Roofing & Gutters

22
Section 22.1
Roofing Basics

Section 22.2
Strip Shingles

Section 22.3
Wood Shingles & Shakes

Section 22.4
Gutter Systems

Chapter Objectives
After completing this chapter,
you will be able to:
• Identify different
roofing products.
• Demonstrate how to
install strip shingle roof
covering.
• Describe the various
types of flashing and
explain where they are
used.
• Explain the difference
between shakes and
wood shingles.
• Identify the main parts
of a gutter system.
• Describe the two basic
Discuss the Photo
types of gutter systems.
Roofing Roofers use a variety of tools when placing shingles on a roof.
What type of tool is the roofer in the photo using?
Writing Activity: Research and Summarize
Wood shingles and shakes are traditional roofing materials.
However, asphalt and fiberglass shingles are much more common today.
Research the history of roofing materials in the United States. Try to
determine what materials were used on colonial houses. Summarize your
findings in a one-page report.

624 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Jean Louis Batt/Getty Images
 22
Before You Read Preview
A roof covering must provide long-lasting waterproof protection for a house. Rain that
falls on a roof should be channeled away from the house by a gutter system. Create a list of
possible problems that may occur because of a faulty roof or gutter system. Compare your
list with the list of a classmate.

Content Vocabulary
● flashing ● butt edge ● underlayment ● open valley
● square ● top lap ● ice dam ● Boston ridge
● exposure ● side lap

Academic Vocabulary
You will find these words in your reading and on your tests. Use the academic vocabulary
glossary to look up their definitions if necessary.
■ precaution ■ succeeding

Graphic Organizer
As you read, use a chart like the one shown to organize information, adding rows as needed.

Action Result
carefully installing flashing prevents water from getting behind the roofing
itself

Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for a downloadable version of this graphic organizer.

Academic Standards
Participate as members of literacy communities
Mathematics (NCTE 11)
Algebra: Represent and analyze mathematical situations
and structures using algebraic symbols (NCTM) Science
Algebra: Understand patterns, relations, and functions Science and Technology: Understandings about
(NCTM) science and technology (NSES)
Measurement: Apply appropriate techniques, tools, and Science as Inquiry: Abilities necessary to do scientific
formulas to determine measurements (NCTM) inquiry (NSES)

English Language Arts Industry Standards

Conduct research and gather, evaluate, and synthesize Roofing Applications
data to communicate discoveries (NCTE 7)
Apply knowledge of language structure and conventions
to discuss texts (NCTE 6)

NCTE National Council of Teachers of English NSES National Science Education Standards
NCTM National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

Chapter 22 Reading Guide 625

 Roofing Basics
22.1
Roofing Terms & Concepts of application. Shingles may furnish one
thickness (single coverage), two thicknesses
Why is roofing sold by the square? (double coverage), or three thicknesses
The choice of materials and how to apply (triple coverage) of material over the surface
them is influenced by many factors includ- of the roof.
ing cost, fire resistance, wind resistance, and Some terms used with shingles are
climate. Because a roof is large and visible, illustrated in Figure 22-1. Exposure is
appearance is also important. Codes in some the amount of a shingle that shows after
areas of the United States are particularly installation. The exposed edge of the
stringent regarding the type of roofing shingle is called the butt edge. The portion
allowed and the methods used to install it. of the shingle that is not exposed to the
This is due to concerns over damage caused weather is the top lap. The head lap is the
by high winds. shortest distance from the lower edge of
The most common type of roof covering is an overlapping shingle to the upper edge
the shingle. Shingles can be made from many of the shingle in the second course below.
materials, and all of them are applied to roof The side lap, or end lap, is the amount that
surfaces in an overlapping fashion in order
to shed water. The installation of a
roof covering includes more than just A
shingles. It also involves metal flash-
W
ing at roof openings such as chim- TL
neys, skylights, and vents. Flashing is
a piece of metal that protects against E
water seepage. It must be installed C HL
carefully to prevent water from get-
ting behind the roofing itself. B
Roofing is usually installed by A
roofing contractors. These specialists
are familiar with the different types
of products but often specialize
in a particular type. For example,
some contractors install only wood
shingles. Others may install only
C
metal roof panels. B
HL
TL

Roof shingles and other types of

W

roofing are estimated and sold by the

E

square. One square of roofing is the A

amount of roofing required to cover
100 sq. ft. of roof surface. The amount
of weather protection provided by Figure 22-1 Shingle Terminology
the overlapping of shingles is called Shingles Terms used to describe shingle placement: E = exposure,
TL = top lap, HL = head lap, W = width of strip shingles or length of
coverage. Coverage depends on the
individual shingles. A, B, and C correspond to rows of shingles.
kind of shingle and the method

626 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

adjacent roofing sheets overlap each other
horizontally. This applies primarily to rolled
Types of Roofing
roofing and underlayment. Underlayment is What types of materials might make
a material, such as roofing felt, applied to the good roofing products?
roof sheathing before shingles are installed. In general, there are two basic types of
roofing products: single units and sheet
Roof Slope products. Single units, such as shingles and
The slope of a roof is expressed as a ratio tiles, are applied to the roof in an overlap-
of vertical rise to horizontal run, as shown ping fashion to keep water out. Sheet prod-
in Figure 22-2. It is written as a number “in ucts cover much larger areas but, depending
12.” For example, a roof that rises at the rate on the roof size, are sometimes overlapped
of 4" for each foot (12") of run has a 4-in-12 as well. Sheet products include roll roofing,
slope. The triangular symbol above the roof built-up roofing, metal sheets, and single-ply
in Figure 22-2 conveys this information. roofing. Single-ply and built-up roofing are
Slope is important because some roofing used only on flat roofs. Roll roofing is some-
products are suited for use only on roofs with times used on pitched roofs and as underlay-
a slope great enough to provide proper drain- ment for tile roofs. It can also be used as
age. In terms of building codes, there are three valley flashing under shingle roofs.
basic types of roofs based on the amount of
slope. The three basic slope categories are:
• Flat Roof slope is below 2½-in-12.
• Low slope Roof slope is between Recall What are the two basic types of roofing
2½-in-12 and 4-in-12. products?
• High slope Roof slope is 4-in-12 or
greater. Shingles
Shingles are the most common form of
Most shingled roofs are high-slope roofs.
roof covering for residential homes. They are
Shingle manufacturers specify what roof
easy to transport and install, and are offered
slopes their product can be used on. Make
in a wide variety of colors and shapes.
sure the shingles you use are of the correct
Shingles may be made of asphalt, fiberglass,
type for the slope of roof they will be applied
wood, cement, or slate.
to. The roof slope should never be less than
the minimum specified by the shingle manu-
facturer, or the roof may leak.

12
Slope
Roofing Preferences The popularity of many
Rise

X
roofing products varies across the United States.
Strip shingles are common in every region of the
United States. Metal sheet roofing is common in
snowy regions such as the Rocky Mountains and
Run
Vermont. Slate roofing is common in Pennsylvania,
where slate quarries are nearby. Wood shingles
are common in the Northwest because of the near-
Slope = Rise ness of vast forests. Tile roofing is most common in
Run
the Southwest and southern California.
Figure 22-2 Understanding Slope
Rise Over Run Slope is expressed as a ratio of rise to Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for
run. more information about regional concerns.

Section 22.1 Roofing Basics 627

 36"
Nail line Sealant

This portion covered

12"

5" This portion exposed

12"

Tab Shingle throat

or cutout
Figure 22-3 Anatomy of a Shingle
Shingle Basics The dimensions shown are approximate and may vary by product and manufacturer.

