Roof shingles play a vital role in protecting your home from the weather and environment, and knowing how to install them correctly is important for a durable and weatherproof roof. This article will provide a guide to roof shingles installation, tell you why you should install roof shingles and some safety precautions to take during the installation.
Why should you invest in roof shingles installation?
Weather protection: Shingles shield your home from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight.
Durability: Properly installed shingles can last for decades.
Aesthetic appeal: Shingles enhance the aesthetic of your home.
Energy efficiency: Some shingles can improve insulation, reducing energy costs.
Tools needed for roof shingles installation
- Hammers
- Stapler
- Speed square or framing square
- Caulking gun
- Ladders
- Air compressor
- Pneumatic coil roofing nail gun
- 5/8-inch staples
- 1-inch roofing nails
- Asphalt cement
- 6.8 kg asphalt roofing paper
- Metal flashing for edges
- 3- or 4-tab asphalt shingle bundles
- Premade asphalt ridge shingles
Steps to take before starting roof shingles installation
Calculate the number of shingles needed
- Measure the length and width of each roof section and multiply to find the area.
- Add up the areas of all sections, then divide by 100 to get the number of squares needed.
- Multiply the square count by 3 to determine the bundles of shingles to buy for the installation.
Measure the roof
- Measure the roof’s dimensions to determine the quantity of shingles needed accurately.
Prepare the roof
- Ensure the roof deck is clean, dry, and free from debris.
Remove old shingles and flashing
- Start by removing old shingles and flashing.
- Start at the peak farthest from the area where you want to install roof shingles.
- Use a garden fork or roofing shovel for quicker removal or go by hand for thoroughness.
- Protect house sides and windows with plywood to prevent damage.
- Pry up nails and loosen ridge caps.
- Remove metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys.
- Consider removing all old flashing, even if some appear to be in good condition.
Install underlayment and new flashing
- Use asphalt, felt paper, or self-sealing membrane, starting from the lowest point and overlapping rows by at least 3 inches.
- Secure the underlayment with plenty of staples to prevent tearing. You can also use tin caps for added wind protection.
- Install metal drip edge flashing along the roof deck’s bottom edge near gutters.
- Ensure you have rake edge flashing for the roof sides and flashing around chimneys and walls, known as step and turn back flashing.
Install deck protection and starter shingles
- Apply a roof deck protection material, like felt paper or synthetic underlayment, to provide an additional weather barrier.
- Install starter shingles along the eaves to create a base row for the first course of shingles.
How to install roof shingles
Start from the bottom
- Start shingle installation at the eaves, laying the first course of shingles with the tabs facing up the roof.
Apply the shingles
Source: Pinterest (We Got the Funk)
- Apply each row of shingles, ensuring they overlap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use roofing nails to secure the shingles, placing them within the nailing strip area.
Cut shingles if needed
- Use a roofing knife to trim shingles for a proper fit along the edges and valleys.
Install ridge shingles
- Complete the installation by adding ridge shingles along the roof’s peak, securing them with roofing nails.
Safety precautions to take during roof shingles installation
Use proper safety gear: Wear non-slip footwear, gloves, and a safety harness if working at heights.
Check weather conditions: Avoid working on a wet or windy day, as it can be hazardous.
Secure ladders: Ensure that the ladders are stable and positioned on a level surface.
FAQs
How long do roof shingles last?
Roof shingles can last for 20 to 50 years or more, depending on the type and quality.
What's the difference between asphalt and architectural shingles?
Asphalt shingles are thinner and less expensive, while architectural shingles are thicker and more durable.
Are shingles hard to install?
Shingles installation can be challenging for beginners but becomes manageable with practice and proper instructions.
Are shingles good for roofing?
Yes, shingles are a commonly used and effective roofing material when installed correctly.
What comes before shingles on a roof?
Before shingles, underlayment and proper flashing are typically installed on a roof.
What is the purpose of deck protection material?
Deck protection adds an extra layer of weatherproofing between the shingles and the roof deck.
How do you shingle a flat roof?
Roof shingles installation on a flat roof involves using specialised materials like modified bitumen or rubber membrane roofing, with overlapping seams and adhesive to ensure a watertight seal.
How many square feet is a bundle of shingles?
A bundle of shingles typically covers almost 3.1 square metres when installed with the recommended exposure.
Do shingles need ventilation?
Yes, proper ventilation is necessary for shingle roofs to prevent moisture buildup and extend their lifespan.
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