Asphalt shingles are the most common material used in residential roofing today. There are many reasons behind the popularity of shingle roofing, from ease of installation to low material cost.
While considering asphalt shingles for your next roofing replacement project, you should be aware of all the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this particular roofing material. After all, this is one of the biggest investments you will ever make in your home.
Roofing repairs are relatively easy with composite shingles.
Most brands offer Class A fire protection.
Disadvantages of Shingle Roofing
Shingles are susceptible to high wind damage – strong winds can uplift or tear shingles off easily.
Asphalt roof shingles not only transfer solar heat into your home, they can become damaged by the heat.
Mildew problems caused by excess moisture pooling in shady areas of your roof can damage shingles easily.
Depending on the type of shingle, asphalt roofs are easily outlasted by tile, slate and metal, lasting on average 15 to 30 years.
Hire The Right Contractor
If you need a new roof put on your house, shingle roofing is certainly a good option to consider. Affordability, versatility, ease of installation and repairs make shingle roofing an attractive option for any homeowner.
But remember, hiring a quality contractor who knows the ins and outs of the roofing installation process can make all the difference in the proper installation of a shingle roof. Mistakes are common, and there are plenty of fly-by contractors not interested in quality but a quick buck.
When re-roofing your home, selecting the right roofing contractor is key.
If you’re looking for a shingle roofing specialist with decades of roofing experience in both Delaware and Pennsylvania, contact All Roofing Solutions. We are a family owned & operated roofing contractor specializing in new roof installation and complete roofing replacements.
Roofing repairs are seldom straight forward – many things could go wrong, and often homeowners end up dealing with unforeseen and costly complications, especially in DYI situations or when dealing with unskilled roofers.
For one, the source of a roof leak is often not easy to determine. Usually a leak is the first indication of trouble, but the location of the leak does not always point to the source of the problem directly – and so the damage continues to develop unbeknownst to the homeowner. Damaged or improperly installed shingles continue to allow water to seep underneath and sometimes accumulate several feet from the source. This pooled water can cause further degrading of the roof and sub-roof materials.
Roofing repairs that are done without a thorough inspection designed to uncover problems like these are seldom successful. This is where the expertise of a skilled roofing contractor comes in.
All Roofing Solutions has been helping Delaware homeowners install and repair their roofs for 20 years! Call (302) 725-7663 or (610) 551-7663 if you need a professional help!
Residential Roofing: 5 Shingle Repair Mistakes to Avoid
Whether you’re the DIY type, or hiring a roofer to handle your repairs, you should be aware of some of the common mistakes that often happen in roof repair:
Inadequate or faulty base: It’s never a good idea to simply place new shingles on top of damaged ones during repairs – something lower quality roofing companies do to cut corners. A surface repair does not address problems that arise from damaged decking or improperly installed underlayment. Your roofer must inspects all decking to make sure that it is in proper shape, and has been installed correctly – without evaluating the structural integrity of the sheathing, your chances of overlooking the damage underneath is high. For best results, all damaged shingles should be removed so that an examination of the deck and sheathing can be conducted–and properly addressed.
Incorrectly installed shingles: Proper alignment of shingles, especially the starter course, is critical for a successful repair job. Care should be taken to offset joints and to be sure shingles lay flat. Ignoring these considerations may lead to the development of leaks that are hard to detect until serious damage is done.
Improper or not enough fastening: A good repair job depends on decking, underlayment and shingles that are all properly attached. Inadequate fastening (such as using nails that are too short) allows wind to raise shingles, moisture to work its way through the layers, and leaks to develop. Make sure your roofer uses long enough nails to reach the decking in order to avoid dealing with shifting and displaced shingles down the road.
Poorly installed flashing or reusing old flashing: Flashing is needed to channel moisture away from critical areas. Adequate flashing in valleys and around chimneys, skylights, vents, and satellite dish installations keep these vulnerable areas from allowing water to penetrate the roof. Proper flashing installation is key to avoiding leaks around those roof connections – make sure your flashing is not misaligned, improperly overlapped or insufficiently fastened. It is also important to avoid reusing old flashing as that can be problematic down the road. Again, this is something poor quality roofers tend to do to save money – make sure your roofer only installs new flashing.
