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Amanda Foster โ€” Reviewed writer, former magazine editor
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How to Handle Install Asphalt Shingles Step by Step

When install asphalt shingles leaves you confused, worried, or unsure what it means, a clear step-by-step approach can help you sort the signal from the stress. This guide explains how to understand the situation, reflect on what matters, choose a practical next step, and know when to ask for trusted support.

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Part 1

Preparing the Roof

1

Get the right number of shingles for the job.

Get the right number of shingles for the job.
Measure your roof and buy appropriately.
  • Check the weather forecast to ensure it will be dry and calm.
  • Avoid installing shingles during windy or rainy days.
  • Measure your roof and buy appropriately.
  • Measure your roof and buy appropriately.
  • Measure your roof and buy appropriately.
2

Measure the length of a shingle as it lies across the roof.

Measure the length of a shingle as it lies across the roof.
This will help determine how the shingles will lay on the roof width. Most asphalt shingles are 3 feet (91.4 centimeters) in length.
  • Use a measuring tape to measure the roof's length, width, and any overhangs.
  • Calculate the total number of shingles needed based on the roof's size.
  • This will help determine how the shingles will lay on the roof width.
  • Most asphalt shingles are 3 feet (91.4 centimeters) in length.
  • This will help determine how the shingles will lay on the roof width.
3

Remove old shingles and flashing.

Remove old shingles and flashing.
Start removing the shingles at the peak farthest from the trash container or the corner you want to collect the shingles in.
  • Wear protective gear, including a hard hat, safety glasses, and gloves.
  • Make sure to follow all local building codes and regulations.
  • Start removing the shingles at the peak farthest from the trash container or the corner you want to collect the shingles in.
  • Start removing the shingles at the peak farthest from the trash container or the corner you want to collect the shingles in.
  • Start removing the shingles at the peak farthest from the trash container or the corner you want to collect the shingles in.
Part 2

Installing Three-Tab Shingles

1

Cut your starter-course shingles if necessary.

Cut your starter-course shingles if necessary.
If you are making your own starter shingles, cut the tabs off for the "starter course" (bottom row) of shingles.
  • Use a utility knife to cut the felt paper to size.
  • Cut off one-half tab-width of the first tab to start the first course.
  • If you are making your own starter shingles, cut the tabs off for the "starter course" (bottom row) of shingles.
  • If you are making your own starter shingles, cut the tabs off for the "starter course" (bottom row) of shingles.
  • If you are making your own starter shingles, cut the tabs off for the "starter course" (bottom row) of shingles.
2

Start laying courses.

Start laying courses.
Nail the "cut off shingle" into place, about 6 inches from its lower edge.
  • Use a roofing nail gun to secure the shingles in place.
  • Keep nails out of the tar strip as you work.
  • Nail the "cut off shingle" into place, about 6 inches from its lower edge.
  • Nail the "cut off shingle" into place, about 6 inches from its lower edge.
  • Nail the "cut off shingle" into place, about 6 inches from its lower edge.
3

Put a full shingle up against the cut shingle and nail into place.

Put a full shingle up against the cut shingle and nail into place.
Repeat this basic pattern, alternating shingles across the roof,
  • Start installing shingles from the bottom edge and work your way up.
  • Use a level to ensure the shingles are properly aligned.
  • Repeat this basic pattern, alternating shingles across the roof,
  • Repeat this basic pattern, alternating shingles across the roof,
  • Repeat this basic pattern, alternating shingles across the roof,

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