How To Move, Remove, and Replace An Asphalt Shingle

Things don't always go perfectly. Sometimes you need to move or remove a shingle or two from your rooftop. Maybe it was nailed down incorrectly or has become damaged over time. These things happen! Don't spend your days and nights worrying about the cost of a professional roofer. Do it yourself. An at-home repair gives you the chance to show off your handy side - and save some money while you're at it. Are you ready to get started? This is your guide to moving, removing, and replacing an asphalt shingle.
Let's start with learning how to move a shingle. During installation, you want to carefully arrange each and every shingle before you nail them into place. This is not always done correctly - whether you did it on your own or had a professional roofing contractor handle the installation. If you find that a shingle is at an odd angle or needs to be re-positioned, there is only one solution: removal and replacement. The same is true if you have noticed a shingle on your rooftop that is ripped, torn, worn down, or damaged. Replacement is the most effective way to keep your roofing system strong and resistant to water leaks and serious damage. Remember, time is of the essence. To prevent shingles from settling incorrectly - or creating weak spots on your roof - be sure to handle this task as quickly as you can.
To move or remove a shingle, carefully climb up onto the roof. Make sure you are wearing appropriate safety gear and avoid performing roofing repairs on icy or rainy days. Now for the actual removal process. You will need a hammer and a putty knife. Use the claw of the hammer to remove the shingle nails. Then use your putty knife to gently pry up the affected shingle. Move the shingle from side to side carefully until it pulls free. Once the shingle has come loose, put it to the side and reach for a replacement shingle. Ideally, it should be an exact match. (Same colour, weight, and from the same brand.) Otherwise, the overall look and functionality of your roofing system will be compromised.
Now that the shingle has been removed, it is time to start the replacement process. Apply a roofing adhesive or roofing cement to the shingle. Use the putty knife and apply it in the middle and on the corners. Carefully slide the shingle into the vacant spot and press down. Using your hammer and some shingle nails, attach the shingle to your roof. Then finish it all off by adding a small amount of roof cement over the head of each nail. This extra step will add additional water protection to your roof.
Sometimes singles need to be moved, removed, and replaced. Instead of ignoring the problem - or paying a roofing professional to handle the task - why not DIY it? It is quick, easy, and won't take long to do. Plus, it can positively impact the strength of your roofing system. What could be better than that? Stop spending more than you need to.... give DIY a try!
Joe Davis understands how to remove and replace shingles. He has experience bringing both residential and commercial roofing products to customers all over the country. In the last few years, he has been working successfully with IKO Shingles.