Asphalt roll roofing is an inexpensive roofing material commonly used for utility buildings in North America. The material is based on the same materials used in asphalt shingles; an organic felt or fiberglass mat, saturated with asphalt, and faced with granular stone aggregate.^[1] Roll roofing is usually restricted to a lightweight mat compared to shingles, as it must be rolled for shipment. Rolls are typically 36 inches (91 cm) by 33 feet (10 m) in size.^[2] Due to its light weight compared to shingles, roll roofing is regarded as an inexpensive, temporary material. Its wide width makes it vulnerable to temperature-induced tearing as it expands and contracts.

Roll roofing is normally applied parallel to the eaves from the bottom of the roof upwards, lapping each new roll in the same manner as shingles. Its use is restricted to roofs with a pitch of greater than 2:12. To avoid penetrating the exposed membrane with nails, adhesive, or "lap cement" must be used at the bottom edge to keep it from being lifted by the wind. The upper edge of the roll is naled and covered by the next roll.^[3]

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