Published by Lorena Vargas Schultz on November 13, 2021

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The best upgrades to consider on your Roof Replacement

A roof replacement is arguably one of the most important home improvement projects you’ll make in your lifetime. You’ve to consider who will be performing the roof replacement, what you will be purchasing, and assure it is beautiful, hand crafted artistically, reliable, and long lasting. With every system a couple upgrades can make all the difference

SHINGLES

A typical shingle roof will include very basic items but a couple upgrades can really increase the effectiveness of your new roof.

1.- 30# Felt → Peel and Stick Underlayment

Peel and Stick underlayment is much more durable than 30# felt. Without exposed nailing, there is less risk for fastener failing, plus unlike 30# Felt which cracks and deteriorates over time, peel and stick is durable. This membrane is thick, self adheres to your plywood (depending on city code), and with the heat of the sun will ‘hug’ around any fasteners that penetrate the membrane. Reminder: the underlayment is the most important part of your roof system as the waterproofing barrier. If your shingles fly off in a hurricane, it is important to have a reliable waterproofing barrier to protect your home.

2.- Three Tab → Architectural Shingles

Although three tab shingles might be a more affordable option, architectural shingles add dimension and artistry to your roof. Plus, as they become more popular, architectural shingles are also cost effective and provide more value in the long run.

3.- Mesh Ridge Ventilation → Rigid Vent

This slight difference in ventilation options can make all the change in your energy efficiency and attic ventilation. We always recommend speaking to your contractor about your ventilation options so you do not have to change items retroactively. The mesh ridge ventilation option is the most common and very cost effective, so all contractors will have this, but the upgrade to a Rigid Vent is essential in our opinion. Not only do they provide enhanced airflow and baffle, but they also provide an external water shield and a waterproof underlap joint. We recommend the OmniRidge Pro.

Tile, Metal, and Composite

These three roof systems are long lasting and quite the investment. Don’t stick with the basics and request these upgrades.

1.-Single Layer peel and Stick Underlayment → Double on Critical Areas

As mentioned above, the underlayment is the most important part of your system. We highly recommend peel and stick underlayment straight to deck. Then, double layering on Critical Areas such as vents, pipes, boots, valleys, and roof to walls. This adds a secondary layer of underlayment. Plus, we even offer the option to upgrade to a double layer underlayment on the entire system. For those purchasing a metal or composite roof, we highly recommend considering a secondary barrier.

2.-No Flashing → Wakaflex around Off Ridge Vents

Typically, contractors install your off ridge vents as required by code. We recommend requesting wakaflex flashing above the ridge vent to prevent water penetrating from the off ridge vent and causing leaks from fastener deterioration.

3.-Nails → Screws

Industry standard requires to instal tile with one (1) ring shank nail on field tile. We push the standard by installing tile with two (2) screws on each tile. Not only do we do this as a standard on our projects, we offer an upgrade to Stainless Steel fasteners to further enhance the strength of your roof.

Talk to your contractor about these upgrades and make sure you’re getting the best of the best for your investment. Remember, what is cheapest will always be the most expensive in the end.