Asphalt Roll Roofing: A Comprehensive Guide to Installation and Maintenance

Asphalt roll roofing is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability and ease of installation. It's a cost-effective option compared to other roofing materials.

To ensure a successful installation, it's essential to prepare the roof surface properly. This involves cleaning the area of debris and old roofing material.

Asphalt roll roofing is typically installed in a shingle-like pattern, with each roll overlapping the one below it by 6 inches. This overlapping pattern helps to prevent water from seeping under the roofing material.

A well-maintained asphalt roll roof can last for up to 20 years, depending on the quality of the material and installation.

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Asphalt roll roofing is a durable, lightweight roofing material that comes in rolls. It's typically made from the same material as asphalt shingles, but in a larger, roll format.

Asphalt roll roofing is a budget-friendly, easy-to-install roofing material that's perfect for low-slope roofs, sheds, garages, and workshops.

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There are three main types of roll roofing: Saturated Felt, Smooth Finish, and Mineral Finish. These types vary in their composition and features.

Here are the specific characteristics of each type:

Asphalt roll roofing is a cost-effective option for homeowners and property owners. It's cheaper than asphalt shingles and metal roofing, making it a budget-friendly choice.

One of the main advantages of asphalt roll roofing is its quick installation process. Thanks to its longer sheets, this roofing material offers fewer seams, reducing the likelihood of leaks.

Asphalt roll roofing is also incredibly versatile. It can be used on a wide range of applications, including flat and low-slope roofs, making it suitable for residential and commercial projects.

Here are some of the key benefits of asphalt roll roofing:

Rolled roofing is also easy to handle, making it a great option for DIY projects. It comes in relatively light 75-pound units, eliminating the need for heavy machinery or labor-intensive installation.

Asphalt roll roofing is available in a few colors, including black, white, tan, gray, and green.

Asphalt roll roofing is a popular choice for low-slope or flat roofs, outbuildings, and sheds due to its easy installation process.

To prepare your roof for asphalt roll roofing, start by removing all debris, leaves, and dirt from the roof surface. This will ensure proper adherence to the material and overall safety.

The minimum pitch for rolled roofing is 2 inches of decline per 12 inches of horizontal direction (2:12 pitch), although a 1:12 pitch is acceptable if the concealed nail method of fastening is used.

Here are the necessary tools and supplies you'll need to get started:

Underlayment isn't always required, but it can offer more protection from water and extend the life of the roofing material.

Preparing your roof is a crucial step before installing asphalt roll roofing. It involves a thorough cleaning of all debris, leaves, and dirt from the roof surface to ensure proper adherence to the material and overall safety.

To start, remove any slag, gravel, and other debris to avoid puncturing the material. This will prevent leaks and ensure a smooth installation process.

A primer or sealer can be applied to the wood first to protect against leakage, especially when installing rolled roofing directly on top of plywood or wood sheathing.

Lay a layer of felt underneath the roll roofing as it adds additional insulation and protection against moisture, thereby extending the life of the roofing material.

You'll also want to wear long pants and work gloves to safeguard against potential cuts and abrasions during this preparation phase.

Here's a list of necessary tools and supplies to gather before you start:

Additionally, if you're installing hammered-down rolled roofing, you'll need a ladder, power nailer or hammer, flat pry bar, measuring tape, carpenter's square, utility knife, tin snips, broom, and chalkline.

Make sure to organize your materials and lay out the rolled roofing sheets before starting the installation process.

Walking on a rolled roof can be slippery, especially when it's wet.

You should prioritize safety when accessing your roof, as excessive foot traffic can potentially damage the material.

Before installing any roofing material, make sure to inspect the surface for any damage or wear and tear.

It's also a good idea to clean the surface thoroughly before installing to ensure a secure bond between the material and the roof.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific roofing material you're using, as some may have special requirements for preparation and installation.

Consider reading: Hail Damage to Asphalt Roof Shingles

Asphalt roll roofing is a popular choice for low-slope or flat roofs, outbuildings, and sheds due to its easy installation process.

A good candidate for rolled roofing is a roof with a pitch of up to 1 inch vertically for every 12 inches horizontally (1:12 pitch) if the concealed nail method of fastening is used. Otherwise, the safest minimum pitch is 2 inches of decline per 12 inches of horizontal direction (2:12 pitch).

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To prepare the roof for installation, remove any debris such as slag, gravel, and other obstructions to avoid puncturing the material. Underlayment isn't always required, but it can offer more protection from water.

Here are some key installation tips to keep in mind:

Rolled roofing is a popular choice for low-sloped roofs, but it's essential to follow the right installation process to ensure a leak-free roof. Rolled roofing can be used on roofs with a pitch of 2 inches of decline per 12 inches of horizontal direction (2:12 pitch) or more.

To prepare your roof for rolled roofing, remove any debris such as slag, gravel, and other materials that could puncture the material. Underlayment isn't always required, but it can offer extra protection from water.

The safest minimum pitch for rolled roofing is 2 inches of decline per 12 inches of horizontal direction (2:12 pitch). Rolled roofing should not be used on flat roofs as this could lead to leaks.

To install rolled roofing, start at the bottom of the roof and work your way up, laying the material horizontally (parallel to the eaves). Apply roofing cement to the edge of the first strip you lay down.

Here's a summary of the key installation steps:

Remember to nail the edges at 10-inch intervals, 1 inch from the edge, along the bottom and sides.

After installing your roof, take a few extra steps to ensure it's fully up to standard. Seal all nails with cement to keep them from coming loose.

Use a razor knife to trim any excess roll roofing along your roof's edges. Seal the edges with another layer of cement.

Once the cement has dried, clean your roof thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, loose nails, and mud.

Installing roll roofing can be a DIY project, but it requires a lot of skill and prior experience that most homeowners may not have.

Hiring a professional roofing contractor is a safer option, as they come prepared with licensure, insurance, warranties, and roofing compliance codes.

A professional roofing contractor will also work in a team of at least two, ensuring a safe and efficient job.

Installing roll roofing can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to roofing projects.

With the right preparation, tools, and a handy step-by-step guide, it’s a project that’s well within your reach.

The key to a successful installation lies in careful preparation, precise measurements, and meticulous application.

If you ever feel unsure or overwhelmed, consider reaching out to professionals like The Roof Doctor, who are ready to assist with your roofing needs.