Installing a roof is not an easy task and should be done by a certified professional. If done improperly, it could lead to leaks, and damage to other areas of the home.
Installing a roof is more than just installing shingles. They are many steps & layers to a new roof. You are installing a “Roofing System.”
We’ll discuss each step of installing a roofing system:
1. Tear Off
Before installing any roof, you must make sure all previous material is taken off of the deck. It is important to note that the deck must be clean of all debris and must be dry. Inspect the deck to make sure there are no standing nails or staples.
In some cases, it is okay to install shingles over a previous system- However, the system has to be in good condition (clean, dry, and with no major issues). However, this is not recommended! It will likely void the warranty.
2. Install Drip Edge
Drip edge is a T-Shape metal or L-shape Metal that goes along the eaves of the roof (WISA Installs drip edge along all sides of the roof). This helps water and insects from penetrating the roof system.
This is installed under the waterproof barrier. The difference between T-shape and L-Shape (besides the actual shape) is the effectiveness of how far running water falls from the fascia boards. T-Shape drip edge allows water to run further out from the fascia boards.
3. Install Waterproof membrane, Ice and Water Shield, on the eaves of the roof (As well as any low slope areas on the roof or openings like pipe collars and skylights)
This membrane is a self-adhering waterproofing underlayment used on a roof to prevent ice dams and wind-driven rain
This membrane is cut into manageable pieces to install. It is rolled out onto the roof.
The waterproof membrane works almost like a sticker. It has paper backing that is removed so that the membrane can adhere to the roof deck. Once the membrane has been positioned correctly, the paper backing is removed and evened out to ensure there are no wrinkles or bubbles.
This must be installed at least 2 feet from the interior wall
4. Install Roof Deck Protection (Underlayment)
Underlayment is applied on the remaining area of the roof deck
This allows moisture to escape the system whilst still protecting the roof from rain, snow, etc.
Some roofers use felt paper for underlayment, however, this is not the best material. Over time, Felt paper begins to weaken and starts to deteriorate. Certainteed offers RoofRunner, which allows the deck to breathe and release moisture (this is also why Ice and Water shield isn’t applied to the rest of the roof. It does not allow the deck to breathe.)
The product is rolled out onto the deck and overlapped in specific measurements depending on the steep and how many squares are on the roof. ** 1 Square = 100 sq.ft.**
Underlayment is secured with nail caps or staple caps
5. Install Starter Shingles
Starter shingles are the first row of shingles. Regular shingles cannot be applied here due to the properties of the starter shingles. Starter shingles allow the next row of shingles to be secured to the deck.
6. Install Roofing shingles (Certainteed Landmark Pro or Certainteed Designer shingles)
Shingles are installed in rows that are staggered.
It is essential that the roofer is certified with that specific manufacturer, if not, this will affect the warranty on the product.
Shingles are applied side to side in rows going up the roof in a staggered pattern
7. Install flashing and counter-flashing
As shingles are being installed, if needed, flashing will be installed as you make your way up with the shingles. Flashing goes around anything coming out from the roof (Chimneys, different levels in the roof, skylights, etc.)
After flashing, counter flashing is installed to ensure the flashing does not peel from the home. Counter flashing is installed into the home (meaning if the home is brick, the counter flashing will be bent and pushed into the actual brick). This is different if the home is Siding, Stucco, or Wood. These materials will act as counter flashing. The flashing is placed behind these materials.
8. Install Ridge Vent and Ridge Cap Shingles
A Ridge vent will be installed. This is to vent the roof and help prevent any damage in the attic and roof
***Along with the ridge vent, soffit vents are also installed if needed***
9. Install/Replace Pipe Collars
Any exhaust pipes or vents will be replaced if needed.
10. Caulk any areas that need to be sealed
Review and seal where needed.