How to Reroof a House: A StepbyStep DIY Guide
How to Reroof a House?
Reroofing a house involves several key steps to ensure a successful and long-lasting outcome.
First, it is important to test your comfort level on the roof before beginning the project.
Once you are ready, obtain shingles from a supplier and have them delivered to the roof.
Before starting, obtain a permit and strip the roof clean.
Use drip edge flashing along the eave to prevent water damage, and apply self-adhesive waterproof underlayment to guard against water seepage.
Utilize asphalt-saturated felt underlayment, overlapping each layer by at least 2 inches.
Find the center of the roof and snap a vertical chalk line to guide shingle installation.
Follow the shingle manufacturer’s recommendations for starting at the left rake edge, ensuring that the starter course has a slight overhang beyond the drip edge.
Use four roofing nails per shingle (six nails in high-wind areas), and snap horizontal chalk lines up the roof for straight rows.
The bottom edge of the shingle tab should meet the top of the cutout and expose 5 inches of the shingle tabs.
Tear off old shingles, install new flashing and underlayment.
Remove or pound flat protruding nails.
Use large tarps to protect plants and landscaping and catch falling nails.
Install metal drip edge, fastening it through the top into the decking every couple of feet with roofing nails.
Adhere to safety precautions, ensure necessary tools, materials, and safety gear are available, and consider hiring a professional roofing contractor for safety purposes.
Avoid unsafe weather conditions and ensure permits are obtained.
After tearing off the old roof, inspect the roof deck for damage.
Lay underlayment as a protective barrier.
Install angled drip edge, valley flashing, starter shingles, shingles row by row, step flashing, replace or cut new vents, install a ridge cap, and reattach or clean gutters.
Hiring a professional contractor can provide benefits such as detecting hidden damages and ensuring proper installation.
Key Points:
- Test comfort level on the roof before starting the project
- Obtain shingles from a supplier and have them delivered to the roof
- Obtain a permit and strip the roof clean before starting
- Use drip edge flashing and waterproof underlayment to prevent water damage
- Follow shingle manufacturer’s recommendations for installation
- Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor for safety and proper installation
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the concept of roofing dates back to ancient civilizations? Evidence of early roofing techniques can be traced back to around 4,000 BCE in China, where people used clay tiles to protect their houses.
2. In medieval Europe, traditional thatched roofs were commonly used. This roofing method involved layering straw or reeds tightly together, providing insulation and protection from the elements. However, it was also highly flammable and prone to fire accidents.
3. The invention of asphalt shingles revolutionized the roofing industry in the early 20th century. Henry Reynolds, a roofer from Grand Rapids, Michigan, is credited with developing the first modern-day asphalt shingles in 1903.
4. Believe it or not, there is even a World Championship for competitive roof thatching! Held annually in the village of Dunkeld, Scotland, participants from around the world gather to demonstrate their unique thatching skills and compete for the coveted title.
5. Solar shingles, also known as photovoltaic shingles, are a relatively new and eco-friendly roofing solution. These shingles are designed to capture solar energy and convert it into electricity. By integrating solar panels into the roofing material, these shingles offer an innovative way to generate clean, renewable energy for homes.
Comfort Level Assessment On The Roof
Before committing to the project of reroofing a house, it is crucial to assess your comfort level on the roof. Working on a roof can be dangerous and requires good balance, agility, and the ability to work at heights. If you are not comfortable with these conditions or have any physical limitations, it is advisable to hire a professional roofing contractor to ensure safety.
If you decide to proceed with the project, start by examining the condition of your roof and identifying any potential hazards. Look out for:
- Loose or deteriorating shingles
- Fragile spots
- Weak areas
It is essential to address these issues before starting the reroofing process to avoid accidents or further damage.
Remember to prioritize safety and consult with a professional if needed.
Obtaining And Delivering Shingles
Once you have assessed your comfort level and are ready to proceed with reroofing, the next step is to obtain the necessary shingles and have them delivered to the roof.
Research local suppliers and choose a reliable one that offers high-quality materials. Consult with professionals or fellow DIYers for recommendations, if needed.
When ordering the shingles, make sure to provide accurate measurements of your roof’s square footage to determine the quantity required. It is advisable to order a few extra shingles to account for any unexpected errors during installation.
Ensure that the supplier delivers the shingles directly to your roof. This will save time and effort when it comes to manually transporting them. Once the shingles are delivered, carefully inspect them for any damage or defects before starting the installation process.
Obtaining Permit And Stripping The Roof
Before you can begin reroofing, it is crucial to obtain the necessary permits from your local municipality. Contact the local building department to determine the specific requirements and regulations for your area. This step ensures that your project is compliant with local laws and safety standards.
