Expert Tips & Advice

Age of Your Roof

Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-25 years. If your roof is approaching or has exceeded this age, it's time to start planning for replacement, even if it looks fine from the ground. The materials degrade over time, becoming less effective at protecting your home.

Curling or Missing Shingles

Shingles that are curling at the edges, cupping in the middle, or completely missing are clear indicators of roof failure. This often happens due to age, poor ventilation, or storm damage. Missing shingles expose your roof deck to moisture, leading to rot and leaks.

Granules in Gutters

Asphalt shingles are coated with protective granules. As they age, these granules wash off into your gutters. If you notice excessive granule accumulation, especially after a storm, your shingles are deteriorating and losing their protective coating.

Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging roof deck indicates serious structural problems, often caused by prolonged moisture exposure or inadequate support. This is a critical issue that requires immediate professional assessment and likely a complete roof replacement.

Interior Water Damage

Water stains on ceilings or walls, mold growth in the attic, or visible light coming through the roof boards are all signs that your roof is failing. These issues indicate that water is penetrating your roofing system and causing damage to your home's interior.

Rising Energy Bills

An aging or damaged roof can compromise your home's insulation, causing your HVAC system to work harder. If you've noticed unexplained increases in your heating or cooling costs, your roof might be the culprit.

What to Do Next

If you've noticed any of these signs, don't wait. Contact Summit Roofing & HVAC for a free roof inspection. Our experienced team will assess your roof's condition and provide honest recommendations. Early detection can sometimes allow for repairs instead of full replacement, saving you money. However, if replacement is necessary, we'll guide you through material options and ensure the job is done right the first time.

Remember: Regular roof inspections every 2-3 years can help catch problems early and extend your roof's lifespan. Don't wait until you have a leak to think about your roof!

Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Set your thermostat to 78°F when you're home and higher when you're away. Every degree below 78°F can increase your energy bill by 3-5%. Install a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, potentially saving up to 10% annually on cooling costs.

Regular Maintenance is Key

A well-maintained AC system runs more efficiently. Change or clean your air filters monthly during peak season. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Schedule annual professional maintenance to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency. Clean coils, proper refrigerant levels, and calibrated thermostats can reduce energy consumption by 15-20%.

Improve Your Home's Insulation

Poor insulation lets cool air escape and hot air enter. Check your attic insulation – it should be at least 12-15 inches deep. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork with weatherstripping and caulk. This prevents your AC from working overtime to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Use Ceiling Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel 4-6 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise your thermostat setting. Set fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms – turn them off when you leave to save electricity.

Block Out the Sun

Solar heat gain through windows can significantly increase cooling costs. Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south and west-facing windows. Consider installing reflective window film or exterior shading devices like awnings for even better results.

Minimize Heat Generation

Appliances generate heat that your AC must work to remove. Run dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers during cooler evening hours. Switch to LED bulbs, which produce 75% less heat than incandescent bulbs. Avoid using the oven on hot days – grill outside or use a microwave instead.

Seal and Insulate Ductwork

Leaky ducts can waste 20-30% of your cooling energy. Have your ductwork inspected and sealed by professionals. Ensure ducts in unconditioned spaces like attics are properly insulated to prevent cool air loss.

Consider Upgrading Your System

If your AC is over 10-15 years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can cut cooling costs by 30-50%. Modern systems with SEER ratings of 16 or higher are significantly more efficient than older models. While the upfront cost is substantial, energy savings typically pay for the investment within 5-7 years.

Create Zones in Your Home

Don't cool rooms you're not using. Close vents and doors in unused areas. For larger homes, consider installing a zoned HVAC system that allows you to control temperatures in different areas independently.

The Bottom Line: Implementing these strategies can reduce your cooling costs by 20-40% annually. Start with the low-cost solutions like thermostat adjustments and regular filter changes, then gradually invest in more substantial improvements. Contact Summit Roofing & HVAC for a home energy assessment and personalized recommendations!

Schedule Pre-Winter Maintenance

Before the cold weather hits, have your heating system professionally inspected and serviced. A tune-up ensures your furnace operates efficiently and safely. Technicians will clean burners, check for carbon monoxide leaks, test safety controls, and verify proper airflow. This preventive maintenance can prevent mid-winter breakdowns and improve efficiency by up to 15%.

Replace Your Furnace Filter Regularly

A clean filter is crucial for efficient heating. During winter, check your filter monthly and replace it when dirty – typically every 1-3 months depending on usage and filter type. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your furnace work harder and potentially causing overheating or system failure.

Optimize Thermostat Settings

Set your thermostat to 68°F when you're home and awake, and lower it to 60-65°F when sleeping or away. Each degree you lower the thermostat can save 3% on heating costs. A programmable thermostat automates these adjustments, ensuring comfort when you need it and savings when you don't.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

Switch ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at low speed. This pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into your living space, improving comfort without increasing thermostat settings. This simple trick can make rooms feel 4-6 degrees warmer.

Seal Air Leaks

Drafts around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and other openings can account for 25-30% of heating loss. Use weatherstripping on doors and windows, caulk around stationary components, and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers. Don't forget to check your attic hatch and basement rim joists – these are common sources of air leakage.

