How to Install Roll Roofing
Roll roofing isn't a replacement for shingles, but it does work well on functional structures such as patios, three-season rooms and sheds. It's also a quick and relatively easy way to cover a roof.
Before beginning the installation, thoroughly clean the roof surface with a broom and remove loose nails. Next, apply roofing cement to the drip edge and nail it in place.
Materials
Rolled roofing isn't for just any roof; it works best on smaller, functional structures like patios, three-season rooms, sheds, garages and gazebos. It's also a good choice for barns, outdoor exercise structures and kids' treehouses.
To start the project, lay a layer of underlayment on the roof. It should be free of gravel, debris and residue from a previous roof. You'll need to add more underlayment as you progress.
Once the underlayment is in place, you'll need to apply a layer of roofing cement. This helps the rolled roofing adhere to the surface. After the first sheet is applied, it's time to apply a cap sheet. This is a piece of sticky material that covers the entire roof and comes in several colors. The cap sheet should overhang the drip edges by a few inches. It should be nailed every 3 inches to keep it in place and prevent water from running back under the roll roofing.
Tools
Roll roofing is much quicker and easier to install than shingle roofs. It's also less expensive than composite shingles and is ideal for do-it-yourselfers with little to no roofing experience. However, you should still consult a professional before taking on this project to make sure it's safe and accurate.
Use the utility knife to cut the first piece of rolled roofing to size. Line up the edges and lay it down, stretching the length to avoid wrinkles. It's important to have the first layer overlap the previous one by 4 to 6 inches. Then, hammer nails at 10-inch intervals across the roof.
Continue the process for each row of rolled roofing. Overlapping rows by a few inches is necessary to keep rain from seeping in between sheets. After every row, liberally brush the rolled roofing with roofing cement to seal it in place. If there are any gaps in the roof, fill them with more roofing cement.
Layout
Roll roofing is a popular choice for commercial buildings and some residential homes, as it offers benefits like budget-friendliness and ease of installation. However, it is not the most durable option and has a shorter lifespan than other types of roofs.
This type of roofing has a bumpy surface, thanks to the small rock-granule composition. It is a common choice for low-sloped roofs, and it can be used in conjunction with other materials, such as shingles.
The rolled roofing is typically glued in place using roofing cement, but it can also be secured with nails. It is recommended to use a synthetic underlayment as this can help provide an extra layer of protection for the roof.
Roll roofing is not as attractive as shingles, so homeowners associations in gated communities may restrict the use of this material for a habitable structure. However, it is a good option for sheds, barns and other outbuildings. It is also a cost-effective alternative for a primary house roof.
Installation
Roll roofing isn’t for every roof, and it can wear out more quickly than other types of roofing. However, it’s a good option for an inexpensive, quick re-roof for a garage, shed, workshop, tree house or similar structure that isn’t subject to much structural movement.
Start by thoroughly cleaning the existing roof, removing debris like leaves or sticks. Next, install a layer of underlayment to provide a solid base for the new roofing.
Brush a liberal amount of roofing cement over the entire surface of the first 2 inches of your rolled roofing. This will help to prevent moisture from getting trapped between the roof deck and the roofing materials.
Position the first strip of rolled roofing along the chalk line you’ve just made. Overlap the second strip by a few inches and nail it down. Continue in this fashion, overlapping each row by about a quarter inch and nailing it down every 3 inches. Remember to cover each nail hole with more cement, as needed.
Roll roofing isn't a replacement for shingles, but it does work well on functional structures such as patios, three-season rooms and sheds. It's also a quick and relatively easy way to cover a roof. Before beginning the installation, thoroughly clean the roof surface with a broom and remove loose nails. Next, apply roofing cement to…