How Do You Patch A Hole In A Shingle Roof?
How Do You Patch A Hole In A Shingle Roof?
When patching a hole in a shingle roof, there are a few key steps you will need to follow to ensure that the job is done properly.
1. Locate the Hole in the Roof.
Secure your ladder to the building with a rope and identify the hole in the roof.* If you have located a leak but are unclear about where the leak is coming from, visit our earlier post on how to spot a roof leak for more information.
2. Remove Old Shingles.
Remove the old shingles surrounding the hole using a prybar. Begin from the top and work your way down. If there is water damage, continue removing shingles until all of the water damage has been exposed. The entire damaged section will have to be taken out and rebuilt.
3. Remove Remaining Nails.
Remove any leftover nails that did not come out with the hammer’s claw side.
4. Cut Out the Damaged Plywood.
Cut off the damaged plywood using a circular saw. Take care not to damage or cut the rafter. You may need to work in portions to prevent the rafter, cutting two holes at a time.
5. Create Framing Using 2 x 4’s.
Make a new frame out of 2 x 4s for the plywood you will place down. If the hole is tiny, you can use 8-penny nails to secure the 2 x 4s to the bottom of the existing excellent plywood.
Extend the braces on either side at least the length of the hole so that the brace is three times the length. If the hole is bigger, you will need to frame it.
6. Cut New Plywood to Fit the Hole.
Cut the plywood to fit the existing hole exactly. Cut the new plywood using a circular saw so that it is level with the existing excellent plywood. Note: If water is leaking into your building, consider using a waterproof membrane in its place.
7. Attach Plywood to the Framing.
Apply liquid nails to the new plywood repair and insert them into the hole while wearing gloves. Then, using 8-penny nails, secure the new plywood to the framework you just built.
8. Apply Tar Paper.
Spread roofing cement over the seams where the new and old plywood meet. Next, cover the patch with tar paper, extending it 2 inches beneath the top shingles. Attach the tar paper to the decking using nails.
9. Attach New Shingles.
When installing new shingles, work from the bottom up. Attach the new shingles on the plywood with roofing nails.
