Everything You Need to Know About Roofing

Architectural asphalt shingles offer the best value, costing $4-7 per square foot installed with a 25-30 year lifespan. They provide excellent protection, come in many styles, and qualify for insurance discounts in many areas. For budget-conscious homeowners, they deliver the best balance of cost, durability, and appearance.

Consider replacement if: damage covers more than 30% of your roof, you've had multiple repairs in 5 years, your roof is over 20 years old, you see daylight through roof boards, or there's structural sagging. Repairs work best for localized damage, missing shingles, or minor leaks on roofs under 15 years old.

Northeast: Architectural shingles with ice & water shield. Southeast: Impact-resistant shingles or metal for hurricanes. Midwest: Class 4 impact-resistant for hail. Southwest: Tile or cool-roof coatings for heat. Pacific Northwest: Metal or algae-resistant shingles for moisture.

A typical residential roof replacement takes 1-3 days for asphalt shingles on a standard home. Complex roofs, weather delays, or premium materials like tile or slate may extend this to 5-7 days. Tear-off of old roofing adds half a day. Most contractors complete work within one week.

Verify: valid state license, liability and workers' comp insurance, manufacturer certifications (GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Platinum), at least 5 years in business, strong online reviews, physical local address, and willingness to provide references. Get 3 written quotes minimum.

Yes, a new roof increases home value by an average of $12,000-$15,000 and recovers 60-70% of costs at resale. It also improves curb appeal, reduces insurance premiums by 10-20%, and makes your home easier to sell. Metal and premium materials see even higher returns.