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How To Roof With
Rolled Roofing

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25
June

How To Roof With Rolled Roofing? Everything You Need To Know


There are numerous reasons why people opt for rolled roofing. The single most crucial factor that has helped Rolled Roofing Installation gain popularity is because of its affordability and relative ease of installation. Rolled roofing is a good option when aesthetics aren’t that crucial. Its built quality is quite comparable to that of composition shingles even though it may not be that durable in the long run. Rolled roofing generally comes with a one-year warranty as well. If the double coverage method is used while installing it, it can surely add to its durability by a huge margin. 


In this blog post, we will share with you all the steps that you need to follow to ensure that your rolled roof is installed in the best way possible. So, read this post  to get all the information you can require on rolled roofing.


What To Know About Rolled Roofs?


Roll roofing is a type of asphalt product that is oil-based and typically sold in rolls of 100 square feet. Similar to installing carpet, it can be unrolled and installed directly onto the roof to protect against the elements. Despite its appearance resembling asphalt shingles, roll roofing is thinner and less durable due to its lower cost. However, it is also lightweight, with a 100-square-foot roll weighing approximately 75 pounds.


For DIY enthusiasts, roll roofing can be an appealing option since it is readily available at most home improvement stores. However, it is important to weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages of using this material before making a purchase. Rolled roofing is generally put over primer-coated wood or bare wood sheathings. The sheathings are sure to be protected against water leaks when professionals at Zicklin roofing apply roofing felt first. Our professionals also utilize the exposed-nail technique in case the roof is sloped. 


And in the case of slightly sloped roofs, Zicklin roofing uses a concealed-nail approach. 


As mentioned before, when it comes to flat roofs or imperfectly flat roofs, double coverage is the right option. With superior options among Rolled Roofing Installation, EPDM is the answer. At Zicklin roofing, we offer all these options for your brand-new rolled roof.


Composition of Rolled Roofing


As we have mentioned above, rolled roofing material is mainly an asphalt-based product. Let us go into detail about the composition of rolled roofing. 


Felt or Fiberglass Mat

The base material of rolled roofing is either a felt or fiberglass mat. The mat is saturated with asphalt to provide durability and waterproofing.


Asphalt

Rolled roofing is coated with asphalt to provide a waterproof barrier. The asphalt is usually oil-based and may contain fillers, such as ground limestone or other minerals, to improve its properties.


Granules

Many types of rolled roofing have granules embedded in the top surface. The granules can be made of materials such as ceramic, rock, or slag. They provide additional protection from UV rays and can also add color to the roof.


Adhesive

Rolled roofing is often installed with an adhesive to ensure it stays in place. The adhesive can be either self-adhesive or applied with a separate adhesive material.

The specific composition of rolled roofing can vary depending on the manufacturer and type of product. However, most rolled roofing products are designed to be lightweight, durable, and easy to install, while providing effective protection against the elements.


Benefits of using Rolled Roofing


Rolled roofing has several benefits which make it a popular choice for many homeowners. These include the following:


Cost-effective

Rolled roofing is relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials. This makes it an attractive option for homeowners on a tight budget. Rolled roofs are the favorite choice of customers that value durability over looks.


Easy to install

Rolled roofing is a relatively simple material to install, especially for DIY enthusiasts. It can be installed using basic tools and does not require special equipment or expertise. However, we recommend that you hire experienced roofing contractors for the installation to ensure proper work and safety.


Lightweight

Rolled roofs are much lighter than other roofing materials, such as tiles or shingles. This makes it easier to handle during installation and reduces the load on the roof structure. Less load on the roof means a longer life for your roof and fewer repairs that are needed.


Versatile

They can be used on a variety of roofs, including low-slope roofs and outbuildings. It can also be used as a temporary solution for leaks or damage. The versatility of this material is another reason why it has gained such popularity in New York and other areas.


Weather-resistant

Rolled roofs are designed to be weather-resistant, protecting your roof and home from rain, snow, and other elements. This is especially true for the harsh winters of NYC where your roofs have to withstand heavy snowfall which can damage the roof.


How to Install Roll Roofing? Step-by-Step Procedure


1. Gather All the Materials

The first step of installing a rolled roof is to ensure that you have all the required materials as well as tools. It can be such a waste of time if, at the last moment, you realize that you have some important tool missing or insufficient roofing material. Below are some of the things that one must have before starting to install a rolled roofing:


Rolled roofing, roofing cement, hammer, ladder, measuring tape, gloves, meter stick, utility knife, tin shears, primer, chalk line, roofing nails, nails for flashing, trowel, and primer. A good roofing company like Zicklin roofing always comes prepared with all the necessary materials.


2. Take Proper Measurements of the Roof

The next step is to accurately measure the surface area of your roof. Measure the length and width of your roof to get an accurate estimate of how many rolls of rolled roofing you would require. It is better to get at least 10% to 15% more rolls than your estimate. 


