Installing or repairing a roof is a demanding job that requires the right tools for efficiency and safety. A quality roofing nailer is essential for securing shingles quickly and securely, saving time and reducing physical strain. With numerous options available, from pneumatic to cordless models, selecting the best tool can be challenging.
This roundup examines ten of the best roofing nailers on the market, highlighting key features and benefits for both professional contractors and serious DIYers. Whether you prioritize lightweight design, cordless freedom, or proven durability, there is an option here to match your project needs and help you achieve professional-grade results.
Our Top Picks for Roofing Nailers
- Makita AN454 1-3/4″ Coil Roofing Nailer
- PORTER-CABLE RN175B Roofing Nailer
- AeroPro CN45N Pneumatic Roofing Nailer
- BOSTITCH Coil Roofing Nailer, Roofing Nail Gun (RN46)
- Hitachi NV45AB2 Coil Roofing Nailer
- Ridgid R175RNA 21163 1-3/4-Inch Coil Roofing Nailer
- DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Coil Roofing Nailer
- Makita AN902 3-1/2″ Framing Coil Nailer
- Paslode Cordless Xpro 30 Degree Framing Nailer
- BOSTITCH RN46-1 21-Degree Plastic Collated Roofing Nailer
Makita AN454 1-3/4″ Coil Roofing Nailer
Designed for maximum performance, the Makita AN454 stands out with its faster nail driving speed, allowing you to cover more area in less time. This efficiency is crucial for large roofing projects where time is a significant factor. Its construction prioritizes both durability and user comfort.
The nailer features a lightweight aluminum housing that contributes to a longer tool life while keeping the overall weight down to a manageable 5.2 pounds. This combination of a robust build and a lightweight design helps reduce user fatigue, making it easier to handle during extended use on steep or complex roof pitches.
PORTER-CABLE RN175B Roofing Nailer
The PORTER-CABLE RN175B is a straightforward and reliable coil roofing nailer known for its ease of use. It provides a no-fuss approach to nailing shingles, making it a solid choice for both entry-level users and professionals who value simplicity. Its design focuses on core functionality without unnecessary complications.
This tool handles standard roofing nails efficiently, helping you complete your project with consistent results. As a widely available pneumatic nailer, it offers dependable performance for general roofing tasks, representing a practical value for many users.
AeroPro CN45N Pneumatic Roofing Nailer
Built for speed and endurance, the AeroPro CN45N delivers professional heavy-duty performance. It can drive up to three nails per second with reliable accuracy, significantly accelerating the pace of shingle installation. Operating between 70–120 PSI, it provides steady power for asphalt shingles and other common roofing materials.
Weighing just 5.5 pounds, this nailer is lightweight and well-balanced, which helps minimize fatigue during long shifts on the roof. Its ergonomic design offers better control on wide decks, steep pitches, and tight angles. The tool is noted for its contractor-grade reliability, often compared to top brands for its durability in daily jobsite use.
BOSTITCH Coil Roofing Nailer, Roofing Nail Gun (RN46)
The BOSTITCH RN46 is engineered for durability and user-friendly operation. Its lightweight aluminum housing provides job site toughness without adding excessive weight. A key feature is the zero nail lockout, which prevents dry firing and clearly indicates when the magazine needs to be reloaded, protecting the tool and improving workflow.
For long-term performance, the nosepiece is equipped with carbide inserts. These inserts are highly resistant to wear from constant contact with roofing materials, ensuring the nailer maintains its precision and reliability over many projects and years of use.
Hitachi NV45AB2 Coil Roofing Nailer
Now under the Metabo HPT brand, the NV45AB2 retains the respected performance of Hitachi Power Tools. This nailer is a favorite for its effective and lightweight design, weighing only 5.5 pounds. The reduced weight is a major advantage for overhead work and long-duration use on roofing projects.
It includes a practical depth-of-drive adjustment feature. This allows you to fine-tune how deep the nail is driven, ensuring a flush and secure set every time, which is critical for proper shingle installation and a professional finish.
Ridgid R175RNA 21163 1-3/4-Inch Coil Roofing Nailer
The Ridgid R175RNA is a robust pneumatic nailer built for securing standard 1-3/4-inch roofing nails. It is designed to handle the repetitive demands of shingle installation, providing consistent driving power. As a tool from a trusted brand in professional-grade equipment, it offers reliable performance.
This nailer is straightforward in its operation, making it suitable for various users who need a dependable tool for finishing roofing tasks. Its construction is geared towards enduring the rigors of job site use.
DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Coil Roofing Nailer
For ultimate mobility and convenience, the DeWalt 20V MAX cordless roofing nailer eliminates the need for a compressor and hose. It features a bump-fire mode for high-efficiency nailing, allowing for rapid, sequential shots to boost productivity on large roof sections.
At its core is a brushless motor, which maximizes runtime from the battery and enhances the overall durability of the tool. This cordless design provides complete freedom of movement, making it easier to navigate around vents, chimneys, and complex roof lines without being tethered to an air hose.
Makita AN902 3-1/2″ Framing Coil Nailer
The Makita AN902 is a heavy-duty framing coil nailer that drives nails from 1-3/4″ to 3-1/2″ in length. While not exclusively a roofing nailer, its power and capacity make it suitable for roofing framing work, such as installing sheathing or fascia boards. It includes a tool-less depth adjustment for precise control over nail placement.
