Fall is here in the Twin Cities, and that means changing weather, with colder temps and snow coming on.  When it comes being protected from the outside weather, at home the only thing between you and it is the roof that is on your house. If the asphalt shingle roof that you have is cracked, peeling or even leaking or over the age of 20 years, it might be time to think about a new roof before another harsh Minnesota winter.

How old is too old for an asphalt roof?  The life expectancy of any roof depends a lot on who installed it and the types of materials that were installed. When it's time for a new roof, make sure to go with quality work and materials in order to have a longer lasting roof.  And you should look into the roofing materials that are available, because all asphalt shingles are not the same.  The roof is one of the most important components of your home, so make sure you do not skimp when it comes to choosing material for a new one.

Choosing an Asphalt Shingle Roof

There are many different types of asphalt roofing options to choose from.  Shingle roofing currently accounts for 80% of new or replacement roofing on homes, although that is changing as metal roofing is becoming more popular with homeowners.  Asphalt roofing is still one of the more popular choices to go with.  Once you've settled on asphalt, there are different types to evaluate.  Composition shingles are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of shingles. You also have organic felt shingles and fiberglass shingles that provide a different appeal.  There are even rubber and metal roofing materials that are designed to look like shingles.

The Quality of Your Roof Depends on the Installation 09sep23e5a14Having the proper installation is the key when it comes to the longevity of a shingle roof. You need to make sure that the roofer does a thorough inspection of the roof before the new roof is put on.  Inspecting the condition of the existing roof should be the first step.  Any damage that they find should be repaired before they begin installing the new shingles. This could be everything from the plywood on the roof to the flashing underneath the shingles.

The roofing contractor should also know that all flashing should be replaced when shingles are being replaced. They should also use corrosion-resistant nails and staples that penetrate the roof according to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers' Association.

Also, roofing manufacturers have specs and installation procedures that should be followed.  Ask your prospective roofing contractor if they are certified by the manufacturer.

If it's time for a new asphalt shingle roof on your home, Quarve is able to provide the high-quality work you're looking for.  With many different quality roofing options to choose from CertainTeed and GAF/Elk, we can help you find the shingles that will look the best on your home.   We've been installing roofs on Minneapolis and St. Paul MN area homes for over thirty years, and in our experience these companies provide the best in terms of quality, performance, and warranties.   We offer no-cost, no-obligation roof inspections and estimates.  Also, check out our Pinterest page for our asphalt roof projects we’ve done in the past.  Call us to speak to us today about your new roof.  We are a licensed MN roofing contractor.  763.785.1472.