Asphalt shingles are available in three shingles do not require adhesives, although
styles: strip, individual, and large individual. roofing cement may be needed along rakes
A strip shingle is shown in Figure 22-3. and eaves. However, the locking device on
Strip shingles are widely available and the each shingle must be engaged properly and
most popular type of shingle. They are easy nails properly located, as shown in Figure
to apply and cover a roof fairly quickly. 22-4. The shingle manufacturer’s instruc-
Individual shingles interlock or are stapled tions specify where nails should be located
down. Large individual shingles are applied for best results. Standard (non-interlocking)
using either the American or Dutch lap three-tab shingles that are used in high-wind
methods. areas must be installed using extra nails,
One type of strip shingle that is par- usually a minimum of six.
ticularly popular is the architectural shingle,
sometimes called a laminated shingle. In this
type, two layers of strip-type shingles are
bonded together by the manufacturer. Seg-
ments of the top layer are cut out at random
intervals, producing varying thicknesses in
any one shingle. Architectural shingles give
roofs a deeply textured appearance, and they Nails
should always be installed according to the
manufacturer’s instructions. Random wide
cutouts in the top layer give a more textured
appearance than that given by standard
strip shingles. Architectural shingles should
be installed according to manufacturer’s
instructions.
Interlocking (lock-down) asphalt shingles
Figure 22-4 Interlocking Shingles
are designed to resist strong winds. They
Wind Resistant Interlocking asphalt shingles are
feature locking tabs that help to hold the joined by locking tabs.
shingle in place in high winds. Interlocking

628 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 Figure 22-5 Roll Roofing
Wide Sheets Application details for roll roofing.

19" selvage edge

roll roofing

Cut 19" selvage

portion from
roll roofing for 19" lap
starter strip

17" exposure

6"
Overlap eaves 1/4" to 3/8" Metal drip edge end lap

Roll Roofing to hold the roofing in place. It also protects

When roofing costs must be minimized, the asphalt from sunlight. The cap sheet is
such as when roofing utility buildings, a sheet of roll roofing or roofing felt that
mineral-surfaced roll roofing is often suit- becomes the top layer.
able. It comes in 36" wide rolls that usually
cover 100 sq. ft. Depending on the product,
Metal Sheets
it typically weights 75 lbs. to 90 lbs. per Metal sheet roofing comes in widths up
roll. It can be applied quickly over large to 4' and lengths up to 22' and covers large
areas, as shown in Figure 22-5. Roll roofing areas quickly. It can be used on slopes as low
should be installed over a double-coverage as 4-in-12 or, if a single panel will cover from
underlayment. eave to ridge, as low as 3-in-12.
The first course of roll roofing is applied Unlike inexpensive, corrugated metal
horizontally across the roof, beginning at sheets, high-quality metal roofing has an
the eaves. It should be attached using galva- enameled top surface that is available in a
nized roofing nails. The remaining courses variety of colors. This type of roof, shown in
should then be lapped over previous courses Figure 22-6 on page 630, should be installed
19", leaving just the mineral surface exposed. by a specialized contractor who has the tools
Once the roofing is in place, lift the mineral needed for working and forming metal.
surface of each course. Apply a quick-setting
lap cement to the underlying sheet to within
Single-Ply Roofing
¼" of the exposed edge. Finally, apply firm Single-ply roofing is used primarily to
pressure over the entire cemented area. cover the large, flat roofs of commercial
buildings, but it is increasingly used in
Built-Up Roofing residential construction on flat or very
Built-up roof coverings are installed by low-slope roofs. Single-ply roofing is made
roofing companies that specialize in this of various materials, but EPDM (ethylene
field. Roofs of this type receive three, four, propylene diene monomer) is common. Such
or five layers of roofer’s felt, each mopped sheets are very wide and are generally 45 or
down with tar or asphalt. The final surface 60 mils thick. Single-ply roofing is installed
may be coated with asphalt and gravel by specialized roofing contractors, particu-
embedded in tar, or it may be covered with a larly those who specialize in commercial
cap sheet. Gravel acts as a ballast that helps construction.

Section 22.1 Roofing Basics 629

 Figure 22-7 Tile Roofing
Heavy Roof Tile roofing is much heavier than other
types of roofing. Roof framing must be designed to
Figure 22-6 Metal Roofing support the extra weight.
Raised Seams Metal sheet roofing is sometimes called
standing seam roofing or raised ridge roofing. The
raised seams prevent water from collecting at joints.
Hatchets and Nailers
Traditionally, the primary tool required
for installing most types of shingles was the
Tile
shingling hatchet, as shown in Figure 22-8.
Clay and lightweight concrete tile roof- It is also called a roofing hatchet or roofing
ing products are very common in southern hammer. A sharp blade on one end is used for
California, Florida, and parts of the scoring or cutting shingles. (Many roofers,
southwestern United States. Both materials however, use a utility knife for this purpose.)
are very durable, particularly against fire The edge will eventually wear down but
hazards. Tile comes in many styles, colors, can be resharpened. A V-shaped notch on
and shapes, as shown in Figure 22-7. Tile the underside of the blade is used to remove
is installed with nails and sometimes also nails. Most shingling hatchets also have an
with mortar. It can be attached to a roof adjustable gauge used to measure the expo-
sheathed with solid panel products, or to sure of shingle courses.
spaced structural sheathing boards. Many roofers now use pneumatic nailers
instead of shingling hatchets. Nailers such as
Tools & Equipment the one in Figure 22-9 speed installation and
What might be some disadvantages of reduce strain on the roofer’s arm and hand.
using pneumatic tools? Various types of nailers are available. (For
Regardless of the type of shingle to be more on pneumatic nailers, see Section 6.5.)
installed, always check the instructions
provided by the shingle manufacturer.
This will ensure that you have the correct
tools and materials. Instructions often carry Explain What is the traditional primary tool for
valuable safety information as well. installing shingles?

630 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Craig Aurness; Tim Fuller
 Figure 22-8 Shingling Hatchet
Nailing by Hand This shingling hatchet has an
adjustable gauge, or pin, for measuring the amount of
shingle exposure.

Ladders, Lifts, and Brackets

Figure 22-9 Roofing Nailer
Working on a roof is one of the most Time Saver The nails in this pneumatic roofing nailer
dangerous occupations in residential are coiled in a circular magazine located below the
construction. Many workers, particularly operator’s hand.
roofers, are killed or injured each year in
falls. Falls from roofs tend to result in serious
brackets are secured by nails driven through
injury. One study found that over 85 percent
the sheathing and into the rafters. They hold
of those who fell from a roof were fatally or
one or more boards at a right angle to the
seriously injured. Take every precaution to
roof surface. The boards prevent workers
prevent falls. Always follow appropriate
and tools from sliding off. For more on roof
OSHA requirements for wearing safety
brackets, see Chapter 7.
harnesses. A harness must fit properly and
be tied off securely. Falls from ladders are
another danger faced by roofers. Make sure
the ladder will not slip out of position while
you are on it. Always keep your weight
centered along the axis of the ladder. For
more on ladder safety, see Chapter 7. Guard against Falls Working on a roof
Whenever possible, use a hoist or a lift presents some unexpected hazards. Loose
to transport shingles to the roof or have sawdust and loose shingles scattered on
the shingles delivered directly to the roof. the roof sheathing dramatically increase the
This speeds the work and minimizes back chances that a worker will step on them and
strain. Shingle suppliers often provide the slip. Likewise, tools and pneumatic nailer
hoses can be hazardous. Always keep the
service of delivering their products directly
work area clean and as clear as possible.
to the roof.
Roof brackets (sometimes called roof Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for more on
jacks) should be used to increase safety job safety.
while working on the roof. These temporary

