Growing up, did you ever hear to wait for at least 30 minutes after eating before getting back in the swimming pool?
I can’t speak for you, but I know that was the common advice we always heard, and it was also an all too common misconception that scientifically speaking – had no factual basis. In fact, the Mayo Clinic wrote an article about how the eating and pool misconception is just something moms and dads have said for years.
And if there can be misconceptions about swimming, it is also safe to say there are some all too common roofing misconceptions that need to be addressed… which is exactly what we will be discussing today!
6 Common Roofing Misconceptions
1. Asphalt shingles are all the same!
Saying asphalt shingles are created equally is like saying there is no difference between a Honda Civic and a Lamborghini. We all can recognize there is quite a disparity in performance between the two. And while the performance in shingles might not be that extreme, there is a considerable difference between architectural shingles and three-tab shingles.
Here in Idaho, we actually don’t install three-tab shingles as they are simply not worth the effort for a homeowner. Some states still allow three-tab shingles to be installed, but we don’t recommend it. They only save homeowners a few dollars at the point of install and over time they end up costing more because their warranties and performance can not meet what architectural shingles offer.
Architectural shingles on the other hand are thicker, more durable, and come in a variety of colors. This, combined with their exceptional warranties makes them the usual top pick for anyone looking to replace their roof!
✅ Learn more about our shingles here.
2. Dark shingles increase your energy bill.
Sometimes you might hear that a darker roof will cost you more each month when it comes to your energy bill. This is just a common roofing misconception for the simple fact that your attic has insulation. Your attic, roof decking, and insulation prevent a large transfer of heat from the shingles to your home.
Not to mention, all asphalt shingles (regardless of color) will attract heat! Lastly, if anything a darker roof will help conserve energy when snow hits as the sun will help melt snow quicker. Homeowners do not want ice and snow sitting on their roofs for too long!
3. Roof replacements are too expensive.
While a brand new roof isn’t cheap, it’s not as expensive as you might think. Additionally, factoring in the return on investment (ROI) a new roof comes with when you go to sell your home, a new roof almost always pays for itself in the long run.
Asphalt roofs range in price and everything is based on the size of your roof. A “Square” refers to 100 square feet of roofing. New roofing costs factor in:
- Tearing off the old roof
- Inspecting the exsistiing decking
- Installing the new underlayment
- Installing the new shingles and roof system
Metal roofs can cost quite a bit more, however, they are known to last longer, but most people don’t spend 50+ years in the same home. That is why most homeowners are pleasantly surprised when they learn they can get a new roof for a fairly affordable price.
✅ Learn more about Legacy Roof Pricing here.
4. You can repair a roof leak yourself.
Listen up DIY gang, don’t try to repair a roof leak yourself. Most likely, unless you have extensive roofing experience, you will only put a bandaid on a gaping wound when you try to repair your roof yourself. Roof leaks are nothing to play with, and if not corrected quickly, they will lead to larger issues.
Roof leaks that go unnoticed or unaddressed can lead to damage to the roof decking and inside of your home! This is a far too common misconception that you just lay a shingle on a leak and it is all fixed, so as the saying goes, “Don’t try this at home.”
Also, never underestimate the dangers of climbing on roofs and ladder safety. If you suspect a roof leak, just reach out to us here 👈and let us inspect your roof for free!
5. It’s ok to have a few missing shingles.
Incorrect. Missing shingles is a huge warning sign that you need to get your roof looked at.
Similar to how your check engine light is a warning sign for your car engine’s health, a missing shingle is a strong indicator that there could be a possible leak and potentially a new roof.
6. You install a new roof on the old one.
On the rare occasion, you might hear some much-outdated wisdom that you install your new roof on top of the old roof. More layers, more protection – right?
Wrong.
Roofing over an existing roof is an old technique that is no longer used. Back in the day, it was common to simply slap on new shingles on top of the old ones. However, it is best to always strip the old shingles off the house, lay new underlayment, then apply the new asphalt shingles for optimal performance.
If your home is a little older, don’t worry if your home currently has two layers of shingles. Moving forward, just keep in mind you want to make sure the new roof installation is done correctly!
Hopefully, you now feel refreshed to know that:
- You can actually swim after you eat next time you go to the pool.
- And secondly, you don’t have to stress about some of the roofing misconeptions you may have heard.
We know how dealing with any home contractor can be, so we aim to make the process as simple as possible. Knowing this, we invite you to reach out and ask any questions. Just reach out here:
Roofing Over an Existing Roof: What You Need to Know