Couldn’t agree more about the attic ventilation—seen way too many “fried” shingles from folks skipping that step. And yeah, metal’s tough but hail can make it look like a golf ball. If you’re not planning to move soon, a good shingle job can totally surprise you. Just don’t let your cousin install it after a six-pack... trust me.
Just don’t let your cousin install it after a six-pack... trust me.
That made me laugh—my brother-in-law “helped” with my last roof and I’m still finding crooked nails. For anyone on a budget, here’s what worked for me: 1) Get three quotes, even if you’re DIY-ing, just to compare material costs. 2) Don’t cheap out on underlayment or flashing—those are the silent heroes. 3) Ventilation, like you said, is non-negotiable. I went with architectural shingles and, honestly, they’ve held up better than I expected through two hailstorms. Not perfect, but didn’t break the bank either.
Architectural shingles are a solid middle ground—good call there. I’ve seen folks regret going with the cheapest 3-tabs, especially after a rough winter or hail season. You nailed it about underlayment and flashing; those get skipped way too often and end up costing more in repairs. Curious, did you look into impact-rated shingles at all? They’re a bit pricier but can save headaches if hail’s a regular thing where you are.
Curious, did you look into impact-rated shingles at all? They’re a bit pricier but can save headaches if hail’s a regular thing where you are.
Totally agree on skipping the bargain 3-tabs—seen way too many of those curling up like potato chips after one rough season. Impact-rated shingles are a solid upgrade if hail’s a thing, though I’ve noticed some folks expect them to be bulletproof. They’re tougher, sure, but not invincible... Ever see a golf ball-sized hailstone? That’ll test anything. Did you check if your insurance gives a discount for those? Some do, but it’s hit or miss.
- Had to pick a shingle last spring when we bought. Ended up with impact-rated ones—yeah, they cost more, but peace of mind felt worth it since we get random hail here.
- Insurance gave us a small discount, but honestly, it barely covered the price jump. Still, feels better than the 3-tabs our neighbors had... those peeled up after one windy week.
- I wouldn’t expect miracles, though. Saw dents after a crazy storm, but no leaks so far. Guess that’s a win?
- If you’re in a hail zone, I’d lean towards the upgrade. Otherwise, maybe not a must-have.