Are you thinking of roof tear off or shingle removal? Many homeowners may not love the idea of taking on this task themselves, but it can potentially save you hundreds of dollars. By learning and using the right tools, you will be able to remove old asphalt shingle yourself. However, make sure you don’t damage your roof while removing shingles.
As professional roofers at A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing in Tulsa, we are committed to solving home and property owners’ problems and answering their questions. Today, we will help homeowners avoid common mistakes during a DIY shingle removal.
Mistakes You Should Avoid During Shingle Removal
Before starting your shingle removal project, it’s crucial to be aware of common mistakes other homeowners have made.
1. Not Wearing Proper Safety Gear
Wearing proper safety gear isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a non-negotiable. Equip yourself with the right pair of gloves, safety goggles, and a well fitted hard hat. This provides protection against potential injuries from falling debris or unexpected accidents.
2. Ignoring Weather Conditions
You should never overlook the weather conditions before going up to your roof. Ignoring weather conditions can result in slippery surfaces and compromised safety. Before you start, check the weather forecast. If there is a chance of rain or high winds, postpone the project for a clear sunny day. Take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and smooth shingle tear off.
3. Applying Excessive Force
Applying excessive force during removal is a common mistake that can lead to damaged materials and increased project costs. Instead, you should take a patient and gentle approach. Use the right shingle removal tool, such as a shingle pry bar or shingle scraper, to lift and remove shingles without exerting too much force. This technique not only preserves the integrity of the materials but also saves your roof from being damaged.
4. Removing Too Many Shingles At Once
Removing too many shingles at once might seem like a time saving strategy, but it often leads to excessive shingle wear and tear and increased difficulty in managing the debris. Pace yourself and focus on one section at a time.
5. Neglecting To Check For Nails
Neglecting to check for nails is a common mistake that can cause injuries and damage to your roof. After all the shingles have been removed and before moving on to the next phase, new shingles installation, thoroughly check for any stray nails. Use a magnet to ensure no nails are left behind.
The Correct Way Of Removing Roof Shingles
To avoid these mistakes, follow these tips for a seamless shingle removal:
1. Conduct A Thorough Roof Inspection
Before diving into the shingle removal process, conduct a thorough inspection of your roof. Identify damaged or worn out shingles. Pay close attention to areas with leaks or visible signs of wear. This step is crucial because it will help you determine the materials and tools you’ll need for the removal process.
2. Safety Should Be Your Utmost Priority
Safety should be your first priority before starting and during any roofing project. Start by wearing the required safety gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a hard hat. Additionally, use a secure, stable ladder and make sure it’s placed on a flat and sturdy surface. These precautionary steps protect you from injuries and potential accidents.
3. Gather The Right Tools
Before starting to remove shingles, equip yourself with a shingle pry bar, a roofing shovel, and a hammer. These tools are designed to remove shingles effectively, ensuring a smooth and damage free process. Investing in quality tools not only enhances your efficiency but also reflects your skill level.
4. Start At The Ridge
Begin the shingle removal process at the ridge of the roof. This strategic starting point allows you to work from the top down, preventing damage to the underlying structure. Use your shingle pry bar to lift the shingles, starting with the ridge cap gently. Moreover, work systematically by moving from one section to the next, and avoid applying excessive force to prevent unnecessary damage.
5. Dispose of Debris
As you continue removing shingles, it’s crucial to dispose of debris promptly. A clutter free workspace not only improves safety but also helps you remove the remaining shingles effectively. Have a designated debris disposal area, and use a roofing shovel to collect and remove old shingles.
6. Inspect Your Roof For Any Damage
Look for water damage, rot, or weakened areas. Addressing these issues during the shingle removal process helps you identify the hidden issues before installing the new roof shingles. Remove and replace any damaged roofing materials, such as underlayment, after the old shingles are disposed of.
How Much Does DIY Shingle Removal Cost?
