Should shingles lay flat when installed?

If the existing shingles do not lay flat, then your new layer won't lay flat either. That's because shingles are designed to conform to the surface beneath them. This can also prevent the new shingles from properly adhering to the existing roof layer, leaving bumps and bulges in your roof.

Is it normal for new roof shingles to not lay flat?

New roof shingles not laying flat? Don't panic. While bumpy shingles might look like a big problem, they are actually a common occurrence.

How long do shingles take to lay flat?

The shingles need exposure to sunlight and warm temperatures so they can “relax” and lay flat. Depending on temperatures, this process can take from one week to several months.

Will shingles flatten out?

When the shingles heat up, they become flexible and the adhesive bonds the shingles in place. Before new shingles seal down, they can look a little lumpy and uneven, but once the roof gets hot enough, they should soften, flatten and form a permanent seal.

Why do my new shingles look wavy?

New shingles are not aligned accurately.

A bad measurement, improperly sized shingle, or low quality roof can simply result in an uneven and wavy appearance, which essentially means you got a raw deal. This is why working with trusted professionals is so important, and why the lowest quote doesn't always mean the best!

5 Most Common Mistakes in Shingle Roofing

What should new shingles look like?

Shingles will normally look a little lumpy when first installed, but within a couple of warm days, they should lay flat. It is not normal for new shingles to look wavy for more than a few days and if this is the case for your roof, contact your contractor to discuss it.

Why do roof shingles curl up?

Both curling and buckling are most often caused by moisture of your roof decking or underlayment. Buckling shingles appear as if they are being pushed upward from beneath. It can be the result of a lack of insulation or poor attic ventilation, as well as improper installation.

How hot does it need to be for shingles to seal?

Shingles won't seal unless they warm to an ambient temperature near 70 degrees.

Should roofing nails go through the sheathing?

It is crucial that roofing nails of the correct length were used to secure the shingles. The sharp tip of the roofing nail should pass through and extend approximately 3/8-inch past the underside of the roof sheathing.

Should shingles be glued down?

As asphalt shingles get older, their corners often begin to curl downward or upward. If you notice a shingle starting to curl, you can forestall the inevitable curling by gluing down the curled section. Use a caulking gun to apply a dab of roofing sealant (about $4 per 10-oz. tube) under the corner.

Do roof shingles stick together?

It usually only takes one or two warm days for that to occur. But overcast weather conditions, cold weather, snow cover, or shingles installed on the north slope of a roof can go an entire winter without warming up enough to stick together.

What temperature is too cold to roof a house?

You may be wondering how cold is too cold for roofing your house. The temperature that is too cold for roofing is 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Most roofing companies will tell you they don't install roofs below 40 degrees. This is because asphalt shingles tend to crack below that temperature.

How do you fix curled shingles?

Carefully lift the curling or cupping shingle and gently sweep away any loose debris using a dry paintbrush. Next, spread a layer of roofing cement over the area below the shingle with a putty knife and then firmly press the shingle flat.

How do you fix wind lifted shingles?

Why is my roof bulging?

These long raised up sections are from improperly nailed roof decking. If your home has plywood decking below your shingles and the plywood was not nailed properly. In time the decking will start to warp and curl on the ends causing these raised sections.

Is it OK to put a new roof on in the winter?

It's completely possible for a successful roof replacement to take place during the winter months. In fact, when a significant leak or roof damage is discovered during the winter, we recommend replacing your roof as soon as possible in order to minimize the risk of further damage.

Will shingles seal in cold weather?

Shingles installed in cold weather, may not immediately seal until warmer temperatures are present for the sealant to activate. temperatures are at or below 40°F (5°C).

What time of year is best to replace roof?

Fall is considered the best season to replace your roof!

Changing seasons can largely impact many factors of your roof replacement – rain, snow, heat, humidity. These weather conditions could also affect how quickly your job can be completed.

Do you peel the tape off shingles?

The GAF shingle application instructions for our entire product line specifically state that that film does not need to be removed. Note: The film strips on the back of each shingle are to prevent sticking together of the shingles while in the bundle. Their removal is NOT required during application.

Will lifted shingles reseal?

Will my shingles reseal to the roof after being lifted from a storm? It is highly unlikely singles will reseal to themselves or the roof after being lifted from a storm. If single uplift has occurred, replacement to the entire roof or that area would be required to restore the roof to a pre-event condition.

Do roofers use glue?

Specially-formulated roofing adhesives are almost never used in built-up roofing. The hot asphalt or coal tar pitch that makes up the roofing membrane also functions as an adhesive, bonding the membrane to the cover board during installation, and can even be used to attach the system to the roof deck.

Can I use Liquid Nails on roofing shingles?

Initial Build. If you are building a roof, the installation process is critical to ensure your roof is high quality and durable. We recommend using LIQUID NAILS^® Subfloor & Deck Construction Adhesive (LN-902) to get the job done. This adhesive is proven to resist against wind uplift.

How far do shingles overhang drip edge?

Shingles should not extend more than 3/4” (19 mm) past the drip edge. If shingles overhang the edge of the roof by more than 3/4” (19 mm), then they are not supported and may crack and break off. In addition, the wind resistance at the roof edge may be compromised.