Installing a new roof is usually a big and expensive job, so it makes sense to use materials that will last as long as possible, even if they cost a little more. Those were the guiding principles behind this roofing project. The old asphalt shingles on this garage were well past their prime and in need of replacement. Rather than replacing the asphalt with more of the same, the roof got an upgrade with a new product called Enviroshake, which is produced in Cambridge, Ont. The shakes look like conventional cedar shakes, but they’re made from a combination of recycled rubber tires, wood fibres and other plastics—and guaranteed for 50 years.
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Tearing off the old shingles is always a good idea, especially on older buildings on which signs of decay may be hidden below a layer of shingles. Once the old shingles are removed and the sheathing is exposed, the structural integrity of the roof can be assessed. Look for signs of water damage and rot.
In this case, the sheathing was very old. Several areas were suffering from advanced rot and needed to be removed and replaced. The rotten sections were replaced one at a time, so there was always a safe and secure area to work from. The old sections of sheathing were replaced with new 4x8 sheets of 3/8" exterior-grade plywood.
Begin by nailing a galvanized metal drip edge into place along the leading edge of the roof. The drip edge is essential since it ensures water will drip off the roof and into the eaves- trough, and not run back under the overhang.
Nail a drip edge up the rake edge of the roof as well.
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