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Shingle roofing in West Central Florida

Asphalt shingles are the least expensive and most commonly used roofing material, found on more than 80% of residential roofs. They consist of fiberglass, asphalt, and sand-like granules. The granules on top of the shingles help deflect UV rays to ward off unwanted heat or roof damage. There are even energy-efficient asphalt shingles that have cooling granules and may qualify for a federal tax credit. Most asphalt shingles are resistant to algae, while some fiberglass shingles are fairly fire resistant.

Asphalt roof shingles come in standard single thickness and thicker laminated versions that have an attractive textured appearance and last longer than standard shingles (25-plus years vs 15-plus years). An asphalt roof it a good choice for homeowners who need a new roof, but don’t intend to stay in the home long enough to benefit from a longer-lasting material such as tile.

The shingle’s asphalt-saturated base is made of either fiberglass or organic material that has been covered in additional asphalt on one or both sides, with a coating mixture of mica, schist, quartz, slate, ceramic, or stone. The back of the shingle is coated with sand, talc, or mica.

The most common type of asphalt shingles is called the “three-tab”, which refers to the cut of the shingle and how it is installed. Asphalt shingles and composition shingles can be found in a number of different shapes, colors, and styles.

With many different colors available, asphalt roof shingles can match a wide variety of homes. Some lighter colors, such as white, are certified to help reflect heat from your home.

Florida weather can be hard on shingle roofing

While an asphalt shingle roof is fairly inexpensive and low maintenance, it does have some drawbacks. The granules that cover asphalt shingles and help protect them can become dislodged during storms, weakening the roof. Excess UV light or moisture trapped beneath moss can also cause the shingles to begin to break down prematurely, causing the edge of the shingles to curl and corners to let water in. Impact from hail stones or tree branches can also crack or break the shingles, which can cause a leak. Shingles that have not been properly installed may also come loose or break free, which can also lead to water damage.

Choosing the right color and style of shingle is key

When selecting your asphalt shingles, it’s best to pick a color and profile that can enhance your home’s architectural style. The higher the pitch or the greater the slope of your roof, the more you’ll see the shingles from street level.

A lighter-color roof can make your home appear larger and draw attention to any positive features, while a darker-color roof can hide imperfections and create focus. Lighter-colored shingles can deflect sunlight and help keep your home’s interior cooler, depending on the adequacy of your ventilation and the quality of your attic insulation.

In the past, light-colored asphalt shingles weren’t as prevalent in the humid Florida climate due to algae and mold. Today, however, the addition of special algae-resistant granules that help inhibit the growth of blue-green algae helps reduce the appearance of unsightly black streaks.

If your home’s exterior is monochromatic in color, consider adding shingles that appear thicker and give your roof a rich, textured look. If your home has a detailed exterior, you can choose softer, more muted shingles. You also want to choose a shingle color that blends well with the houses and landscape around you. You may also want to check with your homeowner’s association to see if there are any restrictions.

Whatever color you’re considering, it is a good idea to look at samples at different times of day against all of your home’s exterior elements.

The contractor is an important component of a quality roof

By choosing the roofing experts at Kennedy Construction Groups, you can be sure of not only getting quality materials, but quality craftsmanship as well. Here’s what we mean by not cutting corners.

Using the right underlayment

A quality underlayment is essential to protect your roof longer should it become exposed to weather. For asphalt shingles, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends a single layer of No. 15 asphalt-saturated underlayment to be used with roofs having slopes of 18 degrees or greater. For roof slopes between 14 and 18 degrees, the NRCA recommends a minimum of two layers of No. 15 underlayment. If you are installing a heavier-weight shingle with a projected long service life, using No. 30 underlayment instead of No. 15 would be appropriate. We’ll make sure the right underlayment is used on your roof.

Installing your roof the right way

When it comes to a quality shingle roofing installation, it is important to have the first row of shingles, also called the starter course, installed right. Otherwise, wind can affect the roofing material by generating uplift pressure that can tear apart the shingles. This is critical for a good shingle installation.

