How do I know if I need a new roof? - Find out how old your home is and the last time your roof was replaced. - Brittle, cracked or curled shingles are a sure sign that it may be time for a new roof. Why do ice dams build up on my roof causing leaks or dangerous situations such as falling ice? - Ice dams are a direct result of a poorly ventilated roof and insulated home. Any heat rising through your home or from the sun must be able to escape through vents in the roof or a continuous ridge vent. Poorly insulated roof and ceilings can also add to the ice problem and cause your roof to age prematurely. What do I do about algae on my roof? - Algae is a problem many homeowners are faced with that have many surrounding trees in the yard. A solution is to make sure your contractor replaces your roof with an AR shingle or algae resistant shingle. Another solution is to mix 1/3 bleach with 2/3 water and spray the algae infected area. Also, trim away any limbs that come in contact with the roof. How do I distinguish one contractor's price from another? - Prices in roofing can vary because of cheaper products being used, less qualified installers, and most importantly an uninsured contractor. Get written, detailed estimates from your contractor explaining the products being used. Compare prices as well as products. A cheaper product may result in a cheaper price, directly resulting in a poor roofing job that may not last the manufacturer's warranty. - Make sure your roofing contractors insurance covers roofing. Average contractors' liability for one million dollars of coverage is approximately $700.00. Average roofers' liability for the same coverage ranges from $6000 to 10,000 dollars per year. Also the new workers compensation laws established throughout the state require contractors to carry workers comp on all employees. If your contractor can not supply you with a policy do not let him perform any work. You will be liable for injuries to uninsured employees. |