How to Remove and Replace Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a common roofing material used today. However, at some point they must be replaced. When this happens, it is important to get the job done as quickly and efficiently as possible to prevent water damage, such as leaks, to the structure of the house.

Supplies

• Prybar or shingle ripper


• Tarp or dumpster


• Claw hammer


• Rake or flat edge shovel


• Roofing felt, 30 pounds


• Asphalt shingles


• Silicone sealant


• Caulking gun


• Roofing utility knife

1. Spread a sturdy tarp on the ground around the house to catch the old shingles. A dumpster can also be used for this purpose.


2. Climb up on to the roof with the tools. Begin at the shingle roof cap at the peak of the roof.


3. Use a pry bar or a shingle ripper, if you have one, for the removal process. Run the pry bar under each of the shingles, lifting upward as you go. When it loosens, pull it up firmly with your hand until it is free. 


4. Repeat the process moving downward until all the shingles have been removed. Use the flat-edged shovel or a rake to push the shingles onto the tarp or the dumpster.


5. Use the claw end of a hammer to remove any left behind nails as you go.


6. Examine the roof sheathing for any rotting or damage. Boards that are damaged must be replaced.


7. Spread out 30-pound roofing felt or tar paper across the exposed sheathing. Use a staple gun to secure.


8. Install the flashing along the bottom of the roof's edge.


9. Determine the number of shingles you need to run along this line, and trim off the tabs with a roofing knife.


10. Place the cut shingles on top of the flashing's edge and nail into place. Use a nail on each end and in the center on this beginning row.


11. Lay out the main row of shingles so that they overhang the starters. Nail these into place using four nails across each shingle.


12. Stagger shingles by lining up the bottom of the next row with the middle of the first row. Repeat this process of staggering on each row until you reach the peak.


13. Cover the peak by cutting the tabs off of the shingle and trimming the pieces into a rectangle and bending them over the top peak, from the front to the back, to create the finish cap.