Replacing your roofing shingles can be a huge expense. If you check the state of your shingles on a regular basis you can prolong the life of your roof. Localized replacements are cheaper and relatively easy to perform. You can either employ a local roofing contractor or you can do it yourself if you have the correct tools.

When Should You Replace Roof Shingles?

Apart from the glaring obvious water damage what signs should you look out for? If your roof is more than 20 years old you will need to inspect it carefully. You should start by looking in the gutters to check for loose shingles or asphalt granules. See if the shingles are curling at the edges or if there is moss growing on your shingles. These are indications you need to perform some maintenance on your roof.

Maintenance might also mean cleaning the roof and removing algae or weeds. Take care when working on the roof as to not damage the granules on the asphalt. The granules are what keeps the asphalt waterproof and weatherproof. Constant treading on the asphalt will remove that important protective layer so take care when you are on the roof and try to limit your footsteps.

Another tip is to keep trees and branches trimmed back away and away from your roof. This also applies to your gutter. It is important to keep all your guttering clean and damage-free. You should be clearing your gutters more frequently when it rains or is stormy.

How Do You Replace Damaged Shingles?

Once you have assessed the damaged area and identified the damaged shingles slide a putty knife under and above the damaged shingle to break the seal that secures it. Remove any securing nails completely.
Use a flat bar to prise up the damaged shingle.
Cut off the damage tab of the shingle with a utility knife, or remove the entire piece.
Put the new shingle in place, and secure it under the shingle above with standard 7/8” roofing nails and a hammer.
Once the new shingle has been affixed, lift the tab up and seal it with roof cement.

When repairing your roof you need to have the relevant safety equipment in place to prevent further damage to your roof or damage to whoever is working up there. Ladders must be secured and protective gear must be worn. It is also recommended that all workers use a safety harness.

If You Need To Replace Your Roof

You may wish to remove the asphalt yourself to reduce the cost. There are many reliable guides available and you can buy all the tools from your local hardware store.  It is quite gratifying to be part of this process and it is hard work.

Before you remove anything from your roof you have to have its replacement lined up and ready to be assembled. You do not want to have a completely exposed roof for longer than necessary. Make sure you discuss the logistics of the project with your roofing replacement contractor.

For shingle roof replacements completed in one day at the best pricing and with the best warranties in NYC contact us today at:

Royal Renovators Inc. 118-35 Queens Blvd Forest Hills, NY 11375 (718) 414-6067 https://www.nycrenovators.com/