Must-Know Tips for Shingle Roofs

Although Northern New Jersey and the tri-state area haven’t seen a particularly snowy winter this year, many homeowners may consider taking this time to plan necessary home improvements and repairs. Shingled roofs are a vital part of the integrity of any home, and may be in need of some TLC, especially after winter weather. Let’s take a look at some must-know tips for shingle roofs.

Selecting Your Shingles

There are a variety of shingle types for you and your contractor to consider before you add or replace a shingle roof.

Three-tab shingles, or strip shingles, are the most basic type of asphalt shingle. Flat in appearance and made from one layer of asphalt, these shingles are durable and inexpensive, making them great for a smaller budget project.
- If you are repairing a roof already built with strip shingles, try three-tab traditional ones like CertainTeed XT25 strip shingles for a roof that is budget-friendly and durable.
More often seen on homes today are architectural shingles, which are generally made of two layers of asphalt. This extra layer makes them more durable, and the added thickness creates a dimensional effect, mimicking the look of slate and wood shake shingles.
For those who prefer a high-end aesthetic appeal and the best durability, there are luxury shingles. This shingle variety not only offers the best weather protection for your home, but is also the most visually elegant. If you’re looking to add luxurious curb appeal to your home, take a look at artisan styles like the Camelot II shingles from GAF. These offer the look of slate with less maintenance.
Are you interested in energy efficiency and keeping heat away from your home? You may want to select a shingle that will deflect more of the sun’s rays and help keep your home cooler, like TruDefinition Duration Cool shingles from Owens Corning.

When to Replace Your Shingle Roof

Although many times your roof may only be in need of repair, there are certain signs or conditions that will tell you when it’s time for a full shingle roof replacement.

Upon closer inspection, you may find that shingles are curling at the edges, cracks are widespread, there are large areas of discoloration, or moss is growing. This level of wear is your signal that it’s time for a new roof, especially if it’s over 20 years old. A roofing professional can take a closer look to assess the damage, help you select your new shingles, and reinvigorate your home’s curb appeal.

Working with Your Roofing Contractor

Besides working with your contractor to select your new roofing materials, be sure to discuss the logistics of the build or roof replacement project. Among the questions to ask are:

Will there be a dumpster for debris and where will it be placed?
Do gates need to be left open?
Will there be a protective covering for gardens and landscaping? If so, does that get placed beforehand (and therefore, are there preparations the homeowner must do)?
Do pets need to be kept in a specific part of the house for safety?

Professional roofers will work out these details with you in advance to ensure a safe and smooth roofing process.

Expert Roofers for Shingles

When you are ready to repair or replace your shingle roof, the experts at Slate Roof Professionals are here to help. Although “slate” is in our name, we also install and repair roofing materials of all kinds: tile, wood, copper, and of course, high-quality shingle.

We serve North, Central, and South Jersey as well as Westchester County. We supply premium shingle and roofing products and are an authorized seller of Owens Corning, GAF, and CertainTeed products.

Featured photo: GAF Camelot II shingles in antique slate