The roofing journal

Roof Installation field guides

Expert advice, tips, and in-depth guides about roof installation from our team of roofing professionals.

9 expert guides

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Ice and Water Barrier: Where It Fits in a Roof Assembly

A membrane’s name does not define its coverage area. Have the installer specify the product and the roof details it will serve.

Sep 7, 20262 min read

Roofing Questions

Minimum Roof Pitch for Asphalt Shingles: What 2:12 Really Means

A product’s minimum slope is an installation limit. Measure every roof section and check the exact shingle and underlayment instructions before choosing a system.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Roofing Questions

What Is Roof Drip Edge? How It Works with Shingles and Gutters

Drip edge is shaped metal flashing at the roof perimeter. The important question is how it connects the roof covering, underlayment, and gutter.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Roofing Questions

Roof Pitch and Surface Area: Calculate the Slope Factor

Roof pitch changes surface area. Use the projected roof footprint and a slope factor only when your starting measurement has not already included slope.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Roofing Questions

Roof Ridge, Ridge Cap, and Ridge Vent: What Each One Does

The ridge is a roof location, the cap covers it, and a ridge vent is a ventilation product. A repair estimate should name which part needs work.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Roofing Questions

Roof Underlayment: Felt vs. Synthetic and What to Compare

Underlayment is a separate layer beneath the covering. Product compatibility and the complete assembly matter more than a broad material label.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Roofing Questions

Open vs. Closed Roof Valleys: What to Specify in a Shingle Roof

Valleys collect runoff where roof slopes meet. Choose the detail allowed by the selected roof system and document how a repair ties into surrounding materials.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

Aerial view of a roofing crew installing shingles on a large multi-plane residential roof

Roofing Guide

Bundles of Shingles per Roofing Square

Most standard asphalt shingles use three bundles per roofing square. This guide shows the calculation, product exceptions, waste allowance, and materials that need a separate count.

Jul 31, 20268 min read

Roofing Questions

What Are Starter Shingles? Purpose and Quantity Calculation

Starter strips are a separate roof-edge component. Calculate them from the specified edge lengths and product coverage, not the roof’s square footage.

Sep 7, 20264 min read

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