Maximize Solar Heat Gain

Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during sunny days to let natural warmth in. Close them at night to reduce heat loss through windows. Consider installing insulated window treatments for even better thermal performance.

Keep Vents and Radiators Clear

Ensure furniture, curtains, and other objects don't block heating vents or radiators. Blocked vents restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency. Keep vents clean and dust-free for optimal performance.

Use Space Heaters Wisely

For rooms you use frequently, a space heater can allow you to lower your whole-house thermostat setting. However, use them safely – keep them away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and plug them directly into wall outlets (not extension cords). Modern space heaters with tip-over protection and automatic shut-off features are safest.

Insulate Your Attic and Walls

Heat rises, and without proper attic insulation, it escapes through your roof. Ensure your attic has adequate insulation (R-38 to R-60 depending on your climate). If your walls lack insulation, consider having blown-in insulation added – it's less invasive than you might think and can dramatically reduce heating costs.

Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Indoor air feels warmer when humidity is in the 30-40% range. Use a humidifier if your home is too dry, which is common in winter. Proper humidity also prevents dry skin, static electricity, and damage to wood furniture and floors.

Don't Close Too Many Vents

While it seems logical to close vents in unused rooms, closing too many can create pressure imbalances that reduce system efficiency and potentially damage your furnace. If you want to zone your heating, consult with an HVAC professional about proper zoning systems.

Emergency Preparedness: Keep an emergency heating plan in case of system failure. Have a backup heat source available, know how to safely shut off your system if needed, and keep Summit Roofing & HVAC's 24/7 emergency number handy: 954-822-3540.

Asphalt Shingles: The Popular Choice

Pros: Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in America, and for good reason. They're affordable ($3-5 per square foot installed), available in many colors and styles, easy to install and repair, and last 20-30 years. Architectural shingles offer enhanced curb appeal with dimensional appearance.

Cons: Shorter lifespan than premium materials, susceptible to wind damage in severe storms, and not as environmentally friendly as some alternatives.

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, traditional home styles, and moderate climates.

Metal Roofing: Long-Lasting Performance

Pros: Metal roofs last 40-70 years, are extremely durable, reflect solar heat (reducing cooling costs by 10-25%), are fire-resistant, and environmentally friendly (often made from recycled materials and fully recyclable). They're excellent in areas with heavy snow, as snow slides off easily.

Cons: Higher upfront cost ($7-12 per square foot), can be noisy during rain (though proper insulation minimizes this), and may dent from large hail in severe storms.

Best For: Long-term homeowners, energy-conscious buyers, areas with extreme weather, and modern or rustic architectural styles.

Clay and Concrete Tiles: Mediterranean Elegance

Pros: Tiles last 50-100+ years, are extremely durable, fire-resistant, energy-efficient (natural air circulation beneath tiles), and provide distinctive aesthetic appeal. They're ideal for hot, sunny climates.

Cons: Very heavy (requiring additional structural support), expensive ($10-18 per square foot), can be fragile when walked on, and installation requires specialized expertise.

Best For: Spanish, Mediterranean, or Southwestern style homes, hot climates, and homeowners prioritizing longevity and distinctive appearance.

Slate: The Premium Option

Pros: Slate is the longest-lasting roofing material (75-200+ years), incredibly durable, fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and provides unmatched natural beauty. It's the ultimate in roofing elegance and longevity.

Cons: Extremely expensive ($15-30+ per square foot), very heavy (requires structural reinforcement), requires specialized installation, and difficult to repair if damaged.

Best For: Historic homes, luxury properties, homeowners planning to stay long-term, and those prioritizing heritage and prestige.

Wood Shakes and Shingles: Natural Beauty

Pros: Wood provides natural, rustic beauty, good insulation properties, and is environmentally friendly (when sourced sustainably). Cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to rot and insects.

Cons: Requires regular maintenance, susceptible to fire (unless treated), can rot or grow mold in humid climates, shorter lifespan (20-40 years), and higher cost than asphalt ($6-9 per square foot).

Best For: Rustic, cottage, or craftsman-style homes, dry climates, and homeowners willing to maintain them regularly.

Synthetic Roofing: Modern Innovation

Pros: Synthetic materials (rubber, plastic, polymer) can mimic the appearance of slate, wood, or tile at lower cost and weight. They're durable (30-50 years), lightweight, impact-resistant, and often come with excellent warranties.

Cons: Relatively new (long-term performance less proven), quality varies significantly between manufacturers, and may not have the authentic appearance of natural materials.

Best For: Homeowners wanting the look of premium materials without the weight or cost, and those prioritizing low maintenance.

Key Factors to Consider

Climate: Consider your local weather patterns. Metal is excellent for snow, tile for heat, and asphalt works well in moderate climates.

Roof Pitch: Steeper roofs can accommodate more material types, while low-slope roofs have fewer options.

Home Style: Choose materials that complement your home's architecture. A Mediterranean tile roof looks out of place on a Colonial home.

