How to Install Asphalt Shingles
If your roof contains shingles that are cracked, broken or simply missing completely, it might be a good idea to install some new ones. This is a moderately challenging task and it would be beneficial to find a handy helper if you are not skilled in this area. Go through the following steps to get your roof looking like new. Before installation can be done, you will need to calculate needed supplies by doing measurements to your roof, and prepare the roof for this work.
Step 1: You are now ready to install the shingles. Start at the lower left-hand corner and face the roof. Remove tabs from the shingles from the starter course and nail the remaining pieces with the cut side facing out. You will cut six inches from the length of the first placed shingle. Continue by butting shingles in a row adjacent to the first shingle along the roof’s lower edge. There should be a half-inch overlap.
Step 2: Install a layer of shingles over the starter course that you just installed. Implement a chalk line atop this shingle to serve as a guide in installing the rest of this row.
Step 3: Cut six inches off the length to install the next shingle on the second row. The bottom edge of this shingle should be aligned with the top tabs of the first shingle installed on the previous row.
Step 4: Continue installing the shingles along the left edge of your roof. The first shingle in the seventh row will be at full-length.
Step 5: Start working horizontally, across the roof. Shingles should be butted against each other and fastened with four nails per shingle. Trim any shingles that overlap the bottom edge of the roof. That amount will be about a half-inch overlap.
Step 6: Continue Step 5 until the top of the roof is reached. Then, you will need to trim shingles to fit the ridgeline. Continue this method on the opposite side of the roof.
Tips
- When shingling, put plywood over windows and any plants or other items close to the house to avoid damage from the old roof being removed.
Warnings
- It is important to check with your city’s building codes when doing this type of work. It is possible that you will need a permit to replace shingles.
- When working, ensure your ladder is secure to prevent a fall or injury.
- Since shingles are heavy, take multiple trips when carrying them so you do not hurt yourself.
Items Needed
- Roof
- Shingles
- Nails and hammer
- Ladder