roofs or asphalt shingle roofs in coastal climates. For asphalt roofing shingles, use galvanized nails.