Another practical feature is the easy-access nose design, which simplifies the process of clearing jammed nails. This minimizes downtime and frustration, keeping your project moving forward smoothly when dealing with larger fasteners.
Paslode Cordless Xpro 30 Degree Framing Nailer
The Paslode Cordless Xpro offers complete cordless convenience for framing applications, requiring no compressor or external power source. It is powered by a combined battery and fuel cell system, delivering strong driving power to sink nails flush into demanding materials like dense lumber.
This nailer is built for all-day performance, with a battery capable of up to 6,000 shots per charge. This extended runtime supports high productivity, making it a reliable partner for extensive roofing framing and structural work without constant recharging interruptions.
BOSTITCH RN46-1 21-Degree Plastic Collated Roofing Nailer
This BOSTITCH model utilizes a 21-degree plastic collated strip nail system, which can offer a different loading mechanism compared to coil nailers. The angled design often provides a better line of sight to the work area and can be more comfortable for certain users depending on their stance and grip.
As part of the BOSTITCH professional series, it is built for reliable performance in securing roofing materials. This type of nailer is a strong alternative for those who prefer the handling characteristics and magazine style of a strip nailer over a coil model for their roofing projects.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Roofing Nailer for Shingles
Picking the right tool for a roofing job isn’t just about speed; it’s about safety, durability, and getting the job done without a hitch. I’ve spent my fair share of time on roofs, and I can tell you that not all nailers are created equal. When you’re looking for one of the 10 best roofing nailers for shingles, there are a few key things you should keep in mind before you spend your hard-earned cash.
First, think about power source. You’ve got three main types: pneumatic (air-powered), cordless (battery-powered), and gas-powered. Pneumatic nailers are the classic choice for pros. They’re lightweight, reliable, and pack a serious punch. The catch? You need an air compressor and hoses, which adds to your setup. Cordless nailers have come a long way. The freedom from hoses is a game-changer for mobility and setup time, but you have to manage battery life and they can be heavier. Gas-powered ones are self-contained but are less common now due to the maintenance and cost of fuel cells.
Next, consider the nail type and magazine. Roofing nailers use coil-style magazines that hold a lot of nails—anywhere from 120 to 300+. This means less reloading. Make absolutely sure the nailer you choose is compatible with the nail length and shank type (smooth or ring) required for your specific shingles. Using the wrong nail is a fast track to callbacks and leaks.
Then, look at the depth-of-drive adjustment. This is a critical feature. It’s a simple dial or knob that lets you control how deep the nail head sits into the shingle. Too deep, and you damage the shingle. Not deep enough, and the nail won’t hold properly. A precise, easy-to-adjust mechanism is non-negotiable for a clean, professional install.
Finally, don’t ignore ergonomics and durability. You’ll be holding this tool all day, often in the sun and at awkward angles. A comfortable grip, good balance, and a manageable weight make a huge difference. Also, look for a sturdy construction with a protective rubber bumper. Roofs are tough on tools, and a nailer that can handle being bumped and set down roughly will last you for many seasons. By weighing these factors—power, nail compatibility, depth control, and build—you’ll be well on your way to finding a nailer that makes your roofing work faster, safer, and more consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size nails should I use with my roofing nailer for asphalt shingles?
For standard three-tab or architectural asphalt shingles, you typically need a nail with a length of 1 to 1-1/4 inches and a diameter of 11 or 12 gauge. Most importantly, the nail must be long enough to penetrate through the shingle and into the roof deck (usually 3/4-inch plywood or OSB) by at least 3/4 of an inch. Always check your local building codes and the shingle manufacturer’s instructions, as they are the final authority. Using nails that are too short is a common mistake that can lead to shingles blowing off in high winds.
Can I use a regular framing nailer for roofing shingles?
I strongly advise against it. A framing nailer is designed for a completely different job. It uses stick magazines (straight strips of nails) which hold far fewer nails, meaning constant reloading. More critically, it lacks a proper depth-of-drive adjustment for the delicate work of setting nail heads flush on a shingle without damaging it. You also risk using the wrong nail type. For efficiency, safety, and a proper installation, a dedicated coil-style roofing nailer is the only tool for the job.
How often do I need to maintain my pneumatic roofing nailer?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your nailer running smoothly. For daily use, I add a few drops of pneumatic tool oil into the air inlet every day before connecting the hose. This lubricates the internal parts. You should also clean out any dust or debris from the nose and magazine. Every few months, or if the tool starts acting sluggish, do a more thorough cleaning and check the O-rings and driver blade for wear. Always follow the specific maintenance schedule in your tool’s manual.
Is a cordless roofing nailer powerful enough for professional work?
Absolutely. Modern cordless roofing nailers, especially those from major pro brands, have closed the power gap significantly. They are absolutely powerful enough to sink nails into all common roof decking materials, even in hot or cold weather. The main trade-offs are weight (the battery adds heft) and runtime. For a professional, having multiple high-capacity batteries on a rotating charge is essential to avoid downtime. The benefit of no hose to drag around is a massive boost in productivity and safety on the roof.
What safety features should I look for in a roofing nailer?
Safety is paramount when working with any nail gun, especially on a sloped surface. The two most important features are a sequential-fire trigger (also called single-shot) and a contact trip with a safety tip. The sequential trigger requires you to deliberately press the tip against the surface and then pull the trigger for each nail. This prevents accidental double-fires or discharges if you bump the trigger. A solid safety tip that must be fully depressed before firing is also crucial. These features give you maximum control in a precarious work environment.