What Should You Know Before Replacing Your Asphalt Roof?
Your roof is more than just shingles and nails—it's a complex system protecting your Oklahoma home's value and your family's comfort. But when it's time for a new roof, the options, costs, and warranties can be overwhelming. Let's take the mystery out of asphalt roof replacement in OKC, ensuring you get the right roof for your needs and budget.
Things To Consider Before Roof Replacement
An asphalt roof replacement involves removing the existing roofing materials down to the deck and installing a new asphalt shingle roof. This process also includes replacing other essential components for a complete and effective replacement:
Underlayment: Water-resistant barrier beneath shingles for added protection.
Roof vents: Ensure air circulation, prevent moisture buildup.
Pipe boots: Seal around pipes and vents to stop leaks.
Drip edge: Metal flashing at roof edges to prevent water seepage.
Ice and water shield: Waterproof membrane in areas susceptible to ice dams and leaks.
Ridge capping: Shingles or metal covering the roof peak.
Roof flashing: Metal pieces directing water from vulnerable areas.
Roof decking: Wooden foundation supporting the roofing system.
Avoid Cheap Roof Replacements
Quality Comes at a Price: A well-executed asphalt roof replacement involves quality materials and skilled labor, which are not inexpensive.
Beware of Low-Ball Offers: Roofers offering the lowest prices may cut corners by using inferior materials, hiring inexperienced workers, or omitting essential components.
Don't Sacrifice Quality for Price: Opting for the cheapest roof replacement can lead to future problems like leaks, premature wear and tear, and costly repairs.
Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Prices: If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Thoroughly research and compare roofing companies to ensure a fair price for quality work.
Opt for a Full Roof Replacement
Avoid Nailing Over: While nailing over your existing asphalt roof with new shingles may seem like a cost-saving option, it comes with significant drawbacks.
Warranty Concerns: Nailing over disqualifies you from enhanced warranties that typically come with full replacements.
Aesthetic Issues: If you upgrade the type of shingle, nailing over can create an uneven appearance due to the existing shingles underneath.
Flashing Limitations: Nailing over requires reusing your current flashing, which may not be in optimal condition.
Difficult Repairs: Locating and fixing leaks becomes more challenging with a nail-over roof.
Hidden Damage: Nailing over prevents inspecting the underlying roof deck for damage.
Increased Future Costs: When it's time for a future roof replacement, removing two layers of shingles will be more expensive.
Strict Requirements: Nailing over is only suitable for roofs at the end of their lifespan, lying flat, with few penetrations, minimal flashing, and no abutting walls.
Choosing the Right Asphalt Shingle
You have three main options for asphalt shingles during your roof replacement.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles:
Pros:
The most affordable roofing material
Easy to repair and install
Cons:
Requires annual maintenance
Architectural Asphalt Shingles:
Pros:
Affordable
Easy to repair and install
Wide variety of available materials and colors
Cons:
Requires annual maintenance
Can be damaged by hail
Luxury Asphalt Shingles:
Pros:
The most durable and long-lasting option
High curb appeal
Excellent resistance to storm damage
Cons:
Most expensive option
Installation takes longer
Still requires annual maintenance
Understanding Warranties
An asphalt roof replacement typically comes with two types of warranties:
Workmanship Warranty:
Covers: Issues caused by installation errors, such as leaks or premature deterioration.
Duration: Varies among contractors, ranging from 2 years to a lifetime.
Recommendations: Look for at least a 10-year warranty, but prioritize a lifetime or 20-year warranty if possible.
Manufacturer Option: Some shingle manufacturers offer their own workmanship warranty, which may be available for 25 years after inspection.
Roofing Material Warranty:
Covers: Defects or manufacturing errors in asphalt shingles and other roofing components.
Standard Warranty: Every shingle and component comes with a basic warranty from the manufacturer.
Enhanced Warranty (Non-Prorated): Available for architectural and luxury shingles if you install a complete roof system from a single manufacturer.
Coverage: This comprehensive warranty covers the cost of labor and materials to replace the entire roof if any component fails.
Eligibility: Your roofer must be certified with the shingle manufacturer to offer the enhanced warranty.
How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Replacement Last?
ROI of Roof Replacement: Besides increasing home value and curb appeal, the return on investment (ROI) for a roof replacement is largely determined by its lifespan.
Realistic Lifespan: An asphalt roof typically lasts about 80% of the manufacturer's stated lifespan, assuming proper installation and ventilation.
Example: An architectural shingle roof with a 30-year stated lifespan will likely last 22-25 years in reality.
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
Quality of Installation: Proper installation techniques ensure the roof's integrity and longevity.
Adequate Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup, which can damage shingles and shorten lifespan.
Climate and Weather: Extreme temperatures, heavy rain, snow, and hail can accelerate wear and tear on the roof.
Maintenance: Regular inspections and timely repairs can extend the lifespan of the roof.
What Is the Cost of Replacing an Asphalt Roof?
While we've covered essential aspects of asphalt roof replacements, the cost remains a critical concern for homeowners.
Pricing Concerns: Cost is often the most significant factor influencing homeowners' decisions regarding roof replacements.
Transparency: Finding accurate pricing information can be challenging as some sources avoid scaring homeowners with the potential expense.
The Reality: Asphalt roof replacements are not inexpensive investments.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: To provide transparency, we've prepared a separate article detailing the average cost of asphalt roof replacements based on shingle type and factors that impact the final price.
Make an Informed Decisions
Replacing the roof is a big investment, but with the right information, you can make a confident decision that protects your home and budget. Ready to learn more about roof replacement in OKC? Contact Taylormade Exteriors today for a consultation and to get the expert guidance you need to choose the perfect roof for your needs.