Section 22.1 Roofing Basics 631

Arnold & Brown; Tim Fuller
Installation Materials Trapped water
Ice
How might a fan be used to reduce the dam
severity of an ice dam?
The outer roofing materials, such as Water entry
shingles, are most exposed to weather and
are the most visible part of a roof. However,
a number of unseen interior materials are Insufficient
insulation
just as important in creating a durable, leak- Gutter
free roof. No soffit
ventilation
Underlayment Flashing
Underlayment is a layer of weather- A (roll roofing)
resistant material that is applied to the roof
sheathing before the final roofing material is Rafter
installed. Underlayment is required for all Airway
types of shingles, as well as for some other
roofing products. It can be applied to solid
sheathing or spaced sheathing. Underlay- Sufficient
ment is typically a material with low vapor insulation
resistance such as asphalt-saturated felt. Gutter
Felt comes in rolls and is installed easily and Soffit ventilation
quickly. Roof underlayment generally has
four purposes: B
• It protects the sheathing and the house
Figure 22-10 Preventing Ice Dams
interior from moisture until the shingles
Poor Ventilation If warmth reaches a snowy roof, as in
can be applied. In some parts of the A, ice dams build up near the roof overhang. With proper
country, builders refer to this stage as ventilation, as in B, the warmth is carried away before it
drying-in the house. can melt the snow.
• It provides a second layer of weather
protection. If wind drives rain or snow Proper ventilation, along with attic insula-
under the shingles, the underlayment tion, helps to prevent ice dams. The insulation
protects the sheathing. slows heat loss and the ventilation carries
• It prevents asphalt shingles from sticking away any heat that does escape the house.
to the sheathing, which can damage the As an additional precaution, eaves flashing is
shingles over time. added at the lower portion of the roof. Build-
ing codes require eaves flashing (sometimes
• It prevents condensation on the
called eaves protection or an ice barrier) in areas
sheathing.
where the average daily temperature in
January is 25°F (−4°C) or less. This flashing is
Eaves Protection
usually provided by one of the following:
In cold climates, ice dams can occur. This
causes water to leak into the house, damag- • At least two layers of underlayment
ing interior ceilings and walls. An ice dam cemented together.
is formed by melting snow that freezes at • A single layer of self-adhering bitumen
the eave line (eaves are the roof’s lower sheet that acts as an ice and water shield
overhang). As more snow melts, the water beneath the shingles.
backs up behind the ice and seeps beneath • Exposed metal flashing sheets with
the shingles, as shown in Figure 22-10. soldered joints.

632 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 g
lashin
es f
Eav

Installing Step Flashing Roofers install

most of the flashing on a roof. However,
24" minimum
a mason may install step flashing if the
chimney is made of brick or stone. This is
because this work is readily done as the
chimney is being built. In any case, the
Figure 22-11 Placement of Eaves Flashing general contractor should determine which
Water Blocker Eaves flashing protects the roof system contractor will take responsibility for install-
from leaks caused by ice dams. How else can ice dams ing chimney flashing.
be prevented?

Eaves protection should extend from the

Step Flashing Step flashing consists of small
end of the eaves to a point at least 22" inside
L-shaped pieces of metal that can be used
the exterior wall line of the house, as in
wherever a sloped roof meets a vertical
Figure 22-11.
surface such as a wall or the sides of a chim-
Flashing ney. The pieces are installed in an overlap-
Flashing is a thin metal sheet or strip used ping fashion as the roof shingles are being
to protect a building from water seepage. installed, as shown in Figure 22-12.
It comes in various forms, including rolls Stack Flashing This type of flashing is a manu-
of various widths, plates, and angle stock. factured product that helps to seal the area
Flashing prevents water from entering around vent pipes that penetrate the roofing.
roof joints. It is required wherever the roof Stack flashing simply slips over a pipe when
covering intersects another surface, such the shingles reach that point, as shown in
as a wall, chimney, skylight, or vent pipe.
It is sometimes used in roof valleys as well.
Angled flashing called drip edge protects the
edges of the roof. 7" 4" Metal step
Flashing must be installed so that it sheds flashing
2"
water. Metal used for flashing must be
corrosion resistant. Galvanized steel (at least
26 gauge), 0.019" thick aluminum, 16 oz.
copper, or lead-coated copper can be used.
It is important not to use a variety of
flashing metals on the same roof. This can
cause a process called electrolytic corrosion.
This is corrosion caused by electrolysis. 3/4"
Electrolysis is the creation of tiny electrical Finished siding
currents when different metals are in contact covers most
of flashing
with each other and with water. Electrolysis
can also occur where water washes first
Figure 22-12 Step Flashing
over one metal and then over another. For
Overlapping Pieces Step flashing is often used at the
example, it might result when one type of intersection of a roof and a wall. Its top edge fits under
metal is used for skylight flashing and the siding.
another at the eaves.

Section 22.1 Roofing Basics 633

 Figure 22-14 Valley Flashing
Channeling Water The center of metal valley flashing
is raised to prevent heavy volumes of water from
flowing down one side and up the other.

of at least 26-gauge galvanized metal or an

Figure 22-13 Vent Stack Flashing
equivalent noncorrosive metal.
Covering Gaps Stack flashing fits over a vent pipe. The
top edge will be covered by the next row of shingles to Drip Edges Drip edges are designed and
be applied. The bottom laps over the shingles already in installed to protect the edges of the roof.
place. They prevent leaks by causing water to
drip free of underlying eave and cornice
Figure 22-13. Subsequent courses of shingles construction. Shapes of some pre-formed
cover the top of the flashing. drip edges are shown in Figure 22-15. A
Valley Flashing Used in open valleys, this drip edge is recommended for most shingle
product consists of strips of copper or roofs. It is applied to the sheathing and under
galvanized steel. It has a splash-diverting the underlayment at the eaves, but over the
rib down the center, as in Figure 22-14. The underlayment at the rake.
rib reduces the tendency for water to pour Nails
down one side of the roof and splash up
No single step in applying roof shingles
on the adjacent side. The flashing is held in
is more important than proper nailing. This
place with metal cleats nailed to the roof.
depends on several factors, including:
These cleats allow the flashing to expand
and contract. They do not puncture it as
nails would. Valley flashing should be made

Sharp Edges The edges of metal flashing

are sharp, particularly where it has been cut.
When working with flashing, protect your
hands by wearing leather work gloves.
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for more on Figure 22-15 Drip Edges
job safety. Edge Protector Various shapes of drip edge are used
on a roof. The products come in 10' lengths.

634 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Tim Fuller; Joe Mallon
• Selecting the correct nail for the kind of Cements
shingle and type of sheathing. Roofing cements include plastic asphalt
• Using the correct number of nails. cements, lap cements, quick-setting asphalt
• Locating the nails in the shingle correctly. adhesives, roof coatings, and primers. They
• Choosing nails of a metal compatible are used for installing eaves flashing, for
with the metal used for flashing. flashing assemblies, for cementing tabs on
asphalt shingles and laps in sheet material,
Specific recommendations for the type, and for roof repairs. The materials and meth-
size, number, and spacing of roofing nails ods used should be those recommended by
are given in Sections 22.2 and 22.3. the manufacturer of the roofing material.

22.1
After You Read: Self-Check
1. What term is used for the amount of roofing required to cover 100 sq. ft.?
2. Define shingle coverage and exposure.
3. What are two advantages of using a pneumatic nailer instead of a shingling hatchet?
4. Why is roofing one of the most dangerous occupations in residential construction?

Academic Integration: English Language Arts

5. Proper Nailing No single step in applying roof shingles is more important than proper
nailing. Write a paragraph identifying the factors that a roofer must consider to ensure
proper nailing.
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC to check your answers.

Strip Shingles
22.2
Installation Issues • The roof sheathing is tight and provides
a suitable nailing base.
Before installing strip shingles, what
• The chimney is completed and the
should already be installed?
counter-flashing has been installed.
Strip shingles, sometimes called three- Counter-flashing is metal flashing that
tab shingles, are the most common roofing covers the top edge of base or step
product used on houses. Before applying flashing.
shingles make sure that:
• Vents and other items requiring openings
• The underlayment, drip edge, and in the roof are in place, with counter-
flashings are in place. flashing where necessary.

Section 22.2 Strip Shingles 635

 Installing Underlayment
How many fasteners should be used to
hold the underlayment?
4" side lap
Underlayment The first step in strip shingle installation
2" top lap
is to install the underlayment. Apply the
underlayment as soon as the roof sheathing
has been completed. For single coverage,
Corrosion- Sheathing
start at the eave line with No. 15 felt, as
resistant
drip edge shown in Figure 22-16. Roll the underlay-
ment across the roof and work your way
upwards. Make sure to create a top lap of at
Figure 22-16 Single Coverage Underlayment
Good Protection Applying the underlayment for single
least 2" at all horizontal joints and a 4" side
coverage. Note the position of drip edge. lap at all end joints. Lap the underlayment
over all hips and ridges for 6" on each side.
End laps should be spaced at least 6' apart.
The most common strip shingles are Double coverage can be started with two
made from asphalt or fiberglass. Both types layers at the eave line if desired. They should
are installed using the same basic methods. be flush with the fascia board or molding,
The following text relates to the installation as shown in Figure 22-17. For the remaining
of strip shingles on roofs with a slope of strips, allow 19" head laps and 17" expo-
4-in-12 or greater. Consult the shingle manu- sures. Cover the entire roof in this manner.
facturer’s literature for installation advice on Use only enough fasteners to hold the
roofs with a lower slope. underlayment in place until the shingles can

Underlayment

17" for double underlayment coverage

34" for single coverage
4 nails per strip

2 layers
36" or 18" roll 1" overhang
2" overhang when no gutter is used

Figure 22-17 Double Coverage Underlayment

Extra Protection In this arrangement, drip edge would be installed as in Figure 22-16.

