Learn how to install 3 tab shingles with our step-by-step tutorial.
Other composition shingles, such as architectural and random cutouts, are installed using most of the same techniques.
Check withyour roofing dealerto learn about any installation differences.
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3 tab shingles are usually 36 inches long; each tab is 12 inches.
They are designed to be installed with a 5-inch reveal.
However, most people prefer the cutout lines to be aligned, so they make straight vertical lines.
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This step-by-step tutorial shows how to install 3 tab shingles using the racking method.
A pneumatic nail gun makes quick work of fastening shingles.
With one or two helpers, you’ll be able to shingle a 1,500-square-foot roof in about two days.
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If possible, have the shingles delivered via a boom directly onto the roof.
Snap Lines
Snap horizontal chalklines to help you keep the courses straight.
Then snap lines for every course or every other course.
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Often, however, a starter course is made of cut shingles.
Attach Starter Shingles
Attach each starter shingle by driving three nails along its top edge.
Fastening along the top edge assures that nailheads will not be exposed.
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Drive a nail at one end first, then drive the others.
Check them with a framing square or measure so the lines are parallel with the rake ends.
It’s better to use the factory edges of a half-sheet of plywood as a guide.
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Take care that the shingles are correctly aligned with consistent reveals.
Fill in Courses
Starting at the racked shingles, fill in the courses.
Align the 3-tab shingles with the horizontal lines and nail them in place.
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In areas withhigh winds, it is common to drive two nails above each cutout line.
Use these whenever there is no layout line.
Also, roofing hatchets and some roofing nailers have adjustable guides.
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You may need to cut out part of the rubber flange so it fits over the pipe.
Protect Pipes
Slip the flashingover the pipeand press it in place.
Drive nails around the perimeter as recommended by the manufacturer.
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Install Shingles Around Vents
Roof around the vent.
Where shingles overlap the flashing, attach them with roofing cement rather than nails.
Cover any exposed nailheads with dabs of roofing cement.
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The bottom of these courses must be nailed higher than usual so you might slip shingles under them later.
Now you’re free to snap a new bond line to align the shingles on the other side.
Apply Flashing
Apply flashing at a wall.
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Where a wall is perpendicular to the roofing, slip pieces of step flashing under the siding.
Shingle the other side and allow these pieces to overlap the ridge by no more than 4 inches.
When hips meet at a ridge, you may have to improvise to handle awkward areas.
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Just be sure that water will not seep in between shingles as it runs downward.
Where two hips meet a ridge, cut a triangular piece to cover the joint.
Cover any exposed nailheads with dabs of roofing cement.
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Cut Ridgecaps
To cut ridgecaps, turn shingles upside down and cut off single tabs.
Angle the cuts slightly so the nonreveal portions will not be visible when the caps are installed.
Make a cut on the backside, then bend and break the shingle.
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Using a 5-inch reveal, estimate the number of caps needed.
Prepare the ridge by snapping chalklines 6 inches on each side.
Install Ridgecaps
Install ridgecaps along the lines, leaving a 5-inch reveal.
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Drive the nails about 112 inches from the sides and just below the self-sealing strip.
Shingle to the middle of the ridge, then start from the other end.
Where the ridgecaps meet, install a 5-inch-wide strip.
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Cover nailheads with dabs of roofing cement.
Then cover the resulting V-shape notch with another piece of WSU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Staggering shingles is crucial.
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When properly maintained, these shingles can last 15-20 years.
Typically, 4 nails are used for each shingle.
However, 5 or 6 nails should be used in areas with high winds.
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You might also need to use extra nails onsteep roofsto prevent gravity from dragging it down.
Areas with harsh weather conditions will require replacement sooner.
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