Energy Efficient Roofing Upgrade: Part 1

This is part one of a three part video series on upgrading your roof to energy efficient composite slate shingles. The shingles used in the video are part of DaVinci Roofscapes‘ sustainable roofing product line and are 100 percent recyclable. Many of their roofing products are available with a limited 50 year warranty. In this video, Mark discusses and demonstrates the steps involved in removing the existing shingles from your home’s roof.

Preparing Your Roof for Energy Efficient Shingles

Working on a roof can be very dangerous, and the chances of an accident occurring are multiplied if you aren’t used to working above the ground or on sloped surfaces. When working on a roof, always make sure your ladder is properly secured and you have all the safety equipment as specified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and your local building department. Information about roof safety is available on OSHA’s website. If you have concerns about your ability to work on a roof safely, it may be wise to hire a roofing contractor.

Mark shows his technique in removing old three tab shingles using these tools:

-A circular saw with a framing blade
-Red-Ripper shingle removal tools
-A truck for trash

The blade on the saw must be adjusted so it only cuts to the depth of the shingles. Don’t forget to wear safety glasses when cutting, to protect yourself from flying shingle pieces and roofing nails. Ear protection is also a good idea. A floor scraper or a shovel with a flat blade can be substituted for the shingle removal tools he uses; just place the front edge under the shingle overlaps and push toward the top of the shingle. Mark works from the high point of the roof down to the eaves, which can make the project a little easier, but as you work down the roof always be aware of exactly where you are located with respect to the edge of the roof.

Click here to watch the next video in this series.