How long will my job take?
A standard house takes just one day to complete. Larger jobs may take 2-3 days to finish.
Will my property be damaged?
All your bushes, plants, windows, siding, and other items are protected with tarps and sheets of plywood. Your yard is then cleaned and a large magnet is ran to collect any nails.
What if something were to go wrong and damage happened?
We hope this situation never arises, but should something happen – that is why we carry adequate insurance to protect against any misfortunes.
What are my choices?
We believe in using the highest quality materials. We will come to your home and bring you a variety of samples from CertainTeed – One of North America’s largest roofing manufacturers.
Can I “shingle over” my existing shingles?
We do not believe in installing shingles over existing shingles. Here are a few reasons why it is always better to remove your existing shingles:
- New shingles may not lay as flat over existing shingles – this results in your roof looking “bumped” up in certain areas.
- Plywood underneath the existing shingles cannot be inspected for damages that need replaced. On most roofs we install, it is usually necessary to replace even a minor amount of plywood.
- New technology cannot be installed under your new shingles.
- Excessive weight on your roof structure. Shingles are a tremendously heavy product and installing a second layer of shingles on your roof can produce a lot of stress onto the rafter system and plywood decking. This extra weight can cause “sagging” in your roof’s appearance.
- YOUR NEW ROOF MAY NOT LAST AS LONG. Shingles are an oil based product. The flexibility of the asphalt comes from the natural solvents within it. If you install a second layer of shingles over a “dried” out layer of shingles, this can cause the new shingles to “dry-out” prematurely resulting in your roof breaking down sooner than it should.
- Install flashings and other critical components of the roof system is much more difficult when a contractor cannot work with the wooden decking underneath.
- Many shingles today have “dark streaks” on them which is algae growth. Installing new shingles over this growth will provide a habitat for continued growth of the algae which results in a breakdown of your new shingles from the underneath side.
What causes ice dams on my roof during winter?
Ice dams are formed when the snow on your roof melts then refreezes at the colder overhangs. This ice buildup causes water to back up under your shingles and leak into your home, potentially causing significant damage. The solution involves a 3-step approach: proper ventilation, proper insulation, and quality underlayment beneath your shingles.
Why does water leak around my chimney?
Many chimneys were built without a saddle—a small roof structure behind the chimney that directs water to the sides rather than allowing it to accumulate at the back. Without this feature, water can pool behind the chimney and eventually find its way into your home. Installing a saddle behind your chimney can solve persistent chimney leaks.
What is roof flashing, and why does it fail?
Flashing consists of metal or other materials installed to prevent water seepage at intersections and projections on your roof, such as around chimneys, valleys, pipes, and vertical walls. Over time, flashing can deteriorate due to weather exposure, leading to roof leaks. Replacing worn flashing is essential to maintaining a watertight roof.
Can problems with my siding or windows cause roof leaks?
Yes, gaps in your siding or around windows can contribute to water infiltration that may appear to be a roof leak. These areas should be inspected alongside your roof to identify all potential sources of water damage and protect your home completely.
Why is roof deck inspection important during replacement?
Once old shingles are removed, the underlying plywood decking becomes visible. This decking must be thoroughly inspected for any damage, rot, or deterioration. Damaged roof decking needs to be replaced before new shingles are installed to provide a solid foundation for your roofing system.
What is drip edge (ODE) and why is it important?
Drip edge, commonly called “ODE,” is a critical component installed along the edges of your roof. It directs water away from the roof’s edges, fascia, and foundation, preventing water damage and rot. Proper drip edge installation protects the most vulnerable areas of your roofing system.
What is a starter course in roofing?
The starter course is the first layer of specially designed shingle materials installed at the edge of your roof. It provides a strong adhesive base for the first full course of shingles, offering maximum protection against shingle blow-offs during high winds.
What is Ice & Water Shield, and where is it used?
Ice & Water Shield (also known as Weather Watch) is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed in vulnerable areas of your roof, particularly along the edges and in valleys. It provides critical protection against water damage from ice damming and wind-driven rain—problems that affect many roof systems but are preventable with proper installation.
Why are roof valleys particularly vulnerable to leaks?
Valleys are where two separate roof planes meet, creating a channel that handles a high volume of water during rainstorms. Because of this concentrated water flow, valleys require careful installation during both the underlayment and shingle phases. Improperly installed valleys are a common source of roof leaks.
What happens if shingles are nailed incorrectly?
Proper nailing technique is essential to your roof’s performance. Shingles must be nailed in designated areas specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect nailing is one of the most common installation errors and often leads to shingles blowing off during storms. This is why working with experienced, trained installers matters for the longevity of your roof.
Can you roof in the winter?
We normally run our roofing season from March through December, into early January. The critical component to making sure the job is done correctly is to hire the right contractor.
Your most important decision in any contracting job is who you hire, no matter what time of year it is.
Some homeowners worry about the shingles sealing down. With today’s heavier style shingles (architectural style), we are able to work in colder temperatures with less risk of shingle blow-offs.
Most standard jobs take 1-2 days to complete. We make sure the forecasted weather is suitable and allows us the necessary time to complete your job.
For example, if the roof is an asphalt composite removal and installation, and the roof is installed on plywood, a company like ours may only need a few hours of good weather to assure it is weatherproof.
