Shingles on the roof make one's home look like a picture postcard. It isn't a big surprise that shingles have retained their popularity as the ideal roofing material for most homeowners over the years.

Choosing one's shingle is the easiest part of the deal. There are a thousand other things that need to be kept in mind if the owner is planning on installing his shingles himself.

It is always best to get some expert professional advise before installation, but most average American home owners prefer to do the work themselves. It is important to realize that working alone on the roof can in some cases prove to be a rather dangerous proposition and it is advisable to get a helping hand. A proper ladder should be used and, if it is metal, it should be kept at a safe distance from electrical wires and other similar items that might be on the roof. Working in cold and wet weather should be strictly avoided and the installer should always wear rubber-soled shoes. Reliable roof brackets should be used for proper support.

If re-roofing is required, it should be done with an eye for detail. Sufficient roofing felt should be used if the roof has to be renovated completely. If the owner is trying to place fresh shingles over three layers of already-existing roof, the three layers should be totally removed to make room for the new shingles. If it is a matter of removing damaged shingles, it should be skillfully done either with a sharp knife or a pry bar. While new felting is done, feather clips may be used for a smooth look. A drip cap may also be placed on the low edge of the roof when re-roofing.

While making one's choice of shingles, a number of factors have to be considered. The installer should spare a thought for the slope of his roof (the nature of the slope), the weather conditions that his home is usually exposed to, his budget, his choice of color, and the design he wants. Available warranties should be carefully evaluated and it should be found out whether the chosen shingles match the market standards or not.

The shingles should be carefully cut and molded according to the requirements of the roof. User manuals should be followed in case of any difficulty. Laying shingles in roof valleys, roof vents, and chimneys can prove to be a tricky business sometimes. The shingles should be properly measured and placed.

Installing shingles maybe backbreaking work for some, but at the end of it all, it gives immense satisfaction to the homeowner and makes him aware of his physical contribution in making his home picture perfect.