Installing synthetic shake roofing to manufacturer specifications involves careful attention to detail, starting with ensuring the roof deck is clean, dry, and properly prepared with an appropriate underlayment, usually a high-quality synthetic or felt material designed for moisture protection. Begin laying the synthetic shakes at the bottom edge of the roof, working your way up in rows, overlapping each course per the manufacturer’s recommended exposure length to allow for proper water shedding. Use corrosion-resistant nails, typically stainless steel or coated, and follow the specified nail placement exactly to prevent blow-offs and wind damage. Maintaining straight lines is critical, so it’s important to snap chalk lines before installation to keep the shakes aligned. Additionally, installers must follow manufacturer guidelines about starter courses, ridge caps, and flashing to ensure the entire system works as intended.
For a safe DIY check, examine the installed area for consistent nail patterns and proper overlap, and verify that the shakes lie flat without curling or lifting. Any visible gaps or crooked placement can indicate installation issues needing correction. However, because synthetic shake roofing involves specific materials designed to interact with ventilation and accommodate thermal expansion, it’s best to call a professional if you’re uncertain about following headlap exposures or fastening techniques, which can void warranties if done incorrectly. When consulting a roofer, ask, “How do you ensure each row’s exposure matches the manufacturer’s requirements?” and “What steps do you take to prevent damage during installation while maintaining warranty coverage?” These questions help ensure adherence to specs and long-term performance.