Installing rolled roofing can transform your roofing project into a manageable DIY task that delivers professional results. This comprehensive guide walks you through the roll roofing installation process, helping you understand how to install roll roofing efficiently while achieving a durable, weather-resistant surface for your home.
What Is Rolled Roofing?
Roll roofing represents one of the most accessible roofing materials available for homeowners tackling a new roof project. This asphalt roofing material comes in rolls, typically measuring 36 inches wide and covering approximately 100 square feet per roll. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles that require individual placement, rolled roofing provides continuous coverage across the roof surface.
The roofing material consists of a felt base saturated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules for protection against weather elements. Most roll roofing typically weighs between 50-90 pounds per square, making it significantly lighter than conventional shingle systems. This roofing option proves particularly effective for low-slope applications where traditional materials might not perform optimally.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Roll Roofing
Pros of Installing Rolled Roofing
Roll roofing installation offers several compelling advantages for homeowners and contractors alike. The ease of installation ranks among the most significant benefits, 
as the material requires fewer specialized tools and techniques compared to other roofing systems. It’s easier to apply than individual shingles, reducing both labor time and complexity.
Cost-effectiveness makes this roofing material attractive for budget-conscious projects. The installation process moves quickly, and you can often install roll roofing over existing surfaces, potentially eliminating costly tear-off procedures. The continuous coverage provides excellent protection against water infiltration when properly installed.
This roofing provides extra insulation and weather protection due to its solid coverage pattern. The material also works well for temporary roofing solutions or structures where aesthetics take a backseat to functionality.
Cons and Limitations to Consider
Despite its advantages, rolled roofing has limitations worth considering. The material typically offers a shorter lifespan 
compared to premium roofing options, usually lasting 5-10 years, depending on climate conditions and installation quality. Appearance may not suit all architectural styles, as the smooth surface lacks the dimensional look of traditional shingles.
Temperature sensitivity affects installation timing, as extreme heat can make the material difficult to handle, while cold weather may cause cracking during manipulation. The material also provides limited options for repairs, often requiring larger section replacements rather than spot fixes.
Tools and Materials Needed for Roll Roofing Installation
Successful rolled roofing installation requires proper preparation and the right equipment. Essential tools include a measuring tape for accurate measurements, a razor knife for cutting material, and a strong hammer for securing fasteners. You’ll also need a chalk line to maintain straight alignment across the roof surface.
The materials list includes:
- Roll roofing material (calculate coverage based on roof area)
- Roofing cement for sealing edges and overlaps
- Roofing nails (typically 1-inch galvanized nails)
- Roofing felt for underlayment if required
- Bricks or weights to hold material in place during installation
Additional supplies from your local hardware store should include extra roofing cement, replacement razor knife blades, and safety equipment for working at height. Having these materials ready ensures smooth progress throughout the installation process.
Preparing Your Roof Before Installation
Proper preparation forms the foundation of successful roll roofing installation. Begin by thoroughly cleaning your roof surface, removing any debris, leaves, or loose materials that could interfere with adhesion. Remove any excess dirt and inspect the roof deck for damage that requires repair before proceeding.
Clean the roof completely, paying special attention to areas around vents, chimneys, and roof edges. Check for protruding nails and hammer them flush with the surface. Any gaps or holes in the decking should be patched with appropriate materials to create a smooth, continuous surface.
Weather conditions play a crucial role in preparation timing. Plan your installation during dry conditions with mild temperatures. Extreme heat makes the material difficult to handle, while moisture can prevent proper adhesion of roofing cement.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Rolled Roofing
Step 1: Apply Underlayment (If Needed)
Installing rolled roofing may require underlayment depending on your local building codes and roof conditions. If underlayment is necessary, roll it perpendicular to the roof slope, starting at the bottom edge. Secure the roofing felt with appropriate fasteners, maintaining proper overlap between sections.
The underlayment provides additional protection against moisture infiltration and creates a smooth surface for the roll roofing application. Ensure the felt lies flat on the ground level, eliminating wrinkles or bubbles that could telegraph through the final surface.
Step 2: Align and Lay the First Roll
Begin the installation process at the bottom edge of the roof, working your way upward. Use a measuring tape to establish proper alignment, then mark a chalk line across the roof to guide your first course. This chalk line ensures the first layer remains straight and properly positioned.
Unroll the material carefully, keeping it flat against the roof surface. The edge of the roof should align with your chalk line markers. If you need to cut the rolled roofing to fit specific dimensions, use your razor knife for clean, straight cuts. Measure and mark cutting lines before making any cuts to avoid material waste.
Step 3: Nailing and Sealing the Edges
Secure the roll roofing using roofing nails placed at appropriate intervals across the roof. Drive nails approximately every 6 inches along the edges and every 12 inches in the field area. Use cement to cover nail heads, protecting them from moisture infiltration and preventing potential leak points.
