Thread: exposed nail heads

I see these all the time, but a relocation inspector noted them on one section of the roof and recommended repairs.

He missed the rest of the areas around the house.

The exposed nail heads are along the top of the cornice returns all around the house.

The buyer that I'm doing the inspection for wants them noted.

I have spoken to roofers and contractors and most don't worry about them and some even said that the nails seal themselves so leaks shouldn't be a problem because of the close proximity to the siding.

What do you guys think, and do you write these up?

I am going to write them up, but was just wanted other input.

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Exposed nailheads should be sealed, yes, it can be a longshot as far as there ever being a leak at one, but I have seen it happen.

I don't document the exact location of every exposed nail or shiner, just advise that all of them be located and sealed or repaired as necessary.

Dom.

Also, look closely to be sure they don't have washers... sometimes it's tough unless you get really close to tell the difference.

Wes,
There should be flashing behind the siding that laps onto the top run of shingles, "best practice" would be to leave this flashing exposed and not put nails in it with the last run of shingles. Most people prefer not to see the flashing, so the last run of shingles are added on top of the flashing.

So as long as there is flashing under that top run of shingles, and as the others said, the nails are sealed, there should not be a problem.

BTW, I think the self sealing theory is a bit of a stretch, you should be able see the sealant.

Yea, thats kinda what I thought.

Thanks guys.

Originally Posted by wes owens

The exposed nail heads are along the top of the cornice returns all around the house.

Exposed nails are bad enough, but ...

Originally Posted by chris mcintyre

There should be flashing behind the siding that laps onto the top run of shingles, "best practice" would be to leave this flashing exposed and not put nails in it with the last run of shingles. Most people prefer not to see the flashing, so the last run of shingles are added on top of the flashing.

... NO WAY ARE YOU ALLOWED to nail through that flashing!

The "exposed" nails are not the problem in this case. The problem is that the nails are even supposed to be there.

This link discusses the benefits of silicone and polyurethane sealants. They say silicone is way better as a sealant. Many people posting online have recommended using polyurethane over silicone. This would be for any application where weathering and UV are an issue. I would seal the roofing exposed nail heads with Silicone.
Any evidence to the contrary would be appreciated.

Building Caulking - Silicone vs. Polyurethane Sealant

Thanks,
Mario