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Top 10 Benefits to an Asphalt Roof

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In North America asphalt shingles are the top rated choice for a number of reasons that include, their versatility, weather resistance, and so much more. If you are thinking it may be time to replace your old roof, exploring the benefits to asphalt shingles is a good start. Remember your roof is the most important part of your home, it protects you and your family from all elements, so you want the best options available. Roofing materials are only as good as the roofing contractors laying them down, be sure to find the best roofing company in your area with positive reviews to ensure the job is done right the first time.

Versatility

The options are endless when you are looking for a certain color or shape of shingles. Asphalt shingles work with almost every type of roof no matter how large or complicated you think your roof is, these shingles will cover it seamlessly.  

Variety & Design

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of architectural shingle styles. Traditional 3 tab shingles work with many different home styles, dimensional and premium shingles are also available. Some architectural shingles are made to mimic the look of different roofing materials such as cedar shakes, wood or slate. Certain roofing materials like slate are beautiful but hard to work with and very expensive. The use of an architectural shingle that resembles natural slate gives you the advantage of your desired style but not the drawbacks that come with it.

For example, Owens Corning Berkshire shingles are laminated with a unique shadow line behind each tab to add dimension and mimic the look of slate. These shingles give a timeless and elegant look, resembling slate tabs and top of the line protection for your roof

Range of Colors

Not only does asphalt shingles come in a large variety of textures and patterns but many color options as well. If you are not only looking to replace your roof but give your curb appeal an upgrade, choosing a unique color will give it a boost. Up to 40% of your roof is visible from ground level so you should think of a shingle color that will blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Architectural shingle colors come in such a variety of colors, that you can be sure they will match your dream backyard and everything in it!

Affordability

Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material and still offer high performance. Coming in at less than half the cost of wood and tile shingles, and significantly cheaper than slate and metal. The affordability of asphalt shingles goes well beyond the product and cost of installation.

Energy Efficiency

When your local roofing contractor installs your roofing system each component increases the energy efficiency of your home. Each layer including the roofs underlayment, decking, starter shingles, and outer shingles help your home to be energy efficient. Certain colors will reflect higher amounts of the suns UV rays which reduces the temperature on your roofs surface. In city areas the vast majority of roofs are covered in ‘Cool’ shingles, decreasing the overall temperature on hot days. This process will keep homes and buildings cooler so less energy is used to cool down the inside. Owens corning Cool Roof Collection are designed to reflect the suns energy and absorb less heat, without limiting style or color options.

Class A Fire Rating

Asphalt shingles can withstand a fire burning through a wooden structure for up to 2 hours, making them the most fire resistant roofing material.

The Best Fireproof Roof Materials for Your Home - All Climate

Algae Resistance

You may not know this but algae is an issue in the roofing industry. Wood allows this type of growth on your roof that looks like black stains across the shingles, if this is a concern many companies offer shingles resistant to algae growth. Owens Corning created a stain guard plus shingle technology specially engineered to release copper over time to fight algae.

How to Clean Algae and Moss Off Asphalt Shingles
Algae Stains

Installation Process

Out of all roofing materials asphalt shingles are the easiest to install. Each roofing contractor may not perform the same job but typically it is much easier to install asphalt shingles, compared to slate or metal. Be sure to do your research and find the best roofing company in your area to be sure the job is done properly.

Weight & Proportions

When you are thinking about replacing your roof there are certain aspects of your home you need to consider. If you have your heart set on a metal roof or slate roof you need to be sure that your home can structurally handle its weight. Fortunately shingles are not so heavy that this becomes a problem.

Ease of Repair

Although we don’t like to think about having to repair a new roof that you just had done, sometimes life happens and down the road you might need a repair. With certain roofing materials such as metal or tile, you might struggle to find a local roofing contractor capable to properly perform the repair. These roofing materials are more difficult to remove in order to get to the problem.  

The Pros and Cons of Different Roofing Materials

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Whether your current roof is in rough shape or you are interested in an upgrade, an important part of the replacement process is determining which material to go with. There are many different roofing materials to choose from, but step one is to find the best roofing company in your area. A qualified roofing contractor will help you find the best roofing material for your home and provide an estimate. Before meeting with your local contractor it is best to do your own research so you know which questions to ask. If you are curious about the pros and cons of each roofing material, this will be a great guide for you!

Shingles

Shingled roofs are the most common roofing material on the market in North America, covering about 85% of homes. Shingles are usually made of asphalt but there are other options you can choose from. Architectural shingles are the go-to for shingle roofs because they are much thicker with an appealing textured appearance.

Pros

Shingles are the most affordable roofing material option that is available and the installation process is not complicated. Very little maintenance is required throughout the life of your shingled roof and its lifespan is around 25 years. There is variety of shingle types, colors, and patterns to choose from to make your home stylish.

Cons

Shingle roofs have the shortest life expectancy from about 20-35 years, this may not be as appealing to you as other materials that can last upwards of 70 plus years. Shingles can also only be installed during certain seasons, if you live in the New England area winters are a factor. The freezing temperatures and lack of sun will hinder the process of the roof installation.

If you are having your roof replaced in the winter season because of major issues, freezing temperatures can easily damage shingles and cause sealing problems. The cold makes shingles more susceptible to lifting and cracking. Although it is possible to have your roof replaced in the winter months it is always best to wait until temperatures are more favorable. Looking for the best roofing company in your area to make sure the job is done correctly, especially during the winter season is important.

Metal

Unlike shingles, metal roofs have a life expectancy of about 40-70 years. Metal is a fantastic choice if you are looking for a long term solution for your homes roof. You can easily identify metal roofs by their sleek, large interlocking panels. Metal is the most expensive option so be sure to seek out the best roofing company in your area to do the job.  

Pros

The most obvious appealing quality a metal roof possess is its long term life expectancy. If you are looking for a roof that will last as long as you own the house or even out-live you, metal is your best bet. Metal roofs do not absorb as much heat as a shingled roofs which makes them much more energy efficient. You can save up to 40% on your energy bills during the summer months by switching to a metal roof.

This type of roofing system is made up of 25-90% of recycled materials, making metal roofs the most environmentally friendly option. There are a wide range of styles and colors to choose from, so you don’t have to sacrifice the appearance and style of your home.  Fire resistance is another great feature that a metal roof offers, they won’t ignite if a fire breaks out or a lightning strike occurs. Metal is very durable in all types of weather conditions, including heavy snow and salt water areas.

Cons

The cost of a metal roof is more expensive than the other options and its installation is more complicated. Metal roofs require specialized tools and extensive knowledge to install, consulting with a qualified roofing contractor that excels in metal is important. Noise can be an unattractive feature especially during heavy rain or hail storms. Adding more insulation during the installation process can help. The materials used in metal roofs tend to contract and expand, if they are not installed properly the panels can loosen.

Slate

If you are looking for a roofing system that offers a “lifetime” of superior durability and a distinctive touch of timeless beauty, then you should consider slate. Slate shingles are made from natural stone and are commonly used on sloped roofs. This roofing material has been around for hundreds of years and is the most durable. The life expectancy of a slate roof is between 70-200+ years!

Pros

The longest life expectancy of any roofing material is slate, some reports even show roofs lasting as long as 200-300 years. As long as the stone is good quality it will last many lifetimes. Slate is high in density which makes it fully waterproof. This material is also resistant to any temperature fluctuations or inclement weather conditions, making this material ideal for areas with heavy rain or snow falls.

Another benefit to a slate roof is its properties that make it mold and fungus resistant, meaning little to no maintenance for you. The installation of a slate roof on a house greatly increases its value, and resale potential. The longevity of this material makes this the most environmentally friendly roofing system.

