Asphalt shingle roofing in Los Angeles
Asphalt shingles cover more homes in the San Fernando Valley than any other roofing. They cost less than tile or metal, suit most pitched roofs and come in a wide range of colors. A shingle roof is a system: the deck, the underlayment, the flashing and the shingles all have to be right. We install new shingle roofs, replace worn ones and repair damage.
- Service
- Asphalt shingle roofing
- Contractor
- LA General Builders, CSLB Lic #1044686
How a shingle roof is built
Shingles are sheets of asphalt reinforced with a fiberglass mat and surfaced with mineral granules. The granules protect the asphalt from the sun, which is why a roof that is shedding them is nearing the end of its life. Shingles are nailed in overlapping rows, and each row covers the nails of the one below it.
What sits under and around the shingles matters as much as the shingles. The underlayment is the backup layer if wind lifts a shingle. Metal flashing seals valleys, walls and pipes. Attic ventilation keeps heat from cooking the shingles from below, which is a real concern in the Valley's summers. We check and renew each of these when we install the roof.
-
Architectural shingles
Thick, layered shingles nailed in overlapping rows, each row covering the nails of the one below.
-
The backup layer
Underlayment covers the whole deck under the shingles and keeps water out if wind lifts one.
-
A shingle roof is a system
Shingles (1), underlayment and flashing (2), deck (3) and rafters (4) all have to be sound.
Signs a shingle roof is wearing out
- Granules washing into the gutters and bald patches on the shingles
- Edges that curl up or tabs that crack
- Shingles missing after wind
- Dark streaks or patches where the surface has worn thin
- Exposed or rusted nail heads
- Ridge caps that are split or missing
How the job runs
The same steps on every job, from the first look at the roof to the final inspection.
Inspect and measure
We check the roof and attic, measure each plane and note the ventilation and flashing details.
Choose the shingle
You pick the shingle line and color. We explain the differences in thickness, fire rating and heat reflection.
Tear off and repair the deck
Old roofing comes off down to the wood, and rotted or damaged decking is replaced.
Underlayment and edge metal
Underlayment covers the deck, with metal drip edge at the eaves and rakes.
Flashing and shingles
New flashing goes in at valleys, walls and penetrations, then the shingles are nailed in courses from the eave up.
Ridge, vents and clean up
Ridge caps and vents finish the roof. We clear the debris, sweep for nails and meet the inspector.
Types of asphalt shingle
| Option | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural shingle | Most homes | Thicker, layered shingles with a textured look. The standard choice on new roofs today. |
| Three-tab shingle | Matching an existing three-tab roof on a repair | A flat, single-layer shingle. Thinner than architectural shingles. |
| Cool-rated shingle | Hot inland neighborhoods | Reflects more of the sun's heat. Some re-roofs are required to use it under California's energy rules. |
| Class A fire-rated shingle | Homes in and near fire hazard zones | The rating applies to the shingle together with the underlayment specified for it. |
What sets the price
- Roof area and the number of hips, valleys and dormers
- The shingle line you choose
- Pitch and height of the roof
- Layers of old roofing to remove
- Deck, fascia and flashing repairs
Permits and inspections
Most full re-roofs need a building permit from your city or the county, and the rules differ from one building department to the next. We confirm what applies to your address, pull the permit and meet the inspector, so the finished roof is signed off.
Questions homeowners ask
How long does a shingle roof last?
It depends on the shingle, the ventilation under it and how much sun the roof takes. Manufacturers publish a rated life for each product, and we show you that figure for the shingle you choose.
Are shingles a good choice in a fire zone?
Many asphalt shingles carry a Class A fire rating when installed over the underlayment the manufacturer specifies. We confirm the rating for the exact product and assembly before it goes on your roof.
Can I change the color of my roof?
Yes. A replacement is the time to do it. Lighter colors reflect more heat. If you are in an HOA, check its rules first.
Do shingles work on a low-slope roof?
Not below the minimum slope the manufacturer allows. For low-slope sections we install a flat roof membrane instead.
Get a price for your roof
Tell us about the roof and we will call you to set up a visit. Or call now and talk to an estimator.
818-741-5451See a price range in about a minute
LA General Builders, 8728 Zelzah Ave, Northridge, CA 91325
CSLB Lic #1044686