Residential Roofing: Asphalt Shingle Installation the Right Way

When it comes to protecting your home, your roof does more than keep you dry — it’s your first defense against Georgia’s storms, wind, and blazing sun. At L&L Roofing & Construction, we believe doing it right the first time is the only way. Here's how we install asphalt shingles — the most common and trusted roofing system for homes in Gainesville and the surrounding areas.

1. Tear-Off and Prep

We don’t cut corners. Every job starts with a full tear-off of the old shingles, underlayment, and nails — not just a roof-over. Why?

• Roof-overs hide problems.

• Tear-offs allow us to inspect and replace rotted decking.

• It gives your new roof a solid foundation to last decades.

We also check for proper ventilation and moisture issues — both critical to the long-term health of your roof.

2. Decking and Underlayment

After the old materials are removed:

• We replace damaged or soft sheathing.

• Fasteners are reset or replaced.

• Then, we install a high-performance underlayment — typically a synthetic or asphalt-saturated felt — across the deck for moisture protection.

In colder areas or roof sections prone to ice dams, we install a peel-and-stick ice barrier membrane at the eaves.

3. Drip Edge and Flashing

Next, we install drip edge along eaves and rakes:

• Keeps water out of your fascia.

• Prevents wind-driven rain from getting under your shingles.

We also install or replace flashing around all penetrations — chimneys, skylights, plumbing vents — with corrosion-resistant metal.

4. Starter Strip Installation

We lay down a self-sealing starter shingle along the eaves. Why this matters:

• Prevents wind uplift on the first row.

• Seals the edge against leaks.

We never use cut three-tabs for this — it’s an outdated shortcut that doesn’t hold up.

5. Shingle Application

Here’s where craftsmanship meets code:

• We install architectural asphalt shingles from bottom to top, staggered properly.

• Each shingle is nailed with four to six nails depending on slope and wind requirements.

• We only use galvanized nails long enough to penetrate the deck.

We also ensure shingles are laid flat — especially in cold or hot weather where handling flexibility changes.

6. Ventilation and Ridge Cap Finish

A well-vented roof performs better and lasts longer:

• We install ridge vents or other ventilation as needed.

• Then we finish with pre-cut ridge cap shingles, sealing the peak and providing a clean look.

7. Clean-Up and Final Walkthrough

We treat your home with respect:

• Magnetic sweep to remove nails.

• Gutter and yard cleanup.

• Final inspection with the homeowner.

Why Homeowners Choose L&L Roofing in Gainesville

• Local and Faith-Driven: Owned by Luke Heaps, our values are honesty, quality, and doing the right thing.

• No Sales Pressure: Just the truth and our best advice.

• Solid Workmanship: Our reviews prove it — we don’t leave jobs half-done.

FAQ: Asphalt Shingle Installation in Gainesville

How long does an asphalt shingle roof take to install?
Most residential roofs are completed in 1-2 days, weather permitting.

Do you offer manufacturer warranties?
Yes. We install shingles per the manufacturer’s guidelines, so you get full warranty coverage.

What’s the best time of year to replace my roof?
Spring and fall are ideal, but we install year-round using proper weather practices.

Have questions? Ready for an inspection? Give us a call at (770) 874-0372.