Step 1: Assessing the Damage
- Look for signs of damage:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Loose or exposed nails
- Leaks or water stains in the attic
- Granule loss (bald patches on shingles)
- Determine if a full replacement is needed:
- If over 30% of the roof is damaged, consider a full reroof instead of repairs.
Step 2: Gathering Materials & Tools
- Replacement shingles (match color and type)
- Roofing nails (galvanized, 1 ¼ inch)
- Roofing hammer or nail gun
- Pry bar or flat crowbar
- Roofing adhesive/sealant
- Utility knife
- Safety gear (gloves, eye protection, harness if working on a steep slope)
Step 3: Removing the Damaged Shingle
- Lift the surrounding shingles
- Use a pry bar to lift the edges of the damaged shingle and those above it.
- Be careful not to tear the surrounding shingles.
- Remove the nails
- Pry out the nails securing the damaged shingle.
- If replacing a full shingle, remove all four nails holding it in place.
- Slide out the damaged shingle
- Gently remove the broken or curled shingle.
Step 4: Installing the New Shingle
- Slide the replacement shingle into place
- Position it so it aligns with the surrounding shingles.
- Nail it down securely
- Drive five nails through the new shingle, securing it in the same spots as the original.
- Avoid overdriving nails.
- Seal the edges
- Apply a small bead of roof cement under the edges of the overlapping shingles.
- Press down gently to secure.
Step 5: Final Inspection & Cleanup
- Check for proper alignment and sealing.
- Remove any leftover debris or nails from the roof.
- Inspect the surrounding shingles for any additional weak spots.