When nailing down shingles, it is also important to install the nails at the right location, angle and spacing. The pitch of your roof and the wind conditions in your area will also dictate how many nails to use and where.  Nailing the shingle too high can allow wind to get under it, nailing the shingle too low will expose nails to the elements, and nailing the shingle through the sealant strip can compromise the seal. Improper nailing is one of the biggest causes of roof failures in storms. It is important to use the right nail, including the length and material of the nail. We use more expensive stainless steel nails that resist rusting.

A word of warning: Some roofers are known to use staples instead of nails. Staples are not recommended by most roofing industry organizations. Problems resulting from the use of staples, such as wind blow-off, are not covered by the warranty. For good reason, most local building codes do not permit use of staples.

Installing proper valleys, hips, ridge caps, and flashing

When shingle roofing leaks, it is normally due to an improper valley, hip, or ridge cap. Roof valleys, in particular, channel a lot of water, so they require careful attention. We make sure to install the valleys at the right location and make sure that the flashing is right for installation in these critical areas. Flashing should be corrosion-resistant metal with a minimum thickness of .019 inch.

Ensuring proper attic ventilation

There’s a good reason why building codes call for proper attic ventilation. It can reduce your cooling bills and extend your shingle roofing life. It’s why we make sure you have adequate soffit and attic vents.

We are an Owens CorninTM Platinum Preferred Contractor

We meet high standards and satisfy strict requirements:

  • Selected for our commitment to customer service, business stability and quality
  • Carry all required state and local licenses
  • Hold at least $1,000,000 in general liability insurance
  • In good standing with the Better Business Bureau
  • Up-to-date latest industry standards and technology
  • Certified to offer extended Roofing System Limited Warranties† that provide up to a lifetime* of workmanship coverage

HOW WE WORK
We meet your roofing needs in three simple steps

  • CONSULT

  • $0/mo
  • Our project manager meets with you to discuss your roofing needs and recommend solutions.

    1

  • SCHEDULE

  • $0/mo
  • We present our free estimate, financing options, and book your job when you’re ready.

    2

  • ENJOY

  • $0/mo
  • Our professionals complete your roof repair or installation. You enjoy the benefits of a quality roof.

    3

We stand by our customers. We back our work.

You are our number one priority from the moment you call us to the time your project is complete. When you choose one of our Owens Corning roofs, we back it with a 50-Year Platinum Warranty that includes materials and labor. In addition, we are so confident in our workmanship that we also give you an in-house leak guarantee as well. While we cover your home with a beautiful roof, most importantly, we cover you.

Financing available

Easy payment options. No credit check. No prepayment penalties.
Senior and military discounts available.
To keep monthly payments low, you can finance for up to 25 years

Where quality is a family tradition

Owner Gene Kennedy has more than 25 years of experience as a contractor and builder. Our roofs are backed by a 15-year leak-free guarantee, the highest in the industry. and we offer 100% satisfaction.

Not all roofers are equal. Choose wisely.

There is a difference in roofers.

We have been family owned and operated for more than 40 years, and adhere to extraordinarily high standards for professionalism, reliability and craftsmanship. If you have a structural problem beneath your roof, our experienced carpenters can address it with the same quality and expertise. Contact us today for your next roof repair, tile roof, shingle roofing, flat roof or wind mitigation needs.  

The dark truth about the Sunshine State
Having a good roof over your head is crucial wherever you live, but even more so when you live in Florida, where extreme summer heat, tropical rains, and hurricanes are part of life here.

We have been installing quality tile, asphalt shingle, and flat roofs for decades here in West Central Florida, where we work and live. We know from experience what holds up and what you need to weather the storms.  You can also count on us for excellent maintenance and repair of all these types of roofs.

You will find our quality work all over West Central Florida, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Bradenton, Clearwater, Lakeland, Largo, Port Charlotte, Venice, Valrico, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Apollo Beach, Oldsmar, Parrish, Safety Harbor, Sun City Center, Anna Maria, Ellenton, Brandon, Belleair Beach, North Port, Punta Gorda, Plant City, Seminole, Longboat Key, Lake Wales and all points in between.