On average, one to two days for residential roofs although there are exceptions to this rule. Roofs that are larger than average, in need of extensive structural repairs, or roofs where we are installing specialty materials, will require more time to complete. We understand the inconvenience of interrupting your regularly scheduled life that is why we are conscientious and come to each customer with the man power, knowledge, skill, and equipment to complete the job in timely manner while never compromising our quality craftsmanship.

Did you know a well-ventilated attic is key to maximum roof protection?

In winter, normal household activities like doing laundry, running dishwashers and taking showers generate moisture that can damage insulation, rafters, wood deck, underlayment and shingles. In summer, heat build-up can cause premature aging and cracking of wood and roofing materials.

The only way to combat these problems is with balanced ventilation. When a ventilation system is balanced, wind blowing over the ridge creates a negative pressure that draws the warmer air out of the attic.

Replacement air enters through the undereave vents, bathes the underside of the roof, and exits at the ridge cap. Even with no wind, the natural convection action of rising warm air maintains a continuous air flow along the underside of the roof. It’s a system that works year ’round with no moving parts or energy consumption.

The Benefits of Roof Ventilation

• allows outside air to flow naturally upward and out of attic
• promotes a cooler, drier attic
• helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped in insulation, structural wood, shingles and roof deck
• helps prevent rotting, mildew, drywall damage, peeling paint and warped siding
• provides year-round performance for consistent ventilation without energy consumption

Tear-off means stripping the roof and starting from scratch. This is the best technique, which we recommend to all of our clients.

This process includes:

• checking the decking for problems, replacing damaged wood decking and re-nailing
• applying ice barrier at eaves (ice dam area), in valleys, around skylights or as needed
• apply new drip edge
• apply new flashing at plumbing vents
• re-flash chimney as required
• apply continuous ridge vent or other type of roof vent

There is another way to re-roof called a layover. This does not entail any stripping; you apply new shingles directly over an existing layer of shingles.

This process includes:

• stripping off ridge cap
• apply new drip edge
• apply new flashing at plumbing vents
• re-flash chimney as required
• apply continuous ridge vent or other type of roof vent

It does not include:

• checking the decking for problems and re-nailing
• applying ice barrier at eaves (ice dam area) around skylights or anywhere else

The advantages:

• lower initial price

The disadvantages:

• no ice barrier at eaves or other places which are more susceptible to water leaks
• because of an additional layer, house will be hotter
• because the roof is hotter, the shingles will not hold up as well over the long haul
• because the shingles are being placed on top of existing shingles, they won’t lay as flat as they do on plywood or boards
• additional weight on roof structure

Conclusion:

• a tear-off is superior to a layover, and worth the difference in cost. Peace of mind is worth a lot

Is your roof failing? Watch for these warning signs:

Inside your home:
Very often; the first sign of roof failure is not on the roof itself, but inside your home. Ceiling stains; flaking paint and plaster, peeling wallpaper, and discoloration near the wall/ceiling joint; though they may appear negligible; serve as advance warning of future roofing problems. Stains may be caused by condensation in the attic or water seeping through the shingle covering; very often at joints and flashings in the roof.

In the attic:
The attic space must be adequately ventilated and insulated; otherwise, condensation of Interior moisture will occur. This will lead to ceiling stains or water leakage. After a heavy rain, check the attic for web, darkened or stained decking and rafters. Moisture condensation may also accentuate any curling and clawing of the shingles on your roof. Also, wet insulation loses its effectiveness, with a consequent increase in heating costs.

1. Be sure you are dealing with a reliable company that has been in business for a while, there is no single, clear cut answer, there are a number of indicators that you can look for when going through the evaluation process.
2. Be sure the contractor has an actual place of business, not just an Answering Service.
3. Be sure to check their reputation. Don’t blindly accept a salesman’s story. Example Better Business Bureau and references.
4. Be sure you receive a written contract with detailed specifications.
5. Be sure you know exactly what you are getting for the quoted price, including first quality materials.
6. Be sure a company has insurance to protect your property and their workers.
7. Be sure a company is financially responsible and will be around in the future if you need service.
8. Be sure experienced labor is used on your job, with professional supervisors to insure completion of your project.
9. Be sure you read and understand guarantees, warranties, and terms of payment.
10. Be sure no one has pressured you to accept any proposal.