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house roof with removed asphalt shingles
By: Dice Roofing Solutions 6 minutes read

Whether you have recently bought a house or living in your little country home for years, regularly replacing shingles can prolong the lifespan of your roof. It helps shield your home from water damage and other harmful elements. 

Sometimes, replacing shingles isn’t the most budget-friendly option for most homeowners. They would rather spend on tiny repairs. But they must realize they have spent a fortune on these minor repairs over the years. That is why replacing shingles is worth your investment. 

And if you think shingle removal is a costly affair, you can do it by yourself. So how to remove shingles? Where should you begin, and which tools should you use? 

We have covered everything in this simple step-by-step guide. Keep on reading and understand the whole replacement process in Detail. 

A Step-By-Step Guide For Removing Shingles

Curious about the process of shingle removal? Just remember you need appropriate tools, experience, planning, and assistance. We’ve meticulously outlined the shingle removal procedure in this step-by-step guide.

  1. Ask Yourself: Do You Need To Remove The Existing Layer Of Shingles? 

You should consider whether replacing your roof’s outdated asphalt shingles is necessary. What is the main problem? Are shingles with two layers problematic? Not always. Consider roofing over the old shingles if your roof is sturdy and the original shingles are comparatively flat. 

Or let’s say you have moved into a new house where the previous owner has just replaced the shingles. So in that case replacing them again won’t be a wise decision. However, if the shingles are too old and you want to change the house’s aesthetics, replacing them would be the best choice. 

  1. Take Safety Precautions

Before you begin the removal process, ensure you have followed the safety protocol. Gather all necessary safety equipment, such as gloves, safety goggles, and sturdy shoes with good traction. 

Consider wearing a hard hat for added protection. We recommend using a safety harness if you’re working on a steep roof. Make sure you don’t begin this process all alone. Always ask 2-3 people to assist you while you climb the roof. 

  1. Prepare the Work Area

Once you reach out to the roof, start cleaning the area, especially around the section of the roof where you’ll be removing shingles. Remove any debris, branches, or obstacles that could hinder your movement. 

Most roofing professionals use the fork, which you can also get in retail shops. You can inspect the roof to determine the area where shingle removal is necessary. Identify the specific shingles that need to be replaced due to damage, wear and tear, or other issues such as leaks.

Once you mark the area, you can begin prying under the ridge caps and loosening them. They should naturally slide down the roof. If they do not slide easily, carefully take them to the roof’s edge and dispose of them in the trash can.

  1. Gather Tools and Materials 

Collect all the necessary tools and materials for shingle removal. These typically include a roofing shovel or pry bar, a hammer, a utility knife, a ladder, and a container for collecting debris. But you also ensure that you wear the safety harness, helmet, and sunglasses.

Ensure that your tools are in good condition and easily accessible. If any of the tools have rusting issues, avoid using them. 

  1. Start at the Ridge

Remove shingles at the top of the roof ridge to maintain stability and prevent unnecessary strain, and work your way downward. You can begin by removing the ridge caps with the help of a pry bar or roofing shovel and carefully lifting them away from the roof.

Some nails may come up with the shingles, while others may remain. You can disregard the nails for the time being.

Remove shingles in a 2- to 3-foot-wide section as you progress down the roof. They will roll up in front of the fork. Then, guide the shingles downward toward the roof jacks. 

Continue removing the shingles and underlayment until you reach the roof jacks, then restart the process from the top of the roof.

  1. Remove Nails

This is a delicate step and may cause structural damage if you don’t perform it precisely. Take care not to damage the underlying roof structure or flashing. As you lift each shingle, locate the nails securing it to the roof deck. 

A hammer or a pry bar can help you remove the nails. Just ensure they are fully extracted without damaging the roof deck or surrounding shingles.

  1. Dispose of Debris 

Have a designated container or tarp nearby to collect the removed shingles and nails. This helps keep the work area clean and organized. It will minimize the chance of injuries caused by loose debris. 

Plus, you must thoroughly inspect the roof and check for any signs of damage or decay. Address any issues promptly to ensure the roof’s structural integrity before installing new shingles.

  1. Cleanup And Replace Damaged Underlayment 

If you notice any damaged or deteriorated underlayment beneath the shingles, try to remove and replace them. You must provide a solid foundation for the new shingles and prevent future issues. 

Once the shingle removal process is complete, take the time to clean the work area thoroughly. You can sweep the roof deck to remove any loose nails or debris. Make sure you dispose of all materials responsibly.

Thinking of DIY? You May Need a Permit To Change Shingles 

Before you take your shovel and start removing the shingles, ensure you are following the local guidelines. Obtaining a roof replacement permit is mandatory for any construction involving the replacement of an existing roof. 

This permit serves to safeguard homeowners against unforeseen expenses or unexpected complications. In many states, the local authorities ask for licenses from whoever plans to carry out the removal or replacement process. 

Moreover, it enables local authorities to conduct inspections. Additionally, supplementary permits might be necessary for installations like skylights or roof-top decks, depending on the circumstances.

Hire a Professional To Avoid The Hassle!

Removing shingles may seem daunting, but with the right tools, safety precautions, and a step-by-step approach, you can efficiently complete the task and prepare your roof for new shingles. 

Remember to assess the need for removal, gather the necessary tools, and follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents. 

If you find the process overwhelming or require professional assistance, Dice Roofing Plus is here to help. Our team of experts is equipped to handle all your roofing needs, ensuring a seamless and safe roof replacement experience. 

Don’t hesitate to contact Dice Roofing Plus for a consultation and expert roofing services to protect your home for years.

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Clark S.

"10/10 WILL BE USING THEIR SERVICES AGAIN"

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