Once you have obtained the permit, the next step is to strip the roof clean. Start by removing all the old shingles and underlayment. Use a roof shovel or pry bar to carefully tear off the old materials, being mindful not to damage the underlying roof structure.
During this process, it is essential to inspect the roof deck for any signs of water stains, cracks, or damage. Address any issues promptly, as a strong and sturdy roof deck is crucial for the long-term stability and integrity of a new roof.
Installing Drip Edge Flashing
To prevent water damage, it is vital to install drip edge flashing along the eave of the roof. Drip edge flashing is a narrow strip of metal that directs water away from the roof and into the gutters, preventing water from seeping under the shingles and causing potential damage to the roof structure.
Here are the steps to properly install drip edge flashing:
- Measure the required length for the drip edge flashing and cut it accordingly.
- Install the flashing at an angle slightly below 45 degrees.
- Fasten the drip edge through the top into the decking every couple of feet using roofing nails.
- Ensure that the drip edge extends beyond the eave edge to allow proper water runoff.
Not only does drip edge flashing protect the roof from water damage, it also provides a finished look and helps prevent shingle curling. Additionally, it keeps water from running down fascia boards, protecting them from rot and decay.
Remember, proper installation of drip edge flashing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your roof and preventing potential water-related issues.
- Drip edge flashing directs water away from the roof and into the gutters.
- It prevents water from seeping under the shingles and causing damage.
- Drip edge should be installed at an angle below 45 degrees.
- Fasten the drip edge through the top into the decking using roofing nails.
- The drip edge should extend beyond the eave edge for proper water runoff.
“Proper installation of drip edge flashing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your roof and preventing potential water-related issues.”
Applying Waterproof Underlayment
Before installing the shingles, it is crucial to apply a self-adhesive waterproof underlayment to guard against water seepage. This underlayment acts as an added layer of protection, ensuring that any water that penetrates the shingles is directed away from the roof’s structure.
Carefully unroll the underlayment and position it along the eave of the roof. Make sure to overlap each row by several inches to create a watertight barrier. Secure the underlayment in place using roofing nails or staples, ensuring they penetrate the decking but not the roof structure.
The waterproof underlayment provides additional protection during severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain or strong winds. It acts as a secondary barrier against water infiltration, complementing the shingles’ primary defense.
Using Asphalt-Saturated Felt Underlayment
In addition to the self-adhesive waterproof underlayment, it is essential to apply an asphalt-saturated felt underlayment before starting to shingle. This underlayment further enhances the roof’s durability and longevity by providing another layer of protection against water and moisture.
The asphalt-saturated felt underlayment comes in large rolls and should be installed horizontally, starting from the eave and working your way up the roof. Overlap each layer by at least 2 inches, securing it in place with roofing nails or staples.
The use of felt underlayment ensures that any water that may penetrate the shingles is absorbed and directed away from the roof’s structure. It also serves as a cushioning layer, helping to reduce noise and provide additional insulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you roof step by step?
To roof a house step by step, start by tearing off the old roof to ensure a proper installation of the new one. Once the old roof is removed, proceed to install the drip edge and roll out the underlayment to provide a protective layer. Next, it is important to waterproof the valleys to prevent any water damage. Afterward, apply starter shingles and proceed to install the shingles, ensuring they are properly aligned and secured. Finally, install the flashing and cap the ridge to complete the roofing process.
What is the difference between a roof and a Reroof?
The main difference between a roof and a reroof is the scope of the work involved. A roof refers to the entire structure that covers a building, including all its layers and materials. On the other hand, reroofing specifically refers to the process of adding a new layer of shingles on top of an existing roof without removing the old ones. This cost-effective and time-efficient method is suitable for buildings with a single layer of worn shingles. While a roof replacement involves a complete overhaul of the roof, reroofing allows for a more economical and speedy solution that still provides added protection and aesthetic improvement to the existing roof.
What are the stages of a new roof?
To ensure a successful roofing project, it is crucial to prioritize safety during all stages. Once safety measures are in place, the process begins with preparing for installation by setting up the necessary equipment and tools. The next step involves selecting the appropriate materials and clearing away the old roofing material. Evaluating the roof is then carried out to identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed. Following this, the flashing is removed, and a drip edge is installed. Finally, underlayment is put down, serving as a protective layer before the final roofing material is installed.
What is the formula of roof?
To determine the formula for calculating the area of a roof, you can use the formula: Roof area = (Roof length x Roof slope height) x 2. This equation takes into account the dimensions of your roof and multiplies it by a factor of two to account for both sides. However, it should be noted that this formula does not consider additional structures on your roof, such as chimneys or sections without tiles.