19 Aug Replacing your roof Q & A
Replacing your roof Q & A
Here are questions I had an experienced roofing contractor answer
What is the normal life of a roof?
Currently, the manufacturers are stating anywhere between 30 years and so called “lifetime”. This mostly applies to “Architectural” shingles. There are other factors that can deplete aging such as, tree coverage, high sun exposure and rain which can result in partial areas aging at a varying rate.
If you suspect hail damage, what should you do?
Call a reputable roofer and have them check for any type of damage. When inspecting for hail damage, other possible damage may be discovered such as fallen tree branches or chewed lead top pipe jacks, vents or soffit panels from squirrels trying to get into attic spaces.
Are all roofers the same?
Definitely not. This can be somewhat challenging as there are so many so-called contractors. Many have licenses but have no real knowledge of the trades. Many have no experience in doing the work. They are just salespeople and storm chasers. You want to find a company with a license number that has either the original four-digit number or one that begins with a number “1 or 2”. Companies with license numbers beginning with 1 or 2 are typically more established companies with a track record. Newly established companies have license numbers beginning with “6” or “7”.
What is involved (construction wise) in roof replacement?
After an initial assessment of the roof and property itself, we would lay down tarps and possibly plywood to protect areas of the home and landscaping. Then a dump trailer is brought in (or possibly before anything else has occurred) to the driveway or street. Removal of the shingles starts along with all the underlayment, valley metal, vents, pipe jacks, etc. An inspection of the roof decking takes place, and any bad areas are addressed at that time. New ice & water shield is installed at the edge of the eaves, valleys, pipe penetrations, chimneys, skylights, etc. The remainder of the roof decking gets covered with new Synthetic felt. There may be drip edge or gutter apron that must be replaced or installed. If needed, new valley metal is installed. Then the shingling process begins. Clean up is performed during and after the installation process until all is cleaned up and tarps put away. Dumpster is removed and all is completed.
Are there different quality shingles?
Yes, there are. There are 3-tab, Architectural, (most installed now), high-end asphalt shingles and different types of metal and wood shingles (also known as cedar shakes). For the most part, asphalt shingles are mostly made with a fiberglass matting and then subsequent oil/tar/asphalt materials to adhere the granules for the different colors. Older shingles were made with so called organic materials such as a cardboard matting soaked in an oil base and then the granules added on top. Most of these were 3-tab shingles.
How long have you been in business?
38 years. When I acquired my driver’s license at 16 years of age, I went to work for my cousin who was a home builder. I learned all aspects of building a home from digging the foundation to setting forms for the footings, block work then framing, setting trusses, sheeting the trusses, and installing the roof. Everything under, inside and out. I took my contractors exam approximately 25 years ago and have been licensed ever since. So, at this ripe age of 55 I’m happy to say I’ve completed thousands of projects and am very happy with my career choice.
This is a roofing contractor I have used many times over many years. Here is his contact information.
Todd Carstensen
612-840-2607
I hope you found my blog on “Questions and answers regarding replacing your roof” helpful. Look for more blogs on all aspects of Minnesota, real estate, and the world around us.
Just call, text, or email me with questions.
Jeff Anderson
The Anderson Team
www.mnrealestate.com
RE/MAX RESULTS
612-386-8600
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