636 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

be applied. Fasteners may be nails or staples. Strip shingles may be laid from either end
Nails fitted with thin plastic washers, of the roof, but many roofers prefer to work
sometimes called button caps, can be used from right to left.
to prevent wind damage to the underlay- Apply the first course of shingles, called
ment prior to shingle installation. Some the starter course, over the eaves flashing.
roofers use a tool called a hammer tacker to Roll roofing or inverted shingles can be
attach roofing felt. Others use pneumatic used, as shown in Figure 22-18. This first
equipment. course and starter strips should project just
past the roof edge or edge metal. Fasten the
Laying Shingles starter strip with roofing nails placed about
When should shingles not be applied? 3" or 4" above the eave edge and spaced so
Shingles are packaged in paper-wrapped that the nail heads will not be exposed at the
bundles. A bundle contains about 25 shin- cutouts between the tabs on the first course.
gles, more or less, and there are usually three If strip shingles are used as a starter strip, cut
bundles of shingles in a square of roofing. 3" off the first starter course shingle to be laid
Bundles of shingles should be delivered to at the rake. This ensures that the slots will
the roof and distributed evenly. This is some- be offset from the next course. Then lay the
times called stacking the roof or loading the first course right side up, starting with a full
roof. Spreading the weight around prevents shingle. A starter shingle is available from
damage to the house structure. Bundles of most roofing suppliers. The advantage of
shingles should be laid out for maximum using a starter shingle is the proper location
safety and efficiency. They should not be in of the self-sealing adhesive.
the way of the roofers‘ work.
Shingles should never be applied over
wet underlayment. The sealant on the
shingles will not adhere to a wet surface, Recall Why should shingles never be applied
and a wet surface is not safe to work on. over wet underlayment?

3/4"

3"
No.15 asphalt-
saturated felt Metal drip edge

6" 8" to 10"

Chalk line
Cut off end tabs
5"
5"

Starter strip Asphalt shingles

Metal drip edge
Figure 22-18 Laying Strip Shingles
Working Right to Left Basic details showing how to start the job.

Section 22.2 Strip Shingles 637

 Start succeeding courses with full or with the top of the cutouts on the underlying
cut shingles. The choice depends on how course. To ensure proper alignment of the
the roofer wants to align the cutouts in shingle courses, snap a chalk line periodi-
the shingles. The choice affects the look of cally from one end of the row to the other at
the roof but does not affect its function or the top of the cutouts. Align the courses with
durability. Two methods of alignment are the chalk line.
described as follows:
Nailing
• Method 1 This method aligns the
Nails should be made of hot-dipped gal-
cutouts of every other course. Start the
vanized steel, aluminum, or stainless steel.
first course with a full shingle. For the
A roofing nail has a sharp point and a large,
second course, cut 6" (one-half of a tab)
flat head at least 3⁄8" in diameter. Shanks
off the end of a full shingle and use the
should be 10- to 12-gauge wire. They may
shingle to start the course. For the third
be smooth or threaded for increased holding
course, cut 12" (a full tab) off the end of
power, as shown in Figure 22-19.
a full shingle and use the shingle to start
The number and the placement of nails are
the course. For the fourth course, cut 18"
important. Nailing should start at the end of
(1½ tabs) off the end of a full shingle and
the shingle nearest the shingle last applied
use the shingle to start the course. This
and proceed to the opposite end. To prevent
process is sometimes called breaking the
buckling, be sure each shingle is in perfect
joints on halves.
alignment before driving any nails. Drive the
• Method 2 This method separates aligned nail straight to avoid cutting the shingle with
cutouts by two courses. Start the first the edge of the nail head. Do not sink the nail
course with a full shingle. Start the second head below the surface of the shingle.
course with a full shingle cut 4" short Three-tab shingles require four nails for
(one-third of a tab). Start the third course each strip. Individual tabs or parts of tabs
with a full shingle cut 8" short (two-thirds must be attached with at least two nails. In
of a tab). Start the fourth course with a full areas where wind hazards are high, local
shingle. This is sometimes called breaking codes may require six nails per shingle.
the joints on thirds. When the shingles are applied with a 5"
Regardless of the method chosen, place exposure, the four nails are placed 5⁄8" above
each succeeding course of shingles so that the top of the cutouts. The nails are located
the lower edges of the butt ends are aligned horizontally with one nail 1" back from
each end of the shingle and one nail on the
centerline of each cutout. To provide extra
resistance to uplift in high wind areas, use
six nails for each strip.

Wind & Hail Check local codes before choosing

and installing roof shingles. Special products and
techniques will be required in areas with high
winds. Some areas are also subject to severe
hail storms. The roofing material must be able
to withstand damaging hail. Consult the IRC for a
hail exposure map showing areas most likely to
experience damaging hail.
Figure 22-19 Shingle Nails
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for Three Types Standard, ring-shank, and spiral-threaded
more information about regional concerns. roofing nails.

638 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Arnold & Brown
Roofing Details alignment, snap a chalk line down one side
Why does air move in a passive vent of the ridge and align the edge of the shingle
system? with it as you nail.
Apply the hip and ridge shingles by
Installing shingles in uninterrupted
beginning at the bottom of a hip or one end
rows can proceed quite quickly. This is
of the ridge. Use a 5" exposure. Secure each
particularly true if a roofer is nailing as an
shingle with one nail at each side 5½" from
apprentice positions a steady supply of
the exposed end and 1" away from each
shingles. Work proceeds at a slower pace at
edge. When laying the shingles on the ridge,
hips, ridges, and in other locations around
always lay the exposed edge away from the
the roof.
prevailing winds.
Hips and Ridges Ridge Vents Proper ventilation of the roof
Hips and ridges may be finished by using is very important. It removes hot air that
hip and ridge shingles furnished by the manu- could damage shingles from the attic. It
facturer, as shown in Figure 22-20. They are also removes moisture that could damage
sometimes called caps. You can also cut pieces the roof sheathing. There are various venti-
at least 9" ⫻ 12" either from shingle strips or lation methods. One common method is
from mineral-surfaced roll roofing of a color the use of the full-length ventilating ridge.
to match the shingles. Apply these by gently For a ridge vent to be effective, air must
bending each shingle lengthwise down the be drawn in through the eaves and soffit
center and placing an equal amount on each vents. As this relatively cool air is drawn
side of the hip or ridge. To ensure proper in, warmer air is exhausted through the

Figure 22-20 Hip and Ridge Shingles

Hip and Ridge Caps The hip and ridge shingles on this roof give it a neat, finished appearance and protect joints between
roof planes.

