Frequently Asked Questions
Table of Contents
I live in an older home, how long can a roof last?
If your roof is over 10 years old, you may want to look for other signs of trouble.
1. Algae Growth
Caused by growth of airborne algae deposited on roof. This does not affect the service life of the material. A common problem in warm, humid climates. Algae resistant shingles available regionally.
2. Curling
The bending and twisting of shingles can be caused by lack of ventilation. Can also be caused by improper number of fasteners.
3. Blistering
Caused by moisture in shingles. Caused by excessive use of asphalt plastic cement.
4. Missing Shingles
Caused by improper fastening and, also, from exposure to high winds. This problem can usually be solved by replacing individual shingles.
5. Rotting
Decaying shingles caused by absorption of moisture by mat at the core of the shingle. This is a common problem with organic-based shingles.
6. Missing Granules
Excessive loss of grains and particles in aging shingles indicates the need for replacement. On newly applied shingles, a certain number of loose granules is normal.
7. Damaged Flashing
Damage to the protective layer around the base of the chimney can be caused by drying and cracking, and, also, by improper installation. This can usually be repaired without replacing roof.
8. Buckling
Several things contribute to warped shingles. Improperly applied felt, lack of ventilation and/or movement in deck can cause buckling.
9. Ceiling Spots
Dark water spots on the ceiling or in the roof are caused by leaks in the roofing system. Need to check roof for damaged shingles and attic/crawl space for leaks in deck. Look for cracks in flashing around chimney and vents. On rafters, check for leaks that travel away from original source.
What causes a roof to wear out?
All roofs over time deteriorate. Mother Nature, especially in the Southeastern US, puts many homes to the test with thunderstorms, wind, hail, and severe weather. Many local residents wonder how long do roofs last for Atlanta home owners?
The sun also greatly impacts a roof’s life expectancy. The asphalt used to hold the granules together on the fiberglass mat can deteriorate prematurely over time if exposed to direct sunlight.
The temperature extremes in your area; inadequate ventilation; exposure to wind, snow, ice and rain; hail and or wind damage can punish a roof.
If poor installation exists, such as the use of staples, too few nails in the shingles, high nailed shingles, inadequate/poor flashing, or nail holes, a roof can fail at any time.
What causes wood roof shingles to split and crack?
Splitting and cracking of the wood occurs naturally as part of the aging process, largely due to shrinking and swelling caused by moisture and subsequent drying.
Can an existing roof be covered with another?
Putting a roof over an older roof can be like putting a band aid on an infected cut. Unless the problems that the old roof has are known, covering them up might only delay problems from happening.
Additional roofs add a tremendous amount of weight to a roof and repairing or replacing a roof with additional layers can be costly, messy, and hard to troubleshoot.
In areas prone to heavy snowfall, strong winds or hail, or when an existing roof is wood or tile, overlay may not be appropriate. In some locales, when a composition roof is replaced, the roofer may not be able to apply the new material directly on the old layer, depending on its condition.
Can I Afford A New Roof?
Yes. Between filing an insurance claim and financing options up to 100% (with approved credit), we can help you find a way to make a new roof more affordable.
What is an GAF Master Elite™ Roofing Contractor?
To become a factory-certified GAF Master Elite™ roofing contractor, we had to show that we are:
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Fully licensed by the state to perform roofing work**
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Adequately Insured for your protection
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Have a proven reputation for providing quality roofing services throughout the community
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Committed to ongoing professional training to ensure quality installation
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**Applies in areas where licensing is available.
Because of GAF’s stringent standards, only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ contractors!
Choosing a GAF Master Elite™ contractor is your assurance that you’ll be dealing with a quality, reputable, and dependable professional contractor – not some “fly-by-nighter.”
Looking to finance your project? Call us at (877) 766-3910 or schedule service online and let us know that you would like to apply to finance your repair or project.