Ignoring manufacturers’ specifications: Failure to follow guidelines may void manufacturers’ warranties. Proper preparation and installation ensures a quality repair job and maintains the warranty. It’s best to hire certified roofers with proven experience
We Have Extensive Roofing Repair Experience
Avoid costly roof repair mistakes by working with an experience contractor like All Roofing Solutions. We’re licences and insured, and with 20 years of experience in roof repair and replacement we have the knowledge and expertise to make sure the job is done right, with quality products and following industry-leading standards.
To request a free estimate, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. And don’t forget to ask about our discount of 15% off any roofing repair job!
If you’ve decided to replace your roofing, you’ll want to compare the prices and services offered by multiple local contractors in order to decide which roofer is the best for the job. But in order to do that effectively you will need a checklist of everything you want so that you can present identical requirements to each contractor and receive comparable bids.
Save yourself some time and take the guesswork out of quote comparisons by building your roofing checklist before you start making the calls. Without a checklist, you’ll likely find that estimates can vary wildly from one contractor to the next, making the comparison that much harder.
Build a Checklist of What You Want
The first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want to repair your current roof or replace it outright. Generally speaking, if you’ve had recurring problems, or if your roof is more than 15 years old and is showing signs of significant wear, you’re better off replacing it than going with repairs.
Once you’ve decided that replacement is the way to go, spend some time building your requirements list so that you can present it to your selected contractors for bids. Here’s a rundown of all the items your roofing replacement checklist should include.
Tear-off vs overlay. Will you be tearing off or adding a new layer? In most places, homeowners are allowed up to two layers of shingles on their roofs. If your underlayment is still in good shape, you can save a bit of money by leaving it intact and adding a second layer of shingles. However, if your underlayment is worn, you should replace your roof outright instead of trying to cut corners.
Size and materials. Calculate the total square footage of your roof, then decide which roofing material you want:
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable options, but there are many others on the market.
Slate roofing is costly, but extremely durable and very attractive.
Metal roofing offers energy savings, outstanding fire protection and a lengthy lifespan.
Concrete and ceramic tiles provide yet another strong and aesthetically pleasing option.
Product comparisons. Once you’ve settled on a material, do some research into the various products available from manufacturers of that roofing material. Not all asphalt shingles are made equal, and you’ll want to choose a product with a high customer satisfaction rating. If you’ve opted for metal, consider the relative merits of stainless steel, aluminum and copper. Concrete tiles are generally more affordable than their ceramic counterparts, with ceramic offering enhanced performance characteristics that may make the extra investment worth it, depending on where you live.
Warranty protections. In addition to comparing manufacturer warranties on the roofing materials you’ve selected, you should ask each contractor what kind of installation guarantees they offer. Workmanship isn’t covered by product warranties, so contractors need to provide added assurances that they stand by their work. Contractor warranties range from 5 to 20 years depending on the system they install. The average workmanship warranty is 5 years.
If you’re considering a new roof, the best place to start is by hiring an experienced roofing contractor to do a thorough roof inspection or request a re-roofing estimate directly. Remember that the lowest estimate you get isn’t necessarily the best! Make sure any contractor you consider provides several local client references, serves the area from a permanent location, and presents you with valid licensing and insurance information
Need A Roofer You Can Trust?
If you need an experienced Delaware or Pennsylvania roofing contractor, well versed in the art of shingle roofing installation, call All Roofing Solutions. We offer generous warranties, top-quality materials and experienced installation professionals who get the job done right the first time.
WHAT SETS ALL ROOFING SOLUTIONS APART
Family owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
Fully licensed and insured.
Nearly 20 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices comparing to large contractors with bigger overhead.
Each roofing/siding projects includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets with your complete satisfaction.
All projects are supervised by company owner to ensure high quality workmanship.
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Call today at 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania to request your Free Estimate! And don’t forget to ask about our discount of $400 off any complete roofing installation job!!!
There comes a time when roofing repairs just won’t do anymore – your roof sustains extensive damage, whether through a storm or just over time, and your local roofing contractor recommends installing a new shingle roof rather than repairing the damage.