Section 22.2 Strip Shingles 639

Tim Fuller
 Ridge vent

Shingles

Air intake
through continuous
screened vent

Figure 22-21 How a Ridge Vent Works

Steady Flow In passive venting, air is drawn in through vents in the soffit as warm attic air exits a
vent at the ridge of the roof.

ridge vent. This ensures a flow of air overlapping the top and sides of the flash-
through the roof cavities or attic, as shown ing. They are cut to fit around the stack
in Figure 22-21. and pressed firmly into roofing cement.
This method is called passive venting However, shingles should never cover the
because it does not rely on fans. The roof bottom of the flashing because this would
sheathing is cut away on each side of the prevent water from draining away freely.
ridge board, creating a narrow opening Figure 22-23 shows how the flashing
along the entire length of the roof. One should look.
of various ridge-vent products is then
nailed over the opening. Depending on the
Closed Valleys
product, ridge shingles may be nailed to When two different roof planes meet,
the top of the ridge vent. Ridge vents vary they often form a valley. Valleys can be
considerably in design. Always follow the shingled in one of two ways: closed or open.
manufacturer’s instructions when install- For a closed valley (sometimes called a
ing them. This will ensure that the vent is
weatherproof. No. 15 asphalt-saturated felt

Vent Pipes Shingle strip cut and

Vent pipes, sometimes called soil stacks, fitted around soil stack
often penetrate the roof. These pipes must
be flashed with vent stack flashing (see
Figure 22-13 on page 634) to prevent water
from getting past the shingles. Before the
flashing is placed, the roof shingles are
applied in courses up to the exposed pipe,
as shown in Figure 22-22. At that point, the
Figure 22-22 Shingles at Vent Pipes
shingles are cut to fit around the pipe. Then
Good Fit Shingles are cut to fit around the pipe before
the flashing sleeve is slipped over the stack. the flashing is placed over the pipe.
Shingling can now continue, with shingles

640 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 36" roll roofing,
at least 55 lb.

Extra nail in
Each strip 6" end of strip
to extend min.
at least 12"
beyond
center
of valley

Figure 22-23 A Properly Flashed Vent

Waterproof Note that the bottom edge of the flashing
is not covered by shingles.

woven valley), strip shingles are interwoven

to protect the valley from seepage. The
shingles are laid as shown in Figure 22-24.
A valley lining made from a 36" wide strip Figure 22-24 Closed Valley
of 55 lb. (or heavier) roll roofing should be Double Coverage Closed valley construction using
placed over the valley underlayment and woven strip shingles.
centered in the valley. No metal flashing
is necessary. that no nail should be located closer than 6"
A closed valley results in a double cover- to the valley centerline and no joints should
age of shingles throughout the length of occur within 12" of the valley centerline.
the valley. Valley shingles are laid over Two nails are also used at the end of each
the lining by either of two methods. In the terminal strip.
first method, they are applied on both roof Closed-Cut Valley One variation of the closed
surfaces at the same time, with each course valley is called a closed-cut valley. One side
in turn woven over the valley. In the second of the intersecting roofs, the shingles are
method, each surface is covered to a point applied across the valley, as with a standard
approximately 36" from the center of the closed valley. End joints should not occur
valley. The valley shingles are woven in within 6" of the center of the valley. A chalk
place later. line is then snapped on the shingles parallel
In both methods, the first course at the val- to the center of the valley and on the unsh-
ley is laid along the eaves of one surface over ingled side of the valley. Shingles from the
the valley lining. It is then extended along adjacent roof area are then installed on top
the adjoining roof surface for at least 12". of the overlapping shingles and cut at the
The first course of the adjoining roof surface chalk line. A 3" wide strip of asphalt cement
is then carried over the valley on top of the is applied under the cut ends and no fasten-
previously applied shingle. Succeeding ers are installed within 6" of the valley.
courses are then laid alternately, the valley
shingles being laid over each other. Open Valleys
Each shingle is cemented to the valley In an open valley, flashing is used to cover
lining with asphalt cement and pressed the valley. Shingles overlap the edges of the
down to ensure a tight seal. The shingles flashing. An open valley is a type of roof
are then nailed in the usual manner, except valley in which shingles are not applied to

Section 22.2 Strip Shingles 641

Tim Fuller
the intersection of two roof surfaces. This overlap the lower segments by 12". They are
leaves the underlying flashing exposed then secured with asphalt plastic cement.
along the length of the valley, as shown in Only enough nails are used in rows 1" in from
Figure 22-25. Open valley flashing can be each edge to hold the strip smoothly in place.
strips of metal (see Figure 22-14 on page 634) Another strip, 36" wide, is then placed over
or a length of mineral-surfaced asphalt (roll the first strip. It is centered in the valley with
roofing). the surfaced side up and secured with nails.
You can calculate roof area without mea- If necessary, it is lapped the same way as the
suring it by hand using Table 22-1. underlying strip. As shingles are applied later,
Metal Each section of metal valley flashing they are cut at an angle to fit against chalked
should lap at least 4" over the next lowest lines snapped on either side of the valley. No
section. The sides must extend at least 8" exposed nails should appear along the valley
up each side of the intersecting roof. A 36" flashing. No nails should be placed within 6"
wide layer of underlayment should run the of the valley’s centerline.
full length of the valley under the flashing. Table 22-2 on page 644 provides nail
Special underlayment similar to that used and labor requirements for asphalt roofing
for eaves protection may be required in areas products.
where ice dams are often a problem. Vertical Intersections
Mineral-Surfaced Asphalt When mineral- Step flashing is necessary where a vertical
surfaced roll roofing is used to flash a valley, surface, such as a chimney or a second-story
it is matched to the color of the shingles. An wall, meets the roof. Step flashing consists of
18" wide strip of roll roofing is placed over individual L-shaped pieces of metal.
the underlayment, with the mineral-surfaced Where the roof meets a wall, one leg of a
side down. When it is necessary to splice piece of step flashing fits under a shingle. The
the material, the ends of the upper segments other leg fits under the siding, as shown in
Figure 22-12 on page 633. Where the roof meets
a chimney, the top edge of the step flashing fits
18" strip under metal cap flashing. The cap flashing is
12" lap inserted 1½" into the joints between bricks. The
face down
Plastic joints are then filled with mortar.
36" strip asphalt
face up cement Table 22-1: Determining Roof Area from a Plan
Plastic
asphalt cement 12" lap Rise Rise
Factor Factor
Chalk lines (inches) (inches)
2 1.014 7½ 1.179
3 1.031 8 1.202
3½ 1.042 8½ 1.225
4 1.054 9 1.250
4½ 1.068 9½ 1.275
5 1.083 10 1.302
Figure 22-25 Open Valley
Details Count Roll roofing used as open valley flashing. 5½ 1.100 10½ 1.329
The upper corners of each shingle at the valley should 6 1.118 11 1.357
be cut off to prevent them from obstructing water flow.
What is the difference between a closed valley and an 6½ 1.137 11½ 1.385
open valley? 7 1.158 12 1.414

642 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 This estimating and planning
exercise will prepare you for
national competitive events
with organizations such as
SkillsUSA and the Home
Strip Shingles and Underlayment Builder’s Institute.

Estimate Area and Materials by 2 to obtain the area of both ends. To find
To determine the amount of shingles and the area of the sides, add the length of the
underlayment needed, you must first know eave to the length of the ridge and divide by
the total area to be covered. 2. Multiply this by the length of the common
rafter to obtain the area of one side of the roof.
Gable Roofs Multiply by 2 to find the number of square
To figure the roof area without actually get- feet on both sides of the roof. Add this to the
ting on the roof to measure it, use Table 22-1. area of the two ends and divide the total area
Step 1: Look at the building plans to find the by 100 to get the number of squares.
roof rise. The rise is given on Table 22-1 in To obtain the area of a plain hip roof running
inches per horizontal foot. to a point at the top, multiply the length of the
Step 2: The area of the roof line (including eaves at one end by one-half the length of the
the overhang) is then multiplied by the factor rafter. This gives the area of one end of the roof.
shown in the table. For example, if a home is To obtain the total area, multiply by 4.
70' long and 30' wide, including the overhang, Quantities of starter strips, eaves flash-
the roof line area is 2,100 sq. ft. Look at Table ings, valley flashings, and ridge shingles all
22-1. If the rise of the roof is 5½", the factor depend upon linear measurements along
needed is 1.100. The 2,100 sq. ft. multiplied by the hips, rakes, valleys, eaves, and ridge.
1.100 results in a total roof area of 2,310 sq. ft. Measurements for horizontal elements can
Step 3: One square of shingles covers 100 sq. be taken from the roof plan. The rakes, hips,
ft. of roof surface. To determine the number of and valleys run on a slope. The actual length
squares needed to cover the roof, divide the of rakes, hips, and valleys must therefore be
total area by 100 and add 10 percent for waste measured on the roof.
and cutting.
2,310 ⫼ 100 ⫽ 23.10 Nails
23.1 ⫻ 0.10 ⫽ 2.31 The number of nails needed for asphalt
roofing can be determined from Table 22-2 on
23.1 ⫹ 2.31 ⫽ 25.41
page 644.
25.41 ⫽ about 25 squares of shingles. Step 1: In the above example, 25 squares of
Step 4: Be sure to subtract for large openings three-tab shingles are required to cover the
in the roof such as skylights and chimneys. roof area. Read down the table from the head-
Subtract also for the area where a dormer ing Pounds per Square to the line “3 tab sq.
intersects the roofline so that you do not butt on new deck.”
include the dormer area twice. Step 2: If 11-gauge nails are used, 1.44 lbs. are
Another method of figuring the area of a required for each square. The total number of
plain gable roof is to multiply the length of the pounds of nails needed would then be 36.
ridge by the length of a rafter. This gives one-
25 ⫻ 1.44 ⫽ 36 lbs. of nails
half the roof area. Then, multiply by 2 to obtain
the total square feet of roof surface. Estimating on the Job
Hip Roofs Using Table 22-1, estimate the number of
To find the area of a hip roof, multiply the squares of shingles that would be required
length of the eaves by one-half the length of to cover a house that is 82' long and 28' wide,
the common rafter at the end. Multiply this including overhang. The rise is 7". Round
your answer to the nearest whole number.

