FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing

My Roof Leaks. Do I need to get it replaced?

Not necessarily. Leaking can result because some flashings have come loose or because a section of the roof has been damaged. A roof failure, however, is generally irreversible and results from improper installation or choice of materials, or from the installation of a roof system inappropriate to the building. The trained professionals at Roofs By Robert can inspect and give proper guidance on how to fix your leak or let you know if it's time to replace.

Can't I Just Do the Work Myself?

Most work should not be do it yourself. Roofs By Roberts personnel are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace a roof. Novices can harm a roof with improper roofing techniques and severely injure themselves by falling off or even through a roof in need of repair or replacement. Homeowner maintenance should be confined to roof inspections in both the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles, and to cleaning rain gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you must see the roof for 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) if possible.

How Long Will My Roof Last

The condition and lifespan of your roof will depend on the type of roof you have, the effects of your local environment and the maintenance which the roof has received. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, asphalt shingles generally last 15-20 years; wood shingle/shakes, 10-40 years; clay/concrete tiles,20+ years; slate, 30-100 years; metal roofing, 15-40+years. Roofing product manufacturers off a variety of warranties on their products. Take a close look at those warranties to see what responsibilities and financial obligations they will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lifetimes.

How Much Will A New Roof Cost?

The price of a new roof varies widely, depending on the material selected, the contractor doing the work, the home itself, area of the country, local labor rates, time of year, and more. To get a good idea of the cost for your roof, get three of four estimates from reputable contractors in your area. Keep in mind that cost is only one factor, and it must be balanced against the quality of the materials and workmanship. For each roofing material there are different grades - and corresponding prices. Plus, there 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. Pick a contractor who is committed to quality work like Roofs By Robert.

Is Ventilation That Big Of A Deal?

Well, the short answer is Yes, but there are reasons. Here are a few:

The Importance Of Ventilation: Good ventilation creates a cooler attic in the summer An overheated attic, combined with moisture, can be damaging to roof decking and roofing shingles, causing them to distort and deteriorate prematurely. Good ventilation creates a drier attic in the winter and helps prevent ice dams. Good ventilation serves two main functions: Moves hot air next to the roof deck out of the attic in the summer. Dilutes and removes the moist air in the winter before it can cause damage.