Frequently Asked Questions
Question #1. How do know if my roof has problems?
In most cases, roofing problems are discovered after damage has occurred from a leak. You may see excessive granules running down the downspout, shingles in the lawn, or excessive curling and cupping of the shingles on the roof. However, not all leaks produce visible damage immediately. Some leaks can occur for up to a year before showing any signs of damage. To avoid this hidden problem, it is important to have your roof inspected at least every five years by a qualified person.
Question #2. How can a homeowner prevent the need for roof replacement?
Once a year inspections can discover cracked, warped, or missing shingles, loose seams and deteriorated flashings, excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts, and other visible signs of roof problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard, and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
Question #3. If my roof leaks, will I need to have it totally replaced?
Not always. Leaking can occur because some flashings have come loose or because a section of the roof has been damaged. A roof failure, on the other hand, is generally irreversible and occurs from a large portion being damage by a hurricane, tornado, hail, high winds, choice of materials, or from the installation of a roof system inappropriate for the home or building. You may also have a tile match issue where the tiles are no longer manufactured and the insurance company owes to replace the roof in its entirety.
Question #4. Should I do the work myself?
Most roofing work should not be a do-it-yourself project. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace a roof.
Do-it yourselfers can harm a roof with improper roofing techniques and can harm themselves by falling through a roof even falling off a roof. The best option is to have a trained professional inspect your roof, and walk you through the claims process. This can help avoid any manufactures warranty issues, insuracnce claim refections, and costly future repaires.
Question #5. How long should my roof last?
The life of your roof depends on a few factors-roof type, pitch/slope of the roof, ventilation, installation, maintenance, and weather. As a general rule of thumb, basic three tab fiberglass shingles last 15 to 25 years. Flat roofs generally last 5 to 15 years. Roofing product manufacturers offer a variety of warranties on their products. Take a close look at those warranties to see what responsibilities and financial obligations they will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lifetimes.
Question #6. What will a new roof 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, and more. Keep in mind that cost is only one factor, and it must be balanced against the quality of workmanship and materials. 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.