How Do You Shingle a Commercial Roof: A Step by Step Guide

When it comes to commercial properties, every owner must stay on top of maintaining and servicing the components of their building to ensure that all systems are working correctly. Since most of these components are placed internally behind walls, ceilings, and floors, it is surprisingly easy for property managers to overlook the other parts outside the building, including the roof.

Roofing systems are one of the most fundamental and essential elements of any facility — whether it's for residential or commercial use. However, industrial roofs are far more complex than those used in residential homes since they are composed of many individual parts that require upkeep and, sometimes, repairs. 

As the roof protects the interiors, it also needs additional protection against external factors. The best way of prolonging its stability is by installing sheets of shingle roofing for an extra layer of defense. Shingles can significantly increase the roof's resistance against weather and environmental damage. 

In addition, while energy-efficient flat-panel skylights offer superior efficiency, shingles can also reduce energy costs by improving insulation with its underlayment component. They usually come in flat or rectangular forms and are made with various materials, including stone, metal, wood, and the most common, asphalt.

Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Although shingles are made from different materials, asphalt shingles have been the top choice for roofing in the U.S. due to consumers' variety of benefits after installing asphalt roofing. 

Metal shingles are a close contender, but asphalts offer more advantages to building owners. To give you an idea and answer the question of metal vs. shingle roofing, here are some reasons you should choose asphalt over other shingle materials:

• COST-EFFECTIVE - There are many reasons why many owners choose asphalt, but one of the main reasons is due to affordability. Asphalt remains the most economical roofing option in the market, where it sells for as low as $1.50 per square foot.
• COLOR AND DESIGN VARIETY - Asphalt roofing comes in a wide array of architectural designs and color palettes. They can mimic the look of expensive materials such as slate and cedar shakes and are available in a range of colors which is ideal in improving curb appeal.
• ENERGY EFFICIENCY - It may not look like it, but asphalt shingles can help reduce energy costs since its installation package comes with an underlayment. Many consumers are also now using asphalt roofs in a lighter or darker undertone that can reflect a higher amount of UV rays.

• EASE OF INSTALLATION - Aside from being relatively cheap, asphalt is also incredibly easy and fast to install, keeping the installation cost low. Owners who have considerable knowledge in roofing repairs and maintenance can easily install the whole system independently.

Asphalt Shingle Installation Process

Although professionals usually do most roofing installations, anyone who has a good set of skills, knowledge, and tools can easily handle asphalt roofing installation. 

In addition to having the determination and skills to take this task, here is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully install your new set of asphalt shingles:

Step 1: Safety First 

Roofing jobs are hazardous, as the chances of getting involved in a falling accident become increasingly high. If you do not have sufficient safety gear or harness to protect you while working, then it is best not to proceed and let a roofer do the installation for you.

Step 2: Remove Existing Shingles

Unless you're working on a new piece, you must first remove the old layer of shingles and underlayment. Work smart, divide the roof into sections, and clear each area. Use a roof shovel to remove the shingles, nails, and underlayment by sliding it underneath the material and prying it off the deck. There is no need to remove the flashing if it's in good condition, but installing a new one alongside the asphalt shingles would be easier.

Step 3: Clear Debris 

Thoroughly clean the deck of any debris and remove those too stubborn for the roof shovel. Use a claw hammer to detach the remaining shingle and underlayment.

Step 4: Roof Deck Inspection

Examine the roof deck thoroughly to determine if it's in good condition before proceeding any further. It is best to repair any damage beforehand and pull up any protruding nails from the deck to prevent damage to the new material. 

Step 5: Install the Eave Edge Drip and Leak Barrier

Place the new metal edge drip along eaves before adding the leak barrier to protect the areas of your commercial roof that are the most vulnerable to water and air penetration. Cut the material to 10 or 20-foot lengths for easier handling and let the sections lay flat for a few minutes for faster installation.

Draw a chalk line along the eaves and remove the material's backing before applying it to the roof deck. If possible, use a hand roller to prevent bubbling and wrinkling before installing the fasteners on the back edge as instructed by the manufacturer. 

Step 6: Place the Underlayment and Rake Drip Edge Flashing

A moisture build-up is detrimental to any commercial roofing system. The primary objective of the underlayment is to promote insulation and act as a moisture barrier. Install the roofing felt to cover the whole deck based on the manufacturer's instructions and the required cap nail fasteners. Depending on the slope of the roof, you may need to overlap the underlayment for each successive row. Once smooth and in place, install the edge flashing along the edges.

Step 7: Install the Starter Shingles

Place the row of starter shingles along the roof eaves and rakes with roofing nails based on the instruction manual and align them directly to the drip edge. For improved accuracy, draw a chalk line along the installation area and trim the starter shingle to better establish the accurate joint stagger line.

Step 8: Install the Asphalt Shingles

Install the first row of asphalt shingles over the starter sheet and start by placing the entire row of shingles at the other end of the roof. Properly align the shingle's edges over the edges of the starter course and use a utility knife to trim the last row of shingle at the other end as needed. 

Start hammering the nails per the instruction manual and consider the spacing, placement, and pattern specified for the slope of your commercial roof. To properly secure the shingles, you can reinforce them with roofing cement.

Step 9: Install Additional Rows of Shingles

Once in place, you may install the other shingles by trimming the first shingle of each row and overlapping it to the previous row as directed. Draw a chalk line to keep it parallel with the eaves and ensure that they are staggered to offset the joints adequately.

Step 10: Fit Shingles Around the Additional Features in the Roof

Once you reach the pipe or vent penetrations in the roof, measure and cut the shingles around the pipe, place a collar or boot over the tube and secure it in place with nails. Run a bead of roof cement around the tube and under the edge of the collar. Continue as needed and repeat the process for every penetration you will encounter.

Step 11: Finish the Shingle Installation

Place the final course of shingles up to the roof's edge and repeat the process on the other side. Once done, clean up the work area and, if you can, clear any debris that you will find on the gutter channels to remove any blockade. Inspect the area around the worksite to ensure no nails or fasteners that fell from the roof.

BOTTOMLINE

Asphalt shingle roofing is the best option if you need a cost-effective and practical solution to fortify your commercial roof. Not only is it affordable, but its versatility and ability to copy expensive roofing materials are another central selling point. It can help reduce your building's impact on the environment and last for up to 25 years if regularly maintained.

Aside from installing shingles, your commercial roof also needs to be consistently examined for any signs of damage. One way of safely accessing the top is through roof hatches, which we specialize in at Best Roof Hatches. Learn more about our extensive products from leading brands by calling us at (800) 431-8651 as soon as you can.