How to Protect the Roof While Installing New Shingles

Re-installing or repairing a roof is a big job to undertake, and chances are that you won't be able to complete it all in one day. When you are re-shingling your roof, you'll need a way to protect your roof while it is still bare. You can do this by laying a layer of tar paper down on the roof's infrastructure. Tar paper will help protect your roof from the elements while you re-shingle and repair the roof.

Things You'll Need

• Tar paper
• Staple gun or small nails

Instructions

1. Starting at the very bottom of the roof, unroll the roll of tar paper horizontally across the bottom. Staple or nail as you go, remembering that tar paper is temporary protection from the elements, so you want it to be secure. Put at least three staples across, every two to three feet.

2. Unroll to the end of the roof, and tuck the tar paper into the flashing. Staple securely.

3. Beginning on the next layer, place the tar paper, overlapping the first layer by at least two inches. Continue to the end of the roof and repeat tucking the tar paper into the flashing.

4. Continue the process until you reach the peak of the roof. Center the ridge on the tar paper and fold down on either side, stapling as you go. Repeat this process at least twice, as the ridge is the place that will withstand the most water or wind. There should be at least two layers of tar paper along the ridge.

5. Continue down the other side of the roof line, repeating the roll, staple and layer process.

6. Do not rely on tar paper as a long-term means of protecting your home. Make sure to install the shingles within two or three days of laying the tar paper.