Shingle roofs can be one of the most affordable and aesthetically pleasing roof covering options for residential homes. But they also have one of the shortest lifespans and can have a lot of issues when not properly cared for. It is important to know when it is time to get a new roof in Canton Michigan, and how to make sure your shingles are going to last. Here are some things you should know if you currently have shingle roofing or you are considering a new shingle roof installation on your home.
Reasons Why You Should Invest in A New Shingle Roof in Canton Michigan
For many decades shingle roofing has been the most popular choice for roof coverings. Shingle roofing is one of the most economical roof coverings available. It can be repaired easily without noticeable areas and when using better quality shingles it can last a long time. In fact, some of the shingle roofing of today can last as much as 50 years and has a warranty to back up those claims.
With all the advantages of shingle roofing there are also some problems that you’ll want to consider. Here are some things that can go wrong with shingle roofing when it gets near the end of it’s useful life. Many of these problems will signify that the roof needs to be replaced.
Signs of Shingle Damage
Some of the signs you have shingle damage are:
Damaged or Missing Shingles
Shingle damage can come in many forms, including dents, cracks, blisters and bruising. You can also have shingles come loose, and even fly away when the wind is strong enough. These shingles need to be removed and replaced, but it may be better to replace the whole roof at once.
Their Age
Three-tab shingles are designed to last around 15 to 20 years, while architectural shingles can last 25 to 30 years. When they begin to age, you can end up with more frequent problems and repairs becoming more and more common. This is because older shingles lose durability and cannot defend your home as well.
Roof Leaks
If you are noticing moisture getting into your attic, that is a clear sign of roof leaks, meaning something is getting through your shingles. You should have a professional come out to do a thorough inspection to confirm the issue.
Granule Loss
Granules are the top layer of protection on your shingles, consisting of separate particles. When shingles become damages, worn, or old, these granules can become loose and end up in your gutter. If you are noticing granules in your gutters when you are cleaning them, you should get an inspector out to find which shingles are the issue.
Shingle Roof Replacement vs Re-Covering
When it comes to shingle roofs, you can either choose to replace your roof or re-cover it. Replacing you roof means completely removing all of the old shingles and any other parts of your roof that are due for replacement, then installing new materials. Re-covering your roof means that you are laying a layer of new shingles over existing ones. While this is not ideal for long term solutions or for those with problems throughout your roof and attic, re-coverings can be a good solution for those who cannot financially afford roof replacement.
Getting the Most Out of Your Shingle Roof
To help your shingles last as long as possible, there are some things you can do:
Go with Architectural Options
Architectural shingles are more expensive, but will last up to ten years longer and are much more durable than three-tab shingles. You are less prone to damage like cracking and denting, and you will not need to worry about them blowing away.
Choose A Lighter Color
Lighter colored shingles, or even reflective coatings on darker shingles, are important for making your shingles last longer. This is because darker colors absorb heat and UV rays, making them wear down faster.
Stay Up to Date on Maintenance
Maintenance is an absolute must for those who want a healthy roof. Trim nearby trees, remove any debris or snow, and keep gutters clear for the best results. You can also look at what the manufacturers suggest for maintenance for your specific shingles for more protection.
Call a Professional Roofer
Want to learn more about the options that are available for your home? It’s best to talk with a professional roofing contractor in Canton Michigan such as Twelve Oaks Roofing for a consultation. They can answer your questions and also provide pricing estimates for the roof you want. Give them a call today at 248-525-6950.