Apply roofing cement along the edges where the material meets roof boundaries, vents, or other penetrations. This cement creates a waterproof seal that prevents wind uplift and moisture entry. Work the cement smooth to eliminate air pockets or gaps.
Step 4: Overlapping and Securing the Next Rolls
When installing subsequent rolls, maintain proper overlap with the previous course. Measure 35 inches up from the bottom of the installed roll, then mark a chalk line when you lay the next course. This ensures consistent overlap that provides adequate protection against water infiltration.
Apply roofing cement to the overlap area before positioning the new roll. This cement at the seam creates a watertight bond between layers. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles as you progress, ensuring the material lies flat against the surface below.
The end of your first layer should align properly with the beginning of subsequent sections. Use your razor knife to trim material as needed, creating clean joints that maintain the roof’s weather resistance.
Step 5: Sealing the Seams and Final Touches
Complete the installation by sealing all seams with roofing cement. Apply cement generously along overlapped edges, working it into the joint to eliminate potential leak paths. Use cement to secure any loose edges and cover all exposed nail heads throughout the installation.
Trim the edges where material extends beyond the roof perimeter, creating clean lines that enhance both appearance and performance. Seal the edges with additional cement to prevent wind uplift and moisture infiltration.
Inspect the entire roof for missed nails, inadequate cement coverage, or other potential issues. Address any problems immediately while materials and tools remain accessible.
Pro Tips for a Long-Lasting Roll Roofing Installation
Achieving professional results requires attention to detail throughout the installation process. Temperature timing significantly impacts success – avoid installation during extreme heat when materials become too pliable, or during cold weather when they may crack.
Work systematically across the roof, completing one section before moving to the next. This approach ensures consistent quality and prevents mistakes that might require rework. Keep a clean work area, removing debris that could puncture or damage the roofing material.
Use adequate roofing cement – insufficient sealing leads to premature failure, while excessive application can create messy, unprofessional appearances. Find the right balance through practice and attention to manufacturer recommendations.
Store unused materials properly to maintain their condition for future repairs. Keep rolls in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight that could degrade the asphalt components.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your roll roofing installation significantly. Conduct regular inspections, particularly after severe weather events, looking for signs of damage, loose edges, or failed seams. Address minor issues promptly to prevent them from becoming major problems.
Keep the roof surface clean by removing debris that could trap moisture or cause physical damage. Trim overhanging tree branches that might scrape the surface during windy conditions.
Check and maintain proper drainage to prevent water accumulation that could compromise the roofing system. Clear gutters regularly and ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Annual professional inspections can identify potential issues before they become costly repairs, particularly around penetrations, edges, and high-stress areas.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional for Roll Roofing Installation
When It’s Safe to DIY
Roll roofing installation makes an excellent DIY project for homeowners with basic construction skills and comfort working at heights. The straightforward installation process requires fewer specialized techniques compared to other roofing systems, making it accessible to motivated homeowners.
Smaller projects like sheds, garages, or simple roof structures provide ideal opportunities to gain experience with the material and techniques. The cost savings can be substantial, particularly on smaller installations where labor represents a significant portion of total project costs.
Safety considerations remain paramount – ensure you have proper equipment, favorable weather conditions, and assistance when needed. Never attempt roofing work alone or during adverse conditions.
Why You Might Need a Roofing Contractor
Complex roof configurations, steep slopes, or large areas may require professional expertise to ensure proper installation and safety. Hiring a professional roofing contractor becomes advisable when local building codes require permits or inspections that demand licensed professional involvement.
Professional contractors bring experience with local climate conditions, building requirements, and potential complications that could arise during installation. They also provide warranties and insurance coverage that protect your investment.
Consider professional installation when time constraints, physical limitations, or lack of appropriate tools make DIY installation impractical or unsafe.
Why Choose Roofing San Jose for Rolled Roofing Projects?
Professional roofing services provide expertise that ensures long-lasting installations meeting local building codes and manufacturer specifications. Experienced contractors understand regional climate challenges and can recommend appropriate materials and techniques for optimal performance.
Licensed professionals offer comprehensive services, including proper permitting, insurance coverage, and workmanship warranties that protect your investment. They also have access to professional-grade materials and tools that may not be available to homeowners.
Working with established roofing contractors provides peace of mind through proven track records, customer references, and ongoing support for maintenance and repairs.
Conclusion: Is Rolled Roofing Right for Your Project?
Roll roofing installation offers an accessible, cost-effective solution for many roofing applications. The material provides reliable protection when properly installed, making it particularly suitable for utility buildings, temporary structures, and budget-conscious projects.
Consider your specific needs, skill level, and long-term expectations when deciding whether rolled roofing fits your project requirements. While it may not offer the longevity or aesthetic appeal of premium materials, its ease of installation and affordability make it an attractive option for appropriate applications.
Success depends on careful preparation, proper technique, and attention to detail throughout the installation process. Whether you choose DIY installation or professional services, understanding the process helps ensure optimal results.