The Best Nails for Cedar: Shingles, Cladding, Fencing & More
Cedar is widely regarded as one of the best materials for exterior woodwork. Its natural resistance to moisture, warping, and decay makes it a popular choice for fencing, cladding, roofing, fascia boards, and other outdoor projects.
However, the durability of cedar can easily be compromised by one simple mistake: using the wrong fasteners.
Cedar contains natural oils that can react with certain metals. If standard steel nails are used, they can oxidise over time, leading to rust, weakened fixings, and dark staining on the timber surface (often referred to as “nail bleed”).
Choosing the correct nails from the start ensures your project not only looks professional but also stands the test of time.
Why Nail Choice Matters for Cedar
Unlike many other timbers, cedar’s natural oils make it particularly reactive with standard steel fixings. Over time, this reaction can cause corrosion that weakens the nail and stains the surrounding wood.
For exterior projects especially, corrosion-resistant fasteners are essential. Using the right material protects both the timber and the structural integrity of the installation.
The Best Nails for Cedar Wood
Stainless Steel Nails (Recommended)
Stainless steel nails are widely considered the best option for cedar projects.
Benefits include:
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Excellent corrosion resistance
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No rust staining or nail bleed
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Long-term durability in outdoor environments
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Strong holding power
Because they don’t react with cedar’s natural oils, stainless steel nails help preserve both the appearance and lifespan of the timber.
Hot-Dipped Galvanised Nails (Limited Use)
Hot-dipped galvanised nails offer some corrosion protection, but they are generally considered a secondary option for cedar.
Things to consider:
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They provide moderate corrosion resistance
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They are often available in fewer sizes
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Over time, the protective coating can break down, particularly in exposed environments
For projects where longevity matters, stainless steel remains the safer choice.
Choosing the Right Stainless Steel Nail
Beyond the material itself, selecting the correct nail design is just as important. Factors such as shank type, tip style, diameter, and length all influence performance.
Collated Nails (Best for Trade and Contractors)
For professional installers using nail guns, collated nails offer speed, consistency, and efficiency.
The two most common types are:
Plastic Collated Strip Nails
Suitable for gas, battery, and pneumatic nailers.
Wire Collated Coil Nails
Designed for pneumatic nailers and commonly used for high-volume work.
When selecting collated nails, consider:
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Shank Type
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Ring shank for maximum holding power
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Smooth shank where easier removal may be required
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Tip Style
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Pointed tips for general applications
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Blunt tips to help reduce the risk of splitting, particularly in fencing boards
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Diameter
Larger diameters increase holding strength but may split thinner cedar boards. -
Length
As a general rule, nails should penetrate at least twice the thickness of the cedar board to ensure a secure fix.
Should You Use Screws Instead?
Screws can also be used when working with cedar, particularly where removability or precise positioning is required.
However, they typically take longer to install than nails and may slow down larger projects.
If you choose screws, always use stainless steel screws to prevent corrosion and staining. Factors such as head style, thread type, and finish colour should also be considered depending on the application.
Cost Considerations
Stainless steel fasteners are more expensive than standard nails, but they provide far greater long-term value.
For example:
Stainless Steel Plastic Collated Strip Nails
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Higher cost per nail
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Often sold in smaller box quantities
Stainless Steel Wire Collated Coil Nails
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Lower cost per 1,000 nails
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Usually require a larger initial purchase
While the upfront cost may be higher, stainless steel fasteners reduce the risk of rust damage, staining, and future repairs.
Final Thoughts
When fastening cedar, stainless steel nails are the gold standard.
Whether you’re installing cedar cladding, fencing, roofing shingles, or fascia boards, using high-quality corrosion-resistant fasteners will help protect both the timber and your workmanship for years to come.
If you’re unsure which nails are right for your project, our team is always happy to help.
Get in touch with our team on 0333 8000 345, email info@theMTKgroup.co.uk, or DM us on social media @theMTKgroup.