Cap nails make a huge difference. Staples just don’t hold up if you get a storm before shingles go on.
I’ve been wondering about this—do cap nails really hold that much better, or is it just less likely to tear the underlayment? I used staples once (because, well, they were there), and yeah... wind got under it and made a mess. Also, anyone else notice some synthetics are way slicker than others? I nearly slid off last week—felt like ice. Is there actually a “grippy” brand or is that just marketing too?
I used staples once (because, well, they were there), and yeah... wind got under it and made a mess.
Been there. Cap nails are like the seatbelt for your underlayment—staples just don’t cut it if you get any wind before shingles go on. As for the “grippy” synthetics, I tried one that claimed to be “walkable” and still felt like I was ice skating in sneakers. Haven’t found one that’s truly grippy yet, but if you do, let me know. For now, I just move slow and pray my boots have enough tread.
Cap nails all the way for me—learned that lesson after a windy night turned my underlayment into a backyard kite. I’ve tried a couple of those “walkable” synthetics too, and honestly, I still end up scooting around like I’m on roller skates. My trick is to sweep off any dust or grit before stepping out, but it’s not foolproof. If you’re on a budget, I’d say stick with a basic synthetic and just take your time. It’s not glamorous, but it’s saved me from a few close calls.
Cap nails definitely make sense, especially with all the wind we get here. I’ve been wondering if the “walkable” synthetics are really worth the extra cost, though—everyone says they’re safer, but I still hear about slips. Does the type of shoe matter much? I’ve only done one small patch so far, and even that felt sketchy.
Does the type of shoe matter much? I’ve only done one small patch so far, and even that felt sketchy.
I totally get what you mean about feeling sketchy up there. I tried those “walkable” synthetics on my garage roof last fall—honestly, I still felt nervous, even with grippy shoes. Maybe it’s just me being new to this, but I’m not sure the extra cost made a huge difference for safety. What kind of shoes did you use? I had some old hiking boots and they were okay, but maybe there’s something better out there.
