How To Install Roof Shingles
Installing Roofing Shingles would normally involve laying new shingles over the entire floor on existing or new constructions. However, you may also be required to replace damaged shingles on existing roofing. The procedure for laying new shingles on the entire floor or on new construction will vary a bit from the procedure that you would be using in the case of replacing a few damaged shingles.
When you are installing new asphalt roofing shingles on the entire roofing or on new construction, you need to first apply a layer of roofing felt over a plywood base. The roofing felts should be laid in such a manner that there is an overlap of at least 2 inches between successive courses. This will help ensure better weatherproofing. The felt underlay is then stapled into position.
To install roof shingles, first mark the center of the roof with a chalk. Place a starter strip at the bottom edge of the roof such that it projects beyond the eaves slightly. Next locate the center of the roof and place the first shingle such that it is centered over the center of the roof that you have marked and on top of the starter shingle that you have already placed. Nail the shingle into position using patterns recommended by the manufacturer. While nailing, ensure that you drive the nails straight in to avoid tearing the shingle. Apply subsequent shingles so that each one is placed bumping against the previous one. Place the shingles right up to the end of the roof. Once the first course is completed, apply the second course on top of the first, and then the third on top of the second.
You may have to take special care while applying shingles over vent pipes and chimneys. For this purpose you can use aluminum flashing or a mineral coated material that should be placed around the vent pipe or the edges of the chimney. Replacing damaged shingles is easy. Just pull out the nails from the damaged shingle using a small pry bar or a sharp knife, then remove the shingle and replace it with another that is similar in weight and size. To ensure that the new shingle appears harmonious and in place with the existing ones, you should also be careful about its color. Place the new shingle after applying asphalt roofing cement to the back and nail it down into place. While doing a roofing job you should also take a few safety precautions. It is always preferable to work as a team rather than alone. Have at least one other person to help you while you are working on the roof. Take special care about power lines, TV antennas, and other such things and ensure that you or your ladder or any other material that you use does not come in contact with these. Use rubber shoes that have a good grip and will prevent you from slipping.
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