Need Advice On Replacing An Old Leaky Roof
You’re spot on about install mattering more than the shingle price tag. I’ve seen folks obsess over “premium” shingles but ignore attic airflow and regret it later. Good ventilation, solid flashing, and a careful crew really make or break a roof. Mid-grade with proper underlayment seems like the sweet spot—no need to chase the fanciest label if the basics are dialed in.
NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF
Funny, I ran into this exact issue last year. Everyone kept pushing the “luxury” shingles, but honestly, I cared way more about how the crew handled flashing around my skylights and vents. The last thing you want is a gorgeous roof with water stains creeping down your walls... Been there, had to repaint half my living room. Did anyone here actually notice a difference in noise or insulation with pricier shingles, or is that just marketing?
NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF
I hear you on the flashy shingles vs. actual workmanship. In my experience, the crew’s attention to detail—especially around penetrations like skylights and chimneys—matters way more than the shingle brand or style. I’ve seen “premium” roofs leak because someone rushed the flashing, and I’ve seen basic architectural shingles last decades with zero issues because the install was solid.
As for noise and insulation, I’ll be honest: unless you’re going from a metal roof to shingles, or vice versa, the difference is pretty minimal. The real gains in insulation come from what’s underneath—decking, underlayment, attic insulation. Shingles themselves don’t do much for sound or heat, despite what the brochures say. I’d put my money into a good crew and maybe upgrade your underlayment if you want better performance. Fancy shingles are mostly about curb appeal, in my opinion.
Had a client once who splurged on the “designer” line and still had to call me back because of a leak around a vent pipe... It’s all about the install.
NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF
That’s interesting about the underlayment making more of a difference than the shingles themselves. I’ve always wondered—if you’re already tearing everything off, is it worth going with one of those synthetic underlayments, or is the old-school felt just as good in the long run? I’ve heard mixed things, but never tried the fancy stuff myself.
if you’re already tearing everything off, is it worth going with one of those synthetic underlayments, or is the old-school felt just as good in the long run?
I’ve wondered the same thing. From what I’ve seen on some recent builds, the synthetic stuff does seem to hold up better if there’s any delay before shingling, especially in bad weather. The felt’s fine, but it can wrinkle or tear pretty easily. That said, if you’re on a tight budget and it’s a straightforward roof, felt still gets the job done. Just depends how much peace of mind you want, I guess.