There are a lot of misconceptions about roofing, and believing them can lead to unnecessary repairs, improper installations, or reduced roof lifespan. When you are faced with conflicting advice, professional roof repair guidance helps you separate fact from fiction and make smart decisions for your home.
Myths often develop from outdated practices, misinterpretations, or well‑meaning but incorrect assumptions. Your Tacoma roofing experts deal with these misunderstandings every day and can help you identify what really matters when it comes to protecting your home.
Myth #1: “Algae and moss are just cosmetic problems.”
There’s a common misconception that algae and moss only leave stains on your roof. Since the stains are removable, you don’t need to pay much attention to them. However, the truth is that algae and moss are more than just an unsightly nuisance. If left untreated, it can affect the structural integrity of your roof.
Here in the South Sound, our frequent rainfall provides the constant moisture that algae and moss needs to grow. Over time, this can deteriorate roofing shingles, causing them to lift and allow water into your home. It’s much easier to treat new growth, as oppose to algae or moss that have been growing on your roof for decades.
Myth #2: “I can DIY my own roofing project.”
Roof repair should not be a DIY project. While roofing may look simple enough, it’s not a weekend project that a novice should take on. Roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently replace or repair your roof. If you are taking this on for the first time, you could damage your roof or hurt yourself. Roofing is a dangerous job and if you don’t have the right safety gear, training or tools, you could get seriously injured.
One of the biggest dangers of performing your own roof work is slipping and falling. ACME Roofing contractors are required to adhere to specific safety standards, have the necessary equipment and education to work on your house. Trust us when we say, this is something best left to the professionals.
Myth #3: “All shingles are the same.”
Not all shingles are created equal. There are many different types of brands and types to consider when choosing shingles. Some shingles are made to combat specific problems. In the Pacific Northwest, we recommend composition roofing because they can withstand weather patterns well. Composition roofing is easy to replace and maintain, and comes in many different shapes, colors and weights. Many brands offer shingles that can look like slate, tile or wood, depending on the aesthetic that you are looking for your home.
At ACME Roofing, we highly recommend investing in premium shingle lines from brands such as PABCO and Malarkey. PABCO Premier® laminated fiberglass shingles is the leading choice for homeowners in the South Sound with a wide selection of color options available.
Malarkey Legacy® XL is a shingle line with superior adhesion and extreme weather protection. This product line includes added protection against streaks caused by algae. This will keep your roof from looking aged and reduce the need to be clean.
Myth #4: “My roof isn’t leaking, so it doesn’t need to be replaced.”
Just because your roof isn’t leaking doesn’t mean that there aren’t any issues. A leak is just one of the many roofing problems that can occur. Oftentimes, roofs don’t show obvious signs of damage. There can be hidden problems that can’t be seen by the untrained eye. From safely on the ground, you can visually inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles. If you are hesitant to climb up onto your roof for an inspection, we can send out one of our experienced roofers to take a look for a small fee.
Myth #5: “DIY Roof Repair Saves Money”
Taking on roof repair yourself might seem cost‑effective, but improper materials, technique, or safety precautions can lead to bigger problems. For more on why DIY roofing is often a bad choice, see the downsides of DIY roofing.
How to Beat Roof Myths
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Schedule regular inspections to catch issues before they become repairs.
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Work with certified professionals who understand local weather impacts.
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Choose materials suited to your climate and performance needs.
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Understand warranty terms before committing to a product or service.
Schedule a Free Roof Estimate with Tacoma’s ACME Roofing
At ACME Roofing, we understand the important role that your roof plays. Contact our office at (253) 564-2292 to schedule a free estimate for your roof. One of our certified Tacoma roofing contractors will come out and perform a careful assessment of your roof’s condition, answer any questions that you may have and provide you our recommendation for the best course of action.