The 411 on Roofing FAQs
As a homeowner it is normal to have questions about the various aspects of your house; not even the most accomplished contractor knows everything. It is for this reason that it is a good practice to seek out professions in each field for answers to the questions that you may have. In order to help you understand a little bit more about the nuances of all things roofing, we have compiled a list of answers to the most common questions people ask.
Q: How Can I Tell if My Roof is Damaged?
A: Without the proper know-how, it is difficult for a homeowner to notice all the different signs that indicate damage to their roof. While it is good practice to periodically check for cracks in your ceiling, leaks, peeling wallpaper, and discoloration (as these could all be signs of roof damage), it is in your best interest to have a professional inspect your roof twice a year to uncover hidden damage and diagnose the cause of that damage.
Q: How Long Should a Roof Last?
A: The more traditional wood or asphalt roofs typically last about 20-30 years. If you have a metal roof, however, it can last anywhere from 50 to 70 years. It should be noted that these numbers are just estimates and do not factor in the damaging effects of the elements or improper maintenance.
Q: I Noticed a Small Leak, Can I Fix it Myself?
A: We do not recommend taking roof maintenance into your own hands. While you may be able to fix a leak, it does not mean you have necessarily remedied the issue that caused the leak in the first place. Roofs are also extremely dangerous environments full of hazards that a nonprofessional may not know how to recognize or avoid. It is just not worth the risk. Contact a professional before you decide to DIY.
Q: How Much Should I Expect to Spend if I Need to Replace My Roof?
A: This honestly depends on the size of the house and the quality of materials you choose to use. A replacement can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $40,000. While this is a sizable chunk of change, replacing an old dilapidated roof will not only make your house safer it will also add significant property value to your house. Plus, you can rest easy with the fact that we offer a 10-year warranty on all Owens Corning Roofs (or a 5-year warranty for other roof types) and a lifetime warranty for all material defects. Finally, The Roof Clinic is willing to work with you on pricing. If you find a lower price from another company (and if the scope of the work aligns with our suggestions), bring it to us and we will beat their price!
Q: How Long Will a Roof Replacement Take?
A: There is no definite answer to this question. It all depends on the size of the roof/house, the weather, the permits needed, and the time needed for the necessary inspections. However, for a smaller household, you should expect about 2-3 days. For a larger house, maybe a week. Again, these are just estimates; there is no way to tell for sure until you have a professional come out and give you a quote.
Q: What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for an Install or Repair?
A: in order to adequately prepare for an install, you need to make sure that your driveway or street front area is clear and can accommodate the needed equipment (especially a dumpster), roofing materials, and work trucks. The installation or repair process can also be messy and damage is possible from falling materials, make sure that the area around the house is clear of anything that could be damaged. The construction is also likely to cause a lot of commotion and vibrations throughout the house, so it is a good idea to remove items from shelves as well as anything that may fall as a result of the shaking from the work being done.
Before You Go…
Did we adequately answer any and all of your questions? If not, please feel free to contact us. We are more than happy to assist you in any way possible. Remember, when it comes to roof repair, maintenance, or replacement, The Roof Clinic has you covered!
