When starting a new roof, what would you do first?

When starting a new roof, what would you do first?

• A. Check for nailing
• B. Inspect the existing roof
• C. Remove old roofing
• D. Consult a supervisor

Answer: (A)

When starting a new roof, the first step is to check for nailing to know exactly where fasteners from the old roof are and how they’ll affect attaching the new material. This helps you plan a proper nail pattern for the new roofing and prevents issues like striking a hidden nail, nail pops, or compromising the deck. If you locate nails that are loose, misplaced, or protruding, you address those conditions before proceeding with installation, ensuring a solid, safe base. Once the nail plan and bottom surface are verified, you can move on to other tasks such as assessing the roof deck and deciding whether removal or repair of old layers is required. Consulting a supervisor isn’t typically needed for a straightforward start, and simply inspecting or removing old roofing aren’t the first actions you take.

When starting a new roof, the first step is to check for nailing to know exactly where fasteners from the old roof are and how they’ll affect attaching the new material. This helps you plan a proper nail pattern for the new roofing and prevents issues like striking a hidden nail, nail pops, or compromising the deck. If you locate nails that are loose, misplaced, or protruding, you address those conditions before proceeding with installation, ensuring a solid, safe base. Once the nail plan and bottom surface are verified, you can move on to other tasks such as assessing the roof deck and deciding whether removal or repair of old layers is required. Consulting a supervisor isn’t typically needed for a straightforward start, and simply inspecting or removing old roofing aren’t the first actions you take.