Hello friends , I consider myself pretty handy ,from autos to recently a bit of construction. I have built a tool shed (8ft x 10ft) and a work shop (16ft x 20ft) both constructions turned out to be quite handsome pieces of work, except for the shingles on the roof. Here is my question: In applying asphalt shingles is there some foolproof way or trick of the trade in keeping a consistent brick pattern ? Because when I am on the roof , I am centering the cut line of the shingle I am laying over one whole segment of the shingle previously laid and when I am all done, the pattern still seems to go crooked. I was thinking maybe there might be some kind of tool or technique that I need to know about. ANY help would be appreciated. :confused: :confused:

Cut half a tab off the first shingle of every other row.

In addition to Harolds recommendation you also need to snap a chalk line after a row or two. A 3' section may appear to be square and parallel to the eye but each successive shingle can magnify even the slightest error and give the crooked look you describe.

Cut half a tab off the first shingle of every other row.
THANK YOU hkstroud I never knew that ,and can't wait to try it . PS. The picture is a good visual aid thanks again hkstroud.

Do three rows at a time. Use cut off half of shingle on other end.

The light grey area in Harold's starter course should actually be cut to about half the size. What you want is the glue strip to be near the edge so wind can't lift the shingle. You can use a shingle starter strip/roll for that first course as well.

And don't forget the drip edge and ice and water shield. Ice and water shield goes up a certain distance from the inner wall. It's basically self-stick heavy tar paper which is rater impervious to water from stopped gutters and ice that forms at the edge of the roof.

There is another technique, but since I don't like it, I won't tell you about it.

Yep, the chalk line is essential.

Do three rows at a time. Use cut off half of shingle on other end.
Thanks hkstroud with your illustrations and the inputs from the other members I don't think I can mess up now .Thank a whole lot.:) :)