GOOD ROOFING PRACTICES
Did you ever feel unsure of a car repair mechanic because you
didn't know enough about cars? I suspect many people feel that
way about home repairs. Here are some facts about roofing that
may help you to choose a good contractor.
1) Every roofing job is unique.
A less experienced contractor may try to sell the same products
and adjustments to every customer. A procedure that is perfect
for one situation may cause serious damage in another. Look
for a contractor with enough experience to know what your situation
requires. Don't' pay for work that is unnecessary or ill -
advised.
2) Old shingles should come off.
Some contractors will recommend leaving the old shingles on
underneath the new because it provides "extra protection".
In reality, it is a cost-cutting measure that can cause expensive
maintenance problems. New shingles don't need any help keeping
water out. Improved protection comes from replacing chimney
flashings and protecting eaves properly. To do that, old shingles
must be removed. In addition, new shingles installed over old
ones will not lie flat, creating a less attractive roof.
3) Attic ventilation is critical.
Poor ventilation causes moisture in the attic, which causes
the plywood sheeting to weaken and rot. For good ventilation,
there must be balance of intake (under the eaves) and exhaust
(higher on the roof). Every house is different and needs to
be assessed on it's style of construction, the direction it
faces, the amount of shade, the number of occupants and appliances,
etc. Be wary of a contractor who recommends a particular type
of ventilation (a ridge vent, for example) before he has examined
your home thoroughly.
4) Ice-dam protection is tricky.
Some contractors recommend special underlayments as a cure-all
for water leakage from ice-dams under the eaves. In reality,
there is no magic solution to ice-dams. Underlayments can be
useful, but they can't solve a problem that's caused by a structural
defect or poor insulation or ventilation. Don't let someone
sell you products you don't need or that are ineffective.
Don't use mediocre materials.
We use only the highest quality materials, manufactured by
companies who offer strong guarantees and stand behind them.
Be careful of anyone who tells you that, "they are all
the same"!
Other considerations:
Is your contractor insured?
Will he maintain a clean worksite and do a thorough clean-up
after he's finished?
How will he protect your foundation plantings?
I hope this helps you feel more confident when you start thinking
about that new roof. Our job estimates will always include
the work you need done - no more, and no less.
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