How to install Asphalt Shingles Roofing

Shingles tear-off is an important step when you install shingles Roofing.  It enable your shingles installer the opportunity to properly inspect your decking and make any necessary repairs.  Although technically most manufacturers allow for 1-overlay they don't recommend it. The main cons of a shingles overlay are added weight to your roof, as well as the possibility of you new shingles not laying down flat. It is very important that you contractor knows the correct way on how to do an asphalt shingles install.

Install Synthetic underlayment for your Asphalt Shingles. This includes installing ice/water shield on valleys. It is important to mention that a metal pre-flashing of at least 20" wide and 30 gauge should be install before installing the ice/water to prevent it from tearing. Most roofing companies would have installed one during the initial construction and would only need to be replaced if it is damaged; otherwise your roofing company will lay the ice/water shield over your existing valley metal pre-flashing.

Install Metal Drip Edge.  This is a very important and necessary component of a Shingles Roofing System; however equally important is the profile and size of the Drip Edge being installed. The best Drip Edge style is "D", because it's design will allow an overhang of the shingle past the facia of at least 1". This is important because it will help prevent premature damage to your fascia wood trim.  Equally important are other flashings such as kickouts and wall flashings. Be sure to check with your roofer to ensure these will be replaced if damaged and included if not already there.

Starter Shingle is a necessary component of a Complete Asphalt Shingles Roofing System. All Shingles Manufacturers require the installation of a row of starter shingle over the drip edge. It is necessary so that the first row of shingles adheres and seals to prevent wind-driven rain from causing leaks and to ensure asphalt shingles have a higher resistance to uplift wind pressures.

All Manufactures will provide an approved install shingles method. This may include: 

1. Type of Nails

2. Number of Nails

3. Nails placement

4. Shingles Spacing

5. Shingle Reveal

6. Field, Valley and rake Detail

Ridge/Hip Cap is one of the most important components to complete the asphalt shingles roof installation. 

Most shingles repairs on existing roofs are in this area. This is due to either not enough nails per ridge cap shingle or using cut  3-Tab shingles as ridge cap instead of using the specific product manufacture for use as ridge/hip cap.  Check with your asphalt shingles installer to see what type of ridge/hip cap shingle they are using.