Has your roof weathered one too many South Carolina storms? Curling shingles, missing granules, or mysterious leaks are all signs that it might be time for a professional asphalt shingle replacement. Whether you live in Charleston, Columbia, the CSRA, or the Pee Dee Region, understanding the re-roofing process helps you protect your home, save money, and avoid surprises during installation.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything from identifying warning signs to the step-by-step asphalt shingle replacement process, maintenance tips, and how Hixon’s Roofing can make your next roofing project smooth and stress-free.
Signs Your Asphalt Roof Needs Replacement
Recognizing when your roof has reached the end of its service life isn’t always obvious from the ground. Here are the most common indicators South Carolina homeowners should watch for:
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Curling or Cupping Shingles
Shingles lose flexibility over time, especially in humid climates. Curling or cupping indicates your asphalt can no longer expand and contract with temperature changes. -
Missing Granules
Bald spots leave the underlying asphalt exposed to UV rays and moisture. Granules often accumulate in gutters, a subtle clue that your roof may be failing. -
Sagging Rooflines
Structural issues like sagging demand immediate professional inspection to prevent further damage. -
Water Stains or Leaks
Interior ceiling or wall stains suggest moisture has penetrated the roof, potentially damaging decking and insulation. -
Age of Roof
Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20–30 years. If your roof is approaching or exceeding this age with multiple warning signs, replacement often provides better long-term value than repairs.
Pro Tip: In Charleston, salt air accelerates roof deterioration, while Columbia’s occasional ice storms stress compromised shingles. Regular inspections help prevent hidden damage.
Step-by-Step Residential Re-Roofing Process
Professional asphalt shingle replacement follows a structured process designed for durability, safety, and efficiency. Here’s what homeowners can expect when working with Hixon’s Roofing:
1. Comprehensive Roof Inspection
Contractors examine shingles, decking, flashing, ventilation, and structural supports. This identifies hidden damage that could compromise your new roof’s performance, particularly after storms common in the CSRA.
2. Property Protection
Ground coverings, landscaping shields, and magnetic nail rollers protect your home and yard. Contractors aim to leave your property cleaner than they found it.
3. Tear-Off
Old shingles are removed, allowing inspection of the deck for soft spots, rot, or structural issues. Any compromised decking is replaced with plywood or OSB to ensure a solid foundation.
4. Underlayment Installation
A high-quality synthetic underlayment serves as a secondary water barrier, especially valuable in South Carolina’s humid environment.
5. Ice and Water Shield Application
Membranes are installed in vulnerable areas like valleys, chimneys, and eaves. Even in southern climates, this protects against wind-driven rain and occasional ice events.
6. Flashing Installation
Proper step flashing, counter flashing, and valley metal prevent water intrusion. Reusing old flashing can create leaks years later.
7. Shingle Installation
Shingles are nailed according to manufacturer specifications. In hurricane-prone coastal areas, precise nailing ensures wind resistance. Architectural or designer shingles may require special attention for layered installation.
8. Ridge Vent Installation
Ridge vents allow hot attic air to escape, reducing cooling costs and extending shingle life. Proper ventilation prevents mold and premature shingle failure, a must in humid CSRA summers.
9. Final Cleanup & Inspection
Magnetic rollers collect stray nails and debris, and a thorough inspection ensures the project meets professional standards.
What to Expect During Your Re-Roofing Project
Understanding the homeowner experience during installation reduces stress:
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Noise & Vibration: Tear-off is loud. Vibrations may shift pictures and items on shelves. Planning to spend the loudest days elsewhere is helpful.
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Early Start Times: Crews often start at dawn to maximize daylight. Upper-floor bedrooms may be affected.
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Dust & Debris: Minor dust infiltration is normal. Cover items below work areas to prevent frustration.
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Parking & Access: Material deliveries and dumpsters limit access. Experienced contractors plan for neighborhood regulations and logistics.
Pro Tip: Communicate any home-specific concerns upfront with your contractor. Experienced teams, like Hixon’s Roofing, ensure minimal disruption.
Asphalt Shingle Types & GAF Master Elite Warranty Coverage
Choosing the right shingles balances aesthetics, performance, and investment:
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Three-Tab Shingles: Economical with flat, uniform appearance. Best for budget-conscious homeowners.
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Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles: Thicker, textured shingles with improved wind resistance and algae protection. The most popular choice in South Carolina.
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Designer Shingles: Premium products that mimic slate, cedar, or tile. Ideal for Charleston historic homes or Aiken estates.
Hixon’s Roofing is a GAF Master Elite contractor, certified among the top 3% nationwide. This distinction allows access to GAF System Plus warranties, covering both materials and workmanship. Key benefits:
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Comprehensive coverage of all roofing components.
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Protection against manufacturing defects and installation errors.
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Transferable warranty, adding value if you sell your home.
Long-term peace of mind is critical, especially in competitive South Carolina markets like Columbia and Charleston.
Regional Considerations for South Carolina & Georgia
CSRA
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High humidity and summer heat stress shingles.
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Red clay soil and mature trees require careful drainage planning.
Charleston
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Coastal salt air, hurricane-force winds, and historic district guidelines affect material choice and installation.
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Proper flashing and corrosion-resistant materials are essential.
Columbia
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Temperature extremes and occasional ice storms.
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Growing suburbs mean many roofs installed 15–20 years ago are now due for replacement.
Pee Dee Region
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Fewer contractor options make warranty-backed services essential.
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Agricultural and suburban developments demand proven performance.
Cost Factors Affecting Your Re-Roofing Investment
Several factors influence project cost:
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Roof Size: Measured in “squares” (100 sq ft).
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Complexity: Multiple valleys, dormers, or steep pitches increase labor and installation time.
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Decking Replacement: Hidden damage often discovered during tear-off; contingency planning prevents surprises.
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Accessibility: Limited staging areas or mature landscaping can raise costs.
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Shingle Grade: Moving from three-tab to architectural or designer shingles increases material cost but improves durability and aesthetics.
Pro Tip: Accurate estimates early in the process prevent unexpected costs and ensure proper material ordering.
Insurance Claim Assistance for Storm Damage
Storm damage can be confusing to navigate alongside insurance claims. Experienced roofing contractors:
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Document wind or hail damage thoroughly.
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Provide photographic evidence and measurements for adjusters.
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Maximize the likelihood of claim approval, protecting homeowners’ rights.
Missing shingles, lifted corners, or subtle hail patterns are easier to document immediately after a storm than months later.
Post-Installation Care & Maintenance
While asphalt shingles are low-maintenance, regular attention extends roof life:
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Annual Inspections: Check shingles, flashing, and ventilation, ideally before or after storm season.
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Gutter Maintenance: Keep water flowing to prevent damage to shingle edges and underlayment.
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Trim Overhanging Branches: Prevent wear, moisture intrusion, and animal access.
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Prompt Repairs: Address minor issues immediately to maintain warranty coverage and prevent expensive secondary damage.
Pro Tip: Annual check-ups with Hixon’s Roofing ensure your roof stays protected under warranty.
Ready to Get Started?
A new asphalt shingle roof protects your home, enhances curb appeal, and adds long-term value. Hixon’s Roofing serves homeowners throughout the CSRA, Charleston, Columbia, and surrounding South Carolina markets, delivering quality installations backed by GAF Master Elite certification.
Don’t wait until small issues become major headaches. Contact Hixon’s Roofing today for a free estimate and discover how professional asphalt shingle replacement can safeguard your home for decades.