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The Three Myths About Roofing

You probably already know that roofs need to be replaced about every 20-30 years and when it’s time for a replacement, every DIYer has to resist the urge to do it themselves. Repairing roofs takes a lot of skill and know-how. Let’s dispel the three common myths that surround roof repair and replacement.

Myth #1: It’s OK to add new shingles on top of old ones.

Unless old shingles are removed, you’ll never know what damage is hiding underneath them. For example, shingles may be concealing rotted or damaged sheathing. If these issues are not identified and addressed before the new shingles are installed, additional repairs will need to be done sooner than later, costing even more money.

Myth #2: You don’t need new gutters.

Shingles and gutters are both part of the roofing system that protects your house. When it rains or snows, these two components work together to funnel the water away from your house so its structure isn’t damaged. It is highly likely that if the roof is being replaced, the gutters will need to be replaced too. Clogged gutters can also cause water to pool on the roof, causing damage. It’s a good idea to check and clean the gutters several times a year.

Myth #3: Flashing should only be replaced when a roof is replaced.

Flashing keeps water away from openings in the roof such as chimneys, vents, and pipes. When its integrity is compromised, your entire roof can suffer. Flashing should be visually inspected twice a year and more often when there are severe storms or strong winds. Look for cracks, rust, and loosened edges. The good news is that flashing is fairly simple to replace.