How to Apply Rolled Roofing

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Buy the number of rolls you expect to need per manufacturer's directions.

   Rolled roofing is made from the same material as asphalt shingles.
   
   Each roll of roofing takes the place of 3 courses of asphalt shingles.
   
   Rolled roofing is more economical to use as a result.
2. 2

   Step 2: Install flashing around the edges of the roof.

   Flashing keeps water runoff from working under the roof and causing damage to the roof decking. , The edge of the roll is not always straight.
   
   Popping a chalk line helps to give you a nice bottom edge.
   
   Wrinkles will occur in the roofing material if it's not straight.
   
   Apply a 6-inch (15.3 cm) coat of asphaltic roofing cement along the bottom and sides. , Begin at one edge and extend a couple of inches more than necessary. , Come back and trim the side edges later. , Repeat the process by measuring 34 inches (86.4 cm) from the top of the first course and popping a chalk line. ,, Press down into the asphalt roofing cement.
   
   Continue this process until you reach the top. , Press this final course down.
   
   Nail down the top edge, covering the nail heads with asphaltic roofing cement to seal them down, particularly if you live in a windy area. , Press down firmly. , Cut 9-inch (15.3 cm) wide strips from the rolled roofing, using it for ridge shingles. , Now, bend the strips over the top.
   
   Press the roofing material firmly into the cement and nail it into place. , Use the edge of the roof as a guide. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Measure 34 inches (86.4 cm) from the bottom of the roof at each end and pop a chalk line to mark where the top of the roofing begins.

4. 4

   Step 4: Lay the first course of rolled roofing.

5. 5

   Step 5: Nail down every 9-to-12 inches (22.9-to-30.6 cm) using a minimum of 1-inch (2.5 cm) roofing nails.

6. 6

   Step 6: Press the edges down firmly.

7. 7

   Step 7: Apply 1 inch (2.51 cm) of asphalt roofing cement to the top edge of the first course and the side of the roof.

8. 8

   Step 8: Unroll the 2nd course

9. 9

   Step 9: and nail along overlap.

10. 10

    Step 10: Cut the width remaining from a roll of roofing and apply a thick coat of roofing cement to the area to be covered.

11. 11

    Step 11: Begin with a 6-inch (15.3 cm) overlap covering the bottom section with asphaltic roofing cement if you have to lap a course to complete a run.

12. 12

    Step 12: Apply rolled roofing from both sides to the top if you have a traditional hip roof.

13. 13

    Step 13: Put a coat of asphaltic cement on both sides of the ridge.

14. 14

    Step 14: Complete the roof by trimming the edges of the overlap you left in place with your utility knife.

15. 15

    Step 15: Finished.

Detailed Guide

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