Section 22.2 Strip Shingles 643

 Table 22-2: Nail and Labor Requirements for Asphalt Roofing Products
Shingles Length Labor
Nails per Nails per Pounds per Square
Type of Roofing per of Nails(a) Hours per
Shingle Square (approximate)
Square (inches) Square
12 ga. by 11 ga. by
7⁄16"
head 7⁄16"head
Roll roofing on
— — 1 252(b) 0.73 1.12 1
new deck
Roll roofing
— — 13⁄4 252(b) 1.13 1.78 11⁄4
over old roofing
19" selvage
— — 13⁄4 181 0.83 1.07 1
over old shingle
3 tab sq. butt on
80 4 11⁄4 336 1.22 1.44 11⁄2
new deck
3 tab sq. butt
80 4 13⁄4 504 2.38 3.01 15⁄6
reroofing
Hex strip on
86 4 11⁄4 361 1.28 1.68 11⁄2
new deck
(a)
Length of nail should always be sufficient to penetrate at least ¾" into sound wood. Nails should show little, if any, below underside
of deck.
(b)
This is the number of nails required when spaced 2" apart.

22.2
After You Read: Self-Check
1. What does stacking the roof mean?
2. What is often used as a starter course on shingled roofs?
3. What is the typical exposure of ridge shingles?
4. How is a closed valley protected from seepage?

Academic Integration: Mathematics

5. Percent Increase One square of shingles covers 100 sq. ft. of roof surface. Michael deter-
mined that he needs 22 squares of shingles to cover a roof with an area of 2,000 sq. ft. His
calculation included a percent increase to allow for waste. What percent increase did
Michael use in his calculation?
Percent increase is when you find a percentage of an amount and then
add it to the amount. A percent increase is always based on an original amount.
Step 1: Find the amount of squares needed without the percent increase. This is the
original amount (x).
22 ⫺ x
Step 2: Divide the difference between 22 and the amount by the original amount (_____ ).
22
Convert the decimal to a percentage.
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC to check your answers.

644 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 Wood Shingles
22.3 & Shakes
Installation Issues However, underlayment is not installed
over the entire roof in one layer, as with
Why is wood a good shingle material? strip shingles. Instead, it is overlapped
Wood shingles and shakes are generally with successive courses, as shown in
laid over spaced sheathing boards, as shown Figure 22-26.
in Figure 22-26. The spaced sheathing, some-
times called open sheathing, allows the wood
to dry uniformly after exposure to rain.
Types and Grades
Shingles and shakes may also be laid over What types of wood might not be good
solid sheathing. This is sometimes required for shingles?
in regions where earthquakes are common. Shakes and shingles are graded accord-
It is also recommended where wind-driven ing to the quality of the wood, considering
snow is common. any imperfections. The most common mate-
Underlayment protects the sheathing and rial is red cedar. Other types of cedar, along
reduces air infiltration. For underlayment, with oak and other woods, are sometimes
No. 15 asphalt-saturated felt may be used. used.

Wood shingles 14 or 16

or shakes spaced sheathing
Underlayment

Eaves protection

14, 16, or plywood

solid sheathing

Figure 22-26 Wood Shingle Roof System

Spaced Sheathing The manufacturer’s installation requirements should be closely followed when installing wood
shingles and shakes.

Section 22.3 Wood Shingles & Shakes 645

Shakes texture as compared to a wood shake. Wood
A shake is a type of wood roofing product shingles are manufactured in lengths of 22"
that is larger in size than a wood shingle and (Royals), 18" (Perfections), and 16" (Fivex).
thicker at the butt edge. Shakes are split on They are available in No. 1 grade (sometimes
one or two sides. This gives each one a much called blue label), No. 2 grade (sometimes
rougher, rustic texture compared to a wood called red label), No. 3 grade (sometimes
shingle. There are three types of wood shakes: called black label), and undercourse grade
used for underlying starter courses. The
• Handsplit-and-resawed shakes have split
exposure of wood shingles depends on the
faces and sawed backs. Blanks or boards
slope of the roof, as shown in Table 22-3.
are split and then run diagonally through
In addition, decorative fancy-butt shingles
a band saw to produce two tapered
are available. The butt edge (the thickest part
shakes.
of the shingle) can be curved, beveled, or
• Tapersplit shakes are produced largely by cut into any number of other shapes. Some
hand, using a sharp-bladed steel froe and wood shingles are pressure-treated with fire-
a wooden mallet. (A froe is a hand tool retardant chemicals at the factory. These may
with a sharp blade and a wood handle be required by code where fire danger limits
at a right angle to the blade.) The taper is the use of untreated shingles. Generally, only
achieved by reversing the block end-for- No. 1 grade shingles are treated.
end with each split. Wood shingles are thinner than wood
• Straightsplit shakes are similar to taper- shakes. The surface of either product may be
split shakes. However, because they are sawed (for a relatively smooth appearance),
split from the same end of the block, the or split (for a more rustic look). The installa-
shakes are not tapered. tion methods are similar.
Shakes are available in three lengths:
16", 18", and 22". The maximum exposure
recommended for double coverage is 13" for
32" shakes, 10" for 22" shakes, and 7½" for Recall Why are shakes split on one or two sides?
18" shakes. Triple coverage can be achieved
by reducing these exposures to 10" for 32"
shakes, 7½" for 22" shakes, and 5½" for 18" Installing Wood Shingles
shakes. Shakes are not recommended for Are ice dams less common on wood-
roofs with slopes of less than 4-in-12. shingle roofs?
Wood Shingles The installation of wood shingles requires
A wood shingle is manufactured by being many of the same types of materials required
sawn from a short length of log. This gives for installing strip shingles. Some of them
shingles a relatively smooth and uniform are installed in different ways.

Table 22-3: Wood Shingle Exposure

Maximum Exposure Recommended for Roofs Length (inches)
Slope No. 1 Blue Label No. 2 Red Label No. 3 Black Label
16 18 22 16 18 22 16 18 22
3:12 to 4:12 3¾ 4¼ 5¾ 3½ 4 5½ 3 3½ 5
4:12 and steeper 5 5½ 7½ 4 4½ 6½ 3½ 4 5½

