Asphalt roof shingles perform well, but eventually they need to be replaced. A handy individual with at least one assistant can learn how to replace a roof. You and your helpers should observe all safety precautions involved with roofing work. In this article, the roof replacement experts at PJ Fitzpatrick share their insight.

How to Replace a Roof Steps

1. Measure your roof and purchase the appropriate amount of underlayment, drip edging, and shingles.
2. Starting at the top, pry off old shingles and underlayment with a shingle scraper.
3. Put waste material into the dumpster.
4. Pry off any roofing nails that did not come out with the shingles.
5. Inspect decking for damage, patch holes and replace rotted boards as necessary.
6. If the roof has a steep slope, attach roofing brackets or 2×4 lumber pieces to create footholds.
7. Cover the roof with roofing felt.
   1. Start at a bottom corner and unroll the first row horizontally along the bottom edge.
   2. Place staples 6 or 8 inches apart.
   3. Ensure the felt does not have any ripples or bulges.
8. Prepare to attach the drip edge flashing by marking where the flat edge reaches on the roof.
9. Measure 3/8 inch down from the first mark and snap a chalk line.
10. Nail the drip edge in place along the chalk mark with galvanized roofing nails. Overlap edges of each piece.
11. Trim excess drip edge off with tin snips.
12. Employ the 3-4-5 method to locate your roof’s center point. Make your marks with chalk line.
13. Cut tabs off of some shingles with a utility knife for the first bottom row.
14. Line up the center slot of a trimmed shingle with the roof center line.
    1. Extend its adhesive strip 1/4 inch beyond drip edge.
    2. Repeat process with other trimmed shingles to complete first row.
15. Install the second row of shingles with tabs extending 1/4 inch past the edge.
16. Make chalk lines 5 inches above the edge of each subsequent row of shingles to guide attachment of each row.
17. Install the ridge cap.