How to Repair or Replace Asphalt Shingles
1
Locate the shingle(s) that you want to repair and observe the degree of damage / size of the damaged area. If the shingle has a minor amount of curling or damage, it can be repaired, while badly damaged shingles will need to be replaced.
2
For curled shingles use a small bit of the roof cement (tar) and apply it to the back (under side) of the shingle. Then weight the shingle down with a brick or rock until the cement sets. For torn shingles, cement the bottom of both pieces of the shingle and then place them in their proper place on the roof. Apply a small amount of cement to the top of the shingle on each piece, and then nail into the cement on each piece to hold it in place.
3
To repair a broken shingle, cut a piece of metal flashing to the size of the broken shingle. Apply cement to the under side of the flashing. Lift the shingle and the edges of the shingles next to it, and slide the flashing under them. Apply cement to the top of the flashing and press the shingles back down. Apply a rock or brick to weight down the shingles until the cement sets.
4
To replace shingle carefully lift the damaged shingle and use the flat pry bar to lift the nails. If you are unable to remove the nails, pound them flush with a hammer. Then take the new shingle and align the bottom edge with the edges of the shingles next to it. Lifting the shingle directly above the replacement one, nail the new shingle into place. Apply cement to the edges of all shingles you have lifted to prevent future curling.
5
To repair and replace ridge shingles (those that go over the peak at the top of the roof), first determine how severe the damage is. To repair these shingles, cover the damaged area with cement, or if the area is too large, repair it with flashing (follow directions for repairing a shingle). If the damage can not be covered, you will need to remove the shingle and replace it with a new one. Remember to place tar on the corners of the shingle and then drive your nails through the tar spots.
