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Think you can handle installing asphalt shingles on your own? If so, you may not be prepared for what is really involved to get this job done. Here are some tips to help with installing new asphalt shingles.

Know About Nail Placement

There are a lot of mistakes that can be made when it comes to nail placement. People sometimes place the nails too high on the shingle, which does not allow the shingle beneath it to be secured in place as well as it could. This is because there is a nail pattern that must be followed to make sure that each shingle has the stability it needs to remain in place. You essentially put four nails into the shingles to secure it in place, which then go through the shingles beneath it. You end up with each shingle having eight nails as a result.

Know About Proper Flashing Techniques

Many leaks are often caused by a roof not having properly installed flashing. This is typically an issue around pipes that stick out from the roof, since they do not allow the shingles in that area to lay flat. You'll want to make sure that you are installing the flashing the proper way when securing it in place. This means using screws to install the flashing that are not placed directly along the edge of the material that can come loose. 

Know About Proper Roof Overhangs

Don't make the mistake of installing your shingles with an overhang. This actually can end up causing damage to your roof, because the shingles that hang over the roof become damaged over time and can cause problems. The shingles will sag, the fascia boards will rot, and you'll end up getting water in your home as a result. The key is creating the first row of starter shingles so that the edge lines up perfectly with the roof and doesn't hang over at all. A drip edge is then used to prevent water from traveling along the bottom edge as well.

Know About Architectural Shingle Differences

If you are installing architectural shingles, know that they are going to install the material a bit different than what you are used to. The raised nature of architectural shingles means that you cannot overlap them in the same ways as traditional shingles. Make sure that you understand the differences before you start the installation process so that they are installed correctly. 

For more information asphalt roof installation, contact a roofing contractor.