Tips and tricks for application of roof shingles during hot weather

Summer is the ideal time to install a new shingles roof! Asphalt roof shingles have been used successfully in various climatic zones around the world for many decades, including desert and tropical regions. In the last few years, Europe is also dealing with tropical and hot weather during the summer. In order to guarantee you improved application efficiency and, more importantly, an enhanced long-term shingle performance, we list some hot weather application recommendations:

1. Storage of roof shingles
Although asphalt roof shingles are designed to withstand direct exposure to the hot summer sun once installed, it is best to not store the products in direct sunlight. Roof shingles have a release film to prevent the shingles from sticking to each other in the package. Exposed to direct sun the sealant will become more aggressive and the shingles can be more difficult to separate out of the bundle. Always follow the precautions and rules (mentioned on the packaging) about stacking bundles or pallets, or stacking bundles too high. Double-stacking pallets can indent and deform the shingles over time, particularly in warm weather.


2. Proper footwear for your safety
Of course, roofers must always be careful when working on pitched (sloped) roofs. But when working in hot weather conditions, the asphalt coating on the roof shingles may become slightly soft, which can cause foot slippage. Make sure you wear proper footwear to minimize foot slippage possibilities and ensure roof safety by following all required safety precautions, which may include use of fall protection devices.


3. Have a piece of sponge from an old sofa
It is always good to have a square piece of sponge or yellow foam (e.g. 1mx1m/10cm thick) in your working truck. This sponge prevents that you slide down on steep roofs and avoids burning from roof shingles during the application. The sponge can be used to sit or knee down on when working.


4. Wind-seal dots side up
Prior to their installation, roof shingle bundles will likely be lying in the sun for some time. When you remove shingles from a warm bundle, always spread these shingles on the roof with self-sealing dots side up. This way you make sure these shingles will not stick on the existing roof or on already installed new roof shingles. It is good to do the same thing with any scrap of roof shingle or left over.