Ridge vents are solid advice, but honestly, I've seen plenty of roofs without them that held up fine—depends a lot on climate and attic insulation. Still, better safe than sorry, especially if humidity's an issue in your area.
As for hip and ridge shingles, they're always a bit tricky at first. One thing I've learned the hard way: don't rush the alignment. I remember one job where we tried to eyeball it quickly because rain was coming... ended up looking like a drunk snake had installed them. Had to redo half the ridge the next day. Now I always snap a chalk line first—takes an extra few minutes but saves hours of frustration later.
Also, if you're struggling with bending thicker shingles over hips or ridges, warming them up slightly in the sun beforehand helps a ton. Makes them more flexible and easier to handle. Just don't leave them out too long or they'll get too soft and tear easily... been there too.
I'm about to tackle this same project next weekend (wish me luck!). Quick question though—how long do you usually leave the shingles out in the sun to get them just right without turning them into mush? I definitely don't want any drunk snakes on my roof, lol. Also, did snapping the chalk line really make a noticeable difference for you? I'm tempted to eyeball it, but your story makes me think twice...
I usually give them about 15-20 mins in direct sun—any longer and they start getting floppy, trust me. And yeah, snap the chalk line. I eyeballed once and ended up with a ridge that looked like a drunk caterpillar crawling across my roof... never again.
"I eyeballed once and ended up with a ridge that looked like a drunk caterpillar crawling across my roof... never again."
Haha, been there myself—chalk lines are your friend. Also, if you're struggling with floppy shingles, try keeping them stacked in partial shade and rotating them out as you go. Keeps them flexible but not too soft.
Totally agree on the chalk lines—learned that one the hard way myself. A couple other things I've picked up over the years:
- Invest in a decent hook blade for your utility knife. Makes cutting shingles way easier and cleaner.
- Don't skimp on nails. I know it sounds obvious, but I've seen guys try to stretch them out and end up with loose shingles after a season or two.
- If you're working solo, grab yourself a cheap roofing bracket or two. Saves your knees and sanity, especially on steeper pitches.
- And yeah, shade helps, but if you're stuck in direct sun, laying shingles out flat on plywood sheets can keep them from getting too floppy.
Roofing's one of those jobs where shortcuts always come back to bite you later... learned that lesson more times than I'd like to admit.
