Roll roofing is one option, but you should research it before preparing and installing it yourself since it may not be as simple as it appears. MSR (rolled roofing) is a mineral-surfaced oil-based asphalt that comes in 100-square-foot rolls and weighs around 75 pounds.
It’s available at any home improvement store, hardware store, or internet retailer. Although roll roofing resembles asphalt shingles, it is far less expensive, thinner, and less durable.
California rolled roofing dimensions
Measuring your roof to determine how many roofing rolls you’ll need is critical. The length and width of your roof’s surface should be measured. Then multiply the two values to obtain the square footage and the number of rolls you’ll need. Because certain sections may need to be cut to fit correctly on your roof, it’s a good idea to buy 5-10% more than you predicted.
Roof cleaning and preparation
Unroll the coiled roofing material on the ground to level it out before you begin the installation. Clean your roof thoroughly as the material uncurls. Remove loose material from the roof with a push broom. Hammer down any nails that are sticking out from the wood sheathing.
Assemble the roof by ensuring a sufficient foundation layer to place the roll roofing. It is common to practice putting roll roofing over bare wood sheathing. Applying to roof felt over the sheathing, on the other hand, will prevent leaks.
With the chalk-line, mark the area where you’ll be working
Keep your measuring tape available since you’ll need it to start the installation. It’s important to remember that rolled roofing is usually put horizontally. Measure 35 inches above the roof’s bottom edge, then draw the chalk line 35 inches above it. The line should be straight and over the roof. Make sure the line is straight by using a meter stick. You don’t want your roof to be crooked!
Install Roofing Cement
Then, as you proceed, apply roofing cement. When dealing with roofing cement, always wear gloves. Spread roofing cement along the boundaries of your work area to a thickness of 18–14 inches. Before connecting the first layer of roll roofing, apply cement to the whole horizontal portion. Keep your feet below the chalk line you drew.
Cut the roofing rolls
The correct size of rolled roofing can be achieved with your utility knife. Remember to lay it down in a long, horizontal strip. The cloth should be trimmed to a width of 35 inches and a length equal to your roof’s length.
Read More: Florida Rubber Roofing: All You Need To Know About Rubber Roofing
The First Layer of Rolled Roofing is Installed
After cutting your first layer to size, carefully align your edges. Slowly lay down the first layer, extending it out as you go to avoid creases. The first layer should go up to the chalk line on your roof. To attach the rolled roofing, firmly press it into the wet cement.
For further reinforcement, hammer nails into the cement layer after it has set. Use a hefty hammer and galvanized roofing nails that are 1-inch long. Before you start pounding, make sure you’re comfortable on the roof. The nails should be spaced 6 to 10 inches throughout the roof length.
Only 1 inch should be between the nails and the borders. The roofing material should be flush with all nails. Leave no nails protruding from the ceiling.
The advantages of California Rolled Roofing
The ease of installation of asphalt roll roofing makes it popular among homeowners. It’s a form of roofing that people can accomplish on their own. Due to its susceptibility and limited lifespan, it is best suited for constructions other than your house.
It may last five to eight years, compared to shingles’ 20-year lifespan. Garages, sheds, and outbuildings are incredible places to utilize them. Asphalt roll roofing is less beautiful than asphalt shingles or other roofing materials, and a homeowner’s organization may not allow it.
When purchasing asphalt roll roofing, make sure the rolls are not “out of round” or damaged. Once the roll has been cut, imperfections may cause elevated seams or ragged edges.
With your home’s roof, put your trust in the professionals
Installing roll roofing on smaller structures like sheds and garages is a cost-effective option. This roofing method is popular among many handy homeowners due to the low cost of supplies and the ability to complete the installation in one day.
Do not try to install a rolled roof when repairing or replacing your roof. When it comes to your house, a more sturdy and long-lasting substance is required.