Roofing and Exterior FAQs

When should a roof be replaced?

Sooner or later, every roof needs to be replaced, usually due to the long-term effects of weathering. If a residential roof is more than 20 years old, it is a prime candidate for reroofing. On the ground, walk around your home with binoculars and inspect your roof for cracked, curled or missing shingles, as well as any excessive loss of the protective mineral granules. DO NOT CLIMB ON THE ROOF; walking on the roof is dangerous and can damage your roof. In your attic, take a flashlight and look at the underside of the roof deck and rafters for any stains or wet spots indicating water leaks.

How can a homeowner recognize when a roof system has a problem?

All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. Periodic (twice-a-year) inspections often can uncover cracked, warped or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other visible signs of roof system problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.

What are my roof replacement options?

You have two basic options: a complete replacement of the roof system, involving a tear off of your existing roof system, or re-cover the existing roof system, involving only the installation of a new roof system. If you've already had one re-cover installed on your original roof system, check with a professional roofing contractor, as building codes often allow no more than one re-cover before a complete replacement is necessary.

What roofing options are available today?

Roofing options are plentiful today with new products, styles, and colors being developed regularly. We can provide roofing samples for asphalt shingle roofing, composite roofing, slate roofing, cedar roofing, metal roofing and copper roofing.

My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?

Not necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a section of the roof system being damaged. A complete roof system failure, however, generally is irreversible and a result of improper installation or choice of materials.

Can I do the work myself?

Most work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can damage your roof system by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure yourself by falling off or through the roof. Maintenance by homeowners should be confined to inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring and cleaning gutters of dead leaves and debris.

How long will the new roof system last?

Most new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for about 20 years. Some roof system types, such as composite, slate, clay tile and certain metal systems, can last longer. Actual roof system life span is determined by local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof system design, material quality and suitability, proper application and adequate roof maintenance.

Can I apply new shingles over existing shingles?

Yes, depending on the condition of the roof. If the roof has one layer of shingles that are lying flat and the deck is in good condition, the existing shingles typically do not have to be removed. Check with local officials to make sure building codes are being followed. Re-roofing is also a good opportunity to examine roof ventilation to ensure vents are sufficient in number, positioned properly and unobstructed.

What causes algae growth on shingles?

Algae growth is typically seen on light colored shingles. It exists as a brown to black discoloration caused by an algae known as Gloeocapsa. Although algae may exist on a shingle, it does not affect the performance of the shingle — it is essentially an aesthetic problem.

Can hail affect asphalt roofing shingles?

Yes. Hail damage falls into two groups: aesthetic damage, which results in slight granule loss without affecting shingle life, and functional damage, characterized by substantial granule loss or cracking. Functional damage may result in short term leaks or a reduction of the life expectancy of the shingle.

How does Energy Star™ work for shingles?

Energy Star approved shingles must have a minimum solar reflectance tested right out of the package and again after three years on the roof. Better shingle solar reflectance across an urban area may reduce overall city temperatures and lower the energy load needed for air conditioning. Note that in Canada, Energy Star ratings do not apply.

Are there financial advantages for Energy Star™ approved shingles?

There may be some tax advantages with using Energy Star™ approved roofing shingles in some areas. Check with your local government for details.

How many homes are topped by asphalt shingles and why?

Asphalt shingles are the leading choice for residential roofing in the United States because they provide quality, durability, versatility and economy. Over 12.5 billion square feet of asphalt shingle products are manufactured annually — enough to cover more than 5 million homes every year. Four out of five homes are roofed with asphalt shingles.

What are the benefits of asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles perform well in extreme temperatures and in areas where wind, water, and ice are prevalent. They offer affordability, low maintenance, ease of application, and carry Class A, B or C fire ratings, with Class A providing the greatest fire resistance.

What are the different types of asphalt shingles?

Strip Shingles are the most common, typically the three-tab style. Laminated Shingles contain more than one layer of tabs for extra thickness and a dimensional look. Interlocking Shingles mechanically fasten to each other for greater wind resistance. Large Format Shingles are generally rectangular or hexagonal in shape and do not utilize cutouts or tabs.

Your Roofing Questions, Answered by the Pros

Still have questions or ready to schedule your free estimate? AM PM Roofing is here to help homeowners in Cromwell and Middletown, CT with all of their roofing, gutter, siding, and chimney needs.

Call AM PM Roofing today at (860) 961-2825 or schedule your free estimate online — we look forward to earning your trust.