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Experts Panel

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All the information you need in one place

How much does a new roof cost?

Contractor

Question

Several factors go into determining the cost of your new roof. They include the quality and professionalism of your roofing contractor; the brand, type, and grade of roofing shingle you select; the size of your roof as well as the shape and slope of your roofline.

 

Most importantly, do not choose a roofing contractor on cost alone. Price is a factor, but not the only factor you should consider. Quality roofing materials and contractor professionalism are of the utmost value. Hiring the cheapest roofing contractor could potentially cost you a lot more in the long run.

How long can I expect my roof system to last?

Technical

Question

Most new roof systems are designed to provide optimal protection for about 20 years. Some roof system types, such as slate, clay tile, and certain metal systems, can last significantly longer.

Actual roof system life spans are 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.

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. We can, of course, help you navigate these difficult topics.

What's the best asphalt shingle to use on my roof?

Technical

Question

Asphalt shingle material performance depends on the quality, quantity, and compatibility of asphalt fillers, reinforcements, and surface granules. There are two kinds of asphalt shingles (based on the type of reinforcement mat used); fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass shingles are more fire and moisture resistant than organic shingles. Organic shingles have good wind resistance, high tear strength and can be installed in colder temperatures.

Clients should also keep in mind a roofing warranty's length should not be the primary criterion in the selection of a roofing product or roof system because the warranty does not necessarily provide assurance of satisfactory roof system performance.

 

Keep in mind that RGS is here to help with you with determining the best asphalt shingles for your home.

I received several estimates to replace my asphalt shingle roof system and the prices vary greatly.

Contractor

Question

If one estimate seems much lower than the others and it sounds too good to be true, chances are, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors are often uninsured and perform substandard work. If an estimate is confusing, ask the contractor to break down the estimate into items/terms that you can understand.

My contractor suggested installing a ridge vent on my roof and I already have two single static vents. Do I really need a ridge vent?

Contractor

Question

Proper attic ventilation is one of the least understood concepts in residential roofing. The intent of a balanced ventilation system is to provide nearly equivalent amounts of ventilation area at the eave/soffit and at or near the ridge. For a balanced ventilation system to function properly, approximately one-half of the ventilation area must be at or near the ridge.

If my roof is leaking, do I have to replace my whole roof?

Technical

Question

You don’t necessarily need to replace your entire roof if you notice a minor leak. However, it’s important to point out that a small leak can very quickly escalate to a much larger problem. Early intervention can be the difference between repairing your roof and replacing your roof. If your roof has been properly installed and is younger than 15 years old, you may get by with roof repairs vs. a complete roof replacement. To determine the extent of the damage, contact a licensed roofing contractor to get an inspection.

Can I do the work myself?

Maintenance

Question

Most large scale roof work should not be taken on lightly. 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.

My house has a flat roof. What is the best roof system for a flat roof?

Technical

Question

There is no one roof system that is best for all applications. Keep in mind that even if you are using the best materials, your roof system can still be installed improperly and you could end up with a leaky roof. Good workmanship and proper attention to detail (e.g., flashing and drainage issues) are just as important as material selection. Also, maintenance plays an important role in roof system integrity and service life.

What causes a roof to wear out?

Maintenance

Question

Severe weather, direct sun, algae, and mildew growth can all be factors in what causes a roof to wear out. Hailstones striking the roof and removing some of the granules are also a problem and poorly ventilated attic spaces all factor into the longevity of a roof system.

Will you replace my gutters when you replace my roof?

Contractor

Question

Guttering systems are separate from roofing systems, but we are happy to give you an estimate to replace your gutters and downspouts after the roof has been replaced.

How can a homeowner recognize when a roof system has problems?

Technical

Question

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. To check indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.

 

To be certain about the condition of your roof, contact a licensed roofing professional to periodically inspect your roof to ensure the system is functioning as intended.

How soon are you able to inspect my roof?

Contractor

Question

You are able to schedule a day and time that works for you using our booking portal. If you would prefer to speak with a representative use the chat widget, call our phone number or email us. We do our best to conduct inspections within 48 hours of first contact depending on weather conditions.

How quickly do I recieve the bid after an inspection?

Contractor

Question

Depending on the scope of the project you can generally expect a bid within a matter of days of the inspection being performed. Keep in mind it could take slightly longer to receive a bid if a storm or severe weather conditions have recently hit your area. It’s always a good idea to ask your representative directly when you can expect to receive the bid.

 

We try our best to make sure we have estimates to customers within 48 hours.

How long does it typically take to replace a roof?

Contractor

Question

Of course, there are variables that affect all roofing projects, like weather, whether or not there is a second layer to remove and more. But typically, contractors are completely finished with your new roof—from removing the old roof to clean up—in a matter of days.​

Do I need to be home when an inspection takes place?

Contractor

Question

It is not necessary to be home during an inspection. If you can’t be present, just let us know when you are able to provide your information. After the inspection and estimate have been completed your assigned representative will contact you to review the bid and answer any questions that you may have.

Once I sign a contract to have my roof replaced what does the process look like?

Contractor

Question

We will schedule your job with our supplier and our crew, and keep you informed every step of the way. Our supplier will deliver the materials a day or two before the installation is scheduled.

 

Our crew will then drop off the dumpster the afternoon before the install or the morning of. One of our sales representatives will periodically be by on the day of install to check in with you and our crew to ensure everything is going smoothly.

 

After the install is completed our crew will clean up all debris, magnet sweep to ensure all nails and staples have been picked up, and the dumpster will be out of your driveway within 24 hours. We will come by and do a final inspection and we will make sure our customers are satisfied before they receive an invoice.

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