Buzz
When installing fiberglass shingles, start from the roof's bottom edge and work your way upward.
iStockphoto.com/Andrew Nokes
If you're constantly bringing out buckets whenever it rains, it might be time to consider re-roofing. While roofing is a task best left to professionals, if you're up for a challenge or want to save some money, perhaps you should try installing the roof yourself.
Follow these steps to properly install fiberglass shingles, whether you're installing a brand new roof or re-roofing an existing one:
- Ensure you're working on a level surface. This means the roof's structure needs to be even. It doesn’t need to be flawless, but the difference in height between the supports should not exceed a quarter inch (a few millimeters) [source: Hayes].
- Your roof requires proper ventilation. Initially, roof vents were designed to reduce cooling costs and manage moisture, but it is now believed that the cooling effect can also extend the life of your shingles [source: Hayes].
- Many materials, like wood, can contract due to weather, so it's crucial to leave about an eighth of an inch (4 mm) gap between the roof panels. This will help the materials adjust to weather changes without warping or buckling [source: Hayes].
- To safeguard the sheathing, place felt over it. Starting at the lowest edge of the roof, roll the felt along, securing it with staples. As you move along the surface, start a new row just above the previous one, letting each row overlap a few inches (about 10 cm) to add waterproofing [source: Do It Yourself].
Different shingles may require distinct installation techniques, but the manufacturer will provide detailed instructions to assist you. Typically, you'll start at the roof’s bottom, placing a sheet of shingles to overhang the edge. Staple the sheet until you're three-quarters of the way across, leaving the far end loose so you can slide the next sheet underneath and secure it. Add small amounts of wind tab or roofing cement to the top of each shingle. The sun will melt the cement, bonding the shingles together. After finishing from the bottom up, ridge shingles may be necessary to cover the edges and peaks [source: Hayes].
Once you've selected your specific shingles, be sure to consult the manufacturer's instructions for more precise guidance. If the process feels daunting, consider hiring a professional to ensure the work is done properly.
