It’s easy to patch a small hole in a flat roof that’s covered with built-up asphalt or roll roofing. Sweep aside all gravel and dirt. With a straight edge and a utility knife, cut out and remove a rectangular section around the damaged area.
Cut a matching patch of asphalt shingle. Spread plastic roofing cement inside the cutout area. Lap the cement up over the edges. Secure the patch with galvanized roofing nails spaced every two inches.
Cut a second patch that overlaps the first one by two inches. Spread roofing cement three inches beyond the first patch’s perimeter. Nail the second patch in place, and cover it with roofing cement. Spread more cement beyond the patch’s edge. Sweep gravel back in place.
To remove roofing cement from your tools, use a rag soaked with paint thinner or kerosene. To remove it from your hands, you can use salad oil, which works more slowly, but is gentler on your skin.

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