I get your point about workmanship being key, but honestly, I think materials play a bigger role than you're giving credit. Even the best roofer can't make cheap shingles last forever. Seen plenty of properly installed roofs fail early because the materials just weren't up to par...
Yeah, fair point about materials. I've managed properties for years, and I've seen both sides of it. Even top-notch shingles can fail early if the install is rushed or sloppy—but you're right, cheap materials are usually a ticking time bomb. Best bet is always balancing decent-quality shingles with careful installation. Learned that the hard way myself... twice. Nothing like explaining to tenants why their "brand new" roof leaks after one rainy season, haha.
- Honestly, roofs these days are like smartphones—built to expire right after warranty ends, lol.
- Had mine redone a few years back with mid-range shingles. Installers seemed solid, but still had leaks pop up way sooner than expected.
- Makes me wonder if weather extremes lately are speeding things up? Or maybe I'm just cursed with roofs...
- Either way, totally agree on balancing decent materials with careful install. Learned the hard way that skimping on either side usually means buckets in the attic later.
- At this point, thinking about just moving into a cave—no roof needed, problem solved.
Honestly, I doubt roofs themselves are getting worse—materials have actually improved a lot over the past decade. But you're onto something with the weather extremes. I've seen storms lately that'd shred even top-notch shingles in half the time they're rated for. Makes me wonder if manufacturers need to rethink their standards... or if we should start expecting shorter lifespans from roofs in general? Either way, caves might be a bit damp, but at least no shingles to worry about.
Materials have definitely improved, but I think we might be overlooking installation practices. Even the best shingles won't hold up if they're not installed to spec. I've seen plenty of roofs fail prematurely due to shortcuts taken during installation—nails placed incorrectly, inadequate ventilation, or improper flashing around chimneys and vents. Sure, weather extremes are a factor, but maybe the real issue is how well these improved materials are actually being applied in the field.
Another thing to consider: Are current building codes keeping pace with these weather changes? If storms are getting stronger and more frequent, shouldn't codes reflect that by requiring tougher installation standards or even different materials altogether? Seems like we're always playing catch-up with Mother Nature...
