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.
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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.