When a roofing system reaches the end of its useful life, visible wear on the shingles may represent only part of the problem. For this residential project in Clearwater, FL, we completed a 26-square roof replacement after determining that the existing roof showed significant deterioration. As an experienced roofing company, we could see that the roof needed more than surface repairs. The before photos showed extensive discoloration, granular loss, and aging shingles, while the installation process revealed sections of roof decking that also required replacement. Our goal was to rebuild the roofing system from the decking upward and provide the homeowner with a dependable finished roof using Owens Corning Duration Williamsburg shingles.
Visible Shingle Wear Showed the Roof Had Reached the End of Its Life
Granular Loss and Discoloration Were Clear Warning Signs
The condition of the existing shingles provided several indications that replacement was appropriate. Large portions of the roof had become noticeably discolored, and the shingle surfaces showed substantial granular loss. Asphalt shingles rely on their protective granules to help shield the underlying material from ultraviolet exposure and weather.
As those granules wear away, the shingles become increasingly vulnerable to Florida’s strong sunlight, heavy rainfall, and seasonal weather. The aging surface was visible across multiple roof sections rather than being limited to one isolated area. This widespread deterioration supported the decision to move forward with a complete roof replacement instead of attempting temporary repairs.
Removing the Old Roof Exposed Decking That Needed Attention
Several Sections of Plywood Required Replacement
A complete tear-off of old roofing materials allows us to inspect the roof deck. Many times, roofing materials can hide degrees of deterioration that cannot be observed from outside the roof.
The old roofing shingles and old underlayment were removed, and several sections of plywood were required to be replaced. The pictures below show some of the removed roof decking as new plywood was installed. The repairs to the roof decking were completed in order to meet current building codes as well as to have a solid surface to put on the new roofing system.
Don’t put new shingles on top of compromised decking. You’ll just be covering up the roof’s structural defects. The roof deck must be repaired before you can put on new roofing. That’s the foundation of your roofing system, and everything else in it rests on it.
Rebuilding the Roof From a Sound Foundation
The new underlayment and shingles were then applied to the roof deck that had been previously inspected and had deficient plywood members replaced. It is important to note that completed shingles represent only the finishing component of a complete roofing system.
The underlayment layer was also fully covered by the shingles. We were especially careful when designing the flashing and the roof penetrations in order to handle the water in these critical areas. We pay special attention to valleys, saddles, rakes, hip and valley corners, eaves, vents, and the transition between the pitched roof and the lower slope. Here are some photos of these critical areas.
We have tried to tackle each of the issues listed above one by one and thus have created a total roofing system as opposed to just shingles.
Owens Corning Duration Williamsburg Shingles Complete the Transformation
Architectural Shingles Provide a Clean Finished Appearance
For the new roof, we installed Owens Corning Duration shingles in the Williamsburg color. The completed photographs show the difference immediately. The weathered and uneven appearance of the original roof was replaced with a clean architectural shingle pattern that complements the home’s exterior.
This roofing style utilizes many different shades of gray to create depth on a roof. The finished ridge caps and perfectly aligned shingles create a clean and polished look when viewed from any angle.
Not only will you have a better-looking roof, but a severely aged roof can be torn off, and a completely new roofing system applied over the deck. As opposed to trying to extend the life of a severely deteriorated roof, a new roofing system will provide a solid foundation for a quality performing roof for years to come.
Why Decking Condition Matters During Roof Replacement
The roof decking is generally out of sight. This is the principal structural member of the roof, supporting the underlayment, the roof covering, roof flashing and other roof components. A portion of the decking can deteriorate due to excessive moisture, age, or previous damage/leaks. Eventually, the decking will weaken to the point where it cannot be adequately secured with new materials.
By fixing deteriorated decking as part of your roof replacement, your new roof is able to be properly secured to a solid surface. Additionally, any potential hidden problems can be discovered and fixed while the roof is open, as opposed to fixing them after a new roof is put on and you find problems below it.
Restoring the roof of this Clearwater home by recovering multiple sheets of plywood to restore the entire roofing system, as opposed to simply making it look good, was very important to this homeowner.
Residential Roof Replacement Services
We offer a full range of residential roofing services. A complete inspection of your aged roof can reveal widespread granular loss and deteriorated shingles, as well as hidden decking problems. We treat your residential roofing system as a total system and recommend repair or replacement as necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does granular loss on roof shingles mean?
Asphalt shingle roofing deteriorates over time in a process commonly referred to as granular loss. Some degree of granular loss is typical for older asphalt shingle roofing, but bare or discolored areas indicate end-of-life for roofing material and require replacement.
Why is plywood sometimes replaced during a roof replacement?
Some sections of the existing roof deck may need to be replaced with new plywood where it has deteriorated, become wet, weakened, or cannot be secured adequately to support the new roof covering.
Can a roofing company determine decking damage before removing shingles?
It is usually the roofing company conducting the roof inspection that discovers signs of possible decking damage. In many cases, the full extent of the damage is not revealed until the old shingles and old underlayment have been stripped off.
Is roof replacement better than repairing heavily worn shingles?
Repairing only isolated areas of a roof that is deteriorating in multiple areas often becomes as costly as re-roofing the entire roof. The condition of shingles, roof deck, flashing, etc., along with the age of the roof, are factors that influence this decision.
Contact Our Team for a Professional Roofing Evaluation
This Clearwater, FL project demonstrates why a complete roof replacement involves much more than changing the appearance of a home. By removing the deteriorated materials, replacing damaged plywood, and installing a new roofing system with Owens Corning Duration Williamsburg shingles, we addressed both the visible and concealed conditions affecting this property. If your roof is showing granular loss, discoloration, leaks, or other signs of aging, we are ready to evaluate its condition and recommend the appropriate solution. Contact us to schedule a professional roofing consultation.
