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Roofing Faqs
Q:
How can a home owner recognize when a roof system has problems?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
When considering your roofing options, the following formula may help:
Annual Roofing Cost = Total Cost (Materials & Labor)
Life Expectancy of Roof System (in years)
© National Roofing Contractors
Association
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