646 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Eaves Protection On slopes up to 12/12,
In many cold climates, ice dams can form valley sheets should extend
at least 10" from valley center
along the eaves and cause water to leak into
the house (see Figure 22-10 on page 634).
In such areas, solid (plywood) sheathing
should be applied above the eave line to a
point at least 22" inside the interior wall line
of the building. The solid sheathing should
then be covered with a double layer of No.
15 asphalt-saturated felt. A comparable
product such as self-adhering bitumen sheet
can also be used.
Flashing
Galvanized metal flashing is commonly
used with wood shingles. If copper flashing
is used with wood shingles or shakes, take
special precautions. Early deterioration of
the copper may occur when the metal and Figure 22-27 Open Valley Flashing
wood are in direct contact in the presence Good Drainage Open valley flashing is the preferred
of moisture. valley technique for wood shingles and shakes.
On slopes up to 12-in-12, metal valley
sheets should be wide enough to extend at Laying Shingles
least 10" on each side of the valley centerline, As with strip shingles, the first course of
as shown in Figure 22-27. The open portion wood shingles is a starter course. Double or
of the valley should be at least 4" wide. triple the first course of shingles at the eaves.
It should project 1" to 1½" beyond the eaves
to provide a drip edge.
Nail the second layer of shingles in the
Explain What may occur if copper and wood are first course over the first layer to provide a
in direct contact in the presence of moisture? minimum side lap of at least 1½" between
joints, as shown in Figure 22-28 on page
648. A triple layer of shingles in the first
course provides additional insurance
against leaks at the cornice. Undercourse
Measurement shingles or No. 3 grade shingles are fre-
quently used for the starter course.
Roof Slope The slope of a roof is the ratio
comparing unit rise with unit run. The unit run
Space shingles at least ¼" apart to
is always 12". In other words, the slope of a provide for expansion. Joints between
roof is its rise per foot of run. What is the slope shingles in any course should be separated
of a roof if the pitch is 1⁄8? Is a roof with this not less than 1½" from joints in the adjacent
pitch a flat, low slope, or high slope roof? course above or below. Joints in alternate
Starting Hint When the roof pitch is known, courses should not be in direct alignment.
multiply the pitch times 22 to find the unit When shingles are laid with the recom-
rise. Place this number over the unit run to mended exposure, triple coverage results.
determine the roof slope. Some shingle grades contain small defects,
such as knots. Shingles should be laid so

Section 22.3 Wood Shingles & Shakes 647

 1/4" minimum
Spaced sheathing

Two nails for each shingle

3/4" from edge, 1" to 2" above
butt line of next course
Alternate course joints
should not align

First course doubled

or tripled
Adjacent course joints
should be offset 11/2"
minimum
Bed mold

Figure 22-28 Nailing Details

Watch the Joints Details for applying wood shingles over spaced or solid sheathing.

that the edges of the nearest shingles in shingle application is away from the valley.
the course above are at least 1½" away from This permits valley shingles to be carefully
the defect, as shown in Figure 22-29. selected. It also ensures that shingle joints
When the roof terminates in a valley, will not break over the valley flashing.
carefully cut the shingles for the valley to the
proper miter at the exposed butts. Nail these Nailing
shingles in place first so that the direction of To ensure that shingles will lie flat and
give maximum service, use only two nails to
secure each one. Place nails not more than ¾"
from the side edge, at a distance of not more
than 1" above the exposure line. Drive nails
flush, but take care that the nail head does
11/2"
not crush the wood. The recommended nail
sizes for the application of wood shingles are
shown in Table 22-4.
Knot or
similar defect Hips, Ridges, and Rakes
Hip and ridge shingles should overlap in
a fashion sometimes referred to as a modified
Boston ridge, as shown in Figure 22-30. A
Boston ridge calls for alternating the joint
position in each pair of intersecting cap
Figure 22-29 Spacing Details shingles. The top edges of the cap shingles
Separate Flaws Shingles should be spaced so any
should be beveled for a neat appearance.
slight flaws are separated as shown. This protects the
flaws from exposure. This also eliminates projections that would
encourage water to seep into the joint.

648 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 Table 22-4: Recommended Nail Sizes for Application of Wood Shingles and Shakes
For 16" and 18"
For 16" and 18" Material For 22" Material For 22" Material
Material
1¼" long 1½" long 1¾" long 2" long
1¼" long
14½ gauge 14 gauge 14 gauge 13 gauge
Approx. 376 nails Approx. 515 nails Approx. 382 nails Approx. 310 nails Approx. 220 nails
per lb. per lb. per lb. per lb. per lb.

Boston ridge

Shake or shingle ridge

Roofing felt
Ridge vent

Caulking

Felt folded back

Airflow
through
ridge
A

Alternate overlap

Choose material of uniform width

between 4" and 5" (if making units
with field material)
Double starter course
B

Figure 22-30 Hips and Ridges

Alternating Laps Wood shingle construction. A. Boston ridge construction. B. Hip construction.

Section 22.3 Wood Shingles & Shakes 649

 Nails that are at least two sizes larger than Estimating
those that are used to apply the shingles The general area of a gable roof can be
are required for a Boston ridge. A continu- estimated by consulting Table 22-1 on page
ous ridge vent may be installed on a wood 642 and the instructions given in the Esti-
shingle roof but is not required if other mating and Planning feature on page 643.
ventilation methods have been provided. To estimate the number of wood shingles
Check local code requirements. required, consult Table 22-5. A waste fac-
Hips and ridges should begin with a tor is always considered when estimating
double starter course. Either site-applied shingle quantities. This allows the roofer
or pre-formed factory-constructed hip and to cull (remove) shingles that have serious
ridge units may be used. Shingles should imperfections, and to replace shingles that
project 1" to 1½" over the rake. split during installation. Flashing and other
materials can be estimated in the same man-
ner as with strip shingles.

Table 22-5: Materials and Labor for Wood Shingles

Material and Labor Material per 100 Sq. Ft. of Surface
Wood Shingles Laid to Weather (inches) Shingles Shingles with 10% Waste Labor Hours per 100 Sq. Ft.
4 900 990 3¾
5 792 792 3
6 600 660 2½
Note: Increase time factor 25% for hip roofs.

22.3
After You Read: Self-Check
1. What type of sheathing is most commonly used beneath wood shingles and shakes?
2. What grades of wood shingles are often used for starter courses?
3. How far should wood shingles be spaced from each other and why?
4. How many nails should be used to secure a shingle?

Academic Integration: English Language Arts

5. Compare and Contrast Shakes and wood shingles are common roof covering materials.
Write two paragraphs describing how the two products are similar and how they differ.
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC to check your answers.

650 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

 Gutter Systems
22.4
Gutter Basics themselves are horizontal members that
collect the water and channel it to vertical
How does corrugating a downspout downspouts, or leaders. Elbows join the
help prevent ice damage? gutters to the downspouts. They are used at
Because they are attached to the fascia of a the bottom of the downspouts as well. Splash
house, gutters are often considered to be part blocks direct downspout water away from
of the cornice construction. However, gutters the foundation of the house. This is impor-
are not generally installed by carpenters. tant in preventing large quantities of water
Instead, they are the work of contractors from collecting near the foundation, where it
who specialize in fabricating and installing could cause damage.
gutters. Wooden gutters were once widely used
Gutters are part of a system that collects but are very rare now. Today, most gutters
water from the roof and drains it away from are made of aluminum, copper, or vinyl.
the house. The other parts of that system The two general types are the formed-metal
are shown in Figure 22-31. The gutters gutter and the half-round gutter, as shown

11 10
1

9
5
4 1

6
3

1. Gutter
2. Inside miter 6
3. Outside miter
8 4. Slip joint connectors
5. End cap
6. Downspout
7. Elbow
8. Pipe strap
9. Wraparound hanger
10. Spike and 5" ferrule
7 11. Pipe strainer
12. Splash block
12

Figure 22-31 Parts of a Gutter System

Collect and Drain The gutters must be installed at the edge of all major
roof planes. Downspouts can be placed as needed to provide drainage.

