When a roof reaches the end of its service life, the condition beneath the shingles often reveals a more significant story. This was the case for a home in Safety Harbor, Florida, where our team found that about half of the roof was already covered with tarps because it was leaking and falling apart. The property needed a long-lasting roof that could withstand local weather, heavy rain, and coastal humidity. After reviewing the different materials and site conditions, we installed 29 squares of Owens Corning Duration Estate Gray shingles and 5 squares of white Modified Bitumen roofing on the flat areas.
This installation restored structural integrity and significantly improved the home’s exterior look and long-term performance.
Assessment and Tear-Off
Before replacing a roof, you should always do a thorough inspection. The original roof showed signs of wear, including curling shingles, cracked layers, and moisture beneath the surface. The tarped areas showed how weak parts of the roof were, especially around low-slope planes where water can settle.
Once the tarps and broken shingles were removed, the decking underneath showed signs of wear and tear and debris buildup. To ensure the finished roof would sit on a stable base, the soft parts were cut out and replaced with new plywood. This step is crucial because the deck that holds the new shingles is only as strong as the deck itself.
Owens Corning Duration Shingles: Why They Matter
The main roof surface was completed using Owens Corning Duration architectural shingles in Estate Gray. These shingles are popular not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their durability. They feature the SureNail® reinforced nailing strip designed to resist wind uplift, helping protect the home during summer storms and seasonal gusts.
Benefits of this system include performance, longevity, and a balanced, modern appearance that blends with neighboring properties while elevating curb appeal.
Modified Bitumen for Flat Roofing
You can’t treat flat and low-slope roofs the same way you would steep ones. Instead, they require a membrane that continuously keeps water out. We installed 5 squares of white Modified Bitumen for this project. It’s ideal for coastal areas because it doesn’t become too hot and reflects heat.
The membrane rolls were secured, heated, and glued together to create a sealed surface ideal for patios, porch extensions, or additions to the main building. The white finish keeps heat from entering, which can help cool the attic and improve the whole system’s performance.
Installation Highlights
Once the decking was secured and replacement materials installed, the roofing system progressed in stages:
- Removal of damaged roofing and tarps
- Deck repair and replacement of weakened sections
- Underlayment installation with moisture control in mind
- Owens Corning Duration shingles installed across 29 squares
- Ridge vent installation to improve roof ventilation
- 5-square white Modified Bitumen installed on flat sections
- Final inspection and site cleanup
We paid close attention to ventilation throughout the process. Proper airflow helps prevent moisture buildup, extends the lifespan of the decking, and reduces attic heat.
A Complete Transformation
The finished roof presents a consistent, clean, and professional look. The Estate Gray modified bitumen surface makes the low-slope areas stand out with a sharp white contrast, while the Estate Gray architectural shingles add depth and texture.
Most importantly, the roof is now strong enough to handle Florida’s weather. Protection from wind, rain, and the sun has improved significantly, restoring peace of mind.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?
If your roof shows signs of wear, leaks, or age, proactive replacement is far more cost-effective than constant patching. Materials like Owens Corning Duration shingles and modified bitumen membranes provide durable, long-lasting protection designed for Florida’s climate. Contact Avatar Roofing today to schedule a roof inspection or request a replacement estimate.