Once you decide on replacing your roof, there are further decisions you will have to make. Before figuring out the color or style of your new shingles, you need to decide – with the help of your roofing contractor – whether to tear off the old shingles or simply add a top layer of new shingles to the existing roof.
Shingle Roofing Replacement: Tear-Off vs. Adding a Top Layer
The decision whether to tear off or add a new layer is an important one to make, and will potentially save you a lot of money and/or trouble down the road – it all depends on your particular circumstances.
The Case Behind An Overlay
Adding a top layer of shingles to the existing structure may sound like “quick fix,” but in certain situations, it is a safe and widely used technique for replacing a worn roof.
Called an “overlay,” this roofing method can save time and money without compromising the integrity of the roof. An overlay is your best bet assuming the wood decking is in good condition, and especially if you’re planning to sell your home soon. The cost of doing a tear can substantially increase the cost of re-roofing, so if you can avoid it that’s great for your wallet.
Check building codes in your city – most allow it once (never lay a roof over a roof over a roof).
The Case Behind a Tear Off
Re-roofing from the bottom up, or tearing off the current roof, can be more costly and labor-intensive than an overlay, but it’s often necessary, and, in some areas of the country, required.
Often, homeowners must undergo a tear-off versus adding a top layer of shingles if the current roof meets certain conditions:
Two layers of shingles, slate, tiles or shakes already exist on the roof
The roof is soaked from water damage
Wood decking needs repairs or replacement
The roof consists of asbestos/cement tile, wood shakes, slate or clay materials
Tearing the old materials off provides your roofer with an opportunity to look at any issues that might be creeping up underneath the existing roof. Additionally, an overlay cuts the life expectancy of the second layers of shingles in half, so if you want your new roof to last longer removing the old roofing materials is recommended. And while you’re at it, consider recycling the old materials!
Consider All Options When Having A New Roof Installed
Your roofing contractor should be aware of state and local regulations and requirements regarding roofing and upon inspection of your home, will be able to tell you with certainty whether you are looking at a total roof replacement or if the possibility of an overlay exists. Since a new roof can be a costly investment, all options should be considered.
If you need an inspection, or you’re considering installing a new roof and are not sure which way you should go, call All Roofing Solutions, an experienced residential roofing company serving Delaware & Pennsylvania customers since 1998. We will provide you with several new roof installation options that best suit your taste, needs, and budget.
Why Choose All Roofing Solutions
Family-owned and operated contractor
Fully licensed and insured for your protection
Over 25 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair
A+ rated BBB member
Complimentary Extended Material warranty
30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
Own crew—no subcontractors!
Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Call today at 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania to request your Free Estimate or to learn more about our roofing, siding, door installation, gutter repair and window replacement services!
Utilized in both residential and commercial roofing, flat roofs offer both aesthetics (a unique architectural looks and styles) and convenience (a place to install HVAC units, for example). They also come with a bit of a reputation for causing problems, however.
Flat roofs are often more prone to leaks and damage than their sloped counterparts, and as such, both homeowners and commercial building owners tend to look after them with a little more care and caution. That extra care and caution carries over to the choices you’ll need to make when replacing your home’s flat roof.
When installing a flat roof, your main goal is to create a barrier that will be impenetrable to water. Flat roofing, also called low-slope roofing, is not entirely flat – they are slightly angled to allow water and melting snow flow into a downspout. Still, they must be able to handle pooling water, snow and ice.
Flat Roofing Installation: Top 5 Materials, Their Cost, Benefits And Drawbacks
Popular options include felt and bitumen, built-up roofing, single-ply PVC roofing, and EPDM roofing, but which of these is best? What are their advantages and disadvantages? How much do they cost? Below is an overview of most popular flat roofing materials.
Single-ply PVC membrane roofing is one of the most popular flat roofing material. This option is made up of a PVC membrane base, which are sealed together to form a watertight barrier that is practically maintenance-free once it’s installed. PVC membrane roofing are especially strong and durable, and energy efficient (especially white-colored ones), as they reflect heat away during the summer and help keep it inside during the winter. PVC roofing often comes with lifetime warranty.
