Replacing the roof on your house is an achievable job that can be very rewarding: all you need is good information and a willingness to invest some sweat equity. BLACK+DECKER DIY Roofing gives you the information you need, from selecting and estimating roof coverings to tear-off, sheathing replacement, underlayment and water shield installation, roofing materials installation, and flashing.

While a contractor's hardworking crew can replace an average asphalt shingle roof in a day or two, it will cost several thousand dollars. And your roof covering choices are rather limited. By doing the job yourself, you can pocket the savingsor even upgrade to an entirely new type of roof, like cedar shakes, standing seam metal, or fiber cement.

With detailed step-by-step photos, you will see all of the most popular roof types installed the correct way, including:

• Asphalt shingles (three-tab and architectural)
• EPDM rubber membrane
• Metal
• Cedar shakes
• Clay and concrete tile
• Roll roofing
• Faux slate

This guide also shows you how to install other elements of your roof system, including gutters, fascia, soffits, and vents. A handy repair section helps ensure that your work keeps your home well protected for as long as possible. Plus, a special section on working safely features all the tools and practices you'll need to stay secure working at heights.