How to Replace Roof Shingles Without a Roofing Contractor
If you are a handy home owner or have leftover shingles from previous roofing jobs, you can easily replace a single damaged roof shingle. You'll need to have a hammer with a flat prybar and a utility knife, along with some replacement shingles.
Start by sliding an awl beneath the damaged shingle. This will release the sealant and reveal the nails below.
Damaged Shingles Removed
Shingles are designed for normal winds. High winds can, however, cause them to come off your roof or damage them. It is important to replace damaged shingles. You can save time and energy by using the right materials and knowing how to install roofing shingles.
Before you start replacing the shingles, ensure that the flashing on the chimney, vents and in other areas around it is still in good repair. If it's not in good shape, you will need replace and remove the flashing before continuing the project.
First, locate the damaged shingle. This can be done by sliding the flat prybar underneath the shingle's front edge. You might find that the sealant is holding the shingle in place. This can be shaved off using the flat pry bars edge. Remove the nails and lift the shingle. Repeat this step on all shingles, above and underneath the damaged shingle.
Remove Nails
Be sure to put down a large tarp before starting this step. This will catch the thousands and thousands of nails falling from your roof. If you are not careful, protruding roof nails can cause damage to the new roofing.
To remove the nails, use your flat prybar. This step may be harder than you think. Four nails secure each shingle. The shingle nails are embedded into the nailing band and also penetrate through the top edge.
The shingle can be removed once all nails have been removed. The time has come to replace this shingle. Be sure that the shingle size is the same as the existing shingles surrounding it.
Installing New Shingles
If you're not lucky enough to have shingles left by the builder, or a previous homeowner, then buy a bundle at a home center or lumberyard that matches up in color and size with the shingles you're replacing. If not you can get a bundle that matches the color and sizes of your old shingles from a local home center or lumberyard (you'll need to make a plan before you begin).
Apply asphalt roofing cement on the back of every new shingle. This will create a permanent bond with the roof shingles.
Continue to work across the roof, laying shingles. Make sure you nail them in using the proper technique. This will prevent the water from pooling, which can cause more damage to your shingles.
Install flashing to protect any pipes or vents which protrude into the roof. Installing protective rubber boots secured with flashing is a good idea where shingles meet walls and chimneys.
Clean up
The aesthetics of your roof can have a significant impact on the curb-appeal of your home. A roof with mismatched tiles can ruin the look of your home. They also lower its value.
It is important to match the new shingles in terms of color and texture with the existing ones. It is also necessary to replace the valley and step flashings. All nails should be removed and pounded flat. Protruding nails will tear through your new shingles, and can lead to leaks.
This is also a good time to collect any other loose shingles. This will significantly increase the life span of your roofing shingles. While inspecting your roof, be sure to save any curled and weathered shingles. If you do this on a regular schedule, your shingles will last longer.
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If you are a handy home owner or have leftover shingles from previous roofing jobs, you can easily replace a single damaged roof shingle. You'll need to have a hammer with a flat prybar and a utility knife, along with some replacement shingles. Start by sliding an awl beneath the damaged shingle. This will release…