If your roof is older, you may be starting to notice changes in its appearance. This is totally normal. Wind, twigs, and rainwater wear down your roof over time, diminishing its appearance and effectiveness. Don’t worry, though; this doesn’t mean that you’re stuck with a streaky roof forever. There are plenty of options for refreshing your roof’s look. Today we’ll talk about a new rejuvenation service that Austermiller is proud to now offer.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are probably the most common roofing option for residential homes in the US. They’re easy to install and are typically less expensive than other types of roofing. This makes them a common choice for homeowners that don’t want to pay a hefty upfront fee for their roof installation.
On the downside, however, asphalt shingles can require a bit more maintenance throughout the year. Individual shingles can break off due to heavy storms or improper installation. Overall, the life expectancy of asphalt shingles is also shorter due to the durability of the material and the way that the shingles are installed.
Fortunately, today we’re going to introduce you to a new roof rejuvenation service that we offer. Keep reading to learn more about how to make your asphalt roof last longer and truly get the most out of your money.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
First of all, it’s important to understand that roofs are not meant to last forever, no matter what kind of shingles you use. The best you can do is pick a durable roofing material from the start and hire a professional to install it properly. From there, try to keep up with maintenance and cleanings to extend the life of your roof as much as possible, but don’t expect it to stay sparkling new forever.
The exact lifespan of your roof will depend on factors such as these:
- Climate and weather conditions. Regions with frequent storms and natural disasters are likely to wear down your roof faster.
- Quality of installation. Installing your roof properly from the get-go will reduce repairs throughout the years.
- Type of asphalt shingle. Even within each category of roofing, you’ll have different options for material and design. For example, 3-tab, architectural, and designer shingles are just a few of the categories of asphalt shingles that you may encounter.
Now, having said that, according to Angi, asphalt shingles generally last about “20 to 30 years”. With the correct rejuvenation treatment, however, this timeframe can be extended.
Asphalt Shingle Restoration
Now, let’s talk a bit about what to do when your roof starts showing signs of damage.
Shingle Repair
As we mentioned earlier, it’s common for one or two shingles to break off due to wear and tear. In this case, you’ll want to get these shingles replaced as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to call a professional roofing company. They’ll be able to assess the damage, give you a quote, and make any necessary repairs.
Roof Replacement
In the case that your roof is older and has begun showing signs of wear and tear all over, you may need a large-scale solution. One of the options available to you is a full roof replacement. This costs more but gives you brand-new shingles. Many roofing companies also offer warranties on full roof replacements, which would offer your roof protection for a few years after. Ask one of our staff members here at Austermiller about our warranties.
Ugly Roof
Now, let’s talk about Ugly Roof. We’re very excited to offer this service here at Austermiller. Rather than a full roof replacement, Ugly Roof simply rejuvenates your existing shingles.
The Ugly Roof system utilizes a bio-based oil formula that rolls back some of the effects of time. The solution improves granular adhesion, waterproofing, and fire retardancy. This helps both extend the life expectancy of your shingles and improve their effectiveness.
Factors To Consider
When deciding which roofing solution is right for your roof, here are some things to consider.
Cost
In many cases, a roof rejuvenation treatment can cost you a lot less than a full roof replacement. To compare prices, simply ask your roofing company for a quote. Here at Austermiller Roofing, we even offer FREE quotes. More than that, though, we actually get on top of your roof and measure everything ourselves. This way, you don’t have to lift a finger.
Time
A full roof replacement is a lengthy process, even with a full staff of roofing professionals on the job. In comparison, a roof rejuvenation treatment can take just a few hours (depending on the size of the area). This means not only lower labor costs but also less hassle for you and your family. Shorter work time also means we’re able to limit the disturbance to your property.
Environmental Impact
As you can guess, a full roof replacement involves discarding a lot of roofing material and replacing it with a new product. In comparison, Ugly Roof is a liquid treatment that goes on top of your existing roof. Additionally, a rejuvenation treatment can be less harmful to your yard and surrounding foliage. At the very least, it’s less roofing material being tossed down.
Is It Easy?
There are few things that are easier than the Ugly Roof rejuvenation system. It’s fast, low-cost, and simple. If you want an easy way to extend your roof’s lifespan, this can be a great option for you. Talk to one of our staff members to learn more about roof rejuvenation.
Last Notes
Last but not least, we want to mention a few general tips for extending your roof’s lifespan.
Roofing Inspections
It’s best to get a professional roof inspection at least 1-2 times per year. A roofing specialist can get on top of your roof, assess it, and search for possible sources of leaks. This can save you from a bigger and more costly problem down the road.
If you do opt to go the DIY route for your roof inspection, make sure to stay safe. Try not to get on top of your roof, and always have a spotter if using a ladder.
Clean Gutters
Although they’re often overlooked, gutters actually have a very important role to play. They help direct rainwater off the side to a safe area. This helps reduce your chances of developing leaks and ice dams.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Strong winds or storms can easily break off branches and blow them onto your roof. This can dislodge or damage shingles. Moreover, branches can also damage your porch, windows, and other parts of your home. That’s why it’s always best to trim overhanging tree branches before they become a problem.
Clear Off Snow During Winter
Did you know that snow can actually get quite heavy after multiple layers? It’s important to keep an eye on this weight when it comes to your roof. Excess weight can put your roof at risk of damage or even collapse. That’s why you should take some time to clear snow off your roof during the winter when you notice it getting too thick. This can either be done with a roof rake or by hiring a professional to do it for you.
Roofing In Mt. Juliet
We hope that this article helped introduce you to an alternative to regular roof replacement. If you’re interested in learning more about Ugly Roof, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our staff here at Austermiller would be more than happy to talk you through what the product is, and whether or not your roof is a good candidate for rejuvenation.
We also offer more traditional roofing services such as roof repairs, replacements, and inspections. Best of all, we offer FREE roofing quotes. This means that we’ll get up on your roof, measure the area, and produce a quote for your roofing service. You’ll have all the information you need to make the best possible choice for your home.
To reach the Austermiller office, simply give us a call at (615) 553-2041. Otherwise, you can also fill out the online form found on our “Contact” page. Remember, roofing damage only gets worse with time, so don’t drag your feet. Book a roofing inspection today and get your home fixed up and looking brand new again.