How to Install Roofing Shingles the Right Way
It can be intimidating for those who have no experience in roofing or construction to install shingles. With some planning and preparation, anyone can reseal their roof.
Apply a layer first of self-adhesive, waterproof underlayment. This is available from most home improvement stores or roofing supply companies. Use the amount recommended on the package.
How to Lay out the Felt Sheet
Underlayment such as felt paper prevents wood resins, mold and mildew from staining sheathing. The felt paper also ensures that the roof is waterproof when the shingles are put on. The felt must be laid out correctly to protect the shingle system.
Start at the drip-edge and work up, overlaid by four inches each time. This will stop any moisture from leaking under the shingles and potentially damaging the roof structure.
Snap a chalkline on the deck before applying each course. This will guide you when you are laying out the felt. Each section should be rolled out, making sure it is free of creases and bubbles. Align it with the chalkline. Use galvanized staples or nails to secure the felt. You should run the felt six inches over any ridges, hips or peaks. Also, line roof valleys using a full length of felt and extend it up to 6 inches on adjoining walls.
Cut the Shingles
You must cut the shingles to size before you can begin installing them. You can use a utility blade, a saw, or tinsnips to cut the shingles according to their type. It is important to purchase enough shingles to complete the project.
Before installing the shingles, it is a great idea to install flashings around pipes, vents and other protrusions. This will prevent water from leaking behind your shingles into your home.
Start laying your first row of shingles at the bottom edge of the roof. Nail the roofing nails together after aligning the first shingle with the next. Continue this process along the roof, overlapping each row by an inch. This will create a straight line on the roof known as the gutter or rake edge.
The Shingles are Nail-In Place
In general, it is best to use pneumatic tools, such as roofing nail, to nail the shingles on the roof. This will prevent inconsistency and vibrations to the structure, which can lead to fatigue. It is also difficult to drive nails to the right depth consistently, which can cause interior leaks. The number of nails and the way they are placed should be determined by the local building code and the guidelines provided by the shingle manufacturers.
High nailing is one of the most common mistakes made when installing shingles. This occurs when the nail is placed above the "nail area" on the shingle. The nail head is exposed to the weather, which can lead to rusting and leaks.
Nail single tabs or special ridge shingles over ridges. The next ridge tile should cover the nails horizontally and vertically by approximately an inch.
Install the First Row Of Shingles
The difference between a roof that leaks and one that is watertight can be made by taking the time to install and lay down roofing tiles correctly. Although every roofer takes a slightly unique approach, there are some commonalities.
Start by laying a row starter shingles on the lower edge. Mark the starting point with a chalkline, and then nail each shingle of that first row.
Owens Corning suggests placing five nails per starter strip. Hammer a nail 2 inches away from the end of each shingle and 1 inch above each cutout.
As you work, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended nailing pattern and location for the type of shingles you are using. Follow the recommended nailing pattern for your type of shingles. You'll usually be given a diagram of their preferred method for installing shingles. It's important to have enough shingles to finish your roof.
It can be intimidating for those who have no experience in roofing or construction to install shingles. With some planning and preparation, anyone can reseal their roof. Apply a layer first of self-adhesive, waterproof underlayment. This is available from most home improvement stores or roofing supply companies. Use the amount recommended on the package. How…