Cons

Because slate is formed naturally there can be variations in the rock which affect its quality. If the iron content is too high then the rock can shale, splitting into many tiny pieces. Slate is also very heavy, which is great as a roofing material but difficult to install. This is the most complicated material to install, requires special equipment and extensive knowledge to only be completed by a qualified roofing contractor. It is imperative to find the best roofing company in your area that has experience in dealing with other material besides shingles.

Wood Shakes/Cedar

A wooden or cedar roof is made up of overlapping wooden tiles, not known for its extensive longevity but a certain look that people are going for. Wood may not last as long as asphalt shingles, metal or slate but it does offer a variety of attractive qualities.  

Pros

Cedar roofs have a very high resistance to wind, temperature variations, and are eco-friendly. Their energy efficiency provides two times the amount of insulation compared to asphalt shingles. Although cedar tiles are not as long-lasting as the other materials, they still hold a lifespan between 30-40 years. Most people who install wood roofs choose them because of their aesthetic appearance.

Cons

This roofing material is not the cheapest to install, and it must be specially treated with a fire retardant. Wood is extremely flammable and some neighborhoods no longer allow cedar shingles as a fire prevention measure. Cedar shingle roofs also require more maintenance than asphalt shingle roofs.

Rubber

Synthetic rubber, well known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a durable roofing material used on commercial buildings. If you wanted to install EPDM on your home, it would have to meet certain requirements to be install properly. This material is very durable, cost effective, and requires little maintenance.

Pros

Rubber roofs are less susceptible to leaks compared to other roofing materials, and have little maintenance because they are waterproof. If a leak does occur it is fairly simple and cheap to fix. EPDM is recycled after its lifespan making is an environmentally friendly roofing material. It is also very durable and can withstand high winds, ice, snow, and hail, along with the suns UV rays.

Cons

The biggest drawback of a rubber roofing system is the installation obstacles and inexperienced roofing contractors. Where HVAC units, chimneys, and other roofing features meet, become culprit too future leaks if not done correctly. When Considering EPDM for a large commercial unit or home it is important to find the best roofing company in your area that is welled experienced in this roofing material.

What is Safe to Attach to a Shingle Roof?

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From satellite dishes to security cameras there are many home accessories that you may want to attach to the roof of your home. It is always a good idea to consult with your local roofing contractors before nailing anything into your roof. You can increase the risk of roof leaks if you try and attach something without professional guidance. The makers of these home accessories may not fully understand roofing materials and not warn against the attachment. We will help you better understand the do’s and don’ts of common items that you might be thinking about attaching to your roof, and also where these items should really be hung.

Can I nail into my roof?   

The whole point to a quality roofing system is designed to keep water out of your home. There are many components of a quality roofing system which include an underlayment, ice and water protection, shingles and flashing. Together all of these layers put down by your local roofing contractor, forces water into your gutters and away from your home. Driving even just a single nail into your roof can compromise the entire roofing system. That single nail will penetrate through the shingles, to the underlayment creating a hole in your roof. The next time it rains water can enter that small hole and bypass each layer laid down by your roofing contractor, and trickle down into your attic. All from just a single nail you may have yourself a small leak, and even small leaks can cause major issues for your home. 

Your certified roofing contractor uses plenty of nails while installing your new roofing system, but this is done in a specific way so that each nail is covered by the shingle above it. Each shingle needs to lay flat against your roof in order to work properly, even a nail not driven all the way through can cause problems. The nail will prop the shingle up slightly letting in more than enough water to cause a leak, if your roofing contractor adds another nail beneath the shingle it will lay flat. 

Common home accessories

Can I attach an antenna to my roof?

We always suggest that you consult your local roofing contractor to attach anything to your roof, even a small antenna. In order to properly mount an antenna to your roof without damaging it the antenna needs to be attached to the gable, the fascia, or chimney. A non penetrating mount can also be used that manipulates the use of weights rather than screws to be held in place. There are many options available to  mount your antenna that does not require being nailed or screwed into your roof. A free standing antenna in your backyard, or a bracket that attaches to another part of your roofing system is a better choice. Always check with your roofing contractor if the bracket provided is appropriate for its use and your roofing system.

Can I mount a security camera on my roof? 

Most home security cameras are not attached directly to the roof and manufacturers do not recommend it. Although most surveillance cameras are weatherproof, snow and high winds can decrease their lifespan. If your security camera was sitting on top of your roof and 5 inches of snow came, it would be buried and no help to you. Inclement weather will also distort its view or leave water droplets on the lens making its image blurry. 

Manufacturers suggest mounting your surveillance camera to the soffit of your quality roofing system. The soffit is located directly underneath the roof’s eave. Although the soffit is constructed from wood, the bottom layer is usually aluminum or vinyl which has vents to allow your attic to breathe. To properly secure the security camera to the base of the soffit it must be fastened through the vinyl/aluminum and onto the wooden truss. The vinyl or aluminum is not strong enough to hold the camera and it may fall out over time.

Can I attach flower baskets to my roof? 

While flower baskets are beautiful and add to your homes curb appeal, you should never attach flower baskets to your roof or soffit. You may see some flower baskets hanging by a chain from the soffit of a home, this is not wise unless the chain is connected to a structural component of your quality roofing system. Your roofing contractor can properly attach your baskets to the chain without causing damage. The vinyl or aluminum part of the soffit of your roof can not handle the weight that comes with hanging a flower basket. It is important to remember that each time you add water to your flowers its weight increases. Special brackets are available that are placed in different areas of your home like on porch railings, fence posts or the sides of walls that are durable like brick. 

Can I attach a pergola to my shingle roof?

You might be interested in adding a backyard structure that attaches to your roof such as a pergola, it is more complicated than you may think. Before attaching anything to your roof, always consult with your trusted local roofing contractor first. Like we explained previously, nailing into shingles can cause damage or leaks. There are other options available to you like a free standing pergola or structure that is close enough to your home, without having to drill or nail into your roof. 

Can I attach solar panels to my roof?

Solar panels can be installed to your shingle roof only by a trained roofing contractor or solar specialist. It is important to note that if you chose to install solar panels yourself and leaks were caused by its anchor points, this will not be covered by your shingle limited warranty. 

Press Releases | Atlas Roofing

Can I attach Christmas Decorations?

There is nothing more magical than driving around your neighborhood around Christmas time and seeing all the beautiful light and decorations. If you are eager to contribute to the Christmas spirit it is important to know the appropriate way to hang your decorations. We advise that you do not attempt to hang any decorations when there is ice or snow visible or wet weather conditions. It is imperative to follow safety guidelines when walking on your roof to avoid the risk of damaging the shingles. If you choose to add large decorations to your roof it is best to consult with your roofing consultant on how to do so.  Special clips are made so that no screws or nails are necessary to hang lights from your roof. 


HOW TO USE & MAINTAIN A GREEN ROOF TO SUPPORT THE ENVIRONMENT

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A green roof or “living roof” is a growing trend which offers visually stunning features that also expands your outdoor square footage. Green roofs are designed to absorb heavy rainfall, reduce flooding and also, extend the life of your roof by protecting it from all of the outside elements. The most important feature of an environmentally friendly roof is that it insulates your home by reducing the temperature inside and helping the environment!

You may choose to put a living roof on your home for environmental purposes, the first thing you will want to do is find a local roofing company and green roof supplier to help you design and install your green roof properly. There are many features to a living roof that cannot be added once it is installed for depth reasons, so it is important to fully design what you want with your local roofing company.