The reason is that there may be some extra trimming of rolls needed to perfectly fit your roof. 


Zicklin roofing’s roofing experts know how to effectively measure your roof to give you the most accurate estimate of roofing material that would be needed. This ensures that you are never short on material nor do you have to spend unnecessarily on roofing rolls you do not require.


3. Preparing the Roof

To prepare for installation, first, unroll the rolled roofing material on the ground to flatten it out. While the material uncurls, make sure to thoroughly clean your roof. Clear away loose debris from the roof using a push broom. If you observe any nails protruding from the wood sheathing, use a hammer to push them down. Verify that you have a suitable base layer for the roll roofing before beginning installation. Usually, roll roofing is installed over bare wood sheathing, but applying roof felt over the sheathing can help prevent leaks.


While it is technically possible to install roll roofing over existing shingles, it is generally advisable to avoid roof layovers and instead opt for a clean base for nearly all roofing projects. It is also recommended to install drip edge flashing before laying the rolled roofing. 


A drip edge is a type of metal flashing that is installed at the roof’s edges to prevent water from getting underneath the roofing materials. Apply the roofing cement along with the  roofing nails to connect the drip edge flashing around the bottom edge of the roof.


4. Use Chalk Line to Mark Working Area

Make sure to have your measuring tape nearby as it will come in handy during the installation process. Keep in mind that rolled roofing is usually installed horizontally. Using a measuring tape and chalk line, measure 35 inches up from the bottom edge of the roof and mark it with the chalk line. 


Check that the line is straight and even across the roof using a meter stick to avoid crooked roofing.


5. Apply the Roofing Cement

The next step is to apply roofing cement as you work. Remember to wear gloves when handling roofing cement. Apply roofing cement along the edges of your working area, ensuring that it is approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.


Before attaching the first layer of roll roofing, spread the cement over the entire horizontal section. Make sure to stay below the chalk line you previously marked.


6. Dissect the Rolled Roofing Material as per Need

To prepare the rolled roofing for installation, use a utility knife to cut a section of the material to the appropriate size. Keep in mind that the roofing will be laid horizontally as a long strip, so cut it to a width of 35 inches and the length of your roof. When cutting the rolled roofing, you will need to exert significant pressure with the utility knife.


This can be difficult for a novice to do at home. You need the help of true rolled roofing installation experts in NYC to get this done. Zicklin roofing has trained roofers in our team that know how to carry out every step of this process professionally.


7. Install the First Layer of Rolled Roofing

After cutting your first layer to the appropriate size, carefully align the edges and gradually lay it down, stretching it as you go to prevent any wrinkles. The initial layer should extend the length of your roof up to the chalk line. Apply pressure to the rolled roofing, firmly embedding it into the damp cement to secure it in place.


With the layer cemented in place, it’s time to reinforce it with nails. Using a sturdy hammer and 1-inch galvanized roofing nails, ensure that you have a stable footing before beginning to hammer. Place the nails 6 to 10 inches apart along the length of the roof, positioning them just 1 inch away from the edges. Ensure that all nails are flush with the roofing material and not protruding above the surface of the roof.


8. Repeat the Process

To lay the second layer, mark a chalk line 32 inches above the first layer since overlapping is necessary to ensure complete coverage and protection. For subsequent layers, use a measurement of 32 inches instead of 35 inches to account for the overlap. To continue, cut the rolls to size, apply roofing cement, lay the roll, and hammer in nails, repeating the process as you work upwards. Once all rolls are installed, seal the final top edge with roofing cement, and cover all nails with cement for added security.


If there is any excess rolled roofing hanging over the edge, use a razor knife to trim it. Then, check if the edges can be lifted and if so, seal them with more cement.


9.Properly Clean the Roof

After completing the installation steps, it’s essential to perform a final cleanup of the roof before considering the task to be completed. Use a push broom to remove any dirt, twigs, loose nails, or mud from your shoes that may have accumulated during the installation.


Afterward, spray the roof with a hose while staying on the ground to avoid accidents. Finally, step back and take a moment to appreciate the finished job, knowing that you have successfully installed your rolled roof. 


Our roofing experts at Zicklin roofing always leave your roof or any work site properly cleaned after completing their work. That shows their level of professionalism.


Concluding Remarks


These were the steps in great detail on how to install rolled roofing on your property’s roof, the right way. All these steps may be possible for DIY enthusiasts however, we recommend that you always hire trained professionals for any kind of roofing work. The reason is that your home’s roof is one of its most integral parts. You cannot afford any mistakes with your roofing that would later end up costing you more. That is why hiring the right rolled roof installation company in New York is vital. 


Zicklin roofing provides you with the best-in-class Composition Rolled Roofing services. We are the most dependable roofing contractors in New York. Reach us today, and we will give you an unbeatable Rolled Roofing Cost quote you can’t deny.


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