How can a home owner recognize
when a roof system has problems?
What are my options if I decide to re-roof?
My roof leaks. Do I need to have
it replaced completely?
Can I do the work myself?
How long can I expect my roof system
to last?
What will a new roof system cost?
How can I determine my annual
roofing cost?
Q: How can a 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.
Q: My roof leaks. Do I need to
have it replaced completely?
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:
Annual Roofing Cost = Total Cost (Materials & Labor)
Life Expectancy of Roof System (in years)
Roof Checkup Guide for Homeowners
A checkup on your roof system in the fall and spring will help diagnose potential problems early.
It's a good idea hire a professional roofing contractor to assist you with checking your roof. However, many homeowners prefer to perform an initial inspection themselves. If you prefer to go that route, following are some
important tips to get you started.
When cleaning your gutters or inspecting your roof system, remember important ladder safety tips:
- Make sure the ladder is on solid, level ground.
- Secure the ladder at the top to prevent it from slipping.
- Inspect the ladder, rungs and rails for damage.
- Extend the ladder at least 3 feet beyond the gutter, and angle it 1 foot back from the house for every 4 feet in eave height.
- Always use both hands when climbing the ladder.
Once on the ladder, you should look for:
- Shingles that are buckling, curling or blistering; this indicates the end of the shingles' life expectancy.
- Loose material or wear around chimneys, pipes and other penetrations.
- Excessive amounts of shingle granules in your gutters; granules give shingles added weight and protect them from ultraviolet rays.
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