Roofing FAQs Answered

Not knowing a lot about everything there is to know about your roof is to be expected. Because of this, when there’s a problem with the roof, questions pile in. We would like to share some roofing FAQs with you today to make life a little easier for you. 

How can I tell if there’s a problem with my roof?

This is one of the most common roofing FAQs. The first sign of a problem on your roof is usually a leak. Once this happens, many times, the water has already deteriorated the wood decking and just now showing the signs inside your home. 

There are many things you can look for to help determine if you have a problem with your roof. First, you will need to perform annual visual inspections. Other things to look for on a shingle roof would be an excessive granular loss, bucklings, and missing shingles. Check for algae growth on the roof or mold growth in the attic. With a metal roof, look for penetrations that need to be resealed, screws backing out, or debris build-up. 

Different roofs, steep pitches, and height can keep you from doing these things or having the expertise to determine if you have a small or large problem or if you need total replacement. If you can’t do these, please consider calling us to determine if you have a problem.

What options do I have if there is a problem with my roof?

There are always two options when there is a problem with your roof: repair or replace. Which one to select may depend upon what the problem is and how severe it is. Some minor problems can undoubtedly be repaired, such as a loose roof flashing. Others are going to require the consideration of a complete replacement. If you need a total replacement, note what caused the destruction of the roof so you can try to prevent it with your new roof. 

How long does a new roof last?

Most roofers will provide you with a specific warranty or guarantee stating how long we expect the roof you have just received to last. Climate, environment, design, materials, workmanship, and maintenance are all going to enter this equation. Generally, we can expect properly installed and maintained roofs to last between 25 to 35 years. 

Different roofing materials have different lifespans, though. It may be more economical to pay more upfront for a roof that will last longer; divide the cost by the number of years of the warranty to get a cost per year and then compare that amount with each type of roof’s cost that you are considering.

Can I do the roofing work myself?

There are some minor things that are more maintenance than repair, such as putting a nail back in a loose shingle. For other issues, you will be better off, in the long run, hiring a professional roofer who knows all the proper techniques that are required in the roofing industry. Always be sure to be safety-conscious when going on your roof by wearing rubber-soled shoes for stability, firming bracing or tying the ladder you use, and staying off of the roof itself as much as possible, and being very cautious wherever you walk. No amount of money savings is worth injury. 

How can I extend the life of my roof?

All roofing materials will eventually deteriorate and erode. However, you can absolutely extend the life of your roof with proper maintenance. The mistake most homeowners make is to ignore small repairs as needed. A missing shingle takes little time and cost to fix, but ignoring that missing shingle may allow water to seep in, debris to accumulate and pry other shingles loose, or damage to affect the underlayment. Regular visual inspections and yearly professional roofing inspections both allow you to make minor repairs before they become larger projects and before a small leak becomes a major leak or a mold issue.

Should I get a new roof before I sell my home?

This is one of the most popular roofing FAQs lately. If your roof is at the end of its useful life, you will probably have a much easier time selling if you replace the roof. Homebuyers may not be able to obtain a mortgage on a home with an expired roof, and the expense of putting on a roof may scare them away. If you know it is going to be an issue but cannot afford to put the new roof on without selling the home first, speak to your agent about ways to negotiate the price of the roof into the sale of the home.

What type of roof is the best?

This really comes down to preference, and sometimes, your HOA rules. While tile roofing materials have traditionally been longer-lasting, newer asphalt shingle products have proven to be nearly as durable, as well as often easier to repair. Different roofing materials have differences in price, weight, longevity, and care requirements, so we definitely recommend talking to a licensed roofer about what is best for you.

Do I need to leave my house when people are working on my roof?

This is a roofing FAQ we get often. It is your choice whether you want to stay in your home while we are doing your roofing job. If you decide to stay home, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. 

Roof replacements are really loud and annoying. Unless you live in a two-story house, the banging will be loud until the sun goes down. Even if you live in a two-story home, you will hear muffled banging throughout the day. 

Stay out of the way of the installers during your roofing work. They know what they are doing, but they can’t always see if someone is walking around below the roof. 

It’s also important to think about how your pets will react to the noise. Rather than driving your pets crazy, it’s nice to find somewhere they can go until the replacement or repairs are completed. 

Finally, if you choose to stay home, consider a safe space for your vehicles. Make sure you move your cars before the contractor arrives at your home, or you may get blocked in. 

Final Thoughts

We hope these roofing FAQs have helped you become a little more knowledgeable about the roofing process. Ready for your own roof redo? Have some of your own roofing questions? Call us at (636) 699-0449.