REMODEL

The best time to shingle a roof is during fall or spring, when outdoor temperatures stay consistently between 45°F and 85°F. This mild range helps the asphalt sealant on the shingles activate and bond correctly without the extreme heat that softens them or the freezing cold that makes them crack.

• Fall offers Moderate air, low humidity, and steady warmth which lets the adhesive strips seal tightly before winter.

• Spring offers Mild days clear out winter damage before heavy summer storms arrive, though sudden rain can cause delays.

• Summer offers Long daylight hours help finish jobs fast, but extreme heat makes shingles soft and easily scuffed by workers' boots.

• Winter is not recommended because cold weather makes shingles brittle and prevents self-sealing strips from melting and sticking together. Additionally, winter winds can pull up shingles and they may never seal properly.

An existing roof needs to be replaced when the shingles are curling on the edges, missing or cracked shingles, bald spots on the shingles where there are no granules left on the shingle, or you are noticing leaks in your attic or ceiling. 

Traditional shingles will last 15 to 20 years even though most of the shingle manufacturers say the shingles offer a 30-year warranty.  Architectural (dimensional) shingles last 25 to 30 years while there are metal panels with asphalt granules to give the appearance of an asphalt shingle that could last 40 to 50 years under ideal circumstances.  Cedar shake shingles are also available.

We will not shingle over existing shingles, although some contractors will.  Tearing off the old layer allows you to inspect the wood decking to make sure there is no rot and a single layer of shingles will last longer and stay flatter.