How do I know if my roof has a problem?
If your roof doesn’t leak, the best thing to do is a spring and autumn inspection of your roof. Make sure your ladder is tied off so it won’t slip or fall with you. Stay away from electrical lines and wear rubber-soled shoes. Stay on the ladder and off the roof if possible. Visually check for cracked, warped or missing shingles, loose seams and deteriorated flashings. Excessive shingle granules in your gutters also indicate worn shingles.
What can I do to get the maximum life out of my roof?
- Keep drains clear
- Keep debris from your roof
- Call your roofing contractor if you have units or equipment serviced, added or removed from your roof
- Make sure any damage is repaired immediately, even if not leaking
- Have your roofing contractor inspect your roof bi-annually
Why are my shingles becoming streaked and ugly looking?
This is a common problem in areas with hot and humid summers. Algae or fungus has attached your shingled roof. Algae resistant shingles that contain zinc granules can protect against algae and fungus attacks.
If my roof leaks, will it need to be totally replaced?
Not necessarily. Sometimes leaking can be caused by flashings that have come loose or because part of the roof is damaged.
How much will a new roof cost?
The price of your new roof will depend on the grade of materials being used, the style and shape of your house, if you will need your old roof removed or re-covered and if there are decking repairs to be made. To get a good idea of what a new roof will cost, get three estimates from reputable contractors. Remember that cost is only one factor, and it must be balanced against the quality of the materials and the workmanship.
What do I look for in a quality-roofing contractor?
- Confirm that the roofer has years of uninterrupted service under the same trade name
- Check with your local Better Business Bureau
- Ask for a list of referrals
- Confirm the roofer is insured and bonded
- Never go with a roofer that requires payment up front
- Beware of "storm chasers". Don’t choose a traveling roofer that won’t be around should a problem occur with your roof
I install a new roof over my existing roof?
Installing a new roof system over and existing roof system is an acceptable practice only if there is one layer of the existing system. Manufacturers will allow a maximum of two (2) layers on a roof. One aspect to consider is nail length when installing a layover. Manufacturers require that a nail is to penetrate the decking one-half inch to get adequate fastening. The number of nails per shingle will depend on the type of shingle and the pitch of the roof (see specs for correct number of nails for fastening). Another item to keep in mind is that insurance companies are reluctant to insure a roof with more than two layers because of the weight factor being too much for the structure.
What type of shingle is available and what type should I use on my house?
Shingles range from a 3-tab, 20-year shingle on up to a limited-lifetime architectural shingle. The type of shingles used on a residence may vary from your budget, aesthetics (appearance), longevity and how well the shingle holds up to the elements.
What is the difference between 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles?
The length of the warranty, the aesthetics and the life of the roof is greater with architectural shingles.
3-tab shingles have 20 or 25-year warranties and architectural shingles range from 30, 40 and 50-years up to the limited-lifetime warranty.
Is there a shingle manufacturer that you would prefer over another?
There are a number of shingle manufacturers that produce quality products. We at Central Arkansas Roofing Service recommend CertainTeed shingles. CertainTeed has been in the shingle manufacturing business for over 100 years and the quality of their products is unmatched. We find their customer service to be there when we need them, and at any time. All of our staff is “Master Certified” through CertainTeed to install all of their products. We are also certified to install a number of other manufacturers’ products.
Does shingle color affect the temperature within the home?
Shingle color does not affect the temperature inside the home. As long as there is adequate ventilation as specified by the manufacturer, the attic temperature will be the same regardless of the color of the shingle.
What is the purpose of felt? Does it matter what weight to use? Is felt a waterproofing material?
The purpose of felt is to allow the shingle to expand and contract properly. A lighter weight felt can be used on a roof that has an average pitch. A steep pitched roof requires the heavier weight felt to provide better footing. To answer if felt is a waterproofing material, the answer is no, it is not.
When or where would I need a waterproofing material?
Waterproofing material, or ice & water shield as it is typically called, is recommended to be used in the valleys and around chimneys as these areas are more likely to have a chance of water trying to get through. If you have had these areas leaking with your current roof system, it is possible to go in and replace the felt with ice and water shield to resolve the problems and save possible damage to the structure.
What is flashing? Where do I need flashing and why?
Flashing is used to keep water away from the substrate of the roof. It directs where you want the water to go and to drain it off of the roof. Flashing is needed in the following areas:
- Any area where your roof comes in contact with a wall
- Any perimeter tie-in
- Around a chimney
Is ventilation important?
Ventilation is one of the most important factors when installing a new roof system. Ventilation allows for your attic space to breathe correctly and keeps moisture from building up that can buckle decking.
What ventilation system should I use on my house?
There are several types of ventilation systems that can be installed when putting on a new roof:
- Roof turbines (whirlybirds)
- Ridge vent systems
- Power vents
Choosing which system is right for you can depend on attic space, aesthetics and budget.
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We place a very high importance on providing Homeowners with
the information needed to make an educated decision about the repair or replacement of
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