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Tar and gravel roofs last an average of 30 years, which is longer than the average lifespan of many other flat roofs. The gravel on top of the waterproof membrane helps protect the roof from UV damage and physical damage, so if you keep your roof drains clear and carry out annual roof inspections to catch issues early, you could see up to 40 years of useful life from your roof.

The common formula for measuring a roof is length x width equals square footage. Professional roofers measure the length and width of your roof, including dormers, and determine its pitch and rafter sizes. If a roof surface is a triangle, they’ll divide that square footage by two, then add up the square footage of each surface to get the total for the roof.

Fall is widely considered the best time of year to replace a roof. The moderate temperatures are ideal for roofing crews to work and for new shingles to seal properly. Additionally, autumn weather is often drier, reducing the risk of weather-related delays compared to the rainier spring season.

While spring is also a viable option, the higher chance of rainfall can slow down the project. The main drawback to a fall installation is that it's the peak season for roofers, which can lead to higher prices and scheduling challenges.

To potentially save money, you could consider scheduling your roof replacement during the summer or winter off-seasons. However, both seasons have significant disadvantages. Extreme summer heat can make shingles too soft to handle, while winter's cold, snow, and ice can create dangerous working conditions and prevent shingles from sealing correctly, as they typically require temperatures above 40-45°F.

Yes, gable vents can let water in. That being said, this usually only occurs during extreme conditions like heavy rainfall. You can prevent water from entering through gable vents by adding a screen that traps the water before it can enter.