CSLB C-39 Roofing ContractorSteep-Slope RoofingEasy

A roofing crew is installing standard asphalt strip shingles on a normal-slope residential roof in a non-high-wind area. Per manufacturer and code guidelines, how many nails should be driven per shingle?

  1. A2 nails
  2. B8 nails
  3. C4 nails
  4. D6 nails
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 4 nails

Standard asphalt strip shingle installation requires four nails per shingle placed in the nailing zone above the cutouts, spaced evenly across the shingle width; six nails are required only in high-wind regions.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. 2 nails is insufficient and would not meet code for wind uplift resistance.
  • B. 8 nails is excessive and not a recognized standard pattern.
  • D. 6 nails applies to high-wind zones, not standard installations.

Standard Shingle Nailing Pattern

The required number and placement of fasteners per shingle to meet wind resistance standards.

  • 4 nails standard; 6 nails in high-wind areas
  • Nails placed in designated nailing zone above cutouts
  • Improper placement voids manufacturer warranty

Memory trick: Four is the norm, six when winds storm.

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