Roofs seem simple at first. However, closer examination shows them to be far more dynamic than many imagine. Shingle roofs, the most common type in use today, have been carefully refined over the years to provide excellent reliability and stability. When it’s time for a shingle roof replacement in the Twin Cities, MN, area, knowing a bit more about your roof can help you make the process smoother. Here are a few facts about shingle roofs and what’s involved in the replacement process.
What are Shingle Roofs?
Shingles are the most popular material used in roofs, and for good reason. Shingles are primarily composed of asphalt, which offers excellent durability and weather resistance. Strip shingles, also known as three-tab shingles, are still popular, and they’re often the cheapest option available. Dimensional shingles, which are made of two or more layers and feature a laminated surface for extra protection, have become more popular over the years. Increasingly, manufacturers are offering so-called luxury shingles, which can fit a range of aesthetics to provide a bit of extra curb appeal.
Why Use a Shingle Roof?
Regardless of which option you choose, shingle roofs offer excellent affordability. Furthermore, their modular design makes them fairly easy to install regardless of your roof’s geometry. In the past, shingle roofs tended to all look fairly similar, as most manufacturers relied on strip shingles. Today, you can choose from many different looks, allowing you to better match your roof to the rest of your home. Shingles are designed for easy use, and your roof will likely need little in the way of ongoing maintenance, even in the Twin Cities area which can experience extreme weather conditions and icy weather. One noteworthy advantage of shingle roofs is their excellent sound protection, as they can dampen sounds which would penetrate through other types of roofing material. In general, shingle roofs are expected to last for 20 to 40 years, although warranties may only last for 15 to 25.
When Do I Need a Replacement?
All roofs have a certain lifespan, so knowing when your roof was installed and how long it was estimated to last can give you some guidelines for knowing when it might need to be replaced. However, there are some visible signs which might indicate it’s time for replacement regardless of your roof’s age. Look out for the following:
- Missing tiles, indicative of age or weather damage
- Sagging, which indicates a damaged deck
- Shingles are curled or cracked
- Leaking, which indicates the roof has been compromised
Before scheduling a roof replacement, however, make sure to have an expert inspect your roof. Localized damage might be fairly inexpensive repair and can extend the life of your current room for years.
Working With Roofers
A roof replacement is a major process, and building a relationship with the roofers you hire is essential for making the process as smooth as possible. Typically, your roofer will provide a free estimate covering the overall expenses and likely time frame. This is especially important if you have roof insurance, which can help cut costs. Next, your roofer will walk you through the installation process so you can prepare for any disruptions which will arise. If you are going through insurance, your roofer will typically take the lead for filing the necessary paperwork. Even if you’ve had a shingle roof replaced in the past, you might be surprised at what new shingle options are available, and your roofer can help share your available options to make the right choice for your home.
The Installation Process
Fortunately, roof installations often aren’t as disruptive as many people imagine. It might take some time before the installation begins, as pre-installation inspections and getting permits can take time. However, the actual work usually takes between one and five days. After your new roof is installed, your roofer will handle hauling away your old materials and other clean up. You may need to allow an inspector access to ensure your new roof has been installed to code. Once the final inspection is done and the permit is closed, congratulations! You’ll be able to enjoy the safety and look of your new roof for decades to come.
We often think little about our roofs when they’re working as intended. When it’s time for a replacement, however, working quickly can help prevent damage. If you have any questions about shingle roof replacement in the Twin Cities area, reach out to Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows to learn about your options and how to proceed.