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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new roof?
A
number of factors will determine if your roof needs to be replaced. Most asphalt shingles have a life of 15 - 20 years. However,
significant storms, specifically large hail storms, may damage the roof material prematurely. Or, if you have changed the
exterior color or siding of your home, a new shingle color may provide a dramatic result in the look of your home.
If a storm has damaged
my roof, what should I do?
Contact your homeowner's insurance company. An adjustor will come to your home and
determine if insurance will cover the cost of replacing the roof in total, in part, or if there is no coverage. Check with
your contractor if you have any questions on the settlement offered by the insurance company.
What condition will the
shingles be in when they are in need of replacement?
Things to look for to determine that the shingles are aging
and/or in need of replacement include missing shingles, shingle curling, blistering, buckling or waviness of the roof surface,
missing granules on the shingles. You may also check the flexibility of the shingle; if it breaks easily when bent, it is
probably due for replacement.
If I'm missing shingles,
will my roof leak?
Obviously the number of shingles missing, as well as the location they are missing from, will
determine the potential of any leaking in to your house. If you are missing shingles, it is advisable to get them replaced
as soon as possible.
What materials are used
to replace my roof?
Shingles are the obvious material that you can observe. However, there are a number of additional
products that work together to ensure that your roof will perform over the years. These include roof felt (other names such
as "tar paper," underlayment), ice & water shield, roof vents and flashing.
Is ice and water shield
important? Do I need it applied to my whole roof here in Minnesota?
Ice and water shield is a rubber material
which provides an additional moisture barrier when a roof is exposed to continuous snow and ice. The primary area that is
of concern is the roof eave edge, as the snow and ice in particular will build up on this area. Typically, the first six feet
of the roof edge needs protection from this buildup. Using this material over an entire roof would be a costly expense that
is not necessary.
How many roof vents do
I need? At what locations on the roof?
Generally building codes require one roof vent per 150 square feet. However,
if your home has a soffit ventilation system then only one roof vent for 300 square feet.
Will the roof be completely
torn off?
In some circumstances, particularly when there is only one layer of shingles on the roof, it is possible
to not tear the roof off. In this case, shingles would be applied over the existing roof. In most circumstances, however,
it is recommended that even a single layer be torn off in order to provide the best new roofing application.
If all the material is
torn off to the wood deck will there be any additional expense?
Typically an estimator will put forth their best
effort to identify charges for unseen conditions during the estimate. However, in some cases, the specific condition of the
existing decking will not be identified until all roof materials have been removed. If this material is bad - wavy, broken
or deteriorating boards, building code will require this material to be replaced before the new roof is applied. Insurance
may cover the costs of deck replacement.
Should I put gutters on
the house?
Gutters address two primary issues:
1. Drain standing water away from
the house so that it does not accumulate in the basement.
2. Reduce or eliminate erosion from the
foundation and stains on siding.
Depending on your specific land topography adjacent to your home, gutters are not always
necessary.
Can I do this work myself?
The roofing system of your home is a critical aspect to the structural and watertight integrity of your home. Many customers
have called in a professional after attempting to replace their own roofs, only to have leaking and damage as a result of
their own handy work. Unless you have specific experience, it is recommended that you hire a professional to complete the
work, as well as to provide you with a warranty covering the workmanship and materials used.
What should I look for
when I consider hiring a contractor?
First and foremost, all roofing contractors are required to be licensed
by the State. You may call the Minnesota Department of Commerce office to ensure that the license mentioned to you is current.
The contractor should also provide you with references; call several and inquire on their experiences. While a contractor
may indicate membership with the Better Business Bureau, again, you should call and verify that the membership is current
and in good standing.
How many bids should I
get?
Typically three bids should give you a good indication of the cost for your project. It’s important
to ensure that you are comparing "apples to apples" – does each contractor include the same materials? Include permits,
dumpster, and related costs? Provide the same warranties? Have the same payment terms? Remember, the lowest bid is not necessarily
the best choice. Consider the quality, reputation, business longevity, and warranty provided before you make your decision.
Do I need a city inspection?
Reputable contractors will be knowledgeable, and will coordinate all permits and inspections required by the city.
After the work is completed,
will I have any extra materials?
Upon request by our customers, we can provide extra shingles for your future
use.