Installing asphalt roof shingles is very straight forward and can be DIY project if you have the proper instructions and materials. Once decided to use asphalt shingles for your roof, you must prepare the surface of the roof. A moister resistant protective barrier should be placed directly over the outer layer of the roof.

When the preparation is completed, the actual installation process starts with choosing the type of asphalt roof shingle to install. Asphalt roof shingles comes in a variety of colors, sizes and thicknesses. The shingles are classified by weight, whereas the heavier shingle, which is a better quality, generally is more expensive. So choosing the correct weight, color and style commonly depend on building code and budget.

Besides the weight, asphalt shingles are rated by class and class selection generally depends on local fire codes. Class A rated shingles are commonly made of fire retardant fiberglass and class C shingles, for example, are only moderately fire resistant. Class B shingles are somewhere between, more fire resistant than class C but less than class A.

The most accepted style for installing asphalt roof shingles is the 3-tab four sided butt shingles. When the physical installation begins, generally work starts at the bottom of the roof and works up to the apex, keeping in mind the shingles have to be offset so the singles tabs do not line up. The shingle row should be laid out before actual nailing takes place to insure evenness and is chiefly used and a build up or fortification to strengthen the edge. Once the first row is completed, start the second row and so on.

Insure one inch over hang beyond the sheathing to properly handle the drainage when you begin to nail. While installing asphalt roof shingles, pay close attention to the nailing process by driving them in straight. This prevents buckling and shingle damage. Once the roof is covered, you are ready for the next step which is applying the ridge roll or ridge cap.