Removing Damaged Shingles
- Use the proper safety precautions. Any time you're getting up on the roof you need to practice roof safety.
- Assess the damage. Find the damaged area of shingles and determine how many new shingles you'll need and the extent...
- Remove shingles in cool weather. Asphalt and asphalt sealant will heat up in hot weather, making it moldable...
Full Answer
How to tear shingles off a roof?
- Wear safety belts and ropes— especially on steeper slopes where the footing is dicey.
- Extend access ladders a few rungs above roof edges and ballast the bottom with a bundle of shingles to prevent kickouts.
- Avoid working on frosty or wet roofs.
- Be aware of overhead power lines.
How much does it cost to remove shingles?
- Rafter reinforcement or replacement: $1,000-$2,000 for a single rafter, about $10,000 for an entire house. ...
- Pitch. A steeply pitched roof brings an extra level of risk and requires special safety equipment. ...
- Flashing: $5 per square foot, $10 to $20 per piece for vent-shaped flashing. ...
How to reroof over existing shingles?
Re-roofing over old shingles can save you time and money since you will not have to rip off the old roof and pay to have it hauled away. Step 1 — Seek Professional Advice Contact your local government office to inquire about local codes regarding installing new shingles over old ones.
How to repair roof shingles that have blown off?
- Replacement shingles. Buy more than you'll need at the home repair store. ...
- Shingle cement or adhesive. Some shingles come with adhesive strips pre-installed, making this unnecessary. ...
- Roofing nails. Most three-tab shingles will be pre-cut with guide holes that will make the installation process very simple. ...
What is the fastest way to remove shingles from a roof?
0:1912:32How To Remove Shingles - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI usually just use a square narrow shovel like this and it it almost works just as well. This thisMoreI usually just use a square narrow shovel like this and it it almost works just as well. This this piece on the back does give a little bit of an extra advantage.
How do you lift shingles for repair?
Slip a flat pry bar under the damaged shingle and press down to pop out the roofing nails.Slide the new shingle up into place. Be sure to align with the shingles of either side.Carefully lift the upper shingle and secure the new shingle with roofing nails.
How do you separate shingles on a roof?
1:295:32How To Remove and Repair Composite Shingles By - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you're going to loosen three of them the one you're going to take off and then the two above.MoreSo you're going to loosen three of them the one you're going to take off and then the two above. Once you get those loose. And you're going to want to pry under there loosen up the nails.
How hard is it to remove roof shingles?
Although removing asphalt shingles requires less roofing knowledge and training than the installation of the new layer, it is still a lot of work. Maybe you're not afraid of hard work, but also remember you'll be working on a sloped surface, using tools you likely have never used before.
Can you remove shingles and reuse them?
If the material is free of cracks and rust, you can reuse it with your new shingles. If any of the flashing shows signs of wear, remove and discard it. If you are keeping your flashing, remove the nails and bend it up and back with a pry bar to remove the shingles underneath.
How do you remove a stuck shingle?
I would try a heat gun and a two or three inch putty knife to get it off. It will probably be a slow process though. You can also use an old blade in a circular saw to cut grooves in the shingles nearly down to the roof and try chiseling them out with a 1" wood chisel.
Can you replace just a few shingles?
In the end, if your roof needs just a few shingles replaced or a few minor patches made, you can get a roofer to make those small repairs for you. But, if you need anything more than half of your roof repaired, it's in your best interest to simply re-roof your entire home.
How long does it take to remove shingles?
Roofing Materials and Design The most common shingle types and their average replacement times are: Asphalt Shingles – one to three days. Wooden Shingles – six to eight days. Slate Tiles – six to seven days.
How do you reattach a shingle roof?
1:297:39How to Replace or Repair a Damaged Shingle by RoofingIntelligence.comYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn a newer roof you'll need to be careful. And use your bar to carefully. Work between the shinglesMoreOn a newer roof you'll need to be careful. And use your bar to carefully. Work between the shingles to separate them you don't need to worry about damaging the shingles you are replacing. So much but
Can curled shingles be repaired?
Yes, you can repair some instances of curled shingles, especially if you only have a few shingles that are showing problems. It's important to remember, though, that curled shingles are usually a sign of a greater problem. It could be that your roof is reaching the end of its life.
Will lifted shingles reseal?
Most unsealed shingles should not be expected to reseal but can be hand sealed with roof cement.
