Illinois Roofing Practice Exam

In high-wind zones, the recommended minimum nail usage per shingle is six. This higher nailing requirement is essential to ensure that the shingles remain securely attached to the roof deck in the face of strong winds. With increased wind pressure and the risk of uplifts during storms or severe weather events, using six nails helps distribute the forces acting on the shingles more evenly, which reduces the likelihood of them being loosened or removed by wind.

This practice contributes to the overall integrity and longevity of the roofing system, minimizing potential damage to the structure beneath and the risk of water infiltration. In contrast, fewer nails, such as four or even eight, might not provide the same level of security and could lead to compromised roof performance in high-wind conditions. Therefore, adherence to the six-nail guideline is a crucial aspect of roofing in these challenging environments.