Steep-slope Shingle Replacements
Steep-slope Shingle Replacements | Roofing Done Right | Roofing | Philadelphia
From Fishtown rowhomes to stone Colonials in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia roofs face pounding nor’easters, sweltering summers, and everything in between. HEP’s steep-slope shingle replacement team brings decades of local experience, Owens Corning-preferred materials, and precise, hand-nailed installation to each job, ensuring your home’s first line of defense stands strong and looks sharp. It’s roofing done right, backed by lifetime-transferable warranties and crews who treat your property like their own—right down to the last magnet sweep for stray nails.
Whether you’re chasing curb appeal, energy savings, or peace of mind after the latest storm, we make the process effortless. A dedicated project manager keeps you informed from the drone inspection to the final walkthrough, while our streamlined permitting and financing options get your new roof on faster than you can say “Go Birds.” Schedule a free, zero-pressure estimate today and discover how HEP turns a necessary upgrade into a stress-free investment that protects your home for decades.
FAQs
What is considered a “steep-slope” roof, and why does it require specialized replacement techniques?
In roofing, any roof with a pitch of 3:12 (14°) or greater is labeled steep-slope. Because installers work at sharper angles, crews need additional fall-protection, staging, and shingle-fastening methods to keep materials from sliding before they seal. Philadelphia’s variable weather—high winds off the Delaware River, freeze-thaw cycles, and summer heat—makes proper nailing patterns, ventilation, and ice-and-water shielding even more critical on steep pitches. Hiring a contractor experienced in steep-slope shingle replacement ensures the crew is OSHA-compliant, uses the right underlayments for our climate, and follows manufacturer specs so your warranty stays intact.
How can I tell if my Philadelphia shingle roof needs a full replacement instead of another repair?
Repairs are fine for isolated damage, but multiple warning signs often point to full replacement: • Age: Most 3-tab shingles last 15–20 years; dimensional and architectural shingles average 25–30. If your roof is near or past those numbers, repairs become short-lived fixes. • Widespread granule loss: Gutters filling with granules or bald shingle areas mean UV rays are degrading the mat beneath. • Curling, cupping, or cracked shingles: Once a third of the field shows these issues, patching won’t restore integrity. • Recurrent leaks or attic moisture: Persistent water intrusion indicates underlayment failure, not just surface damage. • Flashing fatigue: Rusted or separated chimney/valley flashing usually signals the entire system is nearing the end. A professional inspection with photos and moisture-meter readings will confirm whether targeted repairs are feasible or a full tear-off is the economical long-term solution.
Which shingle types perform best in Philadelphia’s four-season climate?
Architectural asphalt shingles remain the most popular because they balance cost, curb appeal, and resilience. For added protection, consider: • SBS-modified (“rubberized”) asphalt shingles: Flexible in cold snaps and more impact-resistant against hail. • Class 4 impact-rated shingles: May earn insurance discounts and stand up to wind-blown debris. • Cool-roof rated shingles: Reflect more solar heat, lowering summer attic temps and AC bills. • Designer composites or synthetic slates: Lighter than real slate common in historic Philly neighborhoods but mimic the look and carry 50-year warranties. All options should be paired with ice-and-water shield at eaves and valleys, code-required in Pennsylvania to combat ice dams.
How long will a steep-slope shingle replacement take, and what does the process look like?
Most single-family homes in Philadelphia are completed in 1–3 working days, weather permitting. The steps are: 1. Permitting & materials drop: We secure city permits, schedule dumpster delivery, and stage shingles. 2. Tear-off & deck inspection: Old layers are stripped to the sheathing; we replace any rotten or delaminated plywood. 3. Underlayment & flashing: Synthetic underlayment, ice-shield, drip edge, and new step/chimney flashing go on. 4. Shingle installation: Crews follow manufacturer nail patterns and staggered courses to maximize wind resistance. 5. Ventilation upgrade: Ridge vents or other exhaust/intake solutions are added to meet current code. 6. Cleanup & final walk-through: Magnetic sweep for nails, gutter cleaning, and a customer sign-off. Weather delays can occur in heavy rain or temperatures below 40 °F, but scheduling in spring through fall minimizes interruptions.
What factors influence the cost of a steep-slope shingle replacement in the Philadelphia area?
Pricing is usually quoted per “square” (100 sq ft) and averages $450–$700 per square for architectural shingles in our region. Key cost drivers include: • Roof size and pitch: Steeper roofs need extra labor and safety gear. • Tear-off layers: Each additional shingle layer adds disposal fees and time. • Deck repairs: Replacing damaged sheathing runs about $70–$95 per sheet of plywood. • Material grade: Impact-rated or designer shingles cost more than basic architectural options. • Flashing complexity: Rowhomes with multiple chimneys or intersecting rooflines require more metal work. • Access & logistics: Tight Center City streets may need permits for dumpsters or lift equipment. We provide written, itemized estimates so you can see exactly where every dollar goes and compare good-better-best material options.
What warranties and ongoing maintenance should I expect after my new shingle roof is installed?
You receive two layers of protection: 1. Manufacturer warranty: Architectural shingles carry 25- to 50-year limited warranties, covering material defects and, on upgraded lines, wind damage up to 130 mph. Registration within 60 days is required for full coverage. 2. Workmanship warranty: Roofing Done Right offers a 10-year labor warranty. If a leak occurs due to installation error, we fix it at no charge. To keep both warranties valid: • Have your roof inspected every 2–3 years, or after major storms. • Keep gutters clear to prevent water backup and ice dams. • Trim tree branches at least 6 ft away to reduce abrasion and debris. • Avoid installing satellite dishes directly through shingles; use gable-mounted brackets instead. Following these simple maintenance steps can help your new steep-slope roof last 30 years or more in Philadelphia’s demanding climate.