Q. I’m getting bids on a new roof and some of the roofers want to use a nail gun to install the shingles. Is this a good idea? I’ve also heard stories about inferior galvanized nails that don’t hold ...

Q: I’m getting bids on a new roof, and some of the roofers want to use a nail gun to install the shingles. Is this a good idea? What type of nails would you use when installing shingles on your home ...

DEAR TIM: I’m getting bids on a new roof and some of the roofers want to use a nail gun to install the shingles. Is this a good idea? I’ve also heard stories about inferior galvanized nails that don’t ...

Dear James: We live by a pond, and the weather stays humid. I plan to replace some wood siding myself and don’t want nail rust stains. How should I do it this time? — Daryl C. Dear Daryl: Rust stains ...

How long a nail should you use for a 1-inch board or a 2-inch board? Eight-penny or 16-penny? The accepted rule of thumb is the nail length should be 21/2 times the thickness of the wood you are ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Installing a gorgeous wood fence requires work. You must read ...

Q.The carpenter that built my deck used joist hangers to hold up the joists along the house and at the end of the deck. Are these steel joist hangers approved, and will they stand the test of time?