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Asphalt Re-Roof/Roof Replacement

Asphalt Roof Replacement

If your roof is more than 20 years old and most of the shingles are damaged or badly worn, it’s time to replace it. But if your roof is basically sound and is at a relatively shallow pitch that you’re comfortable working on, you can probably handle most repairs yourself.

B4 and After Re-Roof Alex Perez Roofing Sacramento

What Are The Different Types Of Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles comes in three varieties, organic-mat based, fiberglass, and also architectural style shingles. The most affordable option is the organic mat based shingle, which is waterproof and made up of paper coated with asphalt. The next best asphalt shingles are fiberglass roofing shingles, which are treated with a resin that creates a waterproof and fire resistant material. The best asphalt shingles aesthetically speaking are architectural shingles which are two layers of shingles treated and bonded with a sealant that is aesthetically pleasing and adds an elegant look to your home’s roof. Each shingle type differs by cost, durability, and overall appearance which we discuss below.

Shingle Types...

3 Types Of Asphalt Shingles

3 Tab Asphalt Shingles

The cost of a 3 tab composition shingle can be as cheap as $0.90 cents per square foot of roofing material. One square (100 square feet) of 3-tab roofing would cost around $90 to $100 per square. 

3 tab asphalt shingles are the most common asphalt roofing type you see installed on homes. Three tab shingles are distinguished by cutouts or tabs that are made along their long lower edge. The result is that each roof shingle looks like three separate pieces when installed, but it’s only one. The cost of a 3 tab composition shingle can be as cheap as $0.90 cents per square foot of roofing material.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural roofing shingles contain no cutouts, but their lower portions are laminated with an additional asphalt layer. This creates a contoured, dimensional look that gives them their name. Asphalt sealant bonds the layers, reinforcing the shingles’ waterproof capability. Architectural roofs have an average return on investment of 6% on your home’s value. The cost of 30 year architectural asphalt shingles would cost around $4.50 per square ft or $450 per square ft.

Synthethic Asphalt Shingles

Luxury synthetic asphalt shingles can replicate high end roofing material such as natural slate and cedar shake roofs but at a much lower price. Natural wood roofs and slate tile roofing are more expensive to install and involve an extended roofing installation labor which adds up in total costs. A synthetic slate roof costs around $950 per square for roofing material. A real slate roof may cost as much as 10 times that of architectural laminate roofing shingles.

Asphalt Re-Roofing / Roof Replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for after replacing an Asphalt Roof?

Pay Attention to Minor Details

Check the flashing that protects the roof from water leaks. When roofing, flashing is used. It’s made of aluminum or steel. Confirm if the contractor installed it around the wall intersections around the skylights and chimneys.

Should I stay home during an Asphalt Roof replacement?

The truth is, it’s completely up to you if you want to stay home during your roof replacement. Maybe you want to ensure your roof is being properly installed or you want to be there to ask your contractor questions if they come up.

What are common signs I might need a new Asphalt Roof?

It’s been 20-25 years since the roof was replaced.

Water is leaking into your home or business.

Shingles are visibly cracked or damaged.

The roof sags.

There’s mold in your home or business.

Moss is growing on the roofing material.

How long does it take roofers to replace an Asphalt Roof?

In general, the roof of an average residence (3,000 square feet or less) can be replaced in a day. In extreme cases, it could take three to five days. Depending on the weather, complexity, and accessibility of your home it could even take up to three weeks.

Why Can’t I Just Install My Own Asphalt Roof?

If your existing roof is installed relatively recently, chances are, you can. There are two factors that can affect this change. One is the slope of the roof; certain materials like slate are ideally installed on steep-sloped roofs. The other is the weight of the new roofing material. Metal is compatible with just about any existing roof structure thanks to its relatively lighter weight, however, tile and slate are much heavier. You should have your roofing contractor check your roof if it can accommodate the added weight.

Can I Just Have the New Asphalt Roof Installed Over the Old One?

While it is possible to install a new roof over the old one, it is not a good idea in the long run. Materials like shingles are ideally installed as flat as possible, which is something that can’t be done if the old roof is still present. There’s also the weight concern, as the roofing weight is practically doubled. Finally, if the roofing structure or insulation has hidden issues, there will be little chance to get it fixed.

Can I Choose Tile/Slate/Metal Instead of Asphalt Shingles?

We’re sure that there are some homeowners who can install their own roofs, but there are some risks with DIY. For instance, certain roofing systems have specific installation processes that require factory training. Improper installation can result in compromised performance. There’s also the matter of warranty. Installing the roof yourself means you’re on your own if any problem arises from installation errors, whereas you get full warranty coverage on a professionally-installed roof.

What are the signs that my Asphalt Roof needs a replacement?

The first sign is the frequency of problems. For instance, if your roof has been leaking and even after repairs it’s repeating then replacement is your go-to option. Other signs include serious damage (e.g. after storms), the age of your roof, missing or torn shingles or loose flashings.