How to Construct a Roof

After years of wear and tear, a roof, especially those on older homes, may need to be replaced. Signs of wear include leakage, shingles that are rolling up or broken, water damage in the attic and a rise in energy bills.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Hammer
• Ladders
• Exterior plywood
• Underlayment
• Sheathing

Instructions

1. Determine how big the roof will be and decide on the width and steepness. This will require some algebra skills to figure out its steepness. Make a blueprint of the roof design.

2. Place the rafters: They will rest on top of each wall horizontally. Horizontal purlins need to be fixed to rafters to help support the roof.

3. Connect tie and collar beams. Tie beams should connect between lower ends of opposite rafters in order to prevent spreading of the walls. Collar beams are then placed higher between opposite rafters for extra strength.

4. Staple sheath onto the rafters. Then cover the sheath with a underlayment which will help against all types of weather.

5. Place shingles on the underlayment. The shingles will have heavy glue attachment at one end. Shingles typically come in sets of two. You will place them on the roof beginning from the bottom to the top placing them slightly on top of the one below.

Tips & Warnings

• Work on a small roof before trying to construct a large roof.

Resources