Keep Your Roof in Great Shape! A Guide to Repairing Shingles

Being a homeowner is all about learning new skills to tackle everything from simple maintenance jobs to large-scale remodeling. One area that’s going to need your attention at some point is your roof. In the USA, most roofs are a type of asphalt shingle that is nailed to the structure in an overlapping pattern. It’s pretty durable and has an additional mineral aggregate topcoat to make it last even longer. Despite this, weather and wear take their toll, which means that roof repair or even replacement is expected. Here is a quick guide to repairing and maintaining your shingle roof yourself – and when to call in the professionals.

What is a Shingle?

A shingle is decorative on its lower half – the half that you will see when you look at your roof – and plain on its upper half, which is hidden under overlapping shingles. The back of the shingle has a strip of tar which helps keep the shingle secure on your roof.

Installing a Shingle

Shingles are installed in an overlapping manner, called a running bond pattern, so that none of the edges line up. This helps prevent water from running underneath or between them. When you buy new asphalt shingles, you can expect to pay about $25 per square foot – just be sure to select ones that match the ones currently on your roof, unless you are replacing the whole lot. The best way to get a perfect match is to take a close-up photograph of your current shingles before you head to the store, as there are a wide range of similar-looking colors available. Now, you’re ready to install them.

• Step One: Working on a roof is dangerous, so make your safety a priority. Your ladder should be properly secured and stable, and you should be wearing protective clothing. If you don’t have work boots, wear closed shoes with a thick rubber sole so that you have good traction. Also, choose a warm and wind-free day to make your repairs. If you feel uncomfortable or out of your depth at any point in this process, it’s a good idea to call in a professional who can handle it for you.
• Step Two: Lift the front edge of the damaged shingle up and separate the tar strip from the shingle underneath it.
• Step Three: Take a flat crowbar and slide it under the shingle, then maneuver it to pop up the roofing nails that are holding it in place. Now you can slide the old shingle out.
• Step Four: Remove the plastic protecting the tar strip from the new shingle and slide the shingle in so that the decorative side is exposed. Then drive a new roofing nail into the shingle – where the old nail was positioned, if possible.

While this is a simple job if you have a few damaged or broken shingles, it’s best to call in a roofing professional if you have structural problems with your roof, a leak or considerable damage to your shingles. They will be able to replace your entire roof and it’s underlying waterproofing and insulation within a day or so.

Maintaining Your Shingle Roof

Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your roof watertight and reducing repairs. While you can expect to replace a shingle every now and then, your roof should last 20 years or longer with some simple, regular maintenance. This includes:

• Cleaning debris off the roof – This should be done three times a year or more often, if needed. It’s easy for leaves and debris to gather around chimneys, HVAC units and pipes, so give these areas extra attention.
• Inspecting for moss and algae – These may look harmless, but they will contribute to your roof deterioration, shortening it’s lifespan. If you find that moss and algae occur regularly, you can use zinc or lead control strips to help prevent excessive growth.
• Inspect shingles and flashings – Damaged shingles and flashings should be replaced or repaired as soon as possible to prevent leaks into your home. Look for any cracks, openings or moss growth in your flashings at least once a year. If you find loose shingles during a roof inspection, you can secure them with roofing cement or replace them with new shingles.
• Clear your gutters – If your gutters aren’t draining properly, water can back up onto your roof, causing leaks and water seepage. Gutters should be cleared twice a year for most homes, but if you have big trees near your roofline they will have to be cleared more often. In fact, it’s best to cut these trees back away from your house to prevent debris from gathering on your roof and to prevent branches from damaging the roof on windy days.

We hope these maintenance tips have been helpful!