What Should You Do When You Have Visible Broken Roof Shingles?
Professional roofers recommend getting your roof inspected at least once a year to see if any wear and tear or significant signs of aging exist. They can tell a great deal by looking at how well your roofing materials are holding up against the environment and aging.
The most common roofing material for homes in Marin County and the Bay area is asphalt shingles.
They are the most popular because asphalt shingles are affordable and durable.
When Your Shingles Are Broken Or Damaged In Some Way, This Is The First Question We’re Asked, “Is This Something That Can Be Repaired?
The answer about repair will depend on the amount of damage and the age of your roofing material. Roofing shingles can become broken or damaged due to a variety of circumstances. Extreme weather conditions, like high winds or extended high-heat spells can cause undue wear and tear on a shingle. Damp conditions that cause mold can also create problems.
Though not a common occurrence around here, torrential downpours or hail may dislodge some of the granules that make up the outer layer of a shingle. Leaves, pine needles, tree branches and other debris sitting on shingles can also shorten their useful life.
Each of these conditions vary depending on the geographic location of your home. The age of your roofing material also matters. The average manufacturer’s warranty for 3-tab, asphalt shingles is between 20 to 30 years.
Are Broken Shingles Something That Require An Entire Reroofing Project?
If your roofing shingles are broken, torn, curled or cracked within a confined area of your roof, then replacing the damaged section of roof is fairly easy. The damaged shingles will need to be removed, matched and, once the underlayer is examined for damage, replaced.
Getting it done prior to the roof leaking into your home can save you money and unnecessary aggravation. It is also the kind of project a professional roofer can handle between big roofing jobs.
If large areas of your roof are damaged or lack most of the granules that make up the top layer, then a new roof may be the wisest choice. This is especially true if your roof is close to 20 years old, or older. Questions about any manufacturer’s warranty should certainly be explored if your roof is relatively new.
Should I Stick With Shingles Or Go With A Metal Roof?
Replacing an entire roof is a big investment. If it’s been some time since your roof was replaced, you may be surprised to see the number of choices that currently exist for roofing materials. Still the most popular, those 3-tab asphalt shingles have competition from a growing range of more expensive products like dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles. But the choices don’t stop there. Metal roofing is also an option. Metal costs more but it also lasts longer. You’ll want to explore the options with a roofing professional.
What Other Roofing Material Options Are There?
If you’ve always longed for that red clay tile roof or the stately beauty of slate, check first before moving ahead. While those materials last longer than the average human lifespan, they are heavy, costly and often require additional structural support.
An alternative could be one of the composite tiles, made to resemble the real thing. In fact, some metal roofing materials simulate slate. Doing your homework first is your wisest choice.
If you are worried about the condition of your roof, or simply want to have someone take a look, contact us today for a roof inspection. One of our professional roofers will be happy to assist you in scheduling an appointment.