How To Install Rolled Asphalt Roofing

November 30, 2025

2 min read

To install rolled asphalt roofing, you start by preparing your roof deck, then lay down a base layer, and finish with overlapping strips of rolled material sealed with tar or adhesive. Rolled asphalt roofing is a budget-friendly choice for flat or low-slope roofs. It costs between $5.50 and $7.50 per square foot for installation, making it one of the cheapest roofing options available. According to RubyHome (2025), the average roof replacement cost is $9,526, but rolled asphalt can help keep your costs down. This type of roofing typically lasts 20 to 30 years with proper care. Let’s walk through the steps to install it yourself or understand what professionals do.

What Do You Need Before Starting?

Before you begin, gather your materials and tools. You will need rolled asphalt roofing, roofing nails, a hammer, a utility knife, a broom, and roofing cement or tar. Make sure your roof deck is clean, dry, and free of debris.

Check the weather forecast. You need a dry day to work. Hot weather helps the material stick better, but avoid extreme heat.

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How Do You Prepare the Roof Deck?

Start by cleaning your entire roof surface with a broom. Remove all dirt, leaves, and loose materials. Sweep in one direction to push debris toward the edges.

Fix any holes or damage to the roof deck. If wood is rotted or soft, replace those sections. A solid, flat base is essential for rolled roofing to work properly. According to industry data, proper preparation prevents long-term costs from mistakes that DIY work can create.

What Are the Installation Steps?

Start at the bottom edge of your roof. Roll out your first strip of asphalt roofing with the side facing up that does not have tar on it yet. Use roofing nails every 6 inches along the bottom edge. Space them evenly.

Apply roofing cement or tar to the overlapping area. Roll out your next strip so it overlaps the first strip by 3 inches. Press it down firmly. Nail this second strip every 6 inches, both at the bottom edge and across the overlap. Continue this pattern until you reach the top of the roof.

Step	Details
1. Clean Roof	Remove all dirt and debris
2. Nail First Strip	Nails every 6 inches along bottom
3. Apply Cement	Tar or adhesive on overlap area
4. Add Second Strip	Overlap by 3 inches, nail and seal
5. Repeat	Continue to top of roof

How Long Will It Last?

Rolled asphalt roofing typically lasts between 20 and 30 years. According to RubyHome (2025), flat roofing materials like rubber and PVC cost $5.50 to $7.50 per square foot and offer similar lifespans. The lifespan depends on your climate, maintenance, and weather exposure. In hot, sunny areas, the roof may age faster. In cooler regions, it may last longer.

Keep your roof clean. Remove debris regularly. This simple step helps your rolled roofing stay in good shape for decades. According to RubyHome (2025), the average age of roofs being replaced is just over 19 years, meaning many homeowners get extra years by maintaining their roofs well.

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Contact a qualified roof contractor for expert guidance on roof repair, replacement, or installation.