Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL) Practice Test

What type of nails would be necessary for attaching wood shakes as roof covering?

1. 16d galvanized nails

2. 8d galvanized nails

3. 10d stainless steel nails

4. 12d finish nails

The correct answer is: 8d galvanized nails

When attaching wood shakes as a roof covering, 8d galvanized nails are typically the best choice. These nails are designed to provide sufficient holding power while minimizing the potential for splitting the wood shakes. The 8d size refers to the length of the nail, which is approximately 2.5 inches, making it long enough to penetrate through the shake and into the underlying structure for a secure attachment. Using galvanized nails is crucial because they are treated to resist rust and corrosion, which is essential in roofing applications where exposure to moisture and the elements is constant. This helps extend the lifespan of the roof covering and prevents deterioration over time. Other options like 16d nails are longer and intended for framing purposes, which is excessive for securing wood shakes. Similarly, while stainless steel nails would also resist corrosion, they may be overkill in terms of cost and may not provide the necessary flexibility for wood expansion and contraction. Finish nails are generally too small and would not provide adequate holding strength for roofing applications. Therefore, 8d galvanized nails strike the right balance for both performance and durability in this scenario.