Roofing FAQ
Q: How can a Washington home owner recognize when a roof system has
problems?
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.
Q: What are my options if I decide to reroof?
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.
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.
Q: Can I do the work myself?
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.
Q: How long can I expect my roof system to last?
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.
Q: What will a new roof system cost?
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.
Q: How can I determine my annual roofing cost?
A: When considering your roofing options, the following formula may
help:
Total Cost (Materials and Labor) ÷ Life Expectancy of Roof System (in
years) = Annual Roofing Cost
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlie_McCurry
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