When your roof leaks, it can be devastating. Once shingles start falling from your roof, you may have different contracting companies knocking on your door offering their services. How do you choose the right contractor? How do you know if the contractor is legitimate or a scammer? Understanding the parts of your roof, how they interact, and their importance will give you a leg up on the salesperson at your door. When the door-knocker starts explaining the areas of your roof that are concerning or need fixing, you will be knowledgeable to participate and ask questions during the conversation.
- 3-Tab Versus Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as 3D shingles, are more resistant to storm damage. Architectural shingles will protect your roof against higher wind speeds. Three-tab shingles protect your roof in up to 60 miles per hour winds while architectural shingles protect your roof against winds up to 130 miles per hour. This difference is significant during storm season. The cost between 3-tab and architectural shingles is minimal. If a contractor tries to tell you the cost difference is thousands of dollars to “upgrade,” it is untrue. Many contractors offer this upgrade for free. The cost is minimal and contractors already make a significant amount of profit in their base estimate.
- Ridge Venting Versus Box Vents
New construction builds have moved to ridge venting. Your ventilation system greatly affects the lifespan of your roof. A good ventilation system will protect moisture and heat buildup. Proper ventilation also prolongs the life of your roof insulation (called ฉนวนหลังคา in Thai) and shingles. Ridge venting is aesthetically more pleasing than box venting. It also is more efficient. Heat rises. Ridge venting is installed at the peak of your roof along the ridge. It allows for more warm air to escape your roof than box venting. The cost of ridge vents is slightly more expensive than box vents but saves costs associated with labour. Many roofing warranties now require a ridge vent.
- Synthetic Versus Felt Underlayment
Felt underlayment is an old type of roof underlayment. It is susceptible to tearing and leaking. Roofers wear special roofing shoes that cause felt to be torn and ripped as they lay shingles. The purpose of underlayment is to protect your roof from water damage and moisture. Felt underlayment will absorb water, retaining moisture. This can lead to your wood rotting and leaks in your home. Synthetic underlayment is slightly more expensive than felt underlayment but protects your roof against moisture. It repels water. Roofing shoes do not catch on synthetic underlayment as it is durable and tough. Most importantly, synthetic underlayment is fast to install, cutting associated labour costs.
