Q:
How can a home owner recognize when a roof system has
problems?
A: All
too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other
serious damage occurs. Periodic (twice-a-year) inspections often can
uncover 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 system
problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard
and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
Q:
What are my options if I decide to reroof?
A: You
have two basic options: You can choose a complete replacement of the
roof system, involving a tear-off of your existing roof system, or
re-cover the existing roof system, involving only the installation of
a new roof system. If you've already had one re-cover installed on
your original roof system, check with a professional roofing
contractor. In many instances, building code requirements allow no
more than one roof system re-cover before a complete replacement is
necessary.
Q:
My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?
A: Not
necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or
a section of the roof system being damaged. A complete roof system
failure, however, generally is irreversible and a result of improper
installation or choice of materials or the roof system installation
is inappropriate for the home or building.
Q:
Can I do the work myself?
A: Most
work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors
are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems.
You can damage your roof system by using improper roofing techniques
and severely injure yourself by falling off or through the roof.
Maintenance
performed by home and building owners should be confined to
inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring to check for
cracked or curling shingles and cleaning gutters filled with dead
leaves and other debris. If you must inspect your roof system
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 system), if possible.
Q:
How long can I expect my roof system to last?
A: Most
new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for about 20
years. Some roof system types, such as slate, clay tile and certain
metal (e.g., copper) systems, can last longer.
Actual
roof system life span is determined by a number of factors, including
local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof
system design, material quality and suitability, proper application
and adequate roof maintenance.
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 manufacturers will assume
if their products fail to reach their expected lives.
Q:
What will a new roof system cost?
A: The
price of a new roof system varies widely, depending on such things as
the materials selected, contractor doing the work, home or building,
location of the home or building, local labor rates and time of year.
To get a good idea of price for your roof system, get three or four
proposals from reputable contractors in your area. Keep in mind that
price is only one factor, and it must be balanced with the quality of
the materials and workmanship.
For
each roofing material, there are different grades and corresponding
prices. There also 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. Insist on a contractor who is committed to quality
work.
Q:
How can I determine my annual roofing cost?
A: When
considering your roofing options, the following formula may help:
Annual
Roofing Cost = Total
Cost (Materials & Labor) / Life Expectancy of Roof System (in years)
Contact us today:
(972) 278-0396