How To Install Tar Paper On A Roof

Roofing felt prevents the deck from being exposed to the elements before or while the shingles are being applied.

How to install tar paper on a roof.

Lay the first course of tar paper lengthwise on the roof so one edge is covering the drip edge nailed to the roof. Place a final piece of tar paper over the top of the roof attaching it so it overlaps the tar paper on both sides of the roof. Before applying roofing you ll need to cover the sheathing with roofing felt also often called tar paper most local codes call for using 30 pound felt. Whether you re building a new house or putting a new roof on your existing house installing tar paper first helps waterproof the roof and prevent leaks.

Unroll the paper on the roof and cut it to the correct length with a utility knife. Staple it to the plywood with a staple gun placing the staples at 6 to 8 inch intervals along the edges and in the middle of the paper. It improves look and uniformity because your roof deck might not lie perfectly straight or flat a layer of roof paper gives an even uniform surface upon which you can install your shingles.