How to Repair a Leaking Asphalt Shingle Roof
Open to the elements, old asphalt roofing shingles can become cracked, curled or broken. If left untreated, this can lead to minor leaks and major expense down the road. Common tools and basic knowledge can save the homeowner hundreds of dollars or more in professional repairs while also extending the appearance and life of the roof. Even the uninitiated can accomplish these simple steps to remove and replace any damaged shingles before major damage occurs. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Flat pry bar
- Replacement asphalt roofing shingle
- Claw hammer
- Galvanized roofing nails
- Caulk gun
- Tube of roofing cement
Instructions
-
Shingle Removal and Replacement
-
1
Lift the tabs of the shingle above the damaged shingle and remove the row of nails with the pry bar. Lift the tabs of the shingle located two rows up from the damaged shingle and remove those nails as well.
-
2
Slide the shingle out of position, taking care not to damage any of the surrounding shingles.
-
-
3
Slide the replacement shingle into the old shingle's position. Line it up with the surrounding shingles. Secure it in place with the galvanized roofing nails. Drive the new nails through the old nail holes. So as not to tear the shingle, be sure that the nail head is flush against the top of the shingle and not angled into it. Replace the nails in the undamaged shingles that were temporarily removed in order to slide the old shingle out.
-
4
Insert the tube of roofing cement in to the caulk gun. Apply the roofing cement beneath the tabs of the new shingle, and other shingles which may be loose. Apply pressure to the tabs to seal the cement.
-
5
Repeat Steps 1 to 4 for any additional damaged shingles.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
To maximize leak prevention, apply roofing cement on the nail shafts before hammering them into the shingle. Additionally, cover the nail head with roofing cement.
References
- "Reader's Digest 1001 Do-It-Yourself Hints & Tips"; Barbara J. Morgan; 1998
- "Finish Carpentry Techniques"; Ortho Books; 1983
- HammerZone: Replacing Individual Asphalt Roof Shingles
