How to Repair Roofing Felt
Roofing felt has become a necessity in composite roofing systems, acting as an effective second line of defense against moisture and weather. Like other building materials, roofing felt paper can be damaged over time and, to prevent further (and possibly serious) damage to the roof structure, must be repaired as soon as possible. Because of the way felt paper is most commonly installed, its repair is generally a straightforward process that requires basic construction tools. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Flat pry bar
- Razor knife
- Felt paper
- Tape measure (optional)
- Roofing stapler w/ staples
Instructions
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1
Remove the roofing staples (or tacks) from the damaged section of roofing felt paper, using the flat pry bar. Do not remove the staples (or tacks) from undamaged sections.
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2
Cut the damaged section of paper carefully, using the razor knife. Cut rectangular shapes when removing damaged paper; this will make it easier to replace that section.
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3
Cut a length of new felt paper using the razor knife; the length of paper should overlap the existing paper at both sides of the removed section by about six to eight inches, depending on the manufacturer's specifications. Use a tape measure if necessary.
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4
Tuck the top edge of the new felt paper under the next higher row of felt paper, and line up the bottom edge with the existing felt paper in the same row.
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5
Fasten the felt paper to the roof using the roofing stapler and staples. Install the staples at about 16 inches on center along the edges and through the field of the felt paper sheet, unless otherwise noted in the felt paper specifications. Refer to the roofing stapler owner's manual for operation and safety instructions.
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