Section 22.4 Gutter Systems 651

in Figure 22-32. The most common formed lengths. In either case, the basic material is
metal gutter is a box shape called a K-style generally coated with a baked-on finish in
gutter and is typically 5" wide. If unusually one of several common colors.
large amounts of water must be channeled
away, 6" wide gutters should be used.
Half-round gutters are generally about 1"
wider than K-style gutters of an equivalent Explain Why are gutters often considered part
drainage capacity. of the cornice construction?
Downspouts can be round or rectangular.
The round downspout is used most often
with half-round gutters. Both types are
Installation
usually corrugated for added strength. Cor- What other method could be used to
rugated downspouts are less likely to burst if determine the slope of gutters?
plugged with ice. Metal gutters on a house appear to be
Gutters can be purchased in 10' sections level. However, they actually slope at least
and joined with slip joint connectors. How- 1" every 16' toward the downspouts (1⁄16" per
ever, it is common for gutters to be fabricated foot). This is essential for proper drainage.
on site using machines. Gutters of almost The maximum distance between the gutter’s
any length can then be formed from continu- high point and the downspout should not
ous coils of flat aluminum stock. These are ordinarily exceed 25'.
sometimes called seamless, or continuous, To ensure the correct slope, measure the
gutters. They are less likely to leak because distance in feet from one end of the fascia
they are not assembled from several shorter to the other. Round up to the nearest whole
foot. Multiply this number by 1⁄16". For
example, a measurement of 20'-4" is rounded
up to 21':
21 ⫻ 1⁄16" ⫽ 1'- 5⁄16"
The answer is the difference in inches
A between the gutter’s highest and lowest
points. Locate these points on the fascia and
snap a chalk line between them. Align the
top of the gutter with this line. To prevent
gutters from being damaged by sliding snow
or ice, position them so that the outer edge is
below the plane of the roof.
Gutters are held in place using one of
several methods. One calls for flat metal
hangers, called wraparound hangers, spaced
B

Avoiding Sharp Edges The edges of metal

gutters can be very sharp. Wear leather gloves
when handling and cutting them.
Figure 22-32 Shapes of Gutters Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC for more on
Basic Shapes Gutters: A. Formed. B. Half-round (this job safety.
one is made of copper).

652 Chapter 22 Roofing & Gutters

Joe Mallon
3' to 4' on center (see Figure 22-31 on page
653). Another is called the spike-and-ferrule
method (also in Figure 22-31). Ferrules are short
metal tubes placed between the inner and
outer faces of the gutter. Aluminum spikes
Timing Gutter Installation Some types
are then driven through the face of the gutter, of gutter systems are best installed before
through the ferrule, and into the fascia. the roofing has been applied. Others are
Downspouts are fastened to the wall by best installed after the roofing has been
leader straps or hooks. These allow a space applied. However, the roofers and the
between the wall and the downspout. At gutter installers should never be working
least two straps should be used to secure simultaneously. The general contractor
an 8' length. An elbow directs the water to supervising the project must coordinate
a splash block that carries it away from the the work of the two trades so that schedule
foundation. The splash block should be conflicts can be avoided.
at least 3' long. In final grading, the slope
should ensure positive drainage of water
away from the foundation walls. pipes that drain into a storm sewer. This
Some builders eliminate the splash blocks ensures that water will not seep into the soil
and lower elbows. Instead, they connect around the house. However, building codes
the downspouts to a system of below-grade prohibit drainage into a septic system.

22.4
After You Read: Self-Check
1. Name the two general types of gutters.
2. Downspouts often have a corrugated shape. What purpose does this serve?
3. What is the minimum slope required to ensure that gutters drain properly?
4. What is a ferrule?

Academic Integration: Mathematics

5. Proportions Metal gutters on a house appear to be level. However, they actually drop
toward the downspouts at least 1" for every 16'. How many inches must a metal gutter
measuring 80 feet drop from one end to the other to allow for proper drainage?
A proportion is an equation that sets two ratios equal to one another.
Step 1: Use x to represent the unknown quantity, the total drop over 80'.
Step 2: Write two ratios, one describing the drop over 16', the other describing the drop
over 80'. Set them equal to one another.
Step 3: Solve the proportion for the unknown quantity using cross-multiplication.
Go to glencoe.com for this book’s OLC to check your answers.

Section 22.4 Gutter Systems 653

 Review and Assessment
22
Section Chapter Summary
22.1 Each type of roofing product has different characteristics that make it suitable for a par-
ticular house. The choice of a roofing material depends in part on the climate in which
the house is located. Safety is of criti al importance when working on a roof. Underlay-
ment and flashing prevent water from reaching the sheathing and causing damage.
Section
22.2 Installing strip shingles starts at the eaves of a roof and works up to the ridge. Shingles
should be installed in an orderly fashion. Proper nailing is very important for the dura-
bility of the shingle and to maintain the manufacturer’s warranties.
Section
22.3 Wood shingles and wood shakes can be installed in similar ways. Various grades and
types of shingles and shakes are available. They are installed over spaced sheathing.
Section
22.4 Gutters and downspouts are part of a system that drains water away from the house.
Gutters must be sloped toward downspouts. They are often installed by specialty
contractors.

Review Content Vocabulary and Academic Vocabulary

1. Use each of these content vocabulary and academic vocabulary words in a sentence or diagram.

Content Vocabulary Academic Vocabulary

• flashing (p. 626) • top lap (p. 626) • open valley (p. 641) • precaution (p. 631)
• square (p. 626) • side lap (p. 626) • Boston ridge (p. 648) • succeeding (p. 638)
• exposure (p. 626) • underlayment (p. 627)
• butt edge (p. 626) • ice dam (p. 632)

Like a Pro Review Key Concepts

Technical Terms 3. List the roofing products used in
residential construction.
2. Work with a classmate to define the follow-
ing terms used in the chapter: lock-down 4. Name the steps for installing a strip
(p. 628), cap sheet (p. 629), shingling hatchet shingle roof covering.
(p. 630), roof jacks (p. 631), ice barrier 5. Explain the purpose of flashing.
(p. 632), drip edge (p. 633), electrolytic 6. List the properties of shakes and wood
corrosion (p. 633), three-tab shingles (p. 635), shingles.
counter-flashing (p. 635), button caps (p. 637),
hammer tacker (p. 637), stacking the roof 7. Name the parts that make up a gutter
(p. 637), starter course (p. 637), passive system.
venting (p. 640), soil stacks (p. 640), open 8. Explain how gutter systems work.
sheathing (p. 645), Royals (p. 646), perfections
(p. 646), Fivex (p. 646), wraparound hangers
(p. 652), ferrules (p. 653).

654 Chapter 22 Review and Assessment

Critical Thinking
9. Explain A gutter system must be installed
12. Information Literacy The roof cover-
to slope at least 1 inch for every 16 feet.
ing must provide long-lasting waterproof
Explain why this is.
protection for a house. The choice of mate-
Academic and Workplace rials and methods is influenced in part by
climate. Find out more about which roof
Applications covering materials are best suited for the
climate in which you live. Use the Internet
and library or contact a local roofing com-
10. Finding Perimeter Galvanized drip edge is pany to investigate roof covering materials.
purchased in 10' sections. Aluminum flash- Write a paragraph stating which materi-
ing is purchased in 10' ⫻ 10' rolls. Estimate als are best suited for your climate. Sup-
the number of 10' sections of galvanized port your statement with facts from your
drip edge and 10' ⫻ 10' rolls of aluminum research.
flashing needed for a gable roof with a 58'
ridgeboard, 22' common rafters, and one
double-flued 2'-8" ⫻ 4'-0" chimney.

Perimeter is the distance

around a figure or shape. The perimeter of Multiple Choice
a rectangle is two times the length plus the Directions Read each of the following
width. questions carefully. Select the best word or
phrase to answer the question.
Step 1: Calculate the perimeter of the roof
and of the chimney opening. 13. ______ is not a common material used for
making shingles.
Step 2: Convert the measurements to a. Wood c. Rubber
feet using decimal numbers, if necessary.
b. Cement d. Slate
Multiply by 110% to add a 10% allowance
for waste. 14. Roof brackets should be used to increase
______ .
Step 3: In each case, divide the length by
a. durability c. drainage
10', the number of feet in one section of drip
edge and one roll of flashing. Round up to b. safety d. weatherproofing
the nearest 1⁄16". 15. The first step in strip shingle installation is
______ .
a. nailing the shingles
11. Stresses and Design Roofing materials b. installing the underlayment
vary in their composition and weight. For c. stacking the roof
example, roofing tiles are made of clay or d. measuring the roof
lightweight concrete and weigh more than
wood or asphalt shingles. To accommodate
roofing tiles, roof framing must be designed
Eat well before taking a test. Have a good breakfast
to support that extra weight. Research or lunch and avoid junk food. Studies show that
aspects of the materials and techniques you need good nutrition to concentrate and perform
used in roof framing must be modified in your best.
order to support roofing tiles. Summarize
* These questions will help you practice for national
your findings in a one-page report. certification assessment.

Chapter 22 Review and Assessment 655