Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my roof has a problem or needs replaced?
Roofing problems are usually discovered after minor leaking or some damage occurs. Periodic inspections can uncover damaged or missing shingles, loose seams and deteriorated flashings, excessive surface granules accumulation in the gutters or downspouts and other visible signs of roof problems. If your roof is damaged, look for cracked paint on your ceilings, discoloration or peeling wallpaper as signs.

My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced?
Possibly, but not necessarily. Leaking can result because some flashings have come loose, or because a section of the roof has been damaged. A roof failure is generally irreversible and results from improper installation or choice of materials. Have an inspection to ensure that you do not need your roof fully replaced.

Can't I just do the work myself?
Most of the work should not be done by yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace a roof. Novices can harm a roof with improper roofing techniques and severely injure themselves by falling off or even through a roof in need of repair of replacement.

Homeowner maintenance should be confined to roof inspections in both the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles, and to cleaning rain gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you must see the roof for yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the ladder (and off the roof) if possible.

How long should my current roof last?
The life span of your roof will depend mostly on the type of roof you have, the effects of your local environment and the maintenance which the roof has received. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, asphalt shingles generally last 15-20 years; wood shingle/shakes 10-40 years; clay/concrete tiles 20+ years; slate 30-100 years; metal roofing 15-40+ years.

If I need a new roof, how much will it cost?
The price of a new roof varies widely, depending on the material selected, the contractor doing the work, the home itself, area of the country, local labor rates, time of year, and more. To get a good idea of the cost for your roof, get three or four estimates from reputable contractors in your area. Keep in mind that cost is only one factor, and it must be balanced against the quality of the materials and workmanship.

For each roofing material there are different grades-and corresponding prices. Plus, there are a variety of styles and shapes. You need to look at the full product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs.
Within the roofing profession there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. Pick a contractor who is committed to quality work.

If I need a new roof, how much will it cost?
Old shingles can hide potential problems, such as bad wood and worn out flashings. By installing new shingles over them, you're playing roulette with your home. Your roof’s structure could be sound, or it could have an unforeseen problem that could later lead to thousands of dollars in damage. The additional investment required to remove the old shingles is slight, and new shingles on a solid support system will provide you with a roof that will last years longer, perform better, and give you greater peace of mind.

What are the advantages of installing dimensional shingles versus the standard three tab shingles?
Dimensional shingles are a true investment. As opposed to three tab shingles, dimensional shingles will increase the value of your home while saving you money. The wood structure in your roof can have an unsightly wave to it. To correct this illusion costs thousand of dollars. Dimensional shingles hide this wavy appearance while giving your home's exterior a deep, rich and refined look.

Is attic ventilation important?
Improperly venting your attic will shave years off of your roof’s life and lead to a variety of hidden problems and costs. Improper ventilation will void your shingle manufacturer’s warranty, cause your shingles to prematurely age, increase your utility bills, promote the wood within your roof to rot, and cause your paint to peel. Put simply, proper ventilation leads to a properly protected roof and home.

How long should a roof last?
Roofs are like tires. While a manufacturer may say a tire will last 60,000 miles, you should replace them at 40 to 45,000 miles. In roofing, most manufacturers produce 30-year shingles. However, the harshness of the climate affects that estimate. In colder climates, roofs generally need to be replaced every 16 to 22 years and in warmer climates every 10 to 12 years. Just as you don't want to risk driving on your tire tread and having a blowout, you don't want to own a roof that’s susceptible to leaking. It’s better to replace your roof earlier before it fails and leads to bigger problems.

How long will it take to complete the work?
Depending upon the architectural design of your home and barring any unforeseen situations, your roof should be completed in one day, on occasion two days, and seldom three or more Extended construction time is needed when hidden damage to your roofs structure is discovered or if your roof has a complicated design.

My roof is leaking right now. how can I wait four weeks for you to put on a new roof?
Should the construction of your new roof be delayed, we will immediately "dry in" your current roof to temporarily repair your leak. The "dry in" will secure your home from any potential water damage until we are able to get to your home and build your custom roof

Why is it important to work with a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor?
Many contractors do not have the proper insurance, which makes you liable for any damage or injuries their employees sustain while working on your home. Many contractors do not have contractors licenses, which means the work on your home may not be up to code causing you to have to correct it later.

How do you protect my landscaping?
Your premises will be left exactly — if not better— than the way we found it. We will install tarps, plywood and other levels of protection around your property, and in the unlikely instance something is damaged, we will correct it immediately at our cost.

Will you use caulk or tar to seal my root?
A tough-as-nails, high-grade commercial sealant will be used to seal your roof. Unlike tar, commercial sealants will not crack and split within a few years and cause water seepage. Commercial sealants will keep your home bone dry for the length of your roofs life.

Is there a best brand of shingle to use?
All leading brands of shingles are similar in quality and design. The best roofs are those that are built by the best companies.