Need advice on replacing an old leaky roof

NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF

I’m right in the middle of this mess myself, and honestly, I’m still not convinced there’s a “right” answer. I grew up thinking shingles were just what you did, but after seeing how fast they wear out (and how much my neighbor’s roof looks like a patchwork quilt), I started second-guessing everything. Metal sounds cool, but I keep hearing mixed things - like, yeah, it lasts forever, but what about hail? Or the noise? Some folks say it’s soothing, others say it’s like living inside a tin can during storms.

One thing I’ve learned: don’t trust the first crew that shows up. Had a guy try to sell me on “lifetime” shingles that looked suspiciously thin. Ended up getting three quotes and asking way too many questions. The only thing I’m sure of is that whoever does the work better care about the details, because fixing leaks after the fact is a nightmare. Still leaning toward architectural shingles for now, but I’m keeping an open mind... mostly because my wallet isn’t ready for metal yet.

NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF

You’re spot on about the importance of details - bad installation can ruin even the best materials. I’ve seen plenty of “lifetime” shingles that didn’t last a decade because corners were cut. Metal roofs do have a reputation for noise, but with proper insulation, it’s not as dramatic as people think. Still, architectural shingles are a solid choice if you’re balancing cost and curb appeal. Just make sure whoever you hire actually cares about flashing and ventilation... those get overlooked way too often and that’s where leaks sneak in.

NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF

That’s a good point about the noise with metal roofs - I was honestly a bit worried about rain sounding like a drumline, but it seems like insulation really does make a difference. Has anyone tried one of those newer synthetic underlayments under shingles or metal? Curious if they actually help with leaks and noise or if it’s just marketing hype. Also, does anyone regret picking one style over the other after living with it for a few years?

NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF

I was skeptical about synthetic underlayments too, but when we redid our place a few years back, the roofer convinced me to try one (I think it was called Titanium or something). Honestly, I haven’t noticed much difference in noise under the metal, but it does seem to handle water better than the old felt stuff. No leaks so far, knock on wood. Still, part of me wonders if it’s just new-roof magic and not the underlayment. Anyone else find their attic gets hotter with synthetics, or is that just me overthinking things?

Still, part of me wonders if it’s just new-roof magic and not the underlayment.

- Synthetic underlayments do shed water better, but I’ve seen plenty of old-school felt jobs last decades with no leaks if installed right.
- About attic temps - synthetics don’t breathe as much as felt. That can trap a bit more heat, especially if your venting isn’t dialed in.
- If your attic feels hotter, it’s probably not just in your head. I’d double-check your ridge and soffit vents before blaming the underlayment.
- Personally, I still use 30# felt on some jobs. It’s not obsolete. Just depends on the roof and what the client wants.
- “New-roof magic” is real - everything’s tight and sealed up for a while, no matter what you use. Time will tell.