Basics for Rolled Roofing

Materials

• The materials needed to install or replace a rolled roof are critical to a leak-free roof with a long life span. Choose a rolled roofing material that matches the building's exterior colors and that has a long rating so it will not need replacement in the near future. Metal flashing, ice guard and drip edge are accessories that are used in conjunction with the roofing material to keep valleys, exposed piping, chimneys and the roof edge from leaking. Roofing nails and roof cement keep the rolled roofing secured to the sheeting.

Tools

• Rolled roofing is a simple process and only requires a few basic tools including a utility knife, hammer and caulk gun to apply the roofing cement. A weighted roller is optional, but will ensure the roofing material securely adheres to the sheeting. Other tools needed to complete the job are a ladder to gain entry onto the roof and safety gear such as gloves and safety glasses.

Installation

• Rolled roofing offers the ability to run horizontally or vertically requiring the same amount of work and material. Prep the roof by installing ice guard and drip edge on the edge of the roof and flashing in all valleys and around any protruding objects. Lay the rolled roofing in strips, nailing down the edge that is covered by the next course of roofing. Apply roofing cement along the course of nails to seal the next strip to it. Trim the material along the sides of the roof and apply one double-layer strip horizontally along the peak overlapping both sides.

Maintenance

• Performing maintenance on your rolled roofing will ensure it is leak-free for years to come. Seal any edges that have lifted by applying roofing cement underneath and pressing down the seam until it adheres to the layer underneath. Check caulking around the flashing annually and apply new caulking as needed. It is essential to remove snow from near the edges of the roof during the winter to prevent ice buildup that can cause water leaks by tearing the roofing.