What is roof cupping?
If you see cupping on your shingles, this means that there are possible damage or issues on your roofing system. Cupping refers to shingle deformation or distortion. Before you get a roof replacement service, you have to understand the basics of this issue first. Causes of Shingle Cupping and Their Solutions.
How Often Should You Replace Your Roof Shingles?
Any damage or signs of wear call for immediate action to keep water from seeping under the shingles and rotting the wood sheathing beneath. Ignoring a problem—even what appears to be a small one—will accelerate the need to reroof and can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a new roof.
How old should a roof be to replace shingles?
If your roof is more than 20 years old and most of the shingles are damaged or badly worn, it’s time to replace it. But if your roof is basically sound and is at a relatively shallow pitch that you’re comfortable working on, you can probably handle most repairs yourself.
How long does it take for a caulk gun to dry?
tube) under the corner. Weigh it down with a brick (right); leave the weight in place for at least 24 hours until the sealant dries. That's all there is to it.
How to camouflage a roof?
It's easy to camouflage: Check the gutter for an accumulation of colored granules that have washed down the roof from the shingles. Then gather some into a small cup and sprinkle them over the sealant to mask the repair.
Is it important to keep a sound roof?
Maintaining a sound roof literally tops the list of crucial home repairs: It keeps you and your family warm and dry, along with everything in your house. A new roof is a pricey proposition. These simple repairs can keep your existing roof sound for years to come.
How to prevent shingles from falling off?
Use a safety harness system to prevent falls. Wear shoes with soft rubber soles for a good grip and long pants to protect against the skin-scraping shingles. Just to reiterate, working on a roof is dangerous, so be sure to take these precautions:
What to wear when tearing off a roof?
Wear soft rubber-soled shoes for traction, long pants to protect your legs, work gloves, safety glasses and have the proper roofing tear off tools.
What to do if you don't have time before dark to clean the roof and apply felt?
If you don't have time before dark to clean the roof and apply felt, nail down plastic tarps for the night .
How to get flashing off a sandbox?
Starting at the top of the valley, slip the fork or a flat bar under the flashing and pry the metal edges loose. Continue working down the valley, lifting up the flashing.
Where to throw old roofing material?
Toss From Roof to Trash Container. As the old roofing material piles up at the roof jacks, carry it to the edge of the roof and toss it into the trash container below. If you couldn't get the trash container close to the house, throw the shingles onto a tarp on the ground.
How long does a roof last?
Since you don't want to wait until that happens, inspect the shingles every year. Most asphalt shingles have a life span of 20 to 25 years, although they can wear out and need to be replaced in as few as 15 years, especially on the south side of the house.
Why do roofers use forks?
Some roofers prefer forks because they don't get caught on nails, making it easier and faster to remove the shingles. Others like the tear off shovels because they pull out more nails with the shingles. Work the fork under the ridge caps, prying them loose. As they come loose, allow them to slide down to the roof jacks.
How far off should shingles be on a damaged roof?
The end seams should be lined-up about a foot off to one side of the damaged one. In other words, you'll want to make sure that you pull off shingles in a radius around the damaged portion, to make sure you get everything.
How to get up on a roof?
Any time you're getting up on the roof you need to practice roof safety. Wear protective eyewear, heavy-duty gloves, and gripping boots appropriate for walking on the roof. Preferably, you'll also install roof jacks to have something to stand on, and harnesses to protect yourself.
What is ridge cap shingles?
The ridge cap shingles are just regular 3 tab shingles that are cut and turned sideways. They are nailed down so that the nails are not exposed. Take a stack of regular 3 tab shingles and cut little v notches at the top edge of the shingles between the tabs. This also keeps the ridge shingles from being completely square and the corners tuck in nicely.
How long do shingles last?
It depends. Most shingles have a 15-25 year lifetime guarantee, so it depends on the age and condition of the shingles if they can be used again.
Who owns Bumble Roofing?
This article was co-authored by David Bitan. David Bitan is a roofing professional, licensed contractor, and the owner and founder of Bumble Roofing based in Southern California. With over 12 years of construction industry experience, David specializes in restoring, repairing, and maintaining residential, commercial, and industrial roofs. With over 60 years of combined experience, Bumble Roofing provides easy, friendly services to structures including residential, commercial, industrial, multi-family, and government buildings along with hospitals, hotels, and churches. This article has been viewed 323,479 times.
