Lay pitched roof shingles.

A professionally installed shingle roof provides a durable barrier against the British elements while placing less structural strain on the building's timber frame. Whether you are replacing an old felt roof or finishing a new build, understanding the process and costs ensures a high-quality, long-lasting finish.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Site Access and Safety: Installation of scaffolding or edge protection to comply with UK Health and Safety regulations.
• Stripping Back: Removal of existing roofing materials and inspection of the underlying timber deck for rot or damage.
• Deck Preparation: Ensuring the roof deck is dry, level, and securely fixed before laying a breathable waterproof underlay.
• Starter Course: Installing a specialized starter strip at the eaves to prevent wind uplift and water ingress.
• Shingle Application: Laying shingles in an overlapping pattern, secured with galvanised clout nails or heavy-duty staples.
• Detailing: Fitting lead or zinc flashings around chimneys, valleys, and abutments to ensure a watertight seal.
• Ridge and Hip Caps: Installing specialized capping shingles along the peaks of the roof to finish the aesthetic and protect the highest points.

Typical Costs

Total costs are primarily driven by the choice of material—cedar is significantly more expensive than bitumen—and the complexity of the roof's geometry. Scaffolding is a mandatory safety cost for most professional installs, and you should always check if the quote includes the removal of old materials.

How Long Does It Take?

• Garden Room or Large Shed: 1 day.
• Standard Single Garage: 1–2 days.
• Residential Extension: 2–4 days.
• Full Reroof (Semi-detached): 5–8 days (weather permitting).

DIY or Professional?

While bitumen shingles are more DIY-friendly than slate, roofing remains high-risk work. Working at height requires specialist safety equipment that often negates the savings made by doing it yourself. Furthermore, professional installation ensures the roof meets Part L Building Regulations regarding insulation and thermal efficiency.

Professional installation is highly recommended for residential dwellings to ensure the manufacturer's warranty remains valid and the structure remains fully insurable.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Check Memberships: Look for roofers registered with the NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) or the CompetentRoofer scheme.
• Insurance: Ensure they hold valid Public Liability Insurance (minimum £2 million) and Employer's Liability Insurance.
• References: Ask for photos of previous shingle installations, as the technique differs from standard tiling.
• Red Flags: Be wary of tradespeople who demand full payment upfront or refuse to provide a written contract.

Questions to ask:

• Are you registered with a Competent Person Scheme to self-certify the work for Building Regulations?
• Does your quote include the cost of scaffolding and waste disposal?
• What weight of shingle do you recommend for the local wind conditions?

UK Regulations

• Building Regulations: If you are replacing more than 25% of a roof, you must notify Building Control to ensure insulation levels are upgraded.
• BS 5534: This is the British Standard for slating and tiling (including shingles), covering fixing and wind resistance.
• Planning Permission: Usually not required for "like-for-like" replacements, but essential if you are changing the roof height or if you live in a Conservation Area.

Common Problems

• Wind Uplift: If shingles aren't nailed correctly or the adhesive strip fails to bond, high winds can rip sections off.
• Inadequate Ventilation: Poor airflow in the roof void can lead to condensation, rotting the timber deck from the inside out.
• Incorrect Pitch: Most shingles have a minimum pitch (usually 15 degrees); installing them on flatter roofs will lead to water ingress.
• Poor Flashing: Leaks often occur around chimneys or valleys where the shingle meets a vertical surface if leadwork is skipped.

Frequently Asked Questions