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Replacing asphalt roof shingles is a task that, with a little guidance, the majority of homeowners can confidently tackle. During this process, it’s important to be aware of the common mistakes to avoid, which we’ll discuss in this informative blog post.
In this informative blog post, we’re going to shed light on the major mistakes to avoid during the process of asphalt roof shingles, as well as so let’s take a look at them.
Mistake #1 – Ripping or Tearing Shingles Around
The very first step of the loose or damaged asphalt shingle roofing replacement is to eliminate the offending shingles. While doing this, you need to work more carefully and deliberately.
It’s crucial to work with care and precision during the replacement process. If you rush or handle the shingles roughly, you risk damaging the surrounding ones, which can complicate the task. Remember, a small mistake can lead to bigger issues.
Mistake #2 — Not Removing the Whole Shingle
Instead of working carefully on roofing to remove the damaged shingle, it’s easier to cut out the shingle to save time and effort. However, this is also a major mistake that you may make! Not removing the entire shingle will make it more challenging when it comes to putting a new shingle in its place.
Be sure that the replacement shingle may be loose or inappropriately fastened, making your roof prone to water and blown-off shingles. Just remove the nails from the adjacent shingles to give yourself enough space so that the extra effort will be worth it in the end.
Mistake #3 – Forgetting or Overlooking to Seal Nail Holes
After the removal of the damaged asphalt shingle, as well as the next thing you are about to do is put a new shingle in its place. You must slide the new shingle more carefully where the old one was and nail it down. While doing so, if you work carelessly you may need to remember to seal nail holes– -that would be your third major mistake.
Nails will hold your asphalt roof shingle down; however, they need to be watertight on their own. If you leave the nail holes unsealed, it can create an entry point for water to start penetrating your roof’s underlayment to the decking below.
Mistake #4 – Not Replacing Nails from Adjacent Asphalt Shingles
As stated previously, you may have to remove nails from a few shingles of your roof to give yourself enough space to work on. It’s all right if you keep remembering to change your nails later! You’ll have loose shingles on your roof if you don’t replace the nails.
This can lead to water seepage, which can cause significant damage to your roof’s structure and potentially to your home’s interior.
Firstly, ensure proper installation by hiring experienced professionals. Secondly, choose high-quality materials suitable for your climate and budget. Thirdly, don’t overlook proper ventilation, which prevents moisture buildup and prolongs shingle lifespan. Fourthly, avoid neglecting roof inspections, as timely maintenance can prevent costly issues. Lastly, steer clear of improper disposal of old shingles; opt for responsible disposal methods to minimize environmental impact.
Mistake # 5 – Not Closing the Shingles of Your Roof
Once all is nailed down, you may think that replacing your roof’s damaged asphalt shingles is done. But to keep the shingles in place, they need more than nails. If you forget to seal the new shingles, you’ll have loose shingles that can get caught in the wind.
Focus on sealing new shingles with shingle mastic, also known as roof mastic, to prevent such a problem. What’s more, don’t forget to re-seal the shingles around the damaged shingle as well!
