6 Steps to Properly Install Roll Roofing

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Transforming your roof with roll roofing is a practical and affordable way to enhance its durability and appearance. This user-friendly guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, ensuring that your roll roofing installation is a seamless success. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or embarking on your first roofing project, this comprehensive article will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to achieve a professional-looking, weather-resistant roof.

Before you begin, it’s crucial to ensure you have the necessary tools and materials for the job. Gather safety gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and a mask to protect yourself from potential hazards. You will also need a pry bar, hammer, utility knife, chalk line, and roofing nails. Additionally, ensure you have an adequate supply of roll roofing, roofing cement, and ice and water shield membrane. Proper preparation sets the stage for a successful and safe roll roofing installation.

The first step in installing roll roofing is to prepare the roof surface. Remove any existing roofing materials, such as shingles or tar paper, and ensure the roof deck is clean and dry. If any damaged or rotten decking is present, replace it promptly to prevent future leaks and ensure a solid foundation for your new roof. Once the roof deck is prepared, you can apply ice and water shield membrane around the perimeter of the roof and in any valleys or low spots. This membrane acts as an additional layer of protection against water intrusion, enhancing the overall durability of your roofing system.

Laying the First Course

The first course of roll roofing is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the rest of the roof. It’s important to take the time to lay it properly to avoid any future problems.

Roll out the first sheet: Unroll the first sheet of roll roofing along the eaves, aligning the edge with the chalk line you marked earlier. Leave an overhang of about 2 inches beyond the edge of the roof.
Secure the sheet: Drive roofing nails along the exposed edge of the sheet, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Be sure to drive the nails straight and flush with the surface of the roofing. Use a cap nailer to drive the nails if possible.

Overlap the sheets: Unroll the next sheet of roll roofing and overlap it with the first sheet by about 6 inches. Align the edges of the sheets carefully and secure them with roofing nails. Continue overlapping the sheets in this manner until you reach the end of the roof.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for laying the first course of roll roofing:

Step	Description
1	Roll out the first sheet of roll roofing along the eaves.
2	Secure the sheet with roofing nails.
3	Overlap the next sheet of roll roofing with the first sheet by about 6 inches.
4	Align the edges of the sheets carefully and secure them with roofing nails.
5	Continue overlapping the sheets in this manner until you reach the end of the roof.

Nailing the Roofing

Once the roll roofing is in place, it’s time to nail it down. Use roofing nails that are 1-1/4 inches long and have a 3/8-inch head. Space the nails 6 inches apart along the edges of the roofing and 12 inches apart in the field. Drive the nails straight into the roof deck, making sure they’re flush with the surface of the roofing.

Here are some tips for nailing roll roofing:

Tip	Description
Start in the center of the roof and work your way out	This will help to prevent the roofing from buckling or tearing.
Use a roofing nailer	This will make the job go faster and easier.
Don’t over-nail the roofing	This can damage the roofing and make it more likely to leak.
Inspect the nails regularly	Make sure they’re still tight and flush with the surface of the roofing.

Installing Flashing

Flashing is a thin, waterproof material that is installed around chimneys, vent pipes, and other protrusions on your roof. It helps to prevent water from leaking into your home.

1. Measure and cut the flashing

Measure the area around the protrusion where you will be installing the flashing. Cut the flashing to the appropriate size, allowing for a 2-3 inch overlap on all sides.

2. Apply adhesive to the flashing

Apply a bead of roofing cement or caulk to the back of the flashing. This will help to seal the flashing to the roof and prevent water from leaking.

3. Install the flashing

Press the flashing into place around the protrusion. Make sure that the overlap is even on all sides.

4. Secure the flashing

Use roofing nails or screws to secure the flashing to the roof. Space the nails or screws about 6 inches apart.

5. Seal around the flashing

Apply a bead of roofing cement or caulk around the edges of the flashing. This will help to seal any gaps and prevent water from leaking.

6. Inspect the flashing regularly

Inspect the flashing regularly for any damage or leaks. If you find any damage, repair it immediately.

7. Flashing Materials

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Tar paper	Inexpensive, easy to install	Not very durable, can tear easily
Asphalt-saturated felt	More durable than tar paper, easier to install	More expensive than tar paper
Metal flashing	Most durable, most expensive	Difficult to install, can corrode
Rubberized flashing	Durable, easy to install, waterproof	Can be difficult to find, more expensive than other materials

Maintaining Roll Roofing

Roll roofing, also known as “built-up roofing,” is a durable and cost-effective option for many roofing applications. However, like any other roofing system, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some key tips for maintaining roll roofing:

Inspect Regularly

Regular inspections are crucial for identifying any potential issues early on. Check for signs of wear, tears, or punctures, especially after severe weather events. Prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of your roof.

Clean Debris

Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate on your roof and hinder water drainage. Keep your roof clean by removing debris regularly. Use a soft brush or a leaf blower to avoid damaging the roofing material.

Re-coat the Roofing

Over time, the protective coating on roll roofing can fade or deteriorate. Re-coating your roof with a compatible sealant helps protect it from UV radiation, moisture, and other environmental factors.

Seal Seams and Flashing

The seams and flashing around pipes, chimneys, and other roof penetrations are vulnerable to water infiltration. Inspect these areas regularly and re-seal them as needed to prevent leaks.

Inspect and Repair Gutters

Proper drainage is essential for preventing water damage to your roof. Inspect your gutters and downspouts regularly and clean them of debris. Repair any leaks or damage to ensure water is diverted away from your roof.

Address Vegetation Growth

Moss, algae, and other vegetation can grow on roll roofing, especially in shady areas. Remove any vegetation growth promptly as it can trap moisture and damage the roof.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging branches can scrape against your roof and damage the roofing material. Trim branches that overhang your roof to prevent potential damage.

Avoid High-Traffic Areas

Foot traffic on roll roofing can cause indentations and premature wear. Avoid walking on your roof unnecessarily and limit access to essential maintenance activities only.

Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners

When cleaning your roll roofing, use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the material. Harsh chemicals or power washers can strip the protective coating from your roof.

Professional Inspections

In addition to regular self-inspections, consider scheduling professional inspections every few years. A professional roofer can identify potential issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye and recommend appropriate repairs or maintenance.

How To Put On Roll Roofing

Roll roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from a layer of asphalt-saturated felt that is coated with a layer of mineral granules. It is a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-install roofing material that is often used on sheds, garages, and other small buildings.

To install roll roofing, you will need the following materials:

Roll roofing
Roofing nails
Hammer or nail gun
Utility knife
Caulk gun
Caulk
Roofing cement
Safety glasses
Gloves

Step 1: Prepare the Roof

Before you install the roll roofing, you will need to prepare the roof. This includes removing any old roofing materials, repairing any damaged areas, and installing a layer of roofing felt.

Step 2: Install the Roll Roofing

Once the roof is prepared, you can begin installing the roll roofing. Start by unrolling the roll roofing and aligning it with the edge of the roof. Secure the roll roofing with roofing nails, spacing the nails about 6 inches apart. Continue unrolling and installing the roll roofing until the entire roof is covered.

Step 3: Overlap the Seams

The seams between the rolls of roofing should be overlapped by at least 6 inches. This will help to prevent water from leaking through the roof. Seal the seams with caulk or roofing cement.

Step 4: Install the Ridge Cap

Once the roll roofing is installed, you can install the ridge cap. The ridge cap is a piece of metal or plastic that is installed along the peak of the roof. It helps to protect the roof from wind and water damage.