Most people don't give their roof much thought until something goes wrong. A sudden leak during a rainstorm or missing shingles after a windy night can quickly turn your attention upward, but understanding the basics of your roof before problems arise can help save you time, money, and stress down the road.
Your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements, regulating indoor temperature, and enhancing curb appeal. Yet, many homeowners may find the answers to roofing FAQs elusive, leaving them wondering about basic roofing care and longevity. For example, how long should a roof last? What kind of maintenance is necessary? And how do you know when it's time for repairs or even a full replacement?
Whether you are a first-time homeowner or have been living under the same roof for years, these common roofing questions and answers will give you the knowledge you need to help keep your home safe and sound.
Roofing Materials
What Are the Most Common Roofing Materials?
Asphalt is the most common roofing material for residential roofs in the United States. Typically, asphalt shingles are affordable, easier to install than other materials, and come in various colors and styles. Three-tab shingles tend to be the most budget-friendly, while architectural or dimensional shingles can provide increased durability and an appealing three-dimensional aesthetic at a slightly higher cost.
Metal roofing is known for its durability and longevity, with a lifespan of more than 50 years when well maintained. Metal is resistant to fire, wind, and hail, often making it a good choice for homes in regions with extreme weather.
Concrete or clay tile roofs are commonly used in Mediterranean, Spanish, and Southwestern style homes, but they're not quite as popular due to their heavy weight. Wood and cedar can offer roofs a rustic, natural look but can be higher maintenance and more susceptible to fire.
How Do I Choose the Right Roofing Material?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a material for your roof.
- Budget: The most affordable choice for most homeowners is usually asphalt shingles. Metal roofing can be a good investment due to its longevity, while tile and wood roofs can be more expensive.
- Pitch: Pitch is a ratio that represents the angle of your roof slope. Building codes usually require membrane or metal roofing for low-slope roofs (those below 2:12 pitch). Asphalt, metal, or tile roofing is often recommended for regular or high-pitched roofs.
- Lifespan: Generally speaking, asphalt shingles last 20 to 30 years, metal roofs 50+ years, and tile roofs 50–100 years. However, many factors can affect a roof's lifespan beyond material, including weather, installation, and maintenance.
- Warranty: Compare the length of warranty coverage both from the material's manufacturer and the contractor's workmanship. If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, make sure you choose a system with a robust wind damage warranty.
- Aesthetics and style: Consider which material best fits your home's architectural style or appearance for maximum curb appeal.
- Maintenance requirements: All roofs require annual or semi-annual inspections and should be cleaned at least once a year. Overall, metal roofs generally require less maintenance than other materials.
- Code requirements: Local building codes may exclude certain roofing materials due to climate or weather conditions.
Roofing Installation
What Does a Roof Installation Process Look Like?
To install a roof, a roofing crew will typically:
Inspect and measure your roof to ensure they order the correct materials and are prepared for any necessary repairs.
Once delivered, store roofing materials—including structural sheathing, insulation, and roofing material—on your roof to ensure easy access during installation.
Prepare the space around the home and ensure safety on the roof before removing the old roofing material if needed and repairing any hidden damage to the roof deck.
Sweep and clean the roof deck to remove debris.
Lay the underlayment and weather-resistant membrane, such as a vapor barrier or ice and water shield, on the roof deck and install flashings around roof penetrations.
Install the shingles or other roofing materials starting from the roof's edge and working to the peak or ridge.
Install ridge caps and vents to ensure proper attic ventilation.
Clean up debris and inspect the roof.
How Long Does a Roof Installation Take?
The time it takes to complete a roof installation depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the roof, weather conditions, and any necessary repairs. Consult with a local roofing contractor for a more accurate timeline.
How Do I Find a Qualified Roofing Contractor?
Look for a contractor licensed and insured in your state. Doing so can help protect you and the roofing crew in case any accidents or issues occur during the project.
Consider experience, too. Local contractors who've worked in your area for several years are typically your best bet, as they'll have a wealth of region-specific insights, including familiarity with local building codes. Choosing manufacturer-certified contractors is another great way to help ensure you receive a quality product.
Roof Maintenance and Repair
How Often Should I Inspect My Roof?
