Does your asphalt roof have any missing, cracked, broken or curling shingles? These are common symptoms of an older asphalt roof. You can extend the life of your roof by inspecting and replacing bad shingles on a regular basis. Replacing asphalt shingles is not a very difficult job and something you can do on your own if you’d like to save on the cost of hiring roofers. Here is the step-by-step process for how to replace damaged asphalt shingles on your roof.
Step 1 Inspect Your Roof
Inspect your roof for damaged, loose or missing tiles. You should inspect your roof at least a couple times a year and after any serious storms. Count the number of missing or damaged tiles and take a sample of one of the tiles with you to the home improvement store or lumberyard so you can match it.
Step 2 Gather The Necessary Supplies
You will need an extension ladder, hammer, putty knife, roof cement, roofing nails, pry bar, caulk gun, and asphalt shingles.
Step 3 Replace the Asphalt Tiles
Make sure your extension ladder is secure before climbing up to the roof. First bend back the shingles that are just above the damaged asphalt tile you want to replace. Using the claw head of your hammer or a pry bar, remove the nails from the damaged asphalt tile. Next use your utility knife to cut a new shingle to match the shape of the tile you are replacing. Then slide your new asphalt shingle into place and nail it down with one inch roofing nails.
Once you have replaced the asphalt tile, glue the shingles you bent back with roofing cement. Use a caulking gun or apply directly from the tube or with a putty knife. Continue this process with each asphalt tile you want to repair or replace.
For torn or curling tiles that do not need to be replaced you can secure them by applying roofing cement on the back of the tiles with a putty knife. Press the tile back down so that it adheres to the roof. Tack down the edges with roofing nails. Be sure to clear any old pieces of asphalt tile and debris from the roof and gutters before dismounting from the roof.
Inspecting your roof on a regular basis and repairing and replacing asphalt tiles can help to extend the life of your roof and help to prevent leaks and other roof damage.
Thu, Mar 26, 2009
Roofing