My house needs a new roof. I plan to remove the old wood shake roof and install plywood sheathing and asphalt shingles over the skip sheath 1x6 boards that currently support the wood shakes. Since I have experience with this type of project, I would like to do most of the work myself. I plan to hire one person to help me sheath the roof and then finish the rest of the job on my own. Does this sound like a feasible project for an enthusiastic person who enjoys a good challenge? Could you recommend some helpful books?

Yes, this sounds like a feasible project provided you are working on a slope of 4:12 or less. Be sure to do only one side at a time (or as much as you can do in a given day) so you button it up should Mother Nature surprise you.

Don't forget to check the skip sheathing for any dry rot. If you find any, replace those boards before installing any new sheathing. Before installing new composition shingles, read the manufacturer's manual and check with your local building department for any other requirements.

Two books you may find helpful are: Roof Builder's Handbook by William C. McElroy, Prentice Hall, ISBN 0137818165; and Roofing Construction & Estimating by Daniel Atcheson, Craftsman Book Company, ISBN 1572180072. These pro books can provide a lot of valuable information as you plan and work through your project.

[ Back to Top ]

C.R.S., Inc. · Spokane, Washington · USA