How far must nails penetrate the deck when fastening concrete roofing tiles?

The requirement for nail penetration when fastening concrete roofing tiles is essential for ensuring a secure and durable installation. The correct answer, which specifies a penetration of 3/4 inch into the deck, strikes a balance between achieving a strong attachment and maintaining structural integrity. This depth allows the nails to anchor securely in the underlying substrate, preventing uplift from wind and providing stability against environmental factors.

A penetration of 3/4 inch is typically sufficient for most roofing applications, as it ensures that the fasteners reach beyond the roofing material and engage with the underlying sheathing or framing. This helps in distributing stress and load evenly, which is particularly important for heavy materials like concrete tiles.

In contrast, options suggesting shorter or longer penetrations may not adequately address the need for strength and durability. A 1/2 inch penetration may not provide a secure enough hold, risking detachment over time, while a deeper penetration, such as 1 inch or 2 inches, could lead to damaging the substrate or causing issues during installation and maintenance. Thus, 3/4 inch is considered the optimal depth for fastening concrete roofing tiles effectively.