QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Here are some of the most common questions we hear in this industry along with their respective answers.

Q: Do I really need a new roof?

A: Sometimes a simple repair may be all that is needed to extend the life of your roof.  Before a more serious problem develops, there are usually early warning signs of aging.  The best way to tell is to call in a roofing professional for an evaluation, but you can look for some of them yourself.

Q: How can I tell if my roof is aging

A: Condensation or mold in the attic, shingles that curl up, or missing shingles are sure signs that your roof is getting old.  If you see any of these signs, it may be time to consider repair or replacement.

Q: When is a good time to get a new roof installed?

A: As soon as you begin to see the early signs of aging.  Time of year is rarely an issue.  In fact, the longer you wait, the more costly the renovation, since damage such as leaks can affect other parts of your house.  If you're concerned, book a professional evaluation right away.

Q: How much will it cost?

A: Each roof is unique, so your price should reflect what you need.  Get estimates from three contractors and compare them "apples to apples".  To help compare, and for your protection, insist that everything is presented in writing and in detail including warranties and materials.

Q: What critical factor is most often overlooked?

A: Poor ventilation in the attic will suffocate your roof, and the effects can be nasty.  For example, on Vancouver Island, icy and wet winters can cause "ice dams" in your roof: you'll find water breeching the roof's underlayment as it melts and refreezes due to temperature differences in the attic.  This can make your insulation ineffective, cause staining and leaks and even trigger structural damage to trusses, ceilings and walls.  To stop this cycle from starting, make sure your roofing contractors is experienced and knows how to fix and test for inadequate ventilation.

Q: What type of shingle will work best on my sloped roof?

A: Aside from the look, your best choice depends on a few other factors, such as cost and warranty.  The table below helps explain the basic differences in material.

Q: Is it a good idea to roof over an existing roof?

A: Though it's possible, "recovering" is usually not a better investment, and may not be covered by your insurance.  Simply disguising leaks, mold, and old insulation doesn't ensure your comfort.  It actually protected the mold (that's not good) and eventually means you'll have to replace the roof anyway.

Q: I want some kind of guarantee.  How long is a warranty on a roof?

A: It's important to remember that there are two kinds of warranty.  Manufacturer warranties depend on the type of material used.  Expect a warranty between 20 and 50 years, depending on the material.

Labour can be warranted, too, by your roofing professional.  A warranty on work performed is your most important protection against poor workmanship and is separate from the manufacturer's warranty.  Most labour warranties are 5 years.

Q: I want to hire a great roofing contractor, but I don't know who to trust.  How can I tell the difference?  And what kind of protection do I have?

A: The Better Business Bureau warns that, in the case of homeowners, "the consumer has absolutely no protection against fly by night contractors.*"  Many homeowners also don't know that, by law, they can be held responsible for compensation, damages and other liabilites for example, if a worker gets hurt on the job.  [* Source: Buyer's Tips at www.bbbvan.org]

To protect yourself, always choose a company that is licensed, is covered by Workers Compensation, and has full liability insurance.  You have the right to insist on that kind of coverage.  It's for your protection.

Q: What about references?

A: An independent review can quickly tell you the truth about a contractor's quality of work and integrity.  Get at least 10 references, and call them.  The time you invest will be well worth it; and if you can't get 10 references, consider another contractor.

For an unusual but effective approach, try this: contact your roofing contractor's suppliers.  Each city has only a few major roofing suppliers.  If the roofing contractor you are considering has a good reputation, a supplier will know.

Q: Is there anything else I should know before choosing a roofing contractor?

A: In our experience, installing a new roof is not only an important financial decision for most people; it means handing over a great deal of trust.  If you're looking for a way to reduce project stress, make sure the roofing contractor you choose is somebody you feel good about.

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