The down side? PVC membrane roofing is one of the costlier options, though it does provide excellent long-term value.
Cost of Installation: $7.00 to $10.00 per square foot.
Lifespan: 20 to 30 years.
EPDM Roofing
Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) roofing is another option. These rubber roofs are highly durable, lightweight, and energy efficient. Since it forms an insulation barrier, EPDM rubber helps prevent heat transfer, keeping your home cooler during the summer and warmer during the winter. They are low-maintenance and resistant to wind, hail, fire and ozone damage.
EPDM roofing is easy to install, which can be done in one of three ways: it can be attached mechanically, installed fully adhered, or ballasted together. The EPDM roofing membranes are sealed off with specially formulated tape adhesives or liquid bonding agents.
EPDM roofing is also less expensive on average than single-ply PVC membrane roofs, but at the same time, their welded seals are not quite as impenetrable. They also don’t trap heat inside your home very well, which can contribute to rising home heating costs during the winter months. EPDM is also more vulnerable to punctures than other choices.
Cost of Installation: $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot.
Lifespan: 15 to 30 years.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing
TPO is a single ply membrane consisting of a polymer base, mesh fabric reinforcing layer, and tough thermoplastic polyolefin top layer. TPO membranes can be adhered, fastened or ballasted. When adhesive is used, the membrane is chemically bonded to either the roof decking or to an insulation layer. Likewise, the membrane can be mechanically attached to either the decking or to an already fastened layer of insulation. In a ballasted installation, the membrane is laid down and then covered with a layer of river rock or pavers to hold it down.
Like other roofing membrane systems, TPO is an ideal choice for application on commercial buildings which have expansive roofs with little or no slope, combining the strength of EDPM rubbers with hot-air weldable seams. It’s durable, highly reflective and energy efficient, UV and heat resistant, also resistant to chemicals, dirt, and biological degrading. It’s also recyclable. A properly installed and maintained TPO roof has a lifetime of 10 to 20 years, and most manufacturers offer a full warranty.
On the downside, not all TPO membranes are created equal, and some perform a lot better than others. Longevity varies, so purchasing from a high end supplier is critical. They also don’t stand up to heat well.
Cost of Installation: $6.00 to $8.50 per square foot
Lifespan: 10 to 20 years.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is a multi-ply roofing material. The traditional material used to cover a flat roof consists of a felt underlayer, which includes a fiber or paper base that is coated with bitumen. This underlayer is then covered over with a top coat of gravel to protect against weather elements. The main advantage of this option is its low cost; felt-bitumen flat roofing materials are cheap and easy to install.
Torch-down application used in their installation is a fire hazard, however, and not recommended for occupied buildings. These roofs are also prone to damage over the medium term, and most felt-bitumen flat roofs have maximum lifespans of 10 to 15 years. They can also be easily damaged, and often require intermediary repairs.
Cost of Installation: $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot.
Lifespan: 10 to 25 years.
Built-up Roofing
If you’re looking for a comparable option that’s got a lot more durability, built-up roofing (BUR)–also known as tar & gravel roof–is comprised of similar elements. However, BUR is much thicker and more durable than standard felt-bitumen roofing, enabling it to withstand more damage and last longer. Consequently, BUR roofs can withstand heavy foot traffic. Its drawbacks: relative to standard felt-bitumen flat roofing products, BUR is more expensive. It is also a lot heavier, making for a more difficult installation and introducing more weight pressure on your roof, the added weight often requiring reinforcement to the supporting structure.
Cost of Installation: $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot.
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years.
Installation Quality Matters
The advantages of each option should be carefully weighed against their drawbacks, taking factors like local weather and climate patterns into account while considering your budget. Remember that the up-front cost of a flat roof replacement only tells part of the story; the longer your roof lasts, and the more energy it helps you save, the greater the long-term value it will deliver.
If you’re shopping around for a flat roofing contractor, call All Roofing Solutions today for a no-obligation and free roofing estimate: 302-725-7663 (Delaware) or 610-551-7663 (Pennsylvania)!
Family-owned and operated contractor
