Installing Shingles on a roof is relatively straightforward. There are a few things you’ll need to make sure you are getting the right kind of materials for your project and that you are prepared to complete the installation properly. It is important to note that installing asphalt shingles is different than installing slate shingles or tile shingles. For one thing, asphalt shingles have to be cut to the precise length to be used in a certain area. It’s also important that you make sure your roof is leveled before you begin to install them – level the roof, and your shingles will be perfectly suited to your roof and you will have fewer problems later on.
Most people think that they can install their shingles on their own, but the truth is that roofing contractors are best suited for shingle installation. This is because a professional roofer has the right tools and experience to make sure the shingles are installed properly. Before you start installing shingles, it’s a good idea to make sure your roof is level, especially if you have valleys that you are installing shingles in. If your roof isn’t level, the shingles could spill out and cause damage to your property. If you do level your roof before you begin installing shingles, you will be able to ensure your shingles don’t get blown off during high winds.
Another issue that people face when installing shingles is staying within the guidelines of the roofing code in their area. You’ll have to check your local building codes and make sure you follow them. Some areas of the country have very specific requirements when it comes to using asphalt shingles, so you’ll want to make sure you have those regulations in mind as you begin your project.
When installing shingles on your own, it’s important to remember that you will likely have to deal with some water damage along the way. You should plan on taking an electrical drill or pry bar to the roof to help you reach the valleys where the water is supposed to drain. This is particularly important if your roof is a little off level from the rest of your roof. When you reach these places, you can use a pressure washer to remove as much water as possible and then repair whatever damage the damaged shingles caused.
If your roof is already damaged, you may not be able to use organic shingles due to the chemicals that are used to coat them. Even though they are more durable, asphalt shingles still hold an edge in this respect. If you have an asphalt shingle damaged by fire or water damage, you can still use regular asphalt shingles to help it recover.
It’s also a good idea to install a ventilation system when installing asphalt shingles. Without it, you could easily experience overheating and a buildup of moisture within the attic. In some cases, the attic can get so humid that it can even become harmful. The problem with installing ventilation on your own is that you don’t always know how it will work with your particular roof. It’s best to leave it to the professionals.
You can also install shingles on a sloping roof, but it’s important to make sure that you nail all of the nails in carefully. Nails can sometimes get snagged on the valleys between the shingles. If you do end up with valleys with a lot of crumbly shingles, you’ll likely want to add extra layers of nails.
Another important part of installing asphalt shingles is to make sure that your roofing nails are in good enough condition to avoid leaking. Nails that are too worn or rusted may not be strong enough to keep the shingles from falling. Make sure you buy good quality nails that match the type of roof you have. When you’re finished, you should be able to easily get between the shingles and the roofing covering.