How To Install Roll Roofing Over Shingles

November 30, 2025

2 min read

dilshadakram

To install roll roofing over shingles, you need to prepare the old roof first, then roll out the new material and secure it with nails and cement. Roll roofing is a budget-friendly option that works well over existing shingles. Most homeowners can do this job themselves to save money. The process takes a few days and uses basic tools. Before you start, make sure your old roof is in decent shape and not too damaged.

Can You Really Put Roll Roofing Over Shingles?

Yes, you can install roll roofing directly over asphalt shingles. This saves you money and time because you do not have to remove the old roof. According to RubyHome (2025), the average roof replacement cost ranges from $5,868 to $13,217, but DIY can save around 50% if you do the work yourself. Roll roofing costs between $5.50 and $7.50 per square foot when installed.

However, there are limits. Your old roof must be flat or have a low slope. The shingles need to be nailed down tight. If your roof is curling or has major leaks, install roll roofing over shingles is not a good idea. You will have better luck if your current roof is less than 10 years old.

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What Tools and Supplies Do You Need?

Gather these items before you start: roofing nails, roofing cement, a hammer, a utility knife, and a chalk line. You will also need the roll roofing material itself. Work gloves and a dust mask keep you safe.

A basic asphalt shingle roof lasts 20 to 30 years according to RubyHome (2025), but roll roofing typically lasts 15 to 30 years depending on your climate. This means your new roll roof may need replacing in the future, so pick quality material.

Tool or Supply	Why You Need It
Roofing nails	Holds material down
Roofing cement	Seals seams and edges
Chalk line	Keeps rows straight
Utility knife	Cuts material to fit

How Do You Install the Roll Roofing?

Start by cleaning the old roof. Remove dirt, leaves, and loose debris. Then inspect for soft spots or rot. Fix any problem areas with wood patches before you proceed.

Next, unroll your roofing material at the edge of the roof. Use a chalk line to mark where each row goes. Nail the first row down with nails spaced 6 to 12 inches apart along the edges. Apply roofing cement under the seams where rows overlap. Overlap each row by 4 to 6 inches. Work your way up the roof until it is covered. According to RubyHome (2025), installation costs range from $4 to $40 per square foot, depending on the material type. For a typical 1,700 square foot roof, that means total costs between $6,800 and $68,000 if you hire a pro, but DIY saves about 50%.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid?

Do not nail too close to the edge of the roof. Do not skip the roofing cement in the seams. Do not work on a wet or slippery roof. Do not overlap rows incorrectly, or water will leak underneath.

According to RubyHome (2025), leaking is the top reason homeowners replace roofs, affecting 33% of homeowners. Bad seams cause most leaks. Take your time and seal every overlap well.

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