Asphalt shingles are an effective roof material for sloped roofs that can be used on slopes as low as 2:12. Concerning shingle application, roof slopes from 2:12 to 6:12 are called “low slope” roofs, while roof slopes of 6:12 or greater are considered to be standard slopes. Asphalt shingles should never be applied to roof slopes below 2:12, this is lower than the minimum slope of a metal roof so ensure to check the different minimums for each roofing material.
When installing asphalt shingles on a low slope roof, after the manufacturer’s application instruction has been completed, an extra underlayment with a specific method for application is required. As it is a lower slope, these styled roofs tend to allow more water to enter, primarily because of severe ice dams and harsh rain. The need for underlayment help to enhance the water-shedding element of the roof system.