Some things to carefully consider while planning out your green roof are, the types of plants you’re interested in having, how much added weight from the soil and moisture will be retained, and the climate your home is in. If your home is in a climate that goes through all of the seasons then it is important to consider the added weight of snowfall on top of what you are adding to your living roof.

What are the benefits of having a green roof?

Green roofs promote environmental health and local biodiversity by combining these unique features to reduce energy from greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing native or endangered species types of plants to put on your living roof, you will also provide food for bugs and other animals along with a habitat. Another benefit to a green roof is its ability to soak up storm-water and reduce the impact on animal habitats without flooding during heavy rain. Absorption of storm-water is filtered through soil, replenishes aquifers and flows back into streams and rivers which ultimately improves water quality.

An environmentally friendly roof is not only limited to housing endangered or native plants, you can also create a home for bees! If you are interested in cultivating homegrown honey then you’re in luck, our local roofing experts say that it’s no problem to house beehives on your green roof. Always be sure that you’re checking with your local roofing company to check weight limits and not exceed structural load limits. It is also important to check out any local by laws that pertain to regulating and maintaining beehives in your area.

Farming on a living roof:

Growing not only a variety of wild plants on your living roof, but also the produce you eat is another amazing benefit to a green roof. Planning is the most important step when deciding what you want to grow and what type of support it will need. If you want to grow large and tall plants be sure to let your local roofing contractor know ahead of time so he can better help your architect or structural engineer with the design.

Costs associated with having a living roof:

People are not interested in putting a green roof on their home because they are looking to save money, these people are intrigued by its environmental impact and aesthetic appeal. Having an environmentally friendly roof will have more costs associated with it and maintenance that is ongoing. Landscaping is an added cost that most people already take on for their homes and a living roof is no different, trimming plants and watering everyday are a required upkeep. You may not be able to do all the maintenance yourself because it is up on your roof, certain equipment and tools are required. It is recommended to consider exactly what type of maintenance you’ll need for your living roof and consult with your local roofing contractor and green roof supplier for more information.

How often does your green roof need watering?

This answer depends on many factors, the type of plants you have chosen and the climate that you live in will all yield different answers.  Drought resistant roof plants such as sedums can last long periods of time without being watered, compared to flowers and produce vegetables which will need much more attention. Trimming your plants like watering is another required task, whether it be mowing the surrounding grass or tending to moss. A professional landscaper can advise you on the exact maintenance you can expect for your environmentally friendly roof.  

Protecting your living roof in the winter:

Planting the types of plant species that can withstand the environment of your green roof so you won’t have to make preparations in the winter time, will save a lot of time and stress. Your local environment will determine which plants are appropriate. Even if you love the look of sedums it’s important to know how they’ll handle the freezing temperatures, and same with warmer weathered climates. Cold weather perennials wouldn’t last in the warmer climate, so do some research to find the best types of plants for your living roof.

Maintenance

  1. Clearing drains & gutters: During the winter months moisture accumulates on your roof and after the snow and ice melts a large amount of stress is put upon the roof. If the drainage system is not efficiently working water will begin to seem through the weakest points. Inspecting gutters and drains regularly will save you time and money in the long run. 
  2. Snow removal: Depending on your area you may get more or less snow, as snow begins to collect on your roof it should be designed so that the load is evenly spread out. The best method of snow removal on your green roof is a simple shoveling; so you do not ruin or disrupt your plants.
  3. Waterproofing: When you are working with your local roofing contractor you can explain to them how important waterproofing will be for your green roof. From the summers of constant watering and rainfall to the winters of snow melting, you will need to make sure all precautions are taken so you roof does not leak. Making a check list to inspect the caulking to make sure everything is sealed properly, check surrounding areas for water & wind erosion, and deterioration from exposure to the outside elements. 

Dealing with repairs on a green roof:  

Unlike shingled asphalt roofs that are constantly exposed to the elements, a green roof is not exposed so repairs are not frequently necessary. It is necessary for your environmentally friendly to have a root barrier which acts like a waterproof membrane to reduce the likelihood of needing to make repairs.

SHOULD YOU GET A NEW ROOF BEFORE YOU SELL YOUR CURRENT HOME AND WILL A NEW ROOF INCREASE YOUR HOMES VALUE?

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When you are looking to buy or sell your home a new roof replacement is a great marketing tool. Buyers will appreciate a new roof because they know the average roof will last about 20-30 years. When purchasing a new house comes a lot of unexpected expenses, most new home buyers can’t handle another large expense like a new roof replacement on top of a down payment. Some clients may not even attempt to put an offer in on the home if they know it needs a new roof replacement.


How does a new roof affect home value?

You will need to figure out some key factors to see how much a new roof replacement will increase the value of your home such as, your roof condition, the real estate market, and feedback from potential buyers. With our experience we have gathered information on how a roof replacement will add value to your home, which factors will make it a smart investment, or even how it may reduce the value. If after reading this you decide that a new roof replacement is worth it and will allow you to get top dollar for your home, we invite you to explore our shingle collection and your options.

There are many studies that have been done on how much value a new roof will add to your home, one of which stated that the average homeowner will spend around $22,500 on a midrange roof. This new roof replacement would add an increase to the home value of about $15,500, this works out to be about a 68% investment.

Another study that was conducted by NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) concluded a much larger percent return of 109%. This would mean you would make a profit on your new roof replacement. Putting on a new roof is clearly a smart investment, but how would you know if a roof replacement will generate a 60% return or if it will bump-up your current home value? The three major factors that will help you answer this question are: The housing market in your area, the condition of your current roof, and the type of roof replacement that you choose.

  1. The Housing Market Conditions in Your Area: A roof replacement doesn’t always increase home value in every market. The best thing to firstly do is get some advice from a real estate agent and a local appraiser, they can help you understand the market conditions. Even if you don’t see a huge financial return, a new roof will more likely get you smoother negations, lower time on the market, and even a full price offer.
  2. Another factor to consider is the condition of your existing roof: Keeping your roof in good condition is one of the most important things you can do in maintain your home. It can be very unattractive to a potential buyer and may make them question what else you have not maintained in your home. Most home buyers expect the roof to be in good condition and if it is not they will likely pass on submitting an offer, or give a low ball offer. After purchasing a new home few people have the money or energy to have to undergo extensive repairs or a full roof replacement.  

When you or the potential buyer get the home appraised they will undoubtedly notice the condition of your roof and will reduce your home’s value, depending on how mild to sever the damage is. However if your existing roof is only between 5-10 years old and in decent condition, a roof replacement may not benefit you much.

3. Choosing the right type of roof replacement can make all the difference: Your choice between different types of shingles, a metal roof, or slate will impact the return you receive on your new roof. Asphalt and Architectural; shingles range from $50-$80 per square, a Metal roofing system ranges between $100-300 per square, and slate coming in at a whopping $300-600 per square. Each type of roofing system has its own attributes and it’s up to you which one best fits your needs.

Something important to consider when choosing a roof replacement and other home renovations is the type of neighborhood you live in. In general you need to match your neighbored dynamic, there is no point in investing in luxury home features if no other home in your neighborhood has them. It is unlikely to get a full return on designer shingles if all you neighbors have less expensive shingles, your home value will not raise much above your neighbors.

On the other hand, if you live in an upscale neighborhood where many of the homes have metal roofs or high-end shingles it might be expected to keep up. Higher-end shingles will match to style of the homes exterior and interior materials used in many cases, and buyers can be discouraged by traditional cheaper shingles.

Will a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?

