Category: Roofing

When you need to replace your home’s roof, many homeowners look at an asphalt shingled roof versus a tile roof. Asphalt shingled roofs are widely used in America and are one of the more affordable options for many homeowners. However, when replacing a roof there are some restrictions to the asphalt shingled roof and that is mainly the current slope of the roof. Montgomery Roofing will explain the slope restrictions and regulations for asphalt shingled roofs.

A Roof Slope is the Rise-Over-Run Ratio

If the roof slope rises 4 inches and the bottom of the horizontal run measures at 12 inches, then this slope is a 4:12. The roof’s slope is either measured using a smartphone application or the old fashioned way with a regular tape measure. A roofing contractor will provide a pitch estimator card that measures and documents the roof slope. The pitch estimator provides an accurate measurement of the roof’s slope. Most roofing contractors prefer a 4:12 slope for asphalt shingles. However, the minimum slope requirement for an asphalt shingled roof is a 2:12, which is a 2 inch rise from a 12 inch horizontal run. Most home roofs are designed with a roof slope between 4:12 and 8:12. The slope is often determined by the type of roof that is going on top of the home. When installing an asphalt shingled roof, the slope requirements must be between 2:12 and 4:12. A 2:12 through 4:12 is a rather low sloped roof. One major flaw for low slopes is that water and snow may linger longer than with a shallow slope. If the slope was any lower, the water would stand too long and lead to a number of roof damages and leaks. To steep of a slope can make asphalt shingles dangerous and can compromise the roof’s integrity. When installing asphalt shingles, quality is essential. The shingles must be installed air tight to prevent water from leaking. Additionally, having an asphalt singled roof maintained is also important. Since asphalt shingles are installed on lower sloped roofs there are a number of problems which must be monitored. When shingles become loose or go missing they must be replaced. Asphalt shingles are coated with granules. In time, the granules will fall off and leave the sandy granules in gutters and at the edges of the roof. When the granules wear off they no longer can properly protect the roof. When too much of the granules wears off, it time to replace the shingles.

Replacing a Roof

Asphalt shingled roofs can be installed or they can replace tile roofs if the roof slope meets proper requirements. However, it is essential to maintain the shingles to ensure that the internal roofing structure is properly protected. Once water damage occurs within the roof’s inner structure, it can weaken and lead to leaks and even roof collapse.

Roof Installation, Replacement & More in Hillsboro, Mexia, Belton, Killeen, Temple, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Cedar Park, Kyle, San Marcos & Greater Waco, TX

If you need to replace your home’s roof and are considering replacing it with an asphalt shingled roof, contact Montgomery Roofing. We provide quality roofing services and can help repair, install and inspect your roof. Contact us to schedule our services today.

Roofing Repair & Installation Contractors Proudly Serving McLennan, Bosque, Hill, Limestone, Bell, Falls, Coryell, Travis, Williamson & Hays County, Texas since 1995!

Frequently Asked Questions: Roof Slope for Asphalt Shingles

What is the minimum roof slope for asphalt shingles?

The minimum roof slope for asphalt shingles is 2:12, meaning the roof rises 2 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. Most roofing contractors prefer a 4:12 slope for asphalt shingles, and low-slope installations between 2:12 and 4:12 must be installed airtight to prevent leaks.

What does a 4:12 roof slope mean?

A 4:12 roof slope means the roof rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. This rise-over-run ratio is the standard way roofers measure and describe roof pitch.

What is the best roof slope for asphalt shingles?

The best roof slope for asphalt shingles is generally between 4:12 and 8:12. Most homes are designed within this range because it sheds water efficiently while keeping installation safe and the roof structurally sound.

Can you put asphalt shingles on a low-slope roof?

Yes, asphalt shingles can be installed on low-slope roofs down to 2:12, but they must be installed airtight with proper underlayment. On slopes below 2:12, water stands too long and leads to leaks and roof damage, so a different roofing system is recommended.

How do you measure roof slope?

Roof slope is measured as a rise-over-run ratio using a tape measure, a smartphone app, or a pitch estimator card. You measure how many inches the roof rises over a 12-inch horizontal run.

If you went into your attic recently only to discover that there is condensation inside, then you probably have a problem. It is not good when condensation builds up inside an attic. In the winter the condensation can freeze which is often called attic frost, and in the warm season the tiny water droplets can cling onto the surface material inside the attic. Both dew and frost can cause the attic material such as insulation and roof framing to rot and develop mold. If the wood frame rots or molds it can weaken the framing, which can lead to total roof collapse. Montgomery Roofing will share some of the common causes of attic condensation to help determine the source and repair needs.

Roof Leak

One of the most common causes of condensation in the attic is when water is leaking inside after snow or rain. Leaks can occur from bad flashing around exhaust pipes. Other sources of leaks can come from displaced roof tile or shingles. If pests have chewed a hole through the roof it can also allow additional moisture inside, especially during or after rain or snow. Often you can see the source of the leak after recent rain or snow as you will see where the wood is damp from the water seeping inside.

