Why Choose Asphalt Shingles?
But, before we dive into the depths of how they are installed, there is a need to discuss why you end up using asphalt shingles in the first place.
- Cost-Effective: Asphalt shingles are far less expensive than metal and tile roofing options. It seems like a roof that may require quite some cash to install and keep it in tip-top condition can be installed or rejuvenated using race-proven tech.
- Versatility: Asphalt shingles are diverse and can be used to enhance either a vintage or contemporary look. They are offered in different colors, designs, and textures that may complement your home’s finish.
- Simple Installation: Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install and do not require a professional roofer. With a little help, even someone who has never done this before can do an okay job.
- Long Life: Asphalt shingles can last up to 20-30 years or more if installation is done correctly. They are also wind, fire, and algae resistant, which makes them a good option for most climates.
Preparing for Installation
First, it is very important to realize that the success of any roofing job lies in preparation. Do prep work before you come to the installation; going straight into it without any preparation is like putting a cake in an oven that was not preheated. If you ever bake anything, then chances are your masterpiece will be ruined.
1. Check the Weather
Selecting the right day (or days) for your commercial roof replacement is crucial. It must be dry and moderate temperatures – not too hot or cold. Shingles are not designed for installation in rainy weather as they require a dry surface to bond properly. Soggy tools (and slipping) don’t really help.
2. Gather Your Materials
This job requires more than just shingles. Check out this short list of what you should use for your project:
- Asphalt shingles (obviously!)
- Roofing nails
- Tar paper or synthetic underlayment
- Drip edge
- Roofing cement
- Roof deck protection
- Flashing
- Ladder
- Harness (safety first!)
- Chalk line
- Utility knife
- Hammer or roofing nailer
Get started with everything you will need. This is not only frustrating but also a supreme time-waster running to the hardware store back and forth in mid-project.
3. Check and Prep the Roof Deck
A shingle is only as good as the surface it sits on. If your roof deck (the wooden surface beneath the shingles) is damaged or rotted, it must be replaced. After making sure the deck is in good condition, you should clean it thoroughly. Clear away any old nails, debris, or loose material. The key to a decent installation is having a clean, sleek surface.
4. Install the Drip Edge
A drip edge is a metal strip that sits along the edges of your roof. It helps channel rainwater off the fascia and into your gutters, keeping that water from doing structural damage over time. First, you are going to install the drip edge along the eaves and then at last on top of rake lines.
Laying Down the Underlayment
Underlayment is the roofing unsung hero. In addition to protecting against wind-driven water from shingles lifting up in an area, it provides protection against another place where water can enter. Look at it as insurance for your roof.
1. Start at the Bottom
Start at the bottom of a wall and work your way up. The objective is to have any water that does manage to enter underneath the shingles run on top of the underlayment, instead of getting stuck below.
2. Overlap is Key
Overlaps in successive rows of underlayment must be at least 2 inches. The result is a continuous water-tightness around the perimeter. If you use felt paper, be very cautious of ripping or tearing it while piecing together.
3. Secure the Underlayment
To fix the underlayment, use roofing nails or staples. Keep it as smooth and stretched tight, because you don’t want any bumps or wrinkles that may cause issues later on.
Installing the Shingles
Once your roof deck is prepped and you have installed the underlayment, it’s time to lay down those shingles!
1. Start with the Starter Strip
You will need a starter strip along the eaves before you can begin laying full shingles. Mechanically attached base sheet for shingle edge protection and backwater prevention from sheet. When strip shingles are used, an asphalt adhesive is applied to hold the tabs in place and protect against wind uplift. You can create your own starter strips from a three-tab variety or purchase pre-made ones. The choice is yours!
2. Lay the First Row
After you have your starter strip in place, go ahead and lay the first row of shingles from one end of the roof to the other. Note: The bottom of the shingle should be flush with the bottom edge of the starter strip. Secure the shingles in place with roofing nails; don’t make them too deep. The nails need to lay even with the shingle coincident covering; they ought not be proud (standing out) or sunken in.
3. Stagger the Shingles
You should also stagger the shingles, as you do when nailing. Cut the first shingle one half tab that will be used for completing a second row, and then the initial piece of each successive third row. The shingles are laid in a staggered pattern so that any water cannot work its way between the gaps, an important detail to help prevent leaks.
4. Continue Laying Shingles
Continue up the roof, row by row, all the way to the top of the eave line. Tip the shingle regularly to make sure it is aligned correctly. Using a chalk line is helpful to keep everything straight.
5. Install the Ridge Cap
The ridge cap is the top of your roof. This is placed on the very top of the roof where two sides meet and it keeps water from entering your home. You can purchase prefabricated ridge cap shingles or cut these from regular flat stock. Regardless, ensure they are properly secured with the nails covered by overlapping shingles to avoid leaks.
Common Problems and Solutions
The thing is, as brilliant of the plans you have for the roofing project, sometimes things change. Here are some likely challenges and their solutions:
1. Dealing with Valleys
Valleys are where two planes meet on the roof, which can be a little tricky to shingle. Do not shingle the inside of a valley until you have installed an area metal, unless it is with “rolled” roofing. Shingle both sides of the valley so that they overlap with a bit already covered by your protective liner.
2. Handling Roof Penetrations
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights must be properly installed to prevent leaks. Flashing is a metal (normally) sheet product that helps form a watertight layer around these openings. Always install flashing according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and never skimp on care.
3. Nailing Technique
Believe it or not, how you nail those shingles on can make a huge difference. Drive nails straight in just below the adhesive strip (the tar line). Nails that are either too high, too low, or angled cause the shingles to lift and leak.
4. Working on a Steep Roof
If your roof has a steeper pitch, you are going to have much more difficult and dangerous work. You may want to employ some roof jacks and a 2 x 10 (or other suitable lumber) as a platform. Oh, and don’t forget that safety harness!
5. Weather Delays
On a day when the weather just doesn’t agree, it is always best to stop work and wait for better weather if you are not able to completely waterproof the roof on that day. If the forecast is wet, it would be wise to wait until all is dried up rather than doing something so bad that requires fixing once you can see what went wrong.
Keep These Roofing Tips Top of Mind
- Think Ahead: Have all your material and tools right in front of you before starting. Roofing is a big project, and you want to avoid spending extra time running back and forth to the store.
- Safety First: Always wear a safety harness, especially when working on the edge of your roof. It is also advisable to have someone on the ground who can assist in lifting materials and who will be able to alert you of any potential hazards.
- No Need to Rush: Relax and focus on the details. Rushing leads to errors, and errors lead to leaks. Before you attempt a job, remember that it is always best to get the task done correctly on your very first try.
- Seek Professional Help: If you feel overwhelmed, it is better to take help from a professional roofer who will assist in your project. Terrace roof installations are difficult to carry out, and there is no shame in having a helping hand.