On average a metal roof coats around $38,000 dollars compared to a shingled roof of about $22,500. When looking at Saratoga roofing contractor’s home values increase percentage, a metal roof brought in a return of 60% and a shingle roof return of 68%.  These numbers of course are just an average, you may get a full return on your investment. When considering a metal roof it is important to know how much it will increase home value and consider how a potential buyer will view it.

Is a new roof a good selling tool?

Although a new roof won’t skyrocket you home value, it can still help you sell your home much quicker and at a higher price. Any local roofing company will tell you that a new roof is a highly effective selling tool. In a recent NARI report 32% of realtors used the fact that a new roof replacement was done to the home to finalize the sale. Buyers are very attracted to houses with a new roof because they know it will save them time and money in the long run without any major issues or repairs.  Can you spot the difference?

Keep in mind that potential buyers are looking for a well maintained exterior of a house, this usually gives insight to what the interior of the house looks like also. Even if it is not the most accurate reflection of the interior of the house, buyers will assume your roof reflects the investments you’ve made on the inside as well.  

How to deal with animals in your roof vents and attics

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roof critters

Maybe you’ve heard an animal in the attic scratching at night?

In North America we are home to variety of wildlife that sometimes make their way into your roof vents and attics. Some common types of animals that make their way into your home include raccoons on the roof, birds squeezing into exhaust vents, squirrels nesting in the attic and other critters that you would much rather see in nature rather than your home.

How do I get rid of an animal in my attic or roof? In this article we’ll answer many questions you may have regarding how to get rid of these pests and keep them out.

The first question you most likely have is, how to know if you have an uninvited animal guest in the first place without consulting a local roofing contractor first? You will most likely hear the tiny scurrying of the animal across your ceiling from above or even see or smell its presence. Animals are often looking for a warm cozy place to nest during mating season in the spring months, especially in northern climates.  

How can animals get through roof vents or into your attic?

Some signs of entry for pests include:

  • Gaps in between the fascia and the eaves
  • Open chimneys
  • Loose fascia
  • Missing shingles
  • Holes in the siding

Once an animal is inside of your home there are some common signs to look for such as:

  • Nests or hives
  • Droppings or urine marks
  • Chewed wires or pipes
  • Torn insulation or air ducts

How do I squirrel proof my roof?

During the day squirrels are the most active critter that may cause havoc in your home, while at night nocturnal animals such as raccoons and bats are more prevalent. There is a distinctive difference in the tread sounds of squirrels, mice and rats compared to those of larger animals like raccoons which are much slower and heavy. Their sounds may be heard from overhead in the attic, ceiling, in between walls, exhaust vents or inside of chimneys. Trimming tree branches that hang close to your roof will prevent squirrels from gaining access to your home. Squirrels can jump from more than 10ft away so be sure to cut enough of the limb.  

Potential damage can be done by not only mammals but other common infestations like insects, termites or cockroaches. We recommend that you always consult with a professional in pest control or a local roofing contractor to remove uninvited animals or pests from your home as it can be dangerous. A well trained animal specialist can remove the problem in a safe and effective manner while following the bylaws of the protected species.

Bees and Wasps:

These tiny tenants like to hive in your attic or outside in the corners of porches or decking. In the summer months bees and wasps are less likely to make a home in your attic because of the temperatures reaching up to 180 degrees F. The wax in a honeybee hive melts at 130 degrees F so it’s more likely to see their hives on the perimeter of your home than inside. Once a hive is detected it is important to have it safely removed so your and your family do not get stung, especially if there is an allergy in your family.

Mice and rats

How do I keep mice out of my roof vents?

Among the most common pests in a household include mice, rats or other rodents. Garbage and clutter attract these rodents but even if your home is very clean they will still seek shelter and a source for food. In the fall into winter months rodents look for shelter indoors to escapes the cold and nest. They reproduce very quickly in large numbers so it’s important to take care of the problem when you first see the signs.

These pests enter your home at ground level and can squeeze through the smallest of cracks, once they have broken inside they travel between walls through your entire house. Rodents become dangerous because they like to chew things including wires, wood, insulation, piping and even concrete; resulting in property damage and creating a fire hazard. Some ways to prevent an infestation of mice is by sealing off small holes around the exterior of your house and inspecting your vents for small openings. If you do find small gaps cover with mesh to prevent the rodents from slipping through.

Birds and Bats

If you have found a bird in your home or nesting up in the attic it is not an uncommon occurrence. In the summer birds and bats can easily enter your home through a window or door that has been left open or even slip through a gap between siding, finding its way to your attic to nest. These animals like dry, private spaces where they will be unbothered and protected from predators.

 If a bat colony has formed in your attic it is best to deal with immediately because of their guano deposits. Not only does this give off an abrasive odor but the acidity levels make the material highly corrosive to building materials, wood, and insulation. Bats can also gain access to your home through extremely small spaces which make your home vulnerable to an infestation.

Birds on the other hand like to make nests in heating pipes and exhaust vents to capture the warmth which acts as an incubator. This might sound harmless but their droppings can attract cockroaches and other insects.

Does bird poop affect shingles?

Bird droppings contain uric acid which damages your roof, asphalt shingles are even more susceptible. The acid within the droppings dissolves the asphalt and also provides nutrients which encourages algae growth or moss.

Raccoons

Related to the panda bear, raccoons look cute and friendly but possess the power to rip shingles right from your roof, breaking into the soffit and fascia. Some entry points can leave large holes which snow and rain can penetrate that cause serious weather damage to your home. Chewing through insulation and wires risking a fire hazard also poses a problem.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”-Benjamin Franklin

There are many options available to aide you in prevention of keeping animals out of your attic and roof vents. It is always best to consult with a local roofing contractor and animal removal specialist service to humanely remove any animal infestations.

A local roofing contractor can:

  • Help seal any holes or gaps that are potential entry points at roof or ground level
  • Replace missing or old shingles and repair holes in fascia or soffit
  • Use gutter guards to keep out squirrels
  • Install spikes along eaves which deter birds from roosting on your roof
  • Install mesh or other metal to cover large openings around chimney, ridge vents or gable

What is roofing underlayment?

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Roof Underlayment

Your roof is one of the most important features when it comes to your home. It helps with your home’s curb appeal, as well as keeping you warm and dry. It also protects your home from getting damaged by hail and other rough weather conditions.  But underneath your home’s asphalt or architectural shingles is something that’s even more important to keeping your home safe and secure: your roof’s underlayment!

Is underlayment necessary for roofs?

When your local roofing company installs architectural or asphalt shingles on your roof, during the installation they do not simply nail the shingles onto the wooden roof deck. If your local roofing company were to nail the shingles directly onto these sheets of wood, if there were any kind of damage to the shingles, water would be given the opportunity to seep into the substrate and cause damage to your roof structure. This would potentially lead to rot, mold and interior leaks.

Shingle underlayments provide a barrier between the roof frame material and your home’s shingles. Making the right decision for your home can extend the life of your roof and minimize the need for maintenance and repairs. 

Felt roofing underlayment

If you’re deciding to go on the cheaper route, go with the underlayment that is made up of felt that’s saturated with asphalt in order to make it water resistant. Roof felt underlayment can vary in price depending on its degree of saturation; since asphalt is its more expensive component, the more asphalt it contains, the more durable and expensive it will be. Often, felt roof underlayment also contains fiberglass reinforcement, which increases its strength and durability. Over time however, even the highest quality asphalt will eventually wear down and become penetrable by water. 

Roof felt underlayment is usually a good option for steeply sloped roofs, which allows water to quickly run off. However standing water is able to seep into it and infiltrate your roof’s structure. Felt underlayment is also vulnerable to sun damage, which accelerates deterioration of the asphalt, so it’s not the best choice for roofs that get a lot of direct sunlight. Felt as well lacks the overall quality, durability and total water resistance. Therefore, if you’re installing a long lasting roofing material like high quality architectural shingles or extremely durable options like stone coated steel roofing, a felt underlayment would not be recommended. 

Hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane

With good reason, most professional local roofing contractors would not recommend a hot applied roofing membrane. However, many property owners still go choose them for their property. Asphalt can be polymer modified with bitumen, a viscous mixture of hydrocarbons, which gives it rubber or plastic-like properties. The hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane is applied in large panels which are bonded together or heat fused into one seamless membrane. Due to its flexible and elastic nature, it is able to fill in space around nails or staples, bridge cracks in the substrate surface, and conform to surface irregularities.

This type of underlayment is better suited for high temperature climates than felt. Another benefit is that it is able to resist moisture penetration, because there are no seams for water infiltration. Because of this, it is also better for use on flat roofs or other roofs where there is a danger of water pooling. Rubberized asphalt membrane underlayment contains materials that can resist expansion and contraction as well as reflecting harmful UV rays. This makes it more durable and longer lasting than felt. However, installation is problematic and overheating can compromise the integrity and longevity of the membrane. Not heating the product enough will also cause serious problems as the layers will not be able to form a proper bond. This makes proper installation a careful balancing act and something you definitely a task you would not want to entrust to your average local roofing contractors.

Synthetic Roof Membrane

Synthetic roof underlayment is similar to a hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane underlayment in design, but its composition is a synthetic rubber or thermoplastic rather than bituminized asphalt. Also, being fully waterproof there is also an added highly protective layer of insulation between your roof frame and shingles. Incongruously, it is also more breathable, allowing humidity to escape while resisting water penetration.

Synthetic underlayment effectively protects against wind, rain, and ice, helping to prevent ice dams and water leaks no matter the roof slope. A synthetic membrane is durable, long- lasting, lightweight, fungus resistant, and also highly reflective of direct UV radiation. Overall, this type of roof underlayment receives better safety ratings than the alternatives.

Synthetic roof underlayments are made from engineered materials such as polypropylene or polyester. Felt is sometimes referred to as organic when it contains some organic materials, as well as being saturated with asphalt. 

 Fire Resistance Ratings

On the topic of safety, another important factor to consider when choosing an underlayment is its fire resistance rating. Most underlayments have similar protection from smoke, however flame protection can differ when it comes to the roofing material. Underlayment products are rated A, B, or C, with A being the most and C being the least fire resistant. Depending on your area’s level of risk, a more highly rated underlayment could significantly decrease your home’s vulnerability to fire caused by lightning striking your home.

The price differences between underlayment options usually add up to a few hundred dollars in your overall roof replacement project. If you are investing in a high quality roof that will improve your home’s value for years to come, choosing a better quality, more durable, water-resistant underlayment may well be worth the extra cost.

Temporary Protection

Roof underlayment can act as a temporary protection of the building’s interior and the roof deck before the final roof covering material is installed. Usually, the roof covering material would be installed right away, however in some circumstances a roof might be protected by just the roof underlayment for days, weeks, or sometimes months. Protecting the building interior is especially important when an old roof covering material is being replaced and the home interior is finished. During that time, the underlayment may be under attack from weather elements such high winds, UV radiation, and precipitation. It also needs to resist the wear and tear that occurs when the roof covering material is being installed. 

Preventing chemical degradation

Underlayment provides a layer that separates the roof sheathing and the roof covering material. Newer homes use plywood or an engineered panel called oriented strand board for sheathing. For many years, pine and fir boards were used as sheathing, and many older homes still have these kinds of boards in place. Resin pockets in these boards can react chemically with some roof covering materials, such as asphalt shingles. In these situations, missing underlayment can cause accelerated deterioration and premature failure of the roof covering material. 

Is synthetic roof underlayment better than felt?

Asphalt-saturated felt is a blend of cellulose, polyester, bitumen, and asphalt, soaked in a waterproofing agent. It comes in two thicknesses. Thirty pound felt is more thick and stiff than fifteen pound, so thirty pound is more resistant to damage during installation and can protect the roof longer if exposed to outside elements like rain, wind, hail, and snow. Asphalt-saturated felt underlayments are semi-permeable and typically have a perm rating of five to seven.

Most synthetics on the other hand are spun or woven from either polypropylene or polyethylene. The specific manufacturing process produces synthetic underlayments with different properties such as the thickness, exposure time, and resistance to damage during the installation process. Like asphalt saturated felt, comparisons between synthetic underlayments are by weight . However, synthetic underlayments utilize grams per square as their measurement.

What is the best underlayment for your roof?

Synthetic underlayment is much lighter than felt underlayment. Therefore, using synthetic will add less weight to the roof than any asphalt felt underlay. Synthetic underlay is also far more tear-resistant when exposed to high winds and foot traffic than asphalt felt underlayment. Many synthetics also have a higher UV protection rating and can be left exposed on a roof for a far longer period than felt underlay.  However, you will find that synthetic roof underlay is the more expensive option. When it comes down to it, sometimes you might be limited by your budget. However, if you have the extra money for a synthetic roof underlayment installation, you will likely see the extra you spend returned through the extra long-term lifespan of your roof and lower long-term repair and maintenance costs.

Can Synthetic underlayment get wet?

There are several components to a shingle roofing system, each playing an important role in keeping your house protected. The shingles are the first line of defense and add to the overall look of the home. The underlayment provides another layer of protection. The decking or sheathing provides stability to those top two layers, while the rafters and trusses hold everything up. Of those components, only the shingles are designed to get wet for long periods of time. That is one of their primary jobs, after all. But what about the other parts of the roof? Especially during a roof installation when the weather isn’t so cooperative? Will wet conditions ruin the whole job? The answer is, it depends on how much the rain and for what duration. However, once the underlayment is installed, the roof is protected.

Underlayment is an added layer of protection for your roof. The shingles do the heavy lifting, but if water managed to get under the shingles, the waterproof underlayment is there to protect the decking underneath. Now the question remains, can roof underlayment itself protect the roof when it’s raining? The answer would be for a couple of days at the most. Underlayment is installed much like the shingles themselves. Your local roofing company would overlap the edges to make sure every inch of the roof is covered, however that is not enough to stand up for a whole winter and water would start to penetrate between the layers all too quickly.

Anatomy of a Roof

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Anatomy of a Roof

Most homeowners never really get up close to their roof and try to understand the inner workings of it. So for many, a roof is just a roof, and it keeps the weather out of homes as well as keeping away any animals from flying or crawling into our homes. If we notice anything about a roof, we only notice how well it blends into the neighborhood, or when a branch has fallen on the roof and needs to be removed. The fact of the matter is that the roof above your head is possibly the most expensive thing you’ll ever have to replace on your home. Therefore, the question is do you ever wonder about the parts of a roof and what is installed underneath the shingles?

Aren’t Shingles Enough?

When your local roofing contractor installs shingles, the new roof installation should always be done in accordance with local building codes and regulations. However, another factor that plays a part in how the shingles are installed is the weather conditions in your area. Your local roofing contractors will often have to take a different installation approach depending on whether it is summer or winter. There are different precautionary steps that need to be taken in different weather conditions in order to ensure no damage is done during the installation.

Another thing you should know is that asphalt shingles are most commonly available in strips of 36 inches long by 12 inches wide. Therefore, each strip has a set of three tabs, which provides the visual shingle effect when installed correctly. Each 3 tab strip has a layer of adhesive just above the tabs. The heat of the sun activates the adhesive, which binds to the layer below and creates a seal that augments the nails when installed.

