Using Roofing Felt For Garden Path

There are some unique and artistic garden paths made from roof shingles on pinterest that you might want to take a look at for inspiration.

Using roofing felt for garden path.

Also known as tar paper roofing felt originated in finland in the 1870 s as a waterproofing underlayment for roofs. Tar paper will prevent weeds from growing by blocking any sunlight from reaching them. Since it is designed to be a water barrier for roofing it will also tend to cause water to pool. Later asphalt was used in the manufacture of roofing felt.

Before applying roofing you ll need to cover the sheathing with roofing felt also often called tar paper most local codes call for using 30 pound felt. Around here when someone tears off a roof they are recycled into roadway material or as in my case have a second round of life as an underlayment for pathways in the garden. While you re out back you can cover a garden path with shingles. Remove old felt from the roof with your hands and a putty knife.

As was pointed out people use roof rain off as a water source for gardens or even into rain garden areas the plants thrive. Never use runoff in overhead irrigation. To be safe do not use it around food producing plants like vegetable gardens or fruit orchards. For pieces that aren t coming loose press a putty knife underneath it.

Using roof runoff on vegetables if you decide to use roof runoff on your vegetable garden there are a few things you can do to make the practice safer. Some roofers prefer to attach felt underlayment with 1 inch roofing nails or special nails with plastic washers but most codes allow staples which are easier to drive. If the shingles are unsightly add some homemade stepping stones to the path. Pull out nails that are holding felt to the roof using the sharp end of a claw.

Apply pressure and chisel away at it until it comes loose. First paper was impregnated with coal tar. Tar paper does not pose any environmental concerns when used for its intended purpose under shingles on a roof. To be safe do not use it around food producing plants like vegetable gardens or fruit orchards.

Today glass fiber or polyester fabric may be used instead of paper. Grab loose pieces of felt and pull them off the roof with your hands. Ideal for an apex flat or pent roof shed felt and roofing membrane are durable and perfect for a newly built structure or to re cover existing roofing material. Roofing felt is essential to ensure your outbuilding is ready for all weathers by providing a waterproof cover to the building s roof.