When it comes to home maintenance, few areas generate more conflicting advice than your roof. Some folks believe adding new shingles over old ones is fine, others are convinced darker shingles will cook the inside of your home like a toaster oven. So how do you separate fact from fiction? We’re here to clear up the confusion with a solid dose of roofing reality. Below are some of the most common roofing myths we hear from homeowners—and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Dark-Colored Roofs Make Your Home Hotter
This is one of the most persistent myths out there. The idea is simple: dark colors absorb more heat, so if you pick a charcoal or black roof, your attic will be a sauna.
Fact: Today’s roofing materials are far more advanced than they used to be. Modern shingles come with reflective granules and improved ventilation systems, like ridge vents and attic fans, which drastically reduce heat buildup regardless of the color.
Even the U.S. Department of Energy points out that proper insulation and ventilation matter more than shingle color when it comes to regulating temperature. A well-designed roof system can keep your home comfortable while improving energy efficiency, whether your shingles are dark or light.
Myth #2: If Your Roof Isn’t Leaking, It’s Fine
This one feels logical, but it can cost you in the long run.
Fact: Roof damage often starts small—think cracked shingles, loose flashing, or curling shingle edges—and goes unnoticed until a leak appears. By then, you’re already dealing with water damage, mold, and possibly structural issues.
Routine inspections (especially after severe weather) can help catch problems early and extend the life of your roof. Think of it like going to the doctor for a check-up: catching small issues now can prevent a much bigger issue later.
Myth #3: You Can Just Add New Shingles Over the Old Ones
We get the appeal: it seems cheaper and easier to just layer new shingles on top.
Fact: While building codes may allow one layer of shingles over another, doing so can hide existing problems. Old shingles might be covering soft decking, moisture damage, or uneven surfaces that affect how well your new roof performs.
At Brody Allen Exteriors, we recommend full tear-offs to assess the condition of your decking and ensure a longer-lasting, better-performing roof.
Read: What Happens When We Find Bad Roof Decking During a Replacement
Myth #4: Roof Replacements Are Too Expensive to Be Worth It
Sticker shock is real—but so is the return on investment.
Fact: A new roof can boost curb appeal, improve energy efficiency, and increase resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, roof replacements consistently rank as one of the highest-ROI home improvement projects.
Not to mention, upgrading your roof can lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums—especially if your current roof is past its prime.
Myth #5: All Shingles Are Basically the Same
Not even close.
Fact: Shingles vary widely in quality, durability, wind resistance, and style. For example, Nordic shingles are designed to stand up to extreme weather with high-impact resistance, while Cambridge shingles offer a great balance of performance and affordability.
Want to explore your options? Check out our shingle color and product guide, where we break down Cambridge, Nordic, and Dynasty styles for different needs and budgets.
Myth #6: Metal Roofs Are Noisy in the Rain
The image of rain pounding on a metal roof might seem charming—or annoying, depending on your vibe.
Fact: Today’s metal roofs are installed over insulation and solid decking, which significantly dampens sound. Most homeowners don’t notice any difference in noise levels compared to traditional shingles.
Plus, metal roofs can last 40–70 years and offer outstanding resistance to fire, rot, and insects. They’re also recyclable and energy-efficient, which makes them a sustainable choice.
Myth #7: Roof Repairs Are Always Enough
Why replace it if you can patch it, right?
Fact: Sometimes repairs are the right move. But if your roof has multiple issues, patching over and over can cost more in the long run—and leave your home vulnerable.
If your roof is approaching the end of its life, a replacement may be the smarter investment. A professional roofer can assess whether your roof is a good candidate for repairs or if it’s time to consider a full replacement.
Myth #8: Roofs Last Exactly 30 Years
That “30-year roof” label gets tossed around a lot.
Fact: Roofing lifespan depends on material, climate, maintenance, and installation quality. Asphalt shingles can last 15–30 years, while metal or tile roofs may last even longer. But poor ventilation, storm damage, or skipped maintenance can shorten that life considerably.
The only way to know how your roof is aging is through regular inspections.
Myth #9: You Can’t Replace a Roof in Winter
Snow, cold, holidays—it might seem like roofing season ends in fall.
Fact: While some weather conditions aren’t ideal, experienced roofing crews can replace roofs year-round. Shingles may take longer to seal in cooler temps, but with proper techniques, a winter install is totally possible (and sometimes even cheaper due to slower demand).
Myth #10: Roofing Warranties Cover Everything
You’ve got a 30-year warranty—so you’re set, right?
Fact: Warranties are great, but they have limits. Manufacturer warranties typically cover defects in the roofing materials—not damage from improper installation, poor ventilation, or weather events.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with a trusted local contractor who offers a labor warranty as well. At Brody Allen Exteriors, we back our installations with strong workmanship coverage and help homeowners navigate manufacturer claims if needed.
For more on roofing warranties, visit Owens Corning’s Warranty Info.
Myth #11: Roof Replacements Take Forever
Nobody wants a construction zone on their house for weeks.
Fact: Most residential roof replacements can be completed in 1–3 days, depending on the size of the home and complexity of the project. At Brody Allen Exteriors, we prioritize clean job sites, efficient schedules, and constant communication.
Myth #12: You Don’t Need to Know Your Deductible
When disaster strikes, it’s easy to assume your insurance will just “take care of it.”
Fact: Many policies have separate deductibles for wind and hail, often based on a percentage of your home’s insured value. That means you could be responsible for thousands more than you expected.
Don’t wait until a storm to learn your numbers. Check out our post on percentage-based insurance deductibles to get up to speed.
Final Thoughts: Be a Smart Roofing Homeowner
There’s a lot of outdated advice floating around when it comes to roofs. But knowing the facts can help you make smarter decisions, whether you’re choosing a shingle color, weighing repair vs. replacement, or preparing for storm season.
Want help making sense of your options? Contact the team at Brody Allen Exteriors—we’ll walk you through everything clearly, honestly, and without the sales pressure.
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Roofing Professionals You Can Trust
When you choose Brody Allen Exteriors, you're choosing a team that's dedicated to protecting homes. We live and work in this community, and we're here to ensure your roof is strong, durable, and built to last.