So, shouldn’t the shingles be enough? The shingles cover the largest area of the roof. However, the shingles hide a lot of essential roofing components that protect your roof against the weather, and keep you warm and dry. In other words, your roof shingles are not always a perfect seal from the rain. Especially as shingles age and curl, rain can be blown underneath them. So what’s going to protect your roof when this happens?

What’s Under the Shingles?

On the surface, your average roof may just look like simple layers of asphalt roofing shingles, however, it’s a lot more complex than the average homeowner may realize. The residential roofing system is composed of layers of different components. These components have different attributes when it comes to restricting wind from entering your home as well as resisting other weather hazards such as rain or hail. The most consistent components that you’ll find installed on your roof are the roof decking, underlayment, drip edge, and flashing.

What are the Parts of a Roof?

Roof Decking (Wood Sheathing)

Roof Decking or roof sheathing is a key roofing component that sits on top of the roof trusses. The roof decking is basically the section on the roof that everything is placed on. Since the roof deck holds everything that’s placed on your roof, expect for the material to be strong enough to hold the weight required and continue to be durable. Just like any other roofing component, the roof deck has many different types of materials. The different types of roof decking materials include steel, concrete, cement, and wood. The way that professional roofing contractors determine the type of roof decking material to use is based on how much weight it needs to carry, which further depends on the roofing components and materials selected. When you consider a residential building, the most common type of roof deck is plywood or groove wood systems. Wood generally stands up to the weight of almost any type of roofing component or material placed on top, although tile may require extra reinforcement.

Roof Underlayment 

After the roof deck is installed, we move on to the underlayment for the roof. The underlayment is installed on to the decking, and before the installation of the asphalt shingles. The most common underlayment material is felt. The reason is because it has a durable paper material that is saturated with asphalt. The purpose of the underlayment is for it to provide a temporary barrier against rain and wind before the shingles are installed. It also provides an extra layer of protection in the case of broken or torn shingles. When the underlayment is being installed, it is installed by rolling the material onto the roof horizontally. The underlayment is being installed not only to provide that extra barrier from water or wind, but it also helps the water to shed downward off the roof without seeping through the seams. Most professional roofing contractors will have options for traditional roofing felt underlayment or a more modern synthetic roof underlayment.

What is Synthetic Underlayment?

Synthetic roof underlayment is a high tech, high performance layer of material made with a highly sturdy polypropylene fabric, which is installed the same as a traditional felt underlayment. This new synthetic roof underlayment is known to be a lighter and stronger alternative to a felt roof underlayment. Of course, this new high tech underlayment will cost more than the traditional underlayment, but it will last much longer. Ask your local roofing contractors the differences in price as well as features of all their underlayment options to ensure the best quality for the underlayment of your roof.

What is the Purpose of Roof Flashing?

Moisture is a roof’s worst enemy. The purpose of roof flashing is to prevent any water from leaking as well as to extend the overall life of the roof. Next to chimneys, skylights, or valleys on your roof, a professional roofing contractor will install metal flashing to ensure that there is proper drainage on your roof. You want the water to run down into the shingles and off the roof, rather than pool around whatever might be poking out your roof. Roof flashing is nothing more than a piece of sheet metal that is usually made from aluminum or galvanized steel. In order to prevent water from entering the home, the flashing is placed over the joints in the roof and wall construction. This is important for the reason that most of the causes of roof leaks is due to the fault of poor roof flashing installation.

Roof flashing can endure extreme stresses from extreme weather conditions. Therefore, when installing the roof flashing material there should be extra care taken so that it would be capable of withstanding these extremes. Many local roofing contractors would cut and shape the roof flashing materials from sheet metal. However, homeowners can also choose to have the flashing pre-formed. It is very important to use roof flashing materials that aren’t prone to rust, such as stainless steel, to maintain the integrity of the roof flashing.

In order to see an effective use of roof flashing, the material used should be weather resistant, highly durable, low maintenance and sturdy. The latter quality is very important for the fact that many roofing materials regularly expand and contract on a daily basis. Especially during the dramatic seasonal weather. An interesting thing that you should know is that during the day, the sunlight can raise the surface temperature of the roof, which ends up making the roof expand. However, keep in mind that at night the temperature drops significantly, which ends in a contraction of your home’s roofing materials. More significant expansions and contractions during seasonal changes can have an effect on the framing lumber, which means that your roof flashing material must withstand all these changes to prevent leaks and remain effective.

What are the different types of Roof Flashing?

The 5 types of roof flashing are Drip Edge, Valley Flashing, Vent Pipe Flashing, Step Flashing and Continuous Flashing.

What is the Purpose of Drip Edge?

Drip edge is a metal flashing or piece of aluminum that protects the edges of your roof. It is designed to prevent water from flowing into the fascia so that the underlying roofing components are protected. With that being said, included in the drip edge is a tiny metal projection that is angled away from the fascia. Because of its angled lip, any water coming down the roof would be obstructed from getting into the house. It’s like something of a middle-man between your shingles and your gutter.

Now as a homeowner, you may be questioning does drip edge prevent water damage? The answer is yes. The drip edge’s purpose is to prevent any water damage that can occur under the roofing shingles. Having water enter underneath your shingles can create temporary or even permanent staining. This can also lead to long-term roof deck deterioration, as well as damage to the fascia board.

When water sits on your roof for a long period of time, it can cause damage and the ends of your roof joists and trusses can be compromised. This could eventually lead to structural damage, or leaks getting into your home and causing interior damage becoming an extremely expensive repair.

What is Valley Flashing?

Valley Flashing protects the point on your roof where two slopes come together to form a valley. Valley Flashing is designed to channel run-off water down the roof into the gutter.

What is Vent Pipe Flashing?

This is the metal or rubber flashing around plumbing vent pipes on your roof. As these vent pipes penetrate through the roof, they are common places to find roof leaks. Over time the thin rubber collar on these boots starts to crack or will become damaged and there’s typically no additional seal to keep water from infiltrating around the vent pipe. The roofing cement holding them in place can also fail, creating another pathway for roof leaks.

What is Step Flashing for?

Step flashing protects the seam between a roof and a wall from water penetration and leaks. Small L-shape flashing pieces are woven into the shingles as you work your way up the roof. The flashing fastens the roof cladding into the wall cladding to help keep water out.

For more information on Step Flashing, please visit our step flashing page:

Everything you Need to Know about Step Flashing on Shingle Roofs

What is Continuous Flashing?

Continuous flashing is considered somewhat controversial as there can be issues with it. Most professional roofing companies would recommend the installation of step flashing instead. Continuous flashing was only fairly recently approved by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). L-shaped lengths of metal that are a few of inches longer than the shingle overlap are installed on top of each shingle adjacent to the sidewall. The flashing is then laced into each shingle course.

What is the Fascia on a Roof?

The fascia board is the panel mounted at the point where the roof meets the outer walls of the house and is often called the roofline. However, most professional roofing contractors refer to it by the name of the main board that carries the gutter, which is the fascia or fascias. The fascia board is the long, straight board that runs along the lower edge of the roof. The fascia is fixed directly to the lower ends of the roof trusses and usually does all the work of supporting the lower edge of the bottom row of tiles. Any guttering will be attached to the fascia boards.

Soffit and Fascia Boards

A soffit is a board that bridges the gap between a home’s siding and its roofline. It’s located under the horizontal fascia board, which holds the gutters. Soffits help provide ventilation for your attic space. The fascia is attached to the edge of the roof and stretches horizontally from one end of the rafters to the other.

