Roof Replacement FAQ
If you are considering a new roof for your house, chances are you’ve asked yourself these questions.
Do I really need to replace my current roof?
Here are some signs you may need a new roof:
- Interior leaks
- Asphalt shingles curling, cracking or losing their granules
- Missing shingles
- Evidence of mold
- Seeing light through the roof boards (if you have access to your attic)
- The current roof is more than 20 years old
How long do various types of roofs last?
You’ll often see estimates like those below based on the shingle materials used, but there are some caveats:
Slate: 100 years or more
But . . . slate is notoriously difficult to install properly and few roofers are trained well in slate installation; those that are charge rates that are prohibitive for most homeowners. Slate is heavy, and most homes can’t handle the extreme weight. Also, the quality of slate has declined over the decades so that what is commercially available now may not have the same lifespan as the slate quarried 75 years ago.
Ceramic Tile: 50 to 70 years
But . . . ceramic tile contains moisture so it’s prone to freezing and cracking in our winters.
Metal: 50 years or more
But . . . metal roofs cost three times as much (or more) than asphalt which puts them out of the range of most homeowners, who won’t stay in the house long enough to recoup the cost. And while the metal for the roof itself is durable, there are several ways that the installation of the metal roofing screws can lead to leaks.
Asphalt – Architectural Shingles: 20 – 50 years
No “buts” about it . . . these are the recommended shingles used by Duval Roofing.
Asphalt – 3 Tab: 20-25 years
But . . . these are not up to code for the North Shore of Massachusetts
How long can I expect a roof installed by Duval Roofing to last?
We install most new roofs on Massachusetts’ North Shore using architectural asphalt shingles. If the home’s ventilation and insulation are adequate, or upgraded when we install the roof, we expect it to last 30 to 40 years. That is much longer than most people will live in their homes; studies show that Americans own homes for 7-14 years on average. Keep in mind that “lifetime” roof warranties are usually limited to the current owner of the house; some shingle warranties may be transferred once.
How can you assure a longer life for your new roof?
(hint: it’s not all about the shingles)
- Expert installation
- Quality materials
- Proper ventilation
- Adequate insulation
- Good flashing
And there are other elements over which we have little control:
- Angle of roof (higher sloped roofs tend to last longer)
- Mild climate (in New England we lose out on this one as we are subject to harsh winters, high winds, ice damming, and extreme temperature fluctuations)
Your choice of a roofing contractor can make all the difference in the lifetime of your new roof. At Duval, our experienced and expert roofers perform high quality installations using proven materials from the most reputable manufacturers. Our workmanship is backed by our own ten-year warranty.
Give us a call at 978-664-2557 if you have questions about whether it’s time for a new roof for your home or use the contact form at right to request a free quote.
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Call 978-664-2557 or fill out the form below to request your free estimate for a roof replacement.
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