Poor Ventilation Design

Some homes end up with a poor ventilation system or design where there isn’t enough of or the right size vent to allow proper air flow to help clear out the condensation when it accumulates. Ventilation is essential to the longevity of the roof, especially in high humid areas like Michigan where we average humidity levels between 50 and 80 percent. Condensation is a major problem in the state and it is important that the attic has proper ventilation design. You can have the roof and attic inspected if you have concerns for your roof and attic developing condensation.

Old Exhaust Systems

Older homes may have the bathroom and laundry room exhaust vent feed out of and into the attic. Older homes were built with the exhaust vent popping out through the attic. Contractors hoped the attic ventilation would take care of the rest. This was a major flaw and modern homes have the exhaust vent going straight outside. Older homes that may have this older design could be feeding condensation right inside the attic. Often to correct this problem, the exhaust vent will need to be rerouted. If you are living in an older home be sure that the exhaust vent isn’t fed into the attic where rot and mold could be the result.

Condensation Repair

If you had a major problem with condensation in the attic the damage may already be done. Repairing the damage will vary on how long or severe the damage is. In serious situations if the entire roof structure has been compromised, the entire roof will need to come down and the roof will need to be replaced from the frame out. In most cases, the insulation may need to be replaced and the interior attic treated for mold. It might need to also be dried out with dehumidifiers. If you discover you had condensation in your attic, have your attic inspected immediately to ensure your household safety.

Roof Installation, Replacement & More in Hillsboro, Mexia, Belton, Killeen, Temple, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Cedar Park, Kyle, San Marcos & Greater Waco, TX

If you need your roof inspected, repaired and/or replaced, contact Montgomery Roofing and schedule our services today.

Roofing Repair & Installation Contractors Proudly Serving McLennan, Bosque, Hill, Limestone, Bell, Falls, Coryell, Travis, Williamson & Hays County, Texas since 1995!

Despite being one of the biggest and most necessary elements of your home, roofs are often the most neglected. Only after the roof starts to leak do homeowners recall the importance of maintenance, repair, and care. Like most subjects in life, there are myths surrounding the various aspects of your roof. We at Montgomery Roofing would like to relate a handful of the most common myths and dispel them.

Are Gutters Part of a Roof or Separate?

Roofing and gutters, though gutters are an accessory of sorts, go hand-in-hand with your roof and are equally important. To ensure the water is properly diverted from the structures, the gutters are a finishing touch. As they are often included in a new roof installation, as well as the down spot, gutters help prevent the exterior walls from over saturation. Maintenance for gutters and down spout is crucial. Make certain leaves, sticks, dirt, mud, moisture, and wildlife nests among the other debris is periodically cleared out and routinely inspect for any signs of damage.

Is it OK to Lay a Second Layer of Roofing Shingles Over the Old?

Removing the old shingles is essential for a number of reasons, though building code suggests otherwise. You can see signs of damage after removing the old shingles and exposing the raw roof. You can restore the roof after removing the shingles if you discover deterioration, wood rot, leaks, inadequate ventilation, or even mold. Should you need to replace any damaged shingles, always take the time remove the old ones before installing new shingles.

Can You have Too Much Attic Insulation?

Many turns to the attic’s insulation in an effort conserve energy and enhance the performance of the roof. However, too much insulation can be just as detrimental as not enough. Over insulating can obstruct ventilation openings at the soffits and eave in addition to moisture containment, among other issues. When the moisture is confined, the sheathing found in the interior of attics can rot, warp, and even lead to a mold outbreak. If you are unsure about your attic’s insulation mass, call in a professional for guidance.

Are All Asphalt Roof Shingles the Same

There are quite a few options when it comes to roofing materials. You need to consider the shingle designed and pre-treatments as they are specific to the climate conditions and other problems in the area. Different materials, designs, pretreated differently to meet the needs of the environment and homeowner’s tastes.

Do You Only Need to Replace the Flashing when the Roof Needs Replacing?

Installed on rooftops around the chimneys, pipes, vents and other rooftop openings, is flashing, often engineered from metal material. Both sturdy and durable, flashing often outlasts the other roofing components. Despite the longevity, it can fall short within a few months of installation under the right circumstances. As a part maintenance, every 6 months the flashing should be inspected. When you inspect the flashing, look for dried-out caulk or sealant, flawed or damaged flashing segments, and look for any shingles in contact with the flashing. Call a professional for repairs if you discover any of these.

Roof Installation, Replacement & More in Hillsboro, Mexia, Belton, Killeen, Temple, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Cedar Park, Kyle, San Marcos & Greater Waco, TX

Montgomery Roofing is readily available for maintenance, repairs, installation, and inspections for your Texas roof.

Roofing Repair & Installation Contractors Proudly Serving McLennan, Bosque, Hill, Limestone, Bell, Falls, Coryell, Travis, Williamson & Hays County, Texas since 1995!