When something goes wrong with your roof, it can happen quickly. In an urgent situation, it can be difficult to get the information you need to make an informed decision. Arm yourself with knowledge before a roofing emergency occurs with answers to common roofing questions.
Top 10 Common Roofing Questions Answered:
Understanding your roof can help you save time and money when it comes to repairs and replacement. Here are 10 common roofing questions posed by homeowners.
1. How Long Should My Roof Last?
The lifespan of a roof depends on several factors:
- Material
- Shingle thickness
- Climate and weather conditions
- Proper installation
Traditional asphalt shingle roofs typically last between 12 and 20 years, while slate, tile, and copper roofs may last upwards of 50. Thanks to their durability, metal roofs may enjoy life spans of 40 to 70 years. In regions that experience severe weather conditions such as high winds, snow, and significant rainfall, roofs generally have shorter life expectancies.
2. Does My Homeowner’s Insurance Cover My Roof?
Most homeowner’s insurance covers structural damage caused by perils such as hail, wind, fire, and falling trees. This coverage includes your roof. Depending on your policy, coverage may include repair or replacement and may require you to pay a deductible. Some policies also include exclusions for certain conditions.
3. Does a Leaky Roof Need to Be Completely Replaced?
Not all leaks necessitate a complete roof replacement, and whether you repair or replace your roof likely depends on the extent of the damage. On a relatively new roof, a few damaged or missing shingles may be cost-effective to repair. If the damage is more extensive and involves an older roof or multiple layers of roofing materials, a partial or full replacement is likely in order.
4. What Does a New Roof Cost?
The cost of a new roof depends on its size and shape, the type of materials used, and the price of labor in your area. Chimneys and skylights also affect the overall price of roofing. Be sure to factor in disposal costs for your old roof.
Most roofing companies offer free, no-obligation quotes.
5. What Are the Signs of a Failing Roof?
Many signs of a failing roof are obvious and can be spotted during a visual inspection. Warning signs of a failing roof include:
- Loose or missing shingles
- Obvious sagging
- Exposed nail heads
- Curled, cracked, or blistering shingles
- Granules or debris in your gutters
- Missing or damaged flashing
- Dark or stained areas
- Higher-than-average heating and cooler bills
- Water leaks in your top-floor ceilings
If your home has an asphalt shingle roof that’s more than 20 years old, it may need to be replaced even if it isn’t showing outward signs of failure.
6. Why Is My Roof Stained?
Black and green stains are evidence of algae, moss, or lichens. They’re common, particularly in wet and humid climates, and should be cleaned regularly to avoid the rot, mold, and water damage that they can cause.
7. How Long Does Roof Installation Take?
The roof installation process can range from a day to a few days depending on the size and shape of your roof, the selected materials, and the size of the roofer’s crew. A roofing contractor should be able to provide a comprehensive time line, although Inclement weather may delay installation.
8. What Is Flashing?
Flashing is a layer of waterproof material that’s placed over joints in the roof. It keeps water from seeping into the vulnerable valleys of your roof as well as gaps around chimneys, skylights, and pipes.
9. What Reroofing Options Are Available?
If it’s time to put on a new roof, the good news is that you have options. If you’re reroofing your home for the first time, a new roof may be installed directly over the original materials, saving you time and money.
Shingles are available in a variety of materials and colors, and your choice may depend on aesthetic preferences, local climate conditions, and your budget.
10. How Can I Find a Reliable Roofing Professional?
Your roof is vital to ensuring the integrity of your home and the safety of your family. Because of this, roofs should be inspected every few years. Make sure the contractor you choose is licensed and insured and responds to your questions and concerns in a timely fashion. Call the roofing professionals at Thompson Creek for more in-depth answers to all your roofing questions.