The purpose of the fascia board is to prevent water and wind from damaging the interior of the house and the roof. It also supports the gutters and drainage pipes as well as to help enhance the appearance of the house. Failing to clean gutters on a regular basis can cause water to pool, which can damage the fascia and soffit.

Roof Insulation

Roof insulation can take many forms. The most commonly used material is felt or plastic sheeting; sometimes with a reflective surface. These materials are installed directly underneath the other roofing material. Synthetic foam batting or material from recycled paper products can also be positioned or sprayed into roofing cavities to enhance the roof’s insulating properties. 

Without proper insulation or ventilation, roofs can begin to experience weather-related problems like ice forming near overhanging eaves. When the ice melts, it can be absorbed into roofing material, causing issues. Called ice dams, these pockets of ice form when heat escapes through the top of the roof, melting snow at the uppermost point. The water then begins to refreeze as it flows down the roof and collects under shingles and other low points. Over time, this can destabilize your shingles, add stress to the roof and destroy drainage systems and gutters.

Impact Resistant Shingles

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What are Impact Resistant Shingles?

Shingles that are impact resistant are given a Class 4 rating. They are also designed to withstand high winds and hail damage. These shingles can be made of copper, aluminum, resin and plastic. Shingles with the Class 4 rating also have an impact resistance of UL 2218. The general purpose of UL 2218 is as the roofing industry’s standard for testing shingles against hail impact. In testing, instead of actually hailstones, they use steel balls of varying sizes. There are four testing classes ranging from 1¼” to 2”. These steel balls are dropped at heights between 12 and 10 feet to mimic the impact of hail falling at high speeds. Currently UL 2218 is one of the highest impact resistance ratings. Aside from hail impact, these shingles can also withstand high winds of up to 110mph. Class 4, impact resistant shingles are recommended by local roofing contractors in areas that frequently see severe hails

Are Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles Worth the Investment?

In general, Class 4 impact shingles are worth the investment, simply because it adds extra protection and longevity to the roofing material. However, the need for impact shingles mainly depends on where you live. If you are located where there is a frequent amount of damaging storms and hail storms, then the need for the Class 4 impact shingles is greatly increased.  It’s very common for homeowners to be affected by significant amounts of roof damages that could potentially be an expensive repair. Therefore, having a Class 4 impact shingle would help prevent any damages and alleviate any concerns. Especially for those living in harsh weather conditions and stormy climates.

It is important to keep in mind that even with impact resistant shingles, it is still possible for your roof to be affected by minor damages and granular loss from a hail storm.  The value that impact resistant shingles can provide lies in the way that it is designed for strength in any conditions. They are also less likely to crack and for water to enter compared to traditional shingles. Impact resistant shingles may cost more compared to its traditional counterparts, however, the upside is that you benefit from cost savings in terms of maintenance, repair, and premature roof replacement costs. Some insurance companies provide homeowners with a discount for their roof with the impact resistant shingles installed. The discount ends up compensating the slightly higher cost that the impact resistant shingle provides.

How do I know if I have impact resistant shingles?

When shingles are rated they range from Class 1 to 4. With Class 4 shingles having the highest resistance. Looking at the shingles is not a way to determine if they are resistant or not, however, the impact rating is usually marked on the cellophane on the underside of the shingle. Resistance may be provided in several ways. An old method that roofers used was attaching a layer of reinforcing fabric, called a scrim, to the back of the shingle.

Some methods that are commonly used today are increasing the weight of the mat used. Another method is to make the shingles thicker by increasing the thickness of the asphalt layer, or bonding layers of shingles together. A third method would be to modify the mix of the asphalt by adding polymers. Polymers, or cross-linked polymers, are chains of molecules that link to each other. They can be used to improve the physical characteristics of a wide variety of materials. In asphalt roofing shingles, polymers are added to the asphalt to improve the shingle strength and impact resistance.

Are there any other tests available to determine a roof’s class rating?

There are other tests to determine the class rating and one of them is called the ice ball test that began back in the year 2000. An ice ball is basically propelled to match the same speed as a free falling ice stone of the same size. This test requires that the targeted area on the shingle is impacted 3 times as opposed to the steel ball test of only 2 times. This is a pass or fail test. To pass this test, the shingles must show zero immediate visual evidence of damage to the fiberglass mat.

A comprehensive test that many roofing manufacturers do not use, but may be the best test is the UL 2218 B-ice hail impact resistance test. This is a particularly aggressive test that involves wrapping the repeatedly impacting shingle around a 4 inch pole for examination. This test will reveal any ruptures, fractures, tears or cracks in the shingles. The shingle is first impacted by ice balls launched at free fall speeds and that are 2 inches in diameter in order to pass a class 4 rating.

GAF Impact Resistant Shingles meet the highest impact-resistance rating

Impact resistant shingles are tested by dropping a 2 inch steel ball from 20 feet onto the top of the shingles to see if the shingle cracks. GAF impact resistant shingles pass class 4, which is the highest rating possible. For instance GAF’s Timberline ArmorShield series shingles passed the most comprehensive impact-resistance test: UL 2218 Class 4. With this test, the shingles’ ability to withstand high-velocity impact is evaluated. The potential leaks, when subject to high impact. Shingles that pass this test are more likely to prevent leaks into your home.

GAF brands that have been impact resistant approved 

As mentioned before, the Timberline Armorshield shingles is one of the main impact resistant shingle brands offered by GAF that offers the protection of a UL 2218 class 4 rated shingle. Another is the Grand Sequoia ArmorShield shingles that combines the look of rugged wood shakes with the protection of UL 2218 class 4-rated shingle. Lastly their Glenwood shingles also passed the UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance test.

Are all shingles and metal roofs class 4 roof?

Most shingles are not impact rated, and those that are Class 4 run 10 to 20 percent more expensive than those that are not class 4 rated. Many metal roofs are impact resistant and will be rated class four. Now the question that might run through your head is, why is impact resistance so important? Well impact resistance is important because it’s a measure of resistance to hail and debris. Generally speaking, you can’t label something as hail proof but those products that have been classified as class 4 have met the very highest standard of resistance that a roofing material can achieve from the UL safety certification system. Therefore, purchasing roofing products that are class 4 rated means you will have a smaller likelihood of damage after a hail event or a storm where debris has made contact with your roof. Furthermore, replacing a roof is not the only expense when roofing fails. If the hail/debris causes a leak, additional damage is likely to occur inside the building. With Class 4 rated metal systems, your roof is far more likely to remain watertight even after a storm damage.

What about Metal class 4 roofs?

In most cases, local roofing contractors wouldn’t recommend installing a class 4 metal roofing system. Many insurance carriers have clauses in their policies regarding metal roofs which state that they don’t pay out for cosmetic damage to a metal roof system. Metal roofs are incredibly durable, but the flip side to this is that you could be stuck with a dinged up, ugly roof if the metal doesn’t sustain large enough damage for it to be replaced.

Imagine spending $60,000 for a steel roof and having it dented to the point of being able to view it from the ground, yet it doesn’t have any functional damage required by an insurance company to be replaced. The homeowner should not be surprised when an insurance adjuster denies a claim based on the policy stating that they do not owe to replace the steel roof panels or stone coated steel without real functional damage. It is advisable to read your roofing insurance policy carefully when considering investing in a metal roof system.

Are Class 4 shingles worth the money?

Some homeowners live in a country or state where there is a frequent amount of hail. Some areas that experience particularly bad hail storms regularly can experience hailstones ranging in size from golf balls to baseballs! Now, whether you live in an area where there is a frequent amount of hail or not, if hail were to hit your home, the results could be devastating for your entire property, and mainly your roof. Therefore, many homeowners are actually looking into modified, impact resistant shingles for their home. However, a good portion of homeowners might actually be hesitant to purchase, wondering if they should just purchase these newer, more expensive shingles are really worth the money.

