Fibreglass laminated shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials, offering durability, aesthetic appeal, and weather resistance. These shingles are an excellent option for homeowners looking to upgrade their roofs with a long-lasting solution that provides reliable protection against the elements. Understanding the steps involved in installing fibreglass laminated shingles can help ensure your roofing project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
1. Preparation and Planning
Before any shingles are installed, thorough planning and preparation are key to a successful roofing project. The first step is to evaluate the condition of the existing roof, clear the site, and gather all the necessary materials and tools.
- Inspection: A roofing professional will inspect the roof structure to ensure it is sound and can support the weight of the new shingles. Any necessary repairs to the decking or underlayment will be addressed at this stage.
- Remove Old Roofing: If you are replacing an old roof, the existing shingles will need to be removed. This step ensures that the new shingles will be installed on a clean and stable surface.
- Clean the Roof: The roof deck should be free of any debris, dirt, or moisture to prevent issues during installation. Any leaves, branches, or old roofing materials will be cleared away.
2. Install the Underlayment
Once the roof is prepared, the next step is to install the underlayment. The underlayment acts as a secondary barrier to water and moisture, protecting the roof decking from water infiltration. It is an essential part of ensuring the longevity of the shingles.
Types of Underlayment:
- Felt Underlayment: This is the traditional underlayment material, providing basic protection.
- Synthetic Underlayment: This option is more durable and lightweight, providing superior protection against water and wind.
The underlayment is typically rolled out horizontally across the roof, starting at the eaves and working upward. It is then secured using nails or staples, ensuring it is tightly fastened and covers the entire surface.
3. Install Starter Shingles
Before installing the fibreglass laminated shingles, starter shingles are laid along the eaves of the roof. Starter shingles are specially designed to prevent water from seeping underneath the shingles, reducing the risk of leaks at the roof’s edge. They also help to ensure that the first row of shingles is properly aligned. Some of the benefits of using starter shingles include:
- They have an adhesive strip that helps seal the edge of the roof, preventing wind uplift and water infiltration.
- Starter shingles are often designed with a slightly overhanging edge to direct water into the gutter system.
Proper installation of starter shingles is crucial to ensure that the rest of the shingles adhere securely and the roof functions effectively.
4. Install the Fibreglass Laminated Shingles
With the preparation complete, it is time to install the fibreglass laminated shingles themselves. These shingles are made with a fibreglass mat base, which is coated with asphalt and then covered with mineral granules. The laminated design creates a thicker, more durable shingle that offers superior protection against wind, rain, and sun damage.
Installation Process:
- Align the First Row: Starting at the eaves, the first row of fibreglass laminated shingles is aligned along the edge of the roof. It is important to ensure that the shingles are aligned properly to prevent uneven rows and gaps.
- Nail the Shingles in Place: Each shingle is nailed into the roof decking using roofing nails. The nails should be placed in the nail strip of the shingle to ensure proper attachment. It is crucial to use the right type of nails to avoid rusting or corrosion over time.
- Stagger the Shingles: As the shingles are laid, they should be staggered so that the seams do not align. This creates a more aesthetically pleasing look and also helps prevent water from flowing directly through the seams.
- Overlap the Shingles: Each row of shingles overlaps the one below it. This creates a layered effect that helps shed water efficiently. The top edge of the shingles should overlap the starter course by about half an inch.
- Continue Up the Roof: The process is repeated row by row, working upward from the eaves to the ridge. Each new row is carefully aligned with the previous one, ensuring a tight, uniform appearance.
5. Install the Ridge Cap
Once the main portion of the roof is covered with fibreglass laminated shingles, the final step is to install the ridge cap. The ridge cap is a special type of shingle that covers the roof’s peak, preventing water from seeping into the roof’s interior.
Ridge Cap Installation:
- Shingle the Ridge: The ridge cap shingles are cut to fit the peak of the roof. They are placed along the ridge line, overlapping each other to ensure a secure seal.
- Nail the Ridge Cap: Similar to the other shingles, the ridge cap is nailed in place using roofing nails. It is important to place the nails in the correct spots to avoid any damage to the shingles and to ensure the ridge cap stays in place.
Some ridge caps also feature pre-applied adhesive strips that help create an additional bond, further preventing water infiltration.
6. Final Inspection and Clean-Up
After the fibreglass laminated shingles and ridge cap are installed, a final inspection is conducted to ensure that everything has been properly installed. The inspector will check for any loose shingles, misalignments, or areas where additional sealing is needed.
Post-Installation Steps:
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is essential for preventing moisture buildup in the attic, which can lead to mould and mildew. Ridge and soffit vents are often installed at this stage to ensure proper airflow.
- Clean-Up: The work area will be thoroughly cleaned, with all debris, nails, and leftover materials removed. This is important for preventing any damage to your yard or property.
Benefits of Fibreglass Laminated Shingles
Fibreglass laminated shingles are an excellent choice for homeowners due to their many benefits, including:
- Durability: These shingles are resistant to high winds, rain, and extreme temperatures, making them ideal for the unpredictable weather in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Fibreglass laminated shingles come in a variety of colours and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home.
- Energy Efficiency: Many fibreglass shingles come with energy-efficient features, such as reflective coatings, which can help reduce cooling costs during hot summers.
Leave the Roof Installation to Ridge Meadows Roofing
Installing fibreglass laminated shingles is a precise and methodical process that requires expertise and attention to detail. From the initial preparation and underlayment installation to the final ridge cap, each step plays an important role in ensuring the roof’s effectiveness and longevity. If you are considering installing fibreglass laminated shingles for your home, Ridge Meadows Roofing is here to help.
As specialists in fibreglass laminated shingles and roofing services in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley, we provide expert installation and reliable roof solutions for your home. If you are experiencing problems with your roof, contact us for more information or to schedule an inspection.
