Asphalt Shingle Roofing

We remove all existing shingles down to the roof deck, allowing thorough inspection of the underlying structure for rot, delamination, or compromised fasteners. Any damaged decking is replaced with code-grade plywood or OSB before any waterproofing layer goes down — a step that's often skipped in re-cover work but never by our crews.

Ice and water shield (self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen membrane) is applied at all eaves, valleys, and penetration zones — the first line of defense against ice dams in DC Metro and Ohio, and wind-driven rain intrusion in Atlanta. Premium synthetic underlayment covers the remaining field, replacing legacy felt for better tear resistance and moisture management.

D-style metal drip edge is installed along all eaves before underlayment and along all rakes after underlayment — the correct sequencing per IRC R905.2.8.1. All penetrations (chimneys, pipe boots, skylights, dormers) receive step flashing or one-piece flashing properly sealed against water intrusion. Old lead pipe boots are replaced with EPDM boots as standard.

Purpose-made starter strip shingles (not cut-down field shingles) are installed along the eaves and rakes. The factory-applied adhesive strip on starter shingles seals the first course of field shingles against wind uplift — critical for achieving the manufacturer's full wind warranty.

Shingles are installed per manufacturer nailing patterns — typically four to six nails per shingle depending on wind zone, positioned within the nailing zone, not above it. Courses are staggered to the manufacturer's offset specification, and bundles are staged across the roof to avoid concentrated loads. Thousands of squares of GAF Timberline shingles installed across our service regions means our crews know every product's quirks.

A continuous ridge vent is cut and installed at the peak, allowing hot, moist attic air to exhaust passively. Hip and ridge cap shingles — matching the field product — are hand-nailed over the vent for a finished, weather-tight seal. Proper attic ventilation is required by IRC R806 and protects shingle adhesive strips from heat degradation.

We conduct a thorough inspection — checking alignment, nail exposure, flashing seals, and ridge integrity — before releasing the project. The property is swept with rolling magnetic sweepers to remove all roofing nails and staples from lawns, driveways, and landscaping. We photograph completed work for insurance documentation and warranty registration.