Budget: Consider both initial cost and long-term value. A metal roof costs more upfront but may be cheaper over 50 years than two asphalt roofs.

HOA Requirements: Check if your homeowners association has restrictions on roofing materials or colors.

Local Building Codes: Some areas require fire-resistant materials or have wind-rating requirements.

Making Your Decision

The "best" roofing material depends on your specific situation. For most homeowners, architectural asphalt shingles offer the best balance of cost, performance, and appearance. However, if you're planning to stay in your home long-term and want to maximize value and durability, premium materials like metal, tile, or slate may be worth the investment.

Expert Guidance: Contact Summit Roofing & HVAC for a free consultation. We'll assess your home's structural capacity, discuss your goals and budget, show you samples, and provide honest recommendations based on our 25+ years of experience. We can also provide detailed cost comparisons and help you understand the long-term value of each option.

The Age Factor

Age is the primary consideration in the repair vs. replace decision. Most HVAC systems last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your system is under 10 years old, repair is usually the best choice unless the issue is catastrophic. Systems 10-15 years old require careful cost-benefit analysis. Systems over 15 years old should typically be replaced, especially if facing major repairs.

The 5,000 Rule

Use this simple formula: Multiply the repair cost by the system's age. If the result exceeds $5,000, replacement is usually the better choice. For example, a $500 repair on a 12-year-old system = $6,000, suggesting replacement. A $300 repair on a 7-year-old system = $2,100, suggesting repair.

Repair Costs vs. Replacement Value

If a single repair costs more than 50% of a new system's price, strongly consider replacement. Multiple repairs within 1-2 years indicate declining reliability – you're likely throwing good money after bad. Factor in that new systems come with warranties (typically 10 years on parts, 1 year on labor), while repaired old systems may fail again soon.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

Modern HVAC systems are significantly more efficient than those from even 10 years ago. Systems installed before 2010 typically have SEER ratings of 10-13. Current minimum standards require SEER 14, and high-efficiency models reach SEER 20+. Upgrading from SEER 10 to SEER 16 can cut cooling costs by 37.5%. Over 15 years, energy savings can offset much of the replacement cost.

Rising Repair Frequency

If you're calling for service more than once per year (beyond routine maintenance), your system is telling you it's time. Frequent breakdowns indicate multiple components are failing. Each repair only addresses one issue while other parts continue aging. The cumulative cost and inconvenience of repeated repairs often exceeds replacement costs.

Refrigerant Type Matters

If your system uses R-22 refrigerant (Freon), replacement is strongly recommended. R-22 was phased out in 2020, making it increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain. A refrigerant leak in an R-22 system can cost $1,500-3,000 to repair, while a new system with modern R-410A refrigerant costs $3,500-7,000 installed. The choice is clear.

Comfort and Performance Issues

Beyond cost, consider quality of life. If your system struggles to maintain comfortable temperatures, creates hot/cold spots, runs constantly, or produces excessive noise, these issues often can't be fully resolved with repairs on aging equipment. A new, properly sized system provides consistent comfort and quiet operation.

When Repair Makes Sense

System is under 10 years old: Most components should still have good life left.

Single, isolated failure: One failed component doesn't indicate systemic problems.

Regular maintenance history: Well-maintained systems last longer and have better repair outcomes.

Minor repairs: Issues like thermostat replacement, capacitor failure, or contactor problems are relatively inexpensive.

Budget constraints: If replacement isn't immediately feasible, a repair can buy you time to save.

When Replacement Makes Sense

System is 15+ years old: You're near or past expected lifespan.

Major component failure: Compressor or heat exchanger replacement costs approach new system prices.

Uses R-22 refrigerant: Obsolete refrigerant makes repairs increasingly impractical.

Frequent repairs: Multiple service calls indicate declining reliability.

High energy bills: Inefficient operation wastes money that could fund a new system.

Inadequate performance: System can't maintain comfort even when working "properly."

Mismatched or incorrectly sized: If your system never worked well, replacement with proper sizing solves the problem.

Financial Considerations

New HVAC systems qualify for various incentives. Federal tax credits (up to $2,000 for high-efficiency systems), utility company rebates ($200-1,000+), and manufacturer promotions can significantly reduce replacement costs. Many contractors offer financing options with low or zero interest, making monthly payments comparable to repair costs plus increased energy bills.

Don't Wait for Complete Failure

If you're leaning toward replacement, don't wait for total system failure. Planned replacement during mild weather gives you time to research options, compare quotes, and avoid emergency pricing. You'll also avoid the discomfort and potential health risks of being without heating or cooling during extreme temperatures.

Get a Professional Assessment

The best decision requires expert evaluation. At Summit Roofing & HVAC, we provide honest assessments of your system's condition. We'll never push replacement if repair is the better choice, and we'll explain all options with transparent pricing. Our goal is your long-term satisfaction, not short-term sales.

Schedule Your Consultation: Call us at 954-822-3540 for a thorough system evaluation. We'll assess your current equipment, discuss your comfort needs and budget, explain repair vs. replacement costs and benefits, and provide detailed written estimates for both options. You'll have all the information needed to make the right decision for your home and family.