It's a fact that some types of roofing are more durable than others. This is especially true if you live in a region with extreme weather. If your roof is leaking, it's time to consider replacing it with something more durable.
Re-roofing vs Roof Replacement
Re-roofing involves replacing the worn shingles with new shingles. Or, it could also involve replacing the shingles with more durable roofing material, such as metal or plastic roofing tiles. When most people think of a roof replacement, this is what they imagine. Most of the time, re-roofing is all that is needed. When re-roofing, be sure to upgrade your current roofing material with better quality shingles, plastic roofing tiles, or metal roofing.
On the other hand, a roof replacement involves also stripping off the underlayment and replacing it. A full roof replacement can also involve replacing the plywood deck. If your roof is severely damaged, you might need to replace the entire roof, right down to the plywood.
Some companies, like Atlas Contracting, know that a roof replacement is much more costly than a re-roofing. However, if the underlayment or plywood decking is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Durable and Affordable Roofing Materials
If you are faced with either reroofing or a roof replacement, it's smart to upgrade your current roofing materials with something more durable.
Roofing materials such as slate or wood shake shingles are durable, but they are also expensive. Furthermore, wooden shake shingles are flammable, and slate is very heavy. The following types of roofing are lightweight, durable, affordable, and fire-resistant.
High Grade Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials, and also the most affordable. However, asphalt shingles come in various grades. If you must reroof, and can only afford asphalt shingles, or if that is required by your HOA, choose the best quality that you can afford. Look for asphalt shingles with a high hail impact rating, and a generous warranty.
Metal Roofing
If you don't live under an HOA that prohibits metal roofing, this is a good choice for durability. Metal roofing can withstand hail storms, high winds, and torrential rains. It comes in a wide variety of colors and generally lasts for 50 years or longer.
Plastic Roofing Tiles
This is a newer type of roofing that mimics the look of shake shingles, slate, and Mediterranean-style roofing tiles. Plastic roofing tiles are very attractive, fire-resistant, hold up well to extreme weather, and can last for decades.
Hopefully, all you'll need to do is re-roof with new shingles, metal roofing, or plastic tiles. But, if your roof has underlying damage, you'll need a full roof replacement.
