Learning how to install roof shingles on your own is a somewhat complicated process; it’s extremely important that you follow the proper process and take heed of certain precautions. An improperly installed shingle roof won’t be waterproof and may cause water damage. However, if you carefully follow the process outlined below, you should be able to properly install roof shingles without worrying about water damage.

Step 1: Put down underlayment

Before you install the first shingle, you should put down self-adhesive waterproof underlayment three feet to six feet up the eave, so that windblown rain or snow can’t force water up the roof edges. This will guard against any seepage that may damage your home during winter and inclement weather. Likewise, you’ll need to make sure that you already have the proper underlayment and roof edging for the rest of the roof. The type of underlayment and roof edging will be determined by the local building inspector, so call them to figure out what specific building codes apply to your home. When you install the underlayment, there should be at least a two-inch overlap between the sections. Afterwards, nail a drip edge along the side of the eaves and the rakes.

Step 2: Install the Starter Course

Find the center of the roof and then snap a vertical chalk line. Most of the time, people use this line to work left and right toward the rakes, but certain shingles may start along the rake edges, so check the shingle specifications. For the first row of shingles (the starter course), you’ll need to cut the tabs off and then apply them with self-sealing adhesive strips along the eave. There should be a slight overhang past the drip edge.

Step 3: Install the Shingles

You should use four roofing nails per shingles or more if you live in a high-wind area. The first regular row of shingles should be laid on top of and flush with the starter course. Make sure that there are five inches of the tabs exposed, where the bottom tab meets the top of the cut-out. Continue installing shingles until you are finished!

Installing a roof is a moderately involved, multi-day project, so if you don’t have any sort of roofing experience at all, it’s highly recommended that you find a local roofer or handyman to help you out.  TalkLocal is a great way to instantly connect to high-quality professionals in your area so you can get this done fast!