- Q: Do I have hail damage?
- Q: How can a home owner recognize when a roof system has problems?
- Q: My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?
- Q: If my roof is not leaking, why should I have it replaced?
- Q: What are my options if I decide to re-roof?
- Q: My insurance company requires me to get three estimates. Do I have to choose the lowest bid?
- Q: What if the estimate from my preferred contractor is higher or lower than the estimate from my insurance company?
- Q: What type of shingles and other specifics should I choose?
- Q: Can I do the work myself?
- Q: How long can I expect my roof system to last?
- Q: What will a new roof system cost?
1. A: If it has hailed recently in your area, it would probably be worth your while to have your roof inspected by a trained roofer or an insurance adjustor. Depending on the age and condition of your roof, even small hail could damage your roof. Hail damage is not always apparent from the ground or to an untrained professional.
2. 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.
3. 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. As a homeowner, you should seek the opinion of a professional.
4. A: Roof damage does not always cause immediate leaks. However, it can cause long term problems, especially after being exposed to the elements for a period of time. In addition, damaged roofs are always at risk for future leaks.
5. 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. In general, it is usually better to tear off and replace a roof rather than re-covering the existing system.
6. A: No. The insurance company may require you get three bids to compare not only price but roofing recommendations. However, you always have the right to use the contractor of your choice. You should never choose a contractor based on price. Taking the lowest bid may save your insurance company money, but it will generally not save you any money.
7. A: Your contractor generally has the ability to negotiate with your insurance agent. The contractor is a professional and will be able to spot discrepancies. There are many things that could cause a difference in pricing. For example, vents, valley metal, flashing, or gutters may or may not be included in a bid. In many cases, your contractor should be able to help reach an agreement with your insurance agent so your roof replacement will be paid for. The estimate from your insurance company is only an estimate, and is normally quite flexible.
8. A: There are many options regarding your roof. You may not want to put the exact same roof on your house. There are many brands, types, and colors of shingles, vents, and gutters that vary in quality and warranty options. Talk to your contractor and have him/her explain the various options to you. They should be able to provide you with knowledge in the form of literature and personal experience that will help you choose the best roof for your house and situation.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
