At the ridge, many builders install ridge shingles on the roof ends with a ridge vent between them. An alternative is to install the ridge vent across the entire roof, even though the ends of the vent (located over the gable — end overhangs) are not functional. Some ridge vents do not require a cap of roof shingles, but others do. No matter which type of ridge vent von use, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding its installation (see the photo at left).
Ridge shingles arc easy to make—simply cut regular three-tab shingles into three pieces, as shown in the top left photo on the facing page. Lay the shingle upside-down on a piece of plywood and cut it with a utility knife. Start at the top of a slot and angle inward slightly in both directions toward the top of the shingle, cutting out a small triangle of waste. These shingles cover the ridge at both ends of the
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roof and arc overlapped to show a 5-in. reveal, just like regular shingles. The angled portion of each ridge shingle is covered by the exposed part of the next shingle.
To ensure that both the ridge shingles and the ridge vent are installed straight, I like to snap a blue chalkline about 5 n. to 6 in. down one side of the ridge. N’o one but the eagles I may see this, but it only takes a couple of minutes to do it right, and it’s important to
develop good habits. Fasten the ridge shingles securely with l/:-in. roofing nails. Some ridge vents must also be installed with long nails. Cover exposed nail heads with a good-size dab of roofing tar.
Nice work! This peak experience gives the house its most important protection from the elements. When a roof is installed properly, you don’t have to worry about it for a long time.
With some people using nailers and other volunteers hammering, the panels go down quickly. . .
After lunch, we shift from sheathing to shingling. . .
The scent of cut wood is replaced by the smell of asphalt; pretty soon, we’re hoisting shingles onto the roof.
