How To Nail Corrugated Metal Roofing

November 29, 2025

2 min read

dilshadakram

To nail corrugated metal roofing, you start by placing fasteners through the high points of the waves, not the valleys. Use long nails with rubber washers to seal each hole. Space nails 12 to 18 inches apart. Drive them straight down to avoid damage to the metal. Corrugated metal roofs are popular because they last 40 to 80 years, according to RubyHome. They resist fire and weather well, which is why about 10% of homeowners choose metal roofing, according to industry data.

Why Choose Corrugated Metal Roofing?

Corrugated metal roofs are strong and last a very long time. They cost $5.50 to $11.50 per square foot installed, according to RubyHome data. A typical 1,700 square foot roof costs between $6,800 and $68,000 depending on the exact material.

Metal roofs shed water fast and handle storms well. They also reflect heat, which saves energy in hot climates. Many contractors now offer metal roofing because it is growing in popularity.

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What Tools and Materials Do You Need?

You need long nails with wide rubber washers. Buy nails that are at least 1.5 inches long. The rubber washer creates a water-tight seal around each nail hole. You also need a hammer, a tape measure, and work gloves.

Get safety gear. Wear a hard hat and fall protection if you are working high up. Corrugated metal is slippery when wet, so wear slip-resistant shoes too.

Item	Purpose
Nails (1.5″+ long)	Fasten metal to wood
Rubber washers	Seal nail holes
Hammer	Drive nails
Safety gear	Protect yourself

How Do You Install the Nails?

Start at the top of the roof and work down. Place your first nail through the high point of a corrugated wave. Slide the rubber washer onto the nail first. Then drive the nail straight through the metal and into the wood below. Never nail through the valleys, as water will pool there.

Space nails 12 to 18 inches apart along each row. Use multiple rows across the width of the roof. This pattern holds the metal panel firmly in place and prevents wind damage. Roofing injuries cost money and time, so work carefully and never rush.

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What Mistakes Should You Avoid?

Do not hammer nails crooked. This tears the metal and breaks the seal. Do not skip the rubber washer. Without it, water leaks into the wood below. Do not nail in the valleys of the waves.

Do not work alone on a tall roof. According to OSHA data, roofing accidents are serious. Over 50% of all construction fall deaths involve roofers. Always use fall protection when working at heights.

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Contact a qualified professional roofer for expert guidance on roof repair, replacement, or installation.