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DIY Roof Replacement: A Guide to Installing Asphalt Shingles

If your roof is showing signs of wear and tear and considering replacing it with asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material due to their affordability, ease of installation, and durability. In this article we will guide you through the process of installing asphalt shingles on your new roof.


Step 1: Safety First


Before you begin any roofing project, it's essential to prioritize safety. Make sure you have the necessary

experienced roofing crew on steep pitched roof

safety equipment, including gloves, goggles, and a hard hat. If you're working on a steep pitch roof, it is highly advisable acquiring or renting scaffolding or a safety harness using OSHA approved climbing ropes.


Step 2: Remove the Old Shingles


Before you can install new asphalt shingles, you'll need to remove the old ones. This can be a time-consuming process, but it's necessary to ensure that your new roof is structurally sound for the long term.

tearing off old roofing shingles to install new roof

Use a roofing shovel to pry up the old shingles taking care not to damage the underlying roof deck. Dispose of the old shingles in a heavy-duty trailer or rented dumpster. The disposal fees for asphalt roofing shingles is currently $75/ ton at the Buckingham landfill, and $35/ ton at the Lee/Hendry landfill depending on your location.


Step 3: Prepare the Roof Deck


Once you've removed the old shingles, inspect the roof deck for any damage. Replace any damaged or rotting sections of the roof deck to ensure that the new shingles have a solid foundation to rest on.

roof deck tape used for new roofing job

Next, install a layer of underlayment, such as roofing felt paper, to protect the roof deck from moisture.


Step 4: Install New Roof Shingles


With the roof deck prepared, it's time to install the new shingles. Begin by installing a starter strip along the eaves of the roof. Then, work your


way up the roof, installing each shingle in a staggered pattern. Use roofing nails to secure the shingles to the roof deck, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct nail placement.


Step 5: Finish the Roof

examples of roofing materials

Once you've installed all of the shingles, it's time to finish the roof. Install a ridge cap along the ridge of the roof to provide additional protection against water intrusion. Finally, clean up any debris from the roof and dispose of it properly.


Conclusion:


In conclusion, installing asphalt shingles can be a rewarding DIY project, but it requires careful planning, permits, inspections, and attention to detail for a job well done. By following these steps and prioritizing safety always first, you can have a new roof that provides protection and peace of mind for many years to come.


How Can A Licensed Roofing Contractor help with this process?


Working with a licensed roofing contractor can be an excellent way to streamline the process of obtaining permits and passing inspections for a roof replacement project in the Fort Myers, and surrounding areas.


Here are a few ways in which a licensed roofing contractor can help:


  1. Permit Acquisition: A licensed roofing contractor will be familiar with the local permitting process and can help you obtain the necessary building permits for your project. This can save you time and reduce the likelihood of errors or omissions in the permit application.

  2. Compliance with Building Codes: Building codes and regulations can be complex and vary by location. A licensed roofing contractor will be familiar with the specific codes and regulations in Fort Myers and can ensure that your roof replacement project complies with all requirements.

  3. Inspection Coordination: A licensed roofing contractor will be responsible for scheduling and coordinating inspections throughout the project. They will be present during inspections to ensure that the work meets all building codes and regulations.

  4. Documentation: A licensed roofing contractor will keep detailed documentation of the project, including permits, inspections, and certificates of completion. This documentation can be used for insurance purposes and potential resale of the property in the future.

  5. Expertise and Experience: A licensed roofing contractor has the training and experience necessary to complete a roof replacement project safely and efficiently. They will be able to identify potential problems and provide solutions to ensure that the project is completed to a high standard.

In summary, working with a licensed roofing contractor can simplify the process of obtaining permits and passing inspections for a roof replacement project in Fort Myers, Florida. A licensed roofing contractor can ensure compliance with building codes and regulations, coordinate inspections, provide documentation, and provide the expertise necessary to complete the project safely and efficiently.

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If you have any more detailed questions just give PF-Construction a call or send us a message in the Contact Us section.


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