From Shingles to Rubber

Every homeowner, at one time or another, faces the decision to update their roofing. It’s a vital component of any home, safeguarding it from the harsher elements. But when do you wave the white flag on your asphalt shingles and consider something sleeker, more efficient?

1. Age Ain't Just a Number

Your roof is not getting any younger, and with age comes weathering. If you're counting the years in double digits since your last installation, it's high time for a reassessment. Asphalt’s durability begins to wane around the 15 to 20-year mark, depending on weather patterns and maintenance. Have you spotted any worn, torn, or missing shingles lately? Even a few bare spots can spell disaster in a heavy downpour.

2. Stormy Relationships

Natural disasters put your asphalt roof to the test. Severe storms, particularly those with wind speeds surpassing 50 mph, can peel off shingles like they're Post-its. Are you finding an alarming amount of granules in your gutters? This suggests deteriorating asphalt shingles, which could signal a compromised ability to protect your home.

3. Energy-Draining

Consider the energy efficiency of your current roof. The sun is relentless. If your asphalt roof is absorbing and trapping heat, it could drive up cooling costs. Modern materials offer reflective surfaces that redirect infrared and UV rays, which can significantly lower your energy bills. Over time, these savings can offset the initial cost of the re-roofing.

4. Curb Appeal Counts

Your roof constitutes a significant portion of your home's visible exterior. If it's sending mixed messages alongside your modern windows or landscaped yard, it’s time to get on the same design page. Materials like metal or slate contribute to a home's aesthetic and resale value, and they tend to last considerably longer than asphalt.

5. A New Kind of Safety

When you hear a thunderstorm is on the horizon, peace of mind is paramount. Upgrading to more weather-resistant materials equates to a safer, more secure home, especially in regions prone to hurricanes or wildfires. Newcomers like concrete tiles or steel panels can stand up to these extremes with a resilience that asphalt can't match.

Making the Upgrade

Investing in a new roof is a commitment, but it's one that could pay dividends in the long run. From enhancing aesthetic appeal to bolstering structural integrity, your roof is a silent workhorse that deserves the best reinvention it can get. Make the change from asphalt to a more sustainable, efficient material, and you'll be looking at a home that not only lasts the weather but looks the part, too.

Contact a company such as 20/20 Exteriors to learn more.