FAQ
Which roofing material offers the best overall value for budget-conscious homeowners?
Architectural asphalt shingles provide the best combination of cost, durability, and performance. Priced from $4.50 to $8.00 per square foot installed with a 20- to 30-year lifespan, they cost slightly more than 3-tab shingles while offering superior wind resistance and longer warranties.
Can standard roof framing support concrete tile or natural slate?
Standard framing supports dead loads up to 15 pounds per square foot. Concrete tile and natural slate weigh 800 to 1,500 pounds per square (8 to 15 pounds per square foot). You must hire a structural engineer to evaluate framing and foundation strength before installing heavy stone or concrete materials.
Are metal roofs loud during heavy rainstorms?
No. When installed over solid plywood decking, synthetic underlayment, and standard attic insulation, metal roofs absorb rain noise effectively. Interior sound levels match those beneath traditional shingle or tile roofs.
Can I install new shingles directly over an existing shingle roof?
Although building codes permit up to two layers of asphalt shingles, contractors recommend a complete tear-off. Overlaying traps heat, hides rotted decking, shortens material lifespan by up to 20 percent, and prevents ice barrier installation.
How does roof slope dictate material selection?
Flat roofs under a 2:12 pitch require waterproof rubber membranes like TPO. Pitches between 2:12 and 4:12 require double underlayment layers beneath shingles. Pitches above 4:12 accommodate all nine standard residential roofing materials.
