If you are a homeowner and have an asphalt shingle installed in your home, you may be interested to know that the cost of asphalt shingles installation can be affordable, as long as you know where to look for good deals. Asphalt is an ideal material for any roofing project because it is both durable and resistant to most weather conditions, making it one of the most popular materials used by builders today. Homeowners can have this material installed professionally or independently, depending on their level of expertise and comfort working with tools. However, before starting any asphalt shingling installation, homeowners can follow a few basic steps to ensure the highest quality outcome.
When it comes to asphalt shingles, the final look of your roof and exterior walls must be appealing and consistent from one house to the next. For this reason, many homeowners choose to hire expert roofers to complete the job. However, if you have enough experience under the sun, you may want to consider doing the asphalt shingle installation yourself. While you will not accomplish a professional-looking roof like those created by professional roofers, you will still come out with a durable product that will last for years. Here are some tips for ensuring the successful installation of your asphalt shingles:
Before beginning the installation of asphalt shingles, clean the area you will be working on thoroughly. This includes removing any grass, dirt, or debris from the area. It also means that you must rake the grass clippings and remove any fallen leaves. This will help ensure that there is no additional space for moisture to collect. You should also remove tar, dust, and mold from the roof, as these can hinder the appearance of your new asphalt shingles.
Once the area has been cleaned up and all tar and debris removed, it is time to get to work. Start by measuring the area you will be installing the asphalt shingles. You will need several sheets, one for each row of replacement shingles. Do not forget to measure the backspace between rows as well. This will allow you to create adequate space for walking shoes.
When laying the asphalt shingles, begin at the bottom and work your way to the top. Start in a centerline and run across to the other side, following the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This ensures a professional appearance. Lay the shingles evenly. Asphalt shingles do not lay completely flat. Asphalt layers are uneven and therefore become uneven when they dry.
When installing asphalt shingles, always nail each row securely. Overlap each nail between adjacent rows and make sure that the overlapped areas are even between the holes. Asphalt shingles come in various colors, so you may want to choose a color that complements your home. However, asphalt shingles do not have to match your home to be beautiful. One great way to enhance the appearance of your roof is to choose a different colored shingle for each different row.
To install asphalt shingles properly, you will need to have a drill, a hammer, a screwdriver, and an adjustable wrench set. The types of tools you use will depend on the type of shingle you purchase. Most asphalt shingles are pre-drilled for their installation. If any misalignment issues or the asphalt shingles are shorter than anticipated, you can easily mend them using nails and screws. Before installing, check for any loose shingles and replace them as necessary. Do not forget to nail all of the nails in place.
Before installing, you should inspect your roof to ensure that it is level and that no additional repairs are needed. You can use a spirit level to ensure that your roof is straight. You may also want to ask a professional to give you a professional inspection before starting any repairs. If you follow these simple steps, you will save money, get more enjoyment out of your backyard and add value to your home.