Gable roofs are the most common type of roof due to their simplicity and classic design, but the appropriate shingle roof installation technique is crucial for a durable and leak-free roof. When installing shingles on a gable roof, experts prepare the roof, install the drip edge and the roofing felt (underlayment), and apply the starter shingles. They will also begin installing the shingles, continue up the roof, shingle the ridge, and ensure a thorough clean-up and inspection.
8 Steps To Install Shingles on a Gable Roof
Although installing shingles on a gable roof can be tricky, it is an efficient job with the right tools and a little guidance. Herein lies the whole process for installing shingles on a gable roof.
1. Prepare the Roof
Check the roof for damage or debris. Remove old shingles using a roofing shovel or pry bar for installation of new shingles on a gable roof.
- Ensure the surface is clean and free of nails, wood splinters, or other obstructions.
- Once the roof has been cleaned, inspect the decking for any signs of rot or damage.
- If you notice any problems, this is the time to replace the affected sections.
- Shingles will last much longer when installed on a solid, strong surface.
2. Install the Drip Edge
The drip edge is a thin metal strip installed along the roof’s edges to prevent water from getting underneath the shingles. It protects the underlying wood from moisture and eventual rot.
- For proper gable roof shingle installation, place the drip edge along the eaves at the gable roof’s lowest edge.
- Secure it by nailing roofing nails approximately 12 inches apart.
- Continue installing the drip edge along the eaves and up the rakes – the sloped edges of the roof.
3. Install the Roofing Felt (Underlayment)
This is that extra layer of protection between the shingles and the roof deck against potential water infiltrations in case some of the shingles get damaged or blown off.
- Starting from the lowest point of the roof, unroll the felt horizontally across the roof surface.
- Apply each felt course, overlapping the courses about 4 inches in a solid layer to install shingles on a gable roof.
- Fix the felt with roofing nails or staples, placing fixings about every 6 inches on the edge and middle of the felt.
4. Apply the Starter Shingles
Starter shingles are made to be applied at the bottom edge of the roof to protect against wind and water damage.
- Using the utility knife, cut the tabs of the starter shingles off, leaving the starter shingle straight-edged.
- Place the starter shingles along the eaves with the adhesive strip.
- Extend the starter shingles over the drip edge by about 1/4 inch.
- Fasten the starter shingles using nails. The nails are to be about 6 inches from one another.
5. Begin Installing the Shingles
With the roof prepared, you can begin installing the main shingles. A benefit of shingles is that they have alignment marks that will help you place them correctly.
- Begin with the bottom edge of the roof just above the starter shingles.
- Shift the first row of shingles, ensuring their bottom edges align with the starter strip’s top edge.
- Place four roofing nails per shingle just below the adhesive strip unless instructed otherwise by the manufacturer.
- To start working across the roof, lay one row of shingles at a time. Pay particular attention to stagger the joints between the rows. This is the best way to install shingles on a gable roof.
6. Continue Up the Roof
When the first row is complete, start the second row of shingles. Line the top of the second row up with the bottom of the first. They should overlap by about half a shingle’s width.
- Use a chalk line to ensure shingles are straight even as you go up the roof.
- This shingle installation process should be done continuously at the roof’s ridge.
7. Shingle the Ridge
Once you are at the very top of the roof, you will install the ridge cap shingles on the gable roof. The design is specifically engineered to fit over the ridge, protecting this roof peak.
- Start on one end of the ridge and lay the ridge cap shingles, one overlapping the next.
- Nail each shingle on either side with roofing nails, ensuring the succeeding shingle covers the nail.
8. Clean Up and Inspect After Installing
Once all the shingles have been installed, it is time to step back and examine your work. Check for loose nails, gaps, or misaligned shingles. Make any necessary changes to ensure the roof is watertight and secure. Finally, clean up any debris or leftover materials from the roof and around the area. It is important to keep the worksite tidy to prevent accidents and damage.
How do You Measure a Gable Roof For Shingles?
To measure a gable roof for shingles, begin by measuring the length and width of each section, including the rake and eaves. Multiply the length and width to get the area for each section. Add 10-15% to the total square footage to account for waste and cuts. This ensures you have enough shingles for the entire roof, including any tricky edges or corners.
Do You Put Anything Under Roof Shingles?
Yes, a layer of underlayment is typically installed beneath roof shingles to serve as an extra barrier against water intrusion. It helps protect the roof deck from moisture-related damage. Additionally, this layer improves the roof’s durability and extends the overall lifespan of the roofing system, providing added protection in severe weather conditions.
How To Install Shingles on A Gable Roof?
To install shingles on a gable roof, begin by measuring and marking the roof for accuracy. Next, apply underlayment and place starter shingles along the eaves. Install the main shingles in an overlapping pattern, trimming them as necessary for a clean fit. Finally, finish the roof with ridge cap shingles and flashing to ensure proper sealing and protection.
Conclusion
When installing shingles on a gable roof, professional roofers follow a detailed process that includes preparing the roof, installing the drip edge, applying roofing felt or underlayment, and placing the starter shingles. They meticulously work their way up the roof, shingle the ridge, and ensure thorough clean-up and inspection. For expert roofing services, you can rely on Precision Roofing, recognized as the best roofing company. Contact us today to learn more or get a quote for your project.