reroofing

I want to reroof over my existing 3 tab 20 yr. shingle roof. It is still in good shape just going on 22 yrs. old and showing signs of wear. I want to use the newer architectural shingles to put over the old. I want to do this all myself next summer in say 6-12 week span. My questions are these: what equipment can I use like I heard that the only portable nailing gun without the air compressor type that roofers use is for staples only. Are those as strong as regular roofing nails? or can i just nail them w/hammer? The roof is not too steep and is a hip roof over a med. small rectangular roof. Shoud I expect to be able to do this? I think so, with time. I am a hard worker. Also, will any rain during the job hurt my house/roof? Any info./tips would be helpful on anything I would need besides a strong back and a hammer!! Thanks, J. Alford

 

It used to be that building code allowed up to 3 layers of shingles. I don't know if that still exists. I thought I heard something about a 1 layer limit.

In any event, there are CO2 nail guns & even some battery powered guns. You certainly don't want to do it with a hammer. That's suicidal.

 

Hey thanks for that info. on the nail guns. I did not know there were those kinds. Yeah, that's why I wanted to know what was out there instead of the old hammer.

Also: do i need to take off the original ridge pieces of shingles before starting the reroofing or just put the new shingles up to the ridge and then cover the ridge w/ new ridge pieces?

 

I'm not sure about the ridge question. My guess would be that you don't remove it if you aren't removing anything else.

 

i know the code in florida you can have up to 3 layers on your roof. and no dont cut anything off or back.if you have never roofed before id advise to read up on it. and only do it if you really feel that you can do it and if you comprehend it and know you can do it right.

 

As suggested, read up on it as much as you can. You have valleys and hips to deal with, and you don't just run your shingles over them. Yes, you will remove the ridge vent and run your shingles under the area and ridge over it. Multiple layers are a PITA to deal with, but if you are up to it, it can be done.