How to Use Asphalt Shingles as Siding

Measure across the width of the exterior wall in need of siding from end to end with a tape measure. Divide this number in half, put a chalk line from top to bottom at this center point, and snap it onto the felt paper covering the wall to make a central line.

Place a section of shingles on the bottom of the wall, so the right end of the section is aligned to the center-line. Fasten the shingle to the wall by driving a roofing nail above each of the three tabs in the section, along the dotted line. The tabs (shingles) should overhang the bottom of this wall by as much as possible, but without touching the ground. Repeat this by installing another section of shingles to other side of the line.

Cut a tab off of two sections of shingles, creating two-tab pieces. Install these pieces above the two starter sections so the new tabs overhang the starter sections to about a quarter-inch below the dotted line.

Continue installing successively shorter sections of shingles above your work, creating a shingle pyramid in the bottom-center of the wall. The next line uses a normal section, followed by a single two-tab section, and then a one-tab section at the top. This pyramidal core helps you install shingles so the individual shingle tabs and the ends of the sections never line up, improving coverage and waterproofing.

Install the remainder of the shingles by working out and up. Upper shingles must always overlap lower shingles, and cut shingle sections to fit irregular spaces as necessary.

Install a cedar board if a gap exists between the top of the upper row of shingles and the top of the wall. Drive in a roofing nail for every foot of board, placing the board so it overlaps the top row of shingles and makes contact with the overhang of the roof.