What Upgrades Should I Make to My Roof? (Memphis Homeowner Guide)

What Upgrades Should I Make to My Roof? (Memphis Homeowner Guide)

Mar 31 2026

If you’re planning a roof replacement, one of the most important questions you can ask is:

What upgrades should I make to my roof to improve performance, durability, and value?

Most homeowners don’t realize a roof is more than just shingles—it’s a complete system. Choosing the right upgrades can help your home handle Memphis weather, reduce maintenance, and even improve energy efficiency.

At Restoration Roofing, a trusted Memphis roofing company, we help homeowners make smart upgrade decisions that protect their investment long-term.


Why Roof Upgrades Matter in Memphis

Memphis homes face:

  • Heavy rain and storms
  • High humidity
  • Intense summer heat
  • Hail damage

Without the right materials and system components, your roof can wear out faster and lead to costly repairs.


Upgrade to High-Quality Atlas Shingles

Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense.

We recommend shingles from Atlas Roofing because of their advanced durability and energy-efficient technology.

You can learn more about their products directly here:
👉 https://atlasroofing.com

Best Atlas Shingle Options:

Pinnacle Pristine®

  • Scotchgard™ algae protection
  • Long-lasting appearance
  • Great for Memphis humidity

Pinnacle Sun®

  • Reflects sunlight
  • Reduces attic heat
  • Helps lower energy bills

Pinnacle Impact® (Class 4)

  • Highest impact resistance
  • Ideal for hail-prone areas
  • May qualify for insurance discounts

Install Metal Valleys for Long-Term Protection

Roof valleys handle the most water flow on your roof.

Upgrading to metal valleys:

  • Prevents premature wear
  • Improves drainage
  • Reduces leak risk

This is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.


Add Ice & Water Shield

Many insurance estimates leave this out—but it’s critical.

Ice and water shield protects:

  • Roof valleys
  • Eaves
  • Penetrations (vents, chimneys)

It creates a waterproof barrier that prevents leaks from wind-driven rain.


Improve Ventilation with Ridge Vent

Proper ventilation is essential for roof performance.

Without it, heat and moisture get trapped in your attic, causing:

  • Higher energy bills
  • Shorter roof lifespan
  • Mold and moisture problems

Ridge vents provide continuous airflow and work with soffit vents to regulate attic temperature.

Learn more about proper ventilation from the
👉 https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/attic-ventilation


Consider Solar Attic Fans

For even better airflow, solar attic fans actively remove hot air.

Benefits include:

  • Lower attic temperatures
  • Reduced HVAC strain
  • Improved energy efficiency

Many systems also qualify for federal tax incentives.


Add Skylights or Sun Tunnels

If you’re already replacing your roof, it’s a great time to improve natural lighting.

Skylights:

  • Brighten living spaces
  • Increase home value

Sun Tunnels:

  • Perfect for small areas
  • More affordable option

We often install systems from
👉 https://www.veluxusa.com


Upgrade to 6-Inch Gutters

Standard 5-inch gutters often can’t handle Memphis rain.

Upgrading to 6-inch gutters:

  • Handles more water
  • Prevents overflow
  • Protects your foundation

Install Raindrop Gutter Guards

Gutter guards reduce maintenance and protect your system.

Raindrop gutter guards:

  • Keep debris out
  • Allow proper drainage
  • Last longer than mesh systems

Improve Roof Deck Protection

Your underlayment is just as important as your shingles.

Upgrading this layer:

  • Adds leak protection
  • Improves durability
  • Strengthens your roofing system

Internal Resources for Memphis Homeowners

If you’re researching roofing upgrades, check out these helpful guides:

👉 /memphis-roof-inspection
👉 /hail-damage-roof-memphis
👉 /roof-replacement-memphis

These resources will help you understand what to expect during your project.


Best Roof Upgrade Package (Recommended)

For most Memphis homeowners, we recommend:

  • Atlas Pinnacle Pristine or Impact shingles
  • Metal valleys
  • Ice & water shield
  • Ridge vent system
  • Solar attic fan (optional)
  • 6-inch gutters
  • Raindrop gutter guards

This combination provides durability, efficiency, and long-term value.


Work with a Trusted Memphis Roofing Company

Not all contractors take the time to explain upgrade options.

At Restoration Roofing, we focus on:

  • Education-first approach
  • High-quality materials
  • Proper installation
  • Long-term performance

We don’t just replace roofs—we build systems designed to last.


Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection

If you’re considering a roof replacement or upgrades, we’re here to help.

📞 Call 901-854-3402
📍 Serving Memphis, Collierville, Germantown & surrounding areas