Many people cannot determine which they should use for vinyl siding nails or screws. If you have the same question, you’re exactly in the right place. This article will tell you which one will be best for vinyl siding.
The main difference between nails and screw is that nails are smooth and do not have threads on the shaft, but screws do. As nails are smooth, you can use a hammer to fasten them, but you will need a screwdriver for screws.
Deciding which one will be best fitted for vinyl siding will be easier when you know them in detail. So, let’s dive deeper.
A Quick Comparison Table
Here is a quick comparison table between nails and screws for vinyl siding so that you can understand it quite easily:
| Aspects | Nails | Screws |
| Product Type | Smooth and Easy To Use | Threads on Shafts |
| Special Feature | holds vinyl sidings tightly in place | need more tools to fasten a screw |
| Benefits | Offers More Benefits | Offers Fewer Benefits |
| Required Tools | Hammer | Screwdriver or Fastener |
| Costing | Costs Lower Than Screws | Costs Higher Than Nails |
In-Depth Differences Between Nails And Screws For Vinyl Siding
Now that you have drawn some basic ideas about both items, it will be easier for you in this part. Here we will have a comprehensive comparison between nails and screws so that you can make the right decision.
So, here are some key differences between nails and screws for vinyl siding:
- Product Type
Although nails and screws serve a similar purpose, fastening anything, they are built differently. We all know the physical differences between a nail and a screw.
A nail is smooth from head to toe and does not have any threads on the shaft. Besides, it will create strong protection against winds and won’t snap under any circumstance.
On the other hand, screws have threads on the shafts. They generally have better holding power than nails, but in the case of vinyl siding, it might snap standing against strong wind.
- Different Features
You will see some unique features from both nails and screws.
All these features make them different from each other and determine which will be best fitted for vinyl siding.
2 inches aluminum nails hold vinyl sidings tightly in place. Its aluminum body lasts long and says in place.
Plus, you can easily drive it in with a hammer because of the flathead.
Some stainless steel nails come in cream color and perfectly match vinyl sidings. Their 1¼ inches size allows them to hold firmly.
Because of their textured head, fastening becomes relatively easier. On top of that, some nails have a zinc finish for even better corrosion resistance.
On the other hand, screws have threads on their shaft. As a result, they generally create a stronger hold. But screws do not have longer heads. So, they easily pop out. Plus, you will need more tools to fasten a screw.
- Benefits
You will find a lot of benefits of nails for vinyl siding. For example, nails have ample head and do not pop out with pressure.
Plus, being smooth, it quickly goes into vinyl sidings. On top of that, it won’t snap under the heavy influence.
In contrast to nails, screws offer minimal benefits for vinyl siding. You will need fewer long screws for attaching vinyl siding. But make sure you do not screw too tight, or it will lose its holding power.
- Requires Tools
Fastening nails on a vinyl siding is easy.
As it is a soft material, you can easily put nails inside.
All you need is a hammer. Nails only need a hammer to drive inside a vinyl siding.
But when it comes to screws, you will need screwdrivers or fasteners.
It’s possible to use a hammer to put screws in, but there is a possibility your vinyl siding surface will be damaged.
- Costing
Professionals generally use nails in large projects like installing vinyl siding. It’s because nails are easy to drive in, create a stronger bond, and are cheaper than screws.
That’s right; nails are cheaper than screws. You will have to spend about $18 for 2 lbs., 1-1/2 inches vinyl siding nails. But screws will cost much higher than that.
Which One Is Best For You?
It’s crystal clear from the beginning that nails are the best options for vinyl sidings. So, I would suggest you use nails for your project.
It will make your task more manageable, and you can complete it fast.
Nails are smooth and easy to drive into vinyl sidings. Plus, they are not influenced by pressure.
Most importantly, nails create a stronger hold in vinyl sidings, and you can save a lot of money by using them.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Using nails is the best option for vinyl siding. It creates a stronger bond and does not snap under pressure. Plus they are cheaper than other options. You can use galvanized steel, aluminum, etc., corrosion-resistant nails for installing vinyl sidings.
There are a lot of nails available, but some of them are specially fit for vinyl siding. Hot-dipped galvanized steel nails, aluminum roofing nails, electro nails, etc., are better for vinyl siding.
You can use screws for vinyl siding, but it won’t be fastened as strong as nails. Plus, you will have to spend more money on screws. But if you want to use screws, make sure they are made of high-quality steel and are corrosion resistant.
Although nails are the best option for vinyl siding, you can use screws as well. You will have to use Phillip head screws to drive them into vinyl sidings quickly. Using vinyl-coated screws will be a wise decision.
Final Thoughts
If you do not make your vinyl siding fastened enough, it will come out. You will have to spend extra money and effort on it.
So, you should use the best fastening option in the first place.
Have you got the answer to your question regarding vinyl siding nails or screws?
I am sure you did from my review.