How to Repair Asphalt Shingles

An asphalt shingle roof should last between 15 and 20 years if it's maintained properly. Keep an eye out for problems and catch them early to prevent more work and expense down the road. Here's how to repair individual problem shingles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Roofing Cement
• Roofing Cement
• Hammers
• Pry Bars
• Putty Knives
• Roofing Nails
• Roofing Nails
• Hammers

1. Save a torn shingle by applying a layer of roofing cement on the back of each torn section with a putty knife. Press the pieces into position so the cement bonds between the pieces and also sticks them to the shingle beneath them. Hammer roofing nails along the repair to hold it in place.

2. Fix a curling shingle similarly. Glue it down with roofing cement and tack the edges down with roofing nails.

3. Remove completely damaged shingles and replace them. (See "How to Replace Asphalt Shingles" under Related eHows.)

Tips & Warnings

• Work on shingles in warm weather so they'll be flexible. Cold shingles will crack.
• Put a dab of roofing cement over each nail head to keep water from leaking into the nail holes.