How to Replace Asphalt Shingles

You may not need a new roof, but replacing a few bad or missing shingles to avoid water damage can save you money later on.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Roof Cement
• Shingles
• Nail Bar
• Caulk & Glue Guns
• Extension Ladders
• Hammers With Claw Head
• Putty Knives
• Roof Common Nails

1. Make sure the roof is dry before you climb on to it and that any ladder you use is sturdy and well-secured.

2. Check your roof at least twice a year and after bad storms, and look for loose, damaged or missing shingles.

3. Count the damaged pieces so that a salesperson can help you purchase the right number for the job.

4. Take one of the damaged shingles with you to a lumberyard or home-improvement center to match color and style.

5. Climb up to the rooftop.

6. Bend back the shingles above the damaged shingle. Use a gentle motion to avoid damaging nearby good shingles.

7. Remove nails and any remaining pieces of damaged shingle with the claw head of a hammer or a flat nail bar.

8. Use a sharp utility knife to cut the new shingle to match the size of the old one if necessary.

9. Slide the new shingle into place and nail it.

10. Glue down the raised shingles with roofing cement. This can be applied either from a tube with a caulking gun or from a can with a paint-stirring stick or old putty knife.

11. Make sure to remove any debris from the roof and gutters.

Tips & Warnings

• This job is easier if the weather is warm: The shingles are much more pliable and less likely to get damaged. The new shingles will seal down more quickly as well.

• If the roof is steep or you have a fear of heights, call in professionals. They have equipment and experience to handle tough jobs.