No local roofing contractors could ever say that any roof is hail proof, however it has been proven that class 4 shingles, which have been modified to resist impact, are absolutely worth the cost. With impact resistant shingles, they can significantly minimize the amount of damage that hailstones and storms can often bring. If you live in an area, such as Upstate New York, that frequently sees a lot of hail and inclement weather then an upgrade to will be particularly worth the investment.

How Long Will My Roof Last?

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How Long Will My Roof Last?

How long will my roof last? This varies a lot due to different material choices. The best roofing contractors are skilled at installing many different systems. Poorly installed roofing shingles may only last until high winds come sweeping through your town! A well installed roofing system is going to last longer than the manufacturer warranties it for. Many factors go into the life expectancy of roofing shingles, including southern facing exposure, drastic temperature changes in different regions, the amount of trees and shade the roof receives, severe or coastal weather, the roofing contractor’s skill level, and of course the brand of shingles and underlayments.

Shingle roofing systems – local roofing contractors who are certified usually are the best choice for installing a new shingle roof because they can offer the extended manufacturer’s warranty. Most certified roofing installers have been trained to install a roof per spec and can not get a manufacturer’s certification without the know how. This alone will usually guarantee your roof installation is performed correctly; having enough nails to prevent high wind blow-offs, installing all flashing correctly to prevent premature leaks and guaranteeing the use of premium roofing materials since most manufacturers will not extend a warranty with the use of knock-off materials. When the best roofing contractors install a fully warrantied roofing system, you can expect to get 20-25 years out of a moderately weathered and or sheltered home.

Having a lot of trees around your home can either be great or detrimental to your roof’s life expectancy. Often, trees will cause more harm than good to your roof for the following reasons:

  • Branches or even the trees themselves can fall and damage your roof.
  • Other debris such as leaves and needles can also cause issues, blocking your gutters and valleys and encouraging the growth of mold.
  • Trees can cause moss and lichen to grow on your roof. Once the moss reaches a certain point it starts getting in between the roofing shingles. If this happens, the moss will absorb any moisture and feeds right onto your roof decking, where it causes further damage. At this point, if your roof is not already leaking then it will be soon. If things progress this far, it will cost much more to repair later.
  • If the trees are too close, animals may be tempted to jump to or nest on your roof.
  • Too much shade can mean that your roof does not dry off quickly. It can also mean that snow will linger around much longer on your rooftop. This can be detrimental to your roof if ice dams form consistently over time.

However, in the right environment, trees could also be very beneficial to your roof for the following reasons:

  • These trees may actually help your roof last longer by protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. UV rays will contribute to the breakdown of the components of your roofing system over time. These components are rated to last a certain amount of time in direct sunlight, but often they would last much longer in a more shaded environment.
  • The right trees can also protect your home from storms and harsh weather without putting your property at more risk.
  • Shade from trees can help your home stay cooler in the summer and reduce the strain on your air conditioning units.

A well sheltered asphalt shingle roof will last 25-30 years. These well-sheltered houses would also most likely benefit from having gutter guards installed as some houses in the woods need to have their gutters cleaned up to 5 times a year. 

The quality of shingle will also greatly affect the roofing system’s life expectancy. Top brand shingle manufacturing companies have developed their roofing shingles through years and years of research and development. GAF’s test lab recently installed a roof using no nails or any fasteners. The roof was put under extreme 140 mph wind conditions and remained fully intact. GAF is also the only shingle company that makes a shingle that is 50% thicker, known as their ULTRA line. These shingles are known to last anywhere from 30-35 years and also improve the looks of the roof because the increased thickness increases the shadow lines creating more contrast for an overall fancier look. As an experienced local roofing company, we can tell you that no other roofing manufacturer comes close to rivalling the consistently high quality of GAF’s shingles.

The quality of underlayments used under the roofing shingles will be another determining factor on how long your roof will last. An upgraded GAF Deck Armor roof allows the decking to breathe while not letting moisture in. This will allow your house’s attic to remain cooler in the hot months decreasing the overall roof temperature preventing the shingles from prematurely aging due to extreme temperatures. Also a higher quality Ice and Water shield will stick tight to the nails penetrating it so that no moisture will get in between the nail holes if you do have ice dams building up along your eaves. A lot of roofing contractors will try and save hundreds of dollars by using the cheap store brands of ice and water which do not really fully adhere to the roof decking, allowing ice build up to rot out the bottom few feet of decking. 

Metal roofing systems have an average life expectancy of about 50 years. It is important to only use contractors who have experience installing metal as it is a highly skilled trade. Metal is something you put on your forever home. Standing seam is the Cadillac of metal roofing and is going to have little to no maintenance due to a snap lock panel system. Corrugated roofing is more economical but will need some maintenance from time to time because it has exposed fasteners. These exposed fasteners have little rubber washers creating a watertight seal that eventually fail over the course of the roof’s lifespan. To properly maintain these penetrations and avoid leaks they will need to be caulked after about 20 years. Taking into consideration the maintenance and overall price of a corrugated metal roofing system, it still remains a huge ROI compared to two and a half lifespans of shingles.  

Cedar shakes can be expected to last around 30 years. This system will need some maintenance from time to time. The color of cedar shakes darkens and looks more natural as years go on. The overall cost of a cedar shake roofing system does end up costing around the same price as metal but will not last as long and is typically only purchased for aesthetic purposes. Cedar shakes do come in metal and composite look-a-likes which will have a longer lifespan of 50 years. Most local roofing companies will not install cedar shakes due to inexperience. 

Slate is the longest lasting roofing product to this date. Some slate had lasted almost a hundred years in the right conditions. Most slate is going to start looking rough and needing continuous maintenance after about 75 years. Slate now comes in composites and can be expected to last just as long as real slate. Local roofing companies who can install slate are usually hard to come by. Most local roofing contractors will not quote for or repair slate, as you have to be so highly skilled or you can easily cause more damage than good. 

Rubber roofing or EPDM roofing is most commonly used for flat commercial roofing or smaller porch roof sections on residential homes and will last between 20-25 years. Most manufacturers offer 20 year full coverage warranties if you use their full roofing system, meaning you have to use all quality, name brand seam tape and cover tape. Commercial roofing companies are usually certified by manufacturers because high standards must be met in order for the manufacturers to back their labor and material warranties once they are installed. Commercial roofing manufacturers will send roofing inspectors out after the work is complete to check it meets all their requirements. If the contractors work is sub-par a warranty will not be issued until all aspects have been installed to spec. 

A TPO roofing system will last twenty to twenty five years. Only the best roofing contractors in each area will be geared towards installing TPO. Local roofing contractors usually don’t install this system because they do not have the expensive equipment needed to perform heat welds. TPO is also a white reflective roof which will add years to your cooling units lifespans. 

Overall you only need high quality materials and high quality workmanship to get the most bang for your buck over the long term. The best way to get the longest potential lifespan out of a roofing system is to choose a quality product that offers a full warrantied system which has to use all high quality accessories to qualify for full coverage. Make sure to ask your contractor which materials are being used and check the contract for brand names on underlayments. 

Choosing certified roofing installers who back their work up with their own in house warranty is the safest bet to achieve maximum lifetime efficiency out of the materials you invest in. Check that the local roofing company is listed on any websites they claim to be certified by to ensure that you will receive an actual manufacturers warranty. Most shingle companies will mail you a warranty within a month after your replacement offering you peace of mind for many years to come.