How to Install Asphalt Roof Shingles

If for any reason your roof shingles need to be replaced, consider installing asphalt roof shingles. This job is not as tedious or complicated as it sounds and most homeowners will be able to do it by themselves. These shingles often improve the look of the roof. However, they do not last forever and can break, tear, lift, or wrinkle. 

Asphalt shingles are not too expensive and popularly in most home improvement stores. The shingles are made with thing sheets of paper that are coated with asphalt. Many asphalt shingles are now laminated to protect against moisture diffusion. 

Step 1: Removing the Old Roofing Shingle

Remove the old roof’s shingles and repair any damages sections of the roof covering. Use a roofing shovel to do so. This square-ended shovel with teeth can pull out nails.

Step 2: Take Measurements

Measure the length and width of the roof surface and calculate the footage that needs to be covered. Buy some extra as some of the material may be wasted. Divide the square footage by 100 to determine the number of shingle squares that would be needed.

Step 3: Apply Waterproof Membrane

Cover the lower edge of the roof surface with a waterproof membrane that is compatible with the shingles that you would use to cover the roof. This would protect the roof from excessive moisture.

Step 4:  Installing Edge Flashing

You will require galvanized roofing nails to ensure the roofing stays in place. You will require 2.5 pounds of roofing nails for each square of shingle. Nail the edge flashing to the roof sheathing using 1.25-inchgalvanized nails. Position the nails 3-inches above the roof surface.

Step 5: Place the Starter Strip

Place the starter strip the reduce moisture penetration. This can be done by cutting tabs from the large sheet. Use a utility knife to cut the sheet. Nail the strip in such a way that it overhangs the roof edge by 0.25-inch. Repeat this step until the entire bottom row of the roof surface has been covered.

Step 6: Installing the Shingles

Start installing the shingles from the lower left-hand corner of the roof. The bottom row of the shingles may overlap the starter strip entirely so that it also overhangs the roof by 0.25-inch. Hold the shingles with the help of nails. Work your way upwards towards the top of the roof to install all the shingle tabs and ensure the surface is covered, and overlaps the ridgeline. You maybe required to trim the shingles to fit the ridgeline. 

Step 7: Cover with Ridge Cap Shingle

Cover the shingles with a ridge cap shingle from the same brand that are designed to fit the asphalt shingles.

Tips and Warnings

• Take extra care when removing the old shingles, as falling shingles can hurt someone or break things on the ground.
• Check with the local building code of the neighborhood as you may require a permit to shingle the roof.
• Ensure you are working with a good ladder and equipped with necessary safety gear.