FAQ

Roofing Frequently Asked Questions:

1.      My roof leaks.  Do I need to have it totally replaced?

Not necessarily. Leaking can result because some flashings have come loose or because a section of the roof has been damaged. A roof failure, however, is generally irreversible and results from improper installation or choice of materials, or from the installation of a roof system inappropriate to the building.  Most homeowners can expect to replace a roof every 15-20 years.            

2.      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, time of year, and more. To get a good idea of the cost for your roof, get three of 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. Make sure to pick a contractor who is committed to quality work.

3.       What is an ice dam?

Ice dams form when warmth from inside the home melts the bottom layer of snow on the roof, sending water trickling down to the edge. Exposed to frigid air, it immediately refreezes, clogging gutters and causing the water behind it to pool up and find a path into the home below, usually through the shingles. Ice dams are more common in older or poorly insulated homes and those with low-pitch roofs. But even in newer homes, a new roof can leak if water runs backward in between the shingles.

4.      Can I cover over my existing roof?
Installing a roof over the top of an existing roof is generally acceptable under these guidelines: 1) A building cannot have more than two roofs; 2) No wet insulation can be left in place; 3) The roof structure must be able to handle the additional roof load; 4) The new roof must be attached to the roof deck to meet wind loads (it is not generally acceptable to adhere the new roof to the old roof).

5.      What is an architectural or dimensional shingle?
Unlike standard 3-tab, or strip shingles, which are single layer in design, a growing number of shingles are multi-layered or laminated.

6.      Why are algae (or fungus) found on roofs?
In some moist areas, algae can grow on shingles. Although the alga has no proven effect on shingle life, it does stain or discolor the shingle. Commonly called fungus, this algae staining can be unattractive. The algae-containing stains can be dramatically reduced by the use of special copper granules.

7.      How long does it take to install a roof?
This question is largely determined by the size and pitch of the roof, but typically 1-2 days for skilled installation crews. 

8.      If I think I have hail damage what should I do?
Call your insurance company and ask for an adjuster to come inspect your roof for hail damage. Call a reputable roofing company and ask for the same inspection. If there are any discrepancies between the adjuster’s findings and the roofer’s findings you may call for a “RE-INSPECTION” where your adjuster meets with the roofer to go over the roof together.

 9.         What does hail hit look like?
A hail hit on a shingle looks like a “bruise” or a dark spot where the granules on the shingle have been knocked off and the asphalt underlayment and sometimes the fiberglass mat is exposed. New hail hits will have a shiny appearance because the asphalt has been freshly exposed and has not had time to weather to a dull color.

10.     Why would my insurance company replace my roof?
The purpose of home owner’s insurance is to protect homeowners against losses in their property’s value due to damage that is beyond their control. If you have hail damage, you have experienced a financial loss in that your original investment of a 20-year roof (for example) has now been reduced to a 5-10 year useful life span. Your insurance company will compensate you for your loss and replace your roof.