A Quick Guide to Roll Roofing Installation

As one of the most sought-after home and commercial inspectors in Florida, we are frequently asked about roll roofing. While we've extensively covered its quality, we’ve never fully detailed how to install it.

Roll roofing is an affordable solution for protecting structures like garages, workshops, and sheds, and the best part is, it’s relatively easy to install on your own. If you’re working within a limited budget and need to quickly reinforce smaller buildings on your property, keep reading to learn all you need to know about roll roofing installation.

What Is Roll Roofing?

Roll roofing is an oil-based asphalt material that comes in rolls, each covering 100 square feet—similar to a rolled-up carpet. As the name suggests, it is installed by unrolling it onto the roof, much like laying down a carpet.

One roll weighs only about 75 pounds, making it easy to handle. However, this lightness also means roll roofing isn’t as durable or sturdy as other asphalt materials. Though lightweight, it is a major advantage for those looking for an affordable, easy-to-transport option that they can install themselves.

While roll roofing is ideal for garages or smaller structures, it isn’t recommended for homes unless absolutely necessary. Its lifespan is around five years, making it a less practical choice compared to shingles for residential roofs.

How to Install Roll Roofing

Now that you understand the basics, here’s a step-by-step guide to installing roll roofing. For the best results, follow these steps carefully.

1. Gather the Required Tools and Materials

Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary tools. Avoid the hassle of running to the store in the middle of your project by collecting everything beforehand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Roll roofing
• Roofing cement
• High-quality ladder
• Hammer
• Push broom
• Meter stick
• Measuring tape
• Gloves
• Trowel
• Tin shears
• Utility knife
• Chalk line
• Primer
• Flashing
• Roofing and flashing nails

2. Measure the Roof Surface

Measure both the width and length of the roof’s surface. Add these two measurements together to determine the square footage, helping you calculate how many rolls of roofing material you need. It’s a good idea to purchase about 10% more than needed to account for trimming.

3. Prepare the Surface

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful installation. Begin by cleaning the roof with a push broom to remove any debris. Hammer down any nails that may be sticking out from the roof sheathing.

Next, install drip edge flashing along the lower edge of the roof. This metal flashing prevents water from seeping under the roofing material. Use roofing cement and nails to secure the flashing all around the roof’s lower edge.

4. Mark the Working Area

Use your measuring tape and chalk line to mark a line 35 inches up from the roof's bottom edge. Double-check the levelness of the line using a meter stick to ensure an even surface.

5. Apply Roofing Cement

Now, apply the roofing cement along the edges of the roof, ensuring it’s spread evenly to about ¼ inch thick. Work slowly to cover the entire horizontal section of the roof.

6. Cut the Roll Roofing

Roll roofing is laid down in horizontal strips, so you’ll need to cut the material to fit the roof’s dimensions. Use a utility knife to cut the roll to the desired size—typically 35 inches wide to span the entire length of the roof.

7. Lay the First Layer

Lay the first layer of roll roofing in increments, making sure the edges are aligned. As you roll the material out, stretch it to avoid wrinkles. Once the first layer is in place, secure it with nails spaced about 10 inches apart. Make sure nails are positioned around one inch away from the edges.

8. Add Additional Layers

Once the first layer is secure, use a chalk line to mark a new line 32 inches above it. This will ensure the layers overlap, preventing water from penetrating the roof. Continue this process, adding layers of roll roofing, trimming excess material, and applying more cement over the nails as you go. Once complete, remove any debris and the roof is finished.

Affordable Roofing

Roll roofing installation is a quick, cost-effective, and easy option for smaller structures. However, due to its short lifespan, it’s not the best choice for a home roof replacement.

If you're unsure about the condition of your roof, contact Guardian Angel Inspections. Our team can assess whether your roof needs a replacement or if minor repairs could extend its life.

Call us today at 561-512-7854 or fill out our contact form to schedule an affordable roof inspection service.