How to Replace Asphalt Shingles

There may be times when you need to replace broken, curling or missing asphalt shingles on your roof. Instead of replacing the whole roof, you may be able to just replace the damaged or missing shingles. It is important that you inspect and repair your asphalt roof on a regular basis to prevent damage and extend the roof's life. If you have shingles that need to be replaced you can either hire roofers or do the job yourself. If you decide to replace asphalt shingles yourself, here are some tips to help you.

The first thing you need to do is to inspect your roof on a regular basis. This should be done at least a few times a year and after any major storms or other severe weather conditions. Check for missing, loose or damaged asphalt shingles. Keep track of how many shingles need to be replaced and take one with you to the lumberyard or home improvement store when you go out to buy replacement asphalt shingles.

Next collect the tools and supplies you will need. These include an extension ladder, putty knife, caulk gun, hammer, pry bar, roof nails, roof cement, and asphalt shingles.

Secure your ladder and then climb up to the roof. Locate the first damaged asphalt tile that needs to be replaced. Bend the shingles back that are directly above the shingle you need to replace. Remove all the nails from the old shingle using your pry bar or hammer. Cut a new asphalt shingle with your utility knife so that it matches the shape and size of the old shingle. Finally slide the replacement shingle in and nail down using your hammer and roofing nails. Next, glue the adjacent shingles back down using the roof cement. You can either use a putty knife or caulking gun. Repeat the entire process for each asphalt shingle that needs replacing.

If there are asphalt shingles curling or torn they may not need to be completely replaced. You can use your roof cement and putty knife to glue them down. Once you have applied the cement, push the shingle down against the roof and nail down the edges using roof nails. Clean off any old asphalt tiles as well as any debris from the gutters and roof.

If you take the time to inspect and repair your asphalt roof on a regular basis, you will prevent leaks and other roof damage as well as extend the life of the roof.