Asphalt roll roofing is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials available. It is used for low pitched roofs and is a common choice for porch, shed and garage roofs. Roll roofing is also a good choice if you need to protect a roof from the elements but you plan on installing a different roofing material later.
Roll roofing is quick and easy to install. Basically a roofer rolls the product onto your roof, then nails and seals the edges and overlaps with roofing cement. Your roof decking must be completely free of debris before installing the roll roofing. You should also install it during the warmer months, cold weather can cause the material to be brittle and crack.
Continuous Strip Of Asphalt Material
Rolls are typically 3 feet wide and 36 feet long. Asphalt roll roofing is like a continuous strip of tab-less asphalt shingles. Roll roofing is installed in overlapping layers similar to regular asphalt shingles. A wider overlap provides a double coverage effect.
Depending on the type you buy, asphalt roll roofing can be entirely covered in asphalt granules or only half the surface will be covered in granules. Depending if you are using single (the most common) or double coverage, the uncoated edge can be a few inches wide to half of the sheet. The uncoated section is covered in roofing cement for an improved seal.
Asphalt roll roofing does not last as long as asphalt shingles, however if installed correctly it can be more water tight. Since fewer nails are used in installation, the material is more likely to get wind up underneath and tear or blow off the roll roofing.
