Roll on roof shingles, commonly known as roll roofing, offer a cost-effective, quick-install solution for low-slope and flat roofs. This article explains what roll roofing is, its materials, benefits, drawbacks, installation steps, maintenance tips, and cost considerations to help homeowners decide if this option suits their project.
What Are Roll On Roof Shingles
Roll on roof shingles are sheets of roofing material sold in long rolls that unroll across a roof deck. They are designed for low-slope surfaces, typically with a slope of 2:12 or less. Roll roofing is often chosen for sheds, garages, additions, and other outbuildings, as well as some residential structures where a quick, economical solution is desired. The material is usually asphalt-based, though variations such as modified bitumen or reinforced membranes exist. Roll roofing provides a weatherproof layer when properly installed, with seams secured by overlapping and adhesive or mechanical fasteners.
Materials And Types
Roll on roof shingles come in several formulations, each with distinct performance characteristics:
- Asphalt Roll Roofing: The most common option, featuring a mineral-surfaced fiberglass or organic mat. It is affordable and easy to install but has a shorter lifespan compared with more advanced membranes.
- Self-Adhering Roll Roofing: Pre-coated with a pressure-sensitive asphalt adhesive and a release liner. This type minimizes flame risk during installation and simplifies sealing at seams.
- Modified Bitumen Roll Roofing: A layer with added polymers (such as APP or SBS) to improve flexibility and wind resistance, often used on flat or low-slope roofs.
- Reinforced Membrane Roll Roofing: Features fiberglass or polyester reinforcement for increased tear resistance and puncture resistance, suitable for roofs with foot traffic or debris exposure.
Color and composition influence UV resistance, heat absorption, and longevity. For rural or coastal areas, certain blends offer better weather resistance and durability.
Pros And Cons
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks helps homeowners weigh suitability:
- Pros:
- Low material cost and fast installation, especially for small projects.
- Wide availability and straightforward repair options.
- Effective moisture barrier when properly overlapped and sealed.
- Good performance for sheds, barns, or secondary structures where permanent roofing is not required.
- Cons:
- Limited lifespan compared with asphalt shingles, metal, or EPDM membranes.
- Less suitable for steeply pitched roofs or high-traffic areas.
- Seams and maintenance are critical; improper sealing leads to leaks.
- Color fading and potential brittleness in extreme climates can reduce effectiveness over time.
Installation Basics
Proper installation is essential for performance. The following outline reflects common practice for roll roof installation on low-slope roofs:
- Preparation: Clean the deck, repair any damage, and ensure a dry, sound surface. Install a suitable underlayment if required by local codes or product instructions.
- Starter Install: Begin with a straight edge along the eave. Use the locking edge or trim to ensure a clean start and prevent wind uplift at the edge.
- Rolling And Alignment: Unroll parallel to the eave, aligning with the edge. Ensure consistent overlaps per manufacturer recommendations, typically at least 1 inch to 2 inches for single-layer systems.
- Sealing: Use adhesive strips or compatible fasteners per product guidelines. Some self-adhering products rely on heat or pressure to activate the adhesive.
- Flashing And Details: Seal joints around vents, chimneys, and transitions with appropriate flashing and sealant. Ensure all penetrations are weather-tight.
- Inspection: Check for air pockets, bubbles, and uncured edges. Make any necessary adjustments promptly to prevent leaks.
Always follow the specific roll roofing product’s installation instructions and local building code requirements. For best results, consider a spot test in a small area before full deployment.
Maintenance And Lifespan
Proper maintenance extends the life of roll on roof shingles. Key practices include:
- Inspect after severe weather for lifted edges or damaged sections and repair promptly.
- Keep debris off the surface to prevent moisture retention and facilitate inspection.
- Monitor seals around skylights, vents, and joints for signs of deterioration.
- Address underlying deck issues such as rot or moisture intrusion that can compromise the roof’s integrity.
Typical lifespans vary by material and climate but generally range from 5 to 15 years for asphalt roll roofing, with reinforced or modified-bitumen options lasting longer under favorable conditions. Local airflow, sun exposure, and maintenance frequency strongly influence longevity.
Cost Considerations
Roll on roof shingles are often chosen for their low upfront cost. Typical cost factors include:
- Material Price: Per square foot or per roll, with variations by material type and brand.
- Labor: Installation is relatively quick, but professional costs depend on roof size, complexity, and local labor rates.
- Underlayment And Accessories: Additional items such as flashing, sealants, and edge trims add to overall expense.
- Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance costs may arise from repairs or early replacement needs.
Homeowners should compare roll roofing against alternative low-slope options like EPDM, TPO, or metal, considering long-term durability and total cost of ownership.
Environmental And Practical Considerations
Roll on roof shingles have environmental and practical implications. Some products use recycled content, while others may have higher embodied energy depending on formulation. Consider choosing options with reflective surfaces to reduce heat absorption in hot climates and improve indoor comfort. Proper disposal and recycling of old materials at end of life also support environmental responsibility.
Choosing The Right Roll Roofing For A Project
Selection guidance helps homeowners pick a suitable roll roofing solution:
- Roof Slope And Size: Confirm the roof’s slope and total area to determine whether roll roofing is appropriate and to estimate material needs accurately.
- Climate And Exposure: In aggressive weather zones, reinforced or modified-bitumen options provide better resistance to wind, hail, and temperature shifts.
- Intended Lifespan: For short-term applications or budget-conscious projects, standard asphalt roll roofing may suffice. For longer-term durability, invest in reinforced or modified options.
- Local Codes And Warranties: Verify warranty terms and whether local building codes influence the choice and installation method.
When in doubt, consult a licensed contractor familiar with roll roofing installation to ensure a proper fit, seal, and long-term performance.