How To Install Asphalt Roll Roofing

November 30, 2025

2 min read

To install asphalt roll roofing, you need to prepare your roof deck, lay down the first layer of underlayment, then roll out the asphalt material and nail it down with overlapping seams. Asphalt roll roofing is a flat roofing material that comes in large rolls instead of individual shingles. It is cheaper than shingle roofing and faster to install. This guide will show you the steps to install it the right way.

What Materials Do You Need?

Before you start, gather your supplies. You will need asphalt roll roofing, roofing nails, a hammer, a utility knife, and roofing cement or adhesive. You also need an underlayment or tar paper to put under the asphalt roll. A chalk line helps you keep rows straight.

According to RubyHome, the average roof installation cost ranges from $4 to $40 per square foot. For a 1,700 square foot roof, costs can run $6,800 to $68,000 depending on materials and labor. Asphalt roll roofing is one of the most affordable options available.

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How Do You Prepare the Roof?

Start by cleaning your roof deck. Remove any dirt, debris, or old roofing material. Make sure the deck is dry and smooth.

Nail down the underlayment first. Roll it out across the roof and secure it with nails every 12 inches along the edges. This layer protects your roof deck from water damage.

How Do You Lay Down the Asphalt Roll?

Unroll your first piece of asphalt roll roofing at the bottom edge of the roof. Align it straight using your chalk line. Nail it down along the bottom edge with nails spaced 4 to 6 inches apart. Then fold the roll back halfway and apply roofing cement to the exposed deck.

Press the roll down firmly into the cement. Nail the rest of the roll down the same way. Each row should overlap the one below it by about 3 inches. According to This Old House, most roofs last between 25 and 50 years depending on the material and climate. Asphalt roll roofing typically lasts 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.

What Are Key Installation Tips?

Here are the most important things to remember:

Use roofing cement under all overlaps
Space nails 4 to 6 inches apart
Overlap each row by 3 inches
Keep seams straight with chalk lines
Work on dry days only
Wear safety gear to prevent falls

According to industry data, 31% of homeowners pursued roof renovation or repair in the last 3 years. Many of these jobs require professional help, but asphalt roll roofing is one of the easier flat roof systems for DIY work. Always follow local building codes and check if permits are needed in your area.

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Connect with an experienced roofing company to discuss your roofing needs and schedule an inspection.