Some of the brands we use
If your roof is less than 15 years old and it is obvious where the leak is coming from, minor repairs will probably solve the problem. If the shingles on your home were installed 15 to 20 or more years ago, carefully inspect the condition of your roof, because the likelihood of reroofing increases with the age of the roofing materials. Note: Keep in mind that a relatively new roof might have major issues and may need to be replaced due to poor installation.
Damaged or missing shingles indicate a worn-out roof. When shingles start to curl or crack, they cannot protect your roof properly. Look for shingles with major granule loss, also look for granules on your gutters and downspouts. Typically, a shingle or composition roof lasts anywhere from 20 to 25yrs depending on several factors, such as climate, weather conditions, surroundings, maintenance, etc.
There are a number of factors that combined determine the cost of a new roof. These factors include the roof size, the roofing material being installed, the roof slope or pitch, the number of layers of old roofing to be removed, other roofing components being installed and the roof access.
Because of the comparatively low initial cost and ease of application, asphalt shingles (also knows as composition shingles) are by far the most common roofing material used on recently constructed or reroofed homes in the United States.
Because of the characteristic flammability of wood, some communities now restrict or ban the installation of wood roofing shingles and shakes. Homeowner insurance rates for wood roofs are higher and insurance might not be available for a home with a wood roof. That is why many shake roofs have been replaced with asphalt shingles or other types or roofing materials.
Adding additional layers does not make a new roof any more waterproof, on the contrary, it often creates its own problems. The reason some homeowners choose to do it is to save time and money. By keeping the old shingles on, they skip the messy and labor-intensive tear-off step and they will save some money on the roof project.
Some of the top shingle manufacturers in the United States are Malarkey Roofing, IKO, CertainTeed, Owens Corning, GAF and Pabco Roofing Products. They all offer great products and have been producing shingles for many years. Some brands are more common in certain areas of the country. Some roofing contractors have certifications with certain shingle manufacturers and can offer extended warranties, that is why the recommend specific shingles. Just like cars or other consumer products, all shingles have pros and cons.
If you live in a development where all the houses were built within a year or so of each other and quite a few of your neighbors have been reroofing their homes, it is likely that your roof is ready for replacement. Salespeople for roofing contractors will often work an entire neighborhood, convincing potential customers that every roof in the area is worn out. You should look for signs that your roof is in bad shape and not make a decision based on your neighbors replacing their roofs.
Attic ventilation is important to keep the air flowing through your attic, rather than simply letting it sit. Ventilation essentially helps outside air pass through and out of your attic, removing excess heat and moisture from the air of your attic as it does so. Air is taken in through areas like your soffits and eaves through, and is exhausted through the roof at your ridge cap or by a roof vent. This helps create the right air balance in your attic, which plays an important role in keeping your home comfortable and extending the life of your roof.
Choose a color that pairs well with the color of your house. Shingles can create contrast with your siding materials, or they can blend in with the other design features of your home. If you want to go the traditional route, stick with gray, brown, or black shingles. For a contrasting pop of color, opt for the reddish-orange shades or lighter tan colors. You can also choose to incorporate a mix of colors, like gray and black or tan and brown shingles for a staggered effect.