One of the most common roofing FAQs, the guidance is clear: Inspect your roof at least twice a year in the spring and fall. Check for debris, moss growth, and missing shingles or granules (the small, colorful particles embedded in asphalt shingles). In your attic space, check for signs of leaks or moisture buildup. Additionally, inspect your roof for signs of damage or large debris after a severe weather event. Always perform inspections from the ground to ensure your safety.
What Are Common Signs of Roof Damage?
Common signs of roof damage include:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Granule loss (look on the ground and in gutters)
- Leaks
- Water stains
- Mold or mildew growth
- Moss or algae growth
- Sagging
If you see any of these signs, contact a roofing contractor to determine the extent of the damage.
What Are the Steps for Roof Repair?
To repair damage to your roof, a roofing contractor will typically:
Inspect the roof to determine the extent of the damage and possible repair method(s).
Select and order the necessary materials.
Set up safety equipment, such as ladders, harnesses, and safety barriers, and protect surroundings from debris.
Carefully remove the damaged material and clean the area if necessary.
Replace the roof decking as needed, followed by underlayment.
Repair or replace flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights, etc.
Install shingles or tiles per the manufacturer's instructions.
Seal gaps with caulk to help prevent moisture intrusion.
Clean the area and dispose of debris.
Roof Replacement
When Should I Consider Replacing My Roof?
If your roof is more than 20 years old or has extensive damage or recurring issues, consult a roofing professional about replacing it. Here are some specific signs you may need a new roof:
- Missing, buckling, curling, cracking, or torn shingles
- Excessive granule loss (asphalt shingles)
- A sagging roofline or roof deck
- Extensive moss growth
- Severe storm damage
- Recurring or widespread leaks
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
The cost of a new roof depends on the roofing material, size of the roof, and local labor costs. Consult a professional roofing contractor to get an estimate for your area.
How Do I Prepare for a Roof Replacement Project?
If you're having your roof replaced, prepare for the work by:
- Covering or protecting landscaping around your home to avoid damage
- Moving vehicles to the street
- Making sure there's room for waste disposal (dumpster)
Your contractor will let you know the project's expected duration. However, there's always the potential for delays, so try to be as flexible as possible.
Roofing Warranties
What Types of Roofing Warranties Are Available?
Your contractor will provide a workmanship warranty guaranteeing the installation is free of defects. The warranty length will vary by contractor, so be sure to shop around.
The roofing material manufacturer will also provide a warranty, protecting you against defects and manufacturing errors. The length of this warranty varies depending on the manufacturer and the roofing material.
Certain roofing products offer additional warranties, such as for wind protection and hail damage. Consult with your contractor about these special coverages and include such questions in your list of roofing FAQs, so you don't forget to ask them before signing an agreement. Always read warranties carefully to know what's covered and what's not. You might pay more for a longer warranty, but the peace of mind is often worth it.
What Do Roof Warranties Cover?
Manufacturer's roof warranties typically cover material defects and premature product failures. They do not cover damage caused by "acts of God" (such as severe weather) or improper installation.
The contractor's warranty should cover any damages that occur due to improper installation.
Energy Efficiency and Roofing FAQs
How Can Roofing Affect My Home's Energy Efficiency?
The entire roofing system, including insulation, vapor/moisture barrier, attic ventilation, and roofing materials, protects your home against exterior climate conditions, helping reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the home. Proper insulation and ventilation help prevent your attic space from overheating in the summer and getting too cold in the winter. In addition, the color of the roofing material can help reflect heat, reducing the amount of energy needed for cooling.
What Are Cool Roofs, and What Are Their Benefits?
Cool roofs are designed to reflect heat from the sun, reducing roof top temperatures. They're generally lighter in color, so they don't absorb as much heat. This can help keep your attic space cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving you money on cooling costs.
Because they can help reduce energy consumption—an eco-friendly benefit—several areas offer incentives or rebates for installing cool roofs. Add such considerations to your list of roofing FAQs and contact your local roofing contractor for more information on these incentives.
Your Roofing FAQs Answered
Getting ahead of these frequently asked roofing questions can help you understand your roofing system and its needs. If you have additional roofing FAQs, check with a local contractor. GAF-certified* roofing contractors are here to help. They've been vetted and certified for their knowledge of roofing systems and GAF products, making them a go-to resource for all your roofing needs.
*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.