If you are thinking of removing shingles yourself, you can expect to save around $1,000. All you have to pay is for the shingle removal tools, such as a pry bar, shingle scraper, ropes, hammer, and safety gear. On the other hand, if you are going for a professional shingle removal, the cost of this will depend on the size of your roof, the type of shingles you have installed, labor rates where you live, and the style of the roof. So, before choosing one or the other, get multiple quotes from local roofers and then select according to your budget and skill set.
Where To Dispose Of Shingles After Removing Them
After the shingles are removed, it is crucial to dispose of them properly.
1. Rent A Dumpster
Renting a dumpster is a popular and convenient option for shingle disposal after removal. Many waste management companies offer roll off dumpsters suitable for construction debris, including shingles. This method allows you to efficiently dispose of the removed materials without the need for multiple trips to a disposal site.
2. Haul Old Shingles To The Local Landfill
If you prefer a hands on approach, you can transport the removed shingles to a local landfill. However, before heading to the landfill, it’s essential to check for the local area regulations and guidelines for disposing of roofing materials. Some landfills have specific areas designated for construction debris.
3. Recycling Centers
Opting for a recycling center in Tulsa is an environmentally friendly choice. Asphalt shingles, in particular, can often be recycled. If you aren’t sure what type of shingles you have, a local roofing contractor might be able to identify them and whether or not they are recyclable. Check with local recycling facilities to inquire about their policies and whether they accept roofing materials.
Shingle recycling programs aim to keep shingles out of landfills, and reuse them for various applications, such as road construction or manufacturing new shingles.
4. Check with Roofing Contractors
Reach out to local roofing contractors to inquire about their disposal services. Some contractors may offer shingle disposal as part of their services or provide recommendations for reputable disposal options in the area.
The Best Asphalt Shingle Brands For Tulsa Homeowners
If you are looking to install new shingles after your DIY shingle removal, consider these top brands:
1. CertainTeed
CertainTeed roofing shingles, particularly the Landmark® series, have gained recognition for their quality and durability. Homeowners and roofing professionals appreciate the top tier reputation of CertainTeed shingles, making them a reliable choice for residential roofing projects. The Landmark® Pro shingles are known for their exceptional performance and are often recommended for their longevity and aesthetic appeal.
2. GAF
GAF asphalt shingles are an excellent choice for Tulsa homeowners seeking durable, weather-resistant roofing solutions. Known for their efficiency and cost effectiveness, GAF shingles come with impressive warranties, providing homeowners with peace of mind.
GAF is America’s largest roofing manufacturer, and their products are highly regarded. With a range of options, from affordable 3-tab strip shingles to upscale and specialty choices, GAF provides solutions for every price range. Considered one of the top roofing materials, GAF Timberline HDZ® shingles come with both durability and aesthetic appeal, making them a preferred option for Tulsa homeowners.
3. Owens Corning
Owens Corning shingles are a popular choice for Tulsa homeowners, and are known for both their aesthetic appeal and durability. Homeowners have reported positive experiences with Owens Corning Duration® shingles, and highlight how they improve curb appeal. For Tulsa homeowners considering roof colors, Owens Corning provides a range of options to complement diverse architectural styles, contributing to the popularity of these shingles in the region.
4. Tamko
Tamko is a well established manufacturer with over 75 years of experience in crafting residential roofing shingles. Their product, the Heritage® shingle, is a highly preferred option and is known for being cost effective. The Titan XT®, an architectural shingle, offers protection against winds up to 100 mph and comes with a 10-year limited lifetime warranty.
Turn To A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing In Tulsa For Your Shingle Removal
If you aren’t confident about removing shingles yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to avoid damaging your roof. Expert roofers at A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing know how to complete the job safely and efficiently. Our team is well versed in shingle removals and is committed to helping homeowners with any roofing need. Whether it is roof inspection, new shingle roof installation, or a complete roof replacement, we are the go to roofing company for Tulsa home and business owners. So, what is this you are waiting for? Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 and talk to our roofing experts!
