How to Install an Asphalt Roof Cap

When installing a new roof, one of the final steps is installing a roof cap along the ridge vent. The ridge vent is a space across the peak of the roof a few inches across that allows hot air to leave your attic, helping keep your home cool. You can cover the ridge vent by cutting standard asphalt shingles in half and folding them over the peak, using specially-designed ridge caps, which are double the thickness of standard shingles, or by placing a plastic ridge vent into the gap and covering it with shingles.

Ridge vents
Hammer
3-inch galvanized roofing nails
Three-tab shingles
Utility knife
Tar

Instructions

- 1
  Place the first section of ridge vent into the hole at the peak of the roof at one end. Nail it into place by driving 3-inch galvanized roofing nails through holes in the ridge vents and into the roof.
- 2
  Attach the next section of ridge vent to the roof, joining the sections by locking them together. Read the manufacturer's instructions for the ridge vents you purchased for the precise installation technique. Nail that section into the roof with the galvanized roofing nails.
- 3
  Continue installing the ridge vents until the roof is finished.
- 4
  Cut standard three-tab shingles into thirds with a utility knife. Cut the top of the shingles along the cuts for the tabs.
- 5
  Lay the first cut shingle over the ridge vent at one end of the roof. Apply a bead of tar to the outer edge of the ridge vent, and press the shingle down on top of it. Nail the shingle to the roof through the ridge vent.
- 6
  Cover the rest of the ridge caps with the cut shingles, nailing them to the roof. When you reach the other end of the roof, apply a bead of tar between the shingle and the ridge cap along the outer edge.

How Can I Stop a Wood Roof Leaking From Snow

How to Attach Roof Boots

Roof Repairs