Simple Tips for Replacing an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Tearing the old shingles off is the most difficult part of re-roofing a house. Laying the new shingles is actually a pretty straightforward, simple job for most homeowners. brizmaker/Shutterstock

Dear James: There are leaks in our garage when it rains. The dark shingle roof is about 20 years old. Is it better to try to just fix the leaks or re-shingle the entire garage roof? —Jennifer T.

Dear Jennifer: At 20 years, your roof is reaching the typical life of an asphalt shingle roof. Dark shingles also deteriorate faster than light ones because the dark color gets much hotter in the sun. High temperatures, in addition to mildew, leaves, moisture, etc., can shorten the shingle life span even further.