Roofing contractors have always had a problem that nobody quite solved with a dedicated tool. Hand nailing roof tiles is slow, physically demanding, and inconsistent. Adapted first-fix nailers can work in some situations but were never designed for tile geometry or the specific fastener requirements that a pitched roof demands. Paslode is now announcing the world's first RoofTile Nailer, a tool built specifically for this application.
The announcement positions this as an entirely new product category. No other manufacturer has brought a purpose-built rooftile nailer to market, which makes this a genuinely significant product launch for roofing trades in the UK and beyond.
What Is the Paslode RoofTile Nailer?
The Paslode RoofTile Nailer is a gas-powered nailer designed from the ground up for fixing roof tiles. Paslode is the originator of the gas-nailer concept, having introduced gas-powered nailers to the construction industry decades ago. The brand is part of Illinois Tool Works (ITW) and is trusted on UK sites for first-fix framing, timber frame construction, and decking fastening.
A dedicated rooftile nailer addresses several limitations that come with hand nailing or using tools designed for other applications. Tile fixing requires precise nail placement in a consistent pattern, controlled drive depth to avoid tile damage, and the ability to work on a pitched surface with one hand free for balance. A tool engineered for those conditions can significantly improve speed, consistency, and safety on the roof.
Full technical specifications have not yet been released by Paslode, but the product has been confirmed as coming to market and the imagery shows an ergonomic tool sized for one-handed use on pitched roofwork.
Why Does This Matter for Roofing Contractors?
Speed is the obvious argument. Hand nailing even a modest roof means thousands of individual strikes over the course of a job. A gas nailer drives each fastener in a fraction of a second, consistently, without the fatigue that builds up over a full day. For a roofing team, that translates directly into more tiles per hour and less physical strain on the operatives doing the work.
Consistency matters too. Hand-driven nails vary in depth depending on fatigue, timber density, and technique. A nailer with a set drive depth produces uniform fixings every time, which matters both for tile seating and for Building Regulations compliance.
There is also a safety angle. Roofing is one of the higher-risk activities in UK construction. Anything that reduces the number of strikes required, and therefore the time spent on the most exposed parts of a pitched surface, contributes to a safer working environment.
Who Makes Paslode?
Paslode is a brand within the Illinois Tool Works (ITW) group. The company invented the gas nailer in the 1980s and has been the market leader in gas-powered nailer technology ever since. Their tools are used across UK housing, timber frame, and commercial construction. The IM350+ first-fix nailer and the IM65A brad nailer are among the most widely used gas nailers in British construction.
Paslode tools run on their own proprietary gas cells and battery-powered ignition systems rather than an external compressor, which is why they suit roofwork well. No trailing hose, no compressor to haul up to the roof. You load a magazine, slot in a gas cell, and the tool is ready.
When Is It Available?
At time of writing, the Paslode RoofTile Nailer is listed as coming soon. No confirmed UK launch date or pricing has been announced. Contractors should check with Paslode directly for availability updates.
Source: Toolden Blog
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What is the Paslode RoofTile Nailer?
The Paslode RoofTile Nailer is a gas-powered nailer designed specifically for fixing roof tiles. Paslode describes it as the world's first dedicated rooftile nailer, meaning no other manufacturer has produced a tool purpose-built for this application.
How does a gas nailer work on roofing?
A gas nailer uses a small propellant gas cell (similar to a lighter fuel canister) combined with a battery-powered spark to drive fasteners. There is no air hose or compressor required. The tool fires a nail with each trigger pull, driving it to a preset depth. On a roof, this means the operative can nail tiles without trailing cables or hoses, which is a practical advantage at height.
Is the Paslode RoofTile Nailer available in the UK?
As of July 2026, the tool has been announced but has not yet been confirmed as available for purchase in the UK. Check with Paslode UK for current availability.
What nails does the Paslode RoofTile Nailer use?
Specific fastener details have not yet been published. Paslode tools use proprietary nails matched to each tool's magazine system. When the product launches, Paslode will publish compatible fastener specifications.
Who makes Paslode tools?
Paslode is part of the Illinois Tool Works (ITW) group, a US-headquartered multinational with a long track record in construction fastening products. Paslode invented the gas nailer in the 1980s.
Why would a roofer use a nailer rather than hand nailing tiles?
Speed and consistency are the main reasons. A nailer drives fasteners far faster than a hammer and produces the same drive depth every time, regardless of fatigue or timber density. This can improve productivity on large roof areas and reduces the physical strain of repetitive striking.
What other Paslode nailers are used in UK construction?
The most widely used Paslode nailers in UK construction include the IM350+ first-fix framing nailer and the IM65A brad nailer. Paslode also produces second-fix nailers, stapler tools, and specialist products for timber frame construction. ---