We've done some tests to see things for ourselves. The test consisted of placing the fastener into 1/2 inch thick pine and then trying to pull it out while measuring the amount of pull required. Some of our results were as follows: 5/8" staples (which penetrate only 1/4") can pull out with as little as 1 lb. of pull. 3/4" staples pull out with 5-10 lbs. of force per staple. 1 1/2" galvanized roofing nails require 30-50 lbs. of force to pull out. Spirals and ring-shank nails require more than 100 lbs. of force. Consequently, we use ring-shank roofing nails in our installations.

My general attitude is that someone using staples for attaching roofing is telling you his bottom line is much more important than the quality of workmanship he delivers to you. If anyone in this forum disagrees with this, let's hear your reasons.

Au contraire, PGRIZ, but staples DO have an advantage over nails! When the first strong wind blows half of the shingles off, it makes life SOOO much easier for the next person; they don't have to use a shingle rake to remove the remaining ones. In order to finish off the removal, they just need to set a fan on the roof and watch the rest of them blow away but, hopefully not into the neighbors yard!!

Seriously, I'm in agreement. With pneumatic coil nailers, etc. I cannot understand why ANYONE would even consider stapling. While I'm not a roofing contractor, the idea seems totally ludicrous to me!

That was good Scuba_dew you had me going. I was thinking this guy is actually going to defend staples.

I thought everyone quit using staples after they figured out they didn't hold during the high winds. Oh well. I wouldn't use that guy even if he said he would change to nails. That might be a prelude of things to come.