Can shingles cut into a roof?
Damaged shingles can seriously cut into the life of a roof. To keep your house secure, it's important to regularly evaluate and replace damaged shingles to make sure your home is safe and dry. [1] Roofing Contractor & Maintenance Professional Expert Interview. 14 July 2020.
Can you remove shingles in hot weather?
Remove shingles in cool weather. Asphalt and asphalt sealant will heat up in hot weather, making it moldable and much more difficult to remove. It's a lot easier to remove shingles that are cooled down and slightly more brittle than the moldable, so do the work of removing them first thing in the morning, before the sun has beaten down upon them considerably.
How many steps does it take to replace asphalt shingles?
However, there may be the odd occasion where a little fix is needed, and, fortunately, asphalt shingles can easily be removed and replaced in just seven steps.
Why do roof shingles have two rows of nails?
This fact, that each shingle on a roof is actually held in place with TWO rows of nails, is a key factor in the overall roof system’s wind resistance.
What dynasty had shingles?
The images below depict Sedona Dynasty with ArmourZone shingles.
When to separate sealant?
This sealant separation is best done in cool weather, as the sealant bond will be more easily sheared by the pry bar when cool — in hotter weather, the sealant will be more gooey and tenacious, and harder to separate cleanly.
Can shingles be stiffer in warmer weather?
A word of caution: In cooler weather, the shingles will be stiffer than in warmer weather. Exercise care to avoid distorting the shingles more than necessary.
Can you remove nails from a shingle?
Sometimes the nails can be removed by direct access, but often trying to pry out the nails from above the shingle can damage the shingle’s granular surface. It is therefore better to lift the shingle AND the nail at the same time, so you’ll need to access the bottom of the target shingle.
1. Preparation Process
Checking local building codes and procuring a building permit is critical before you start tearing off shingles. And because weather is inherently unpredictable, you’ll want to make the tear-off process quick so that you can add new shingles as soon as possible.
2. Purchase a Safety Harness
Having a safety harness system is imperative to prevent falling. As attire goes, you’ll want to wear long pants to protect against your skin scraping on the shingles.
3. How to Prep the Roof
You’ll want to begin removing shingles at the section of the roof that is farthest away from the trash can. While you’re at the top, use your garden fork to tear the ridge gaps. Don’t forget to tear away at the top courses of the shingles as well.
4. Work Your Way From Top to Bottom
Once you’ve removed the ridges, take the fork and slide it beneath the felt paper and the shingles. Continue to pull the shingles up using the fork to do so. You are sure to notice that some nails will come along with the shingles, and others will remain on the roof.
5. Debris Disposal
The removed roofing materials will indeed pile up by the roof jacks. Periodically tale the growing pile and throw them down inside of the designated trash can below. You can place a tarp on the ground and throw your waste onto the ground from the roof if you can’t position the trash can properly.
6. Use Roof Tear-Off Tools to Remove Shingles
When you’ve finally stripped the shingles all the way and placed them near the roof jacks—remove all of the roof jacks. Take a fork and take off the remaining courses. Don’t allow the courses to slide off of the roof by prying them completely off.
7. Clean-Up
After you’ve wholly stripped a section of shingles, return and pull out all protruding nails from the area. Grab a broom and sweep the roof deck until it’s clean. Be sure to walk cautiously because the asphalt shingle granules cause the sheathing to get slippery.
Fix those potential leaks now
Remove those ugly damaged shingles and stop potential roof leaks by following this simple three-step shingle replacement process.
Replace damaged shingles
Gently tap a flat bar under the shingles to break the seal-down strips free. Don’t force it—shingles rip easily.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
What is the first step in stripping a roof?
Narrator: The first step when stripping a roof is preparing the site. The guys place plywood against the house to protect windows and siding from falling debris. They also stage a tarp that spans the work site and nail it through the edge of the old roof. The tarp helps protect the house and makes cleanup a whole lot easier.
What is the last phase of a roof ridge?
The last phase of this project includes cutting through the sheathing at the ridge, fastening down vent material, and nailing down roof-cap shingles.
What is a pro roofing contractor?
A pro roofing contractor shows how to install these crucial water-management details before the shingles go on.
Why is it important to take one more pass at the roof deck?
Narrator: It’s important to take one more pass at the roof deck to remove or drive home any nails proud of the sheathing. This prepares the surface for installing the underlayment.
