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Roofing FAQ
What roofing materials can you apply?
We install all types of shingles/roll roof, wood shakes, rubber, membrane and metal/fiberglass roofs.
How much does a new roof cost?
That depends on the roof system that has been chosen. Lower-end composition shingle to a mid-range shingle will most of the time cost approximately $1.00 to $ 1.20 per square foot. This can change with the pitch of the roof, how many layers (if any) to take off, how many stories you have and other variables.
How long does it take to put on a new roof?
Most roofs can be completed within 5 days from start to finish.
What is the difference between an asphalt shingle and a fiberglass shingle?
The main difference is in the base mat. The organic shingle has a felt or paper base mat which is saturated and coated with asphalt. The fiberglass shingle has a fiberglass mat which is not saturated but is coated with asphalt. Both types have an asphalt composition.
What are the advantages of asphalt shingles over fiberglass?
Asphalt shingles are less brittle during cold weather and resist cracking. They are more resistant to scuffing during hot weather and provide better resistance to wind. One of the reasons they last longer is because they are thicker, which also makes for a bolder appearance. As a general rule asphalt shingles hold up better and last longer.
What is the minimum slope shingles can be applied?
You can use 3-tab and "fake shakes" on any roof that has at least a 4/12 pitch. A 4/12 pitch means there is at least 4" of drop per foot. If you have less drop you must use roll-roofing but it still has to have some slope (2/12). Anything less than a 2/12 must have a rubber roof.
What's involved with roofing over an existing roof?
Assuming the existing roof shingles have a 5" exposure, we butt the starter course to the existing roof shingles, removing the tabs plus 2 or more inches from the top of the starter strip shingles. First Course: We cut 2 inches or more from the butts of the first course so that the shingles fit between the butts of the existing third course and the eaves edge of the new starter strip. Second and Succeeding Courses: We use full width shingles. This minimizes any uneven appearance of the new roof due to bridging and helps prevent blow-offs in high wind.
Does a re-roof look as good as a new roof?
Most of the time, no. It depends on what condition the old roof is in and how straight the rows are. Sometimes it looks almost as good as a new roof, others look less than pleasant.
Do you really have to use tar paper?
Yes, unless you are going over existing shingles.
Why is proper ventilation in the attic important?
Lack of proper ventilation builds unnecessary heat in the attic. This excess heat bakes your shingles from the underside out causing blistering, buckling and curling not to mention rotting out the decking. Inadequate ventilation can cut the roofs' life span down by half or more.
How do you know how much ventilation is needed?
You need at least one square foot of vent for every 150 square feet of attic space.
You may need more if you don't have a way for air to flow in from the soffit or gables.
Why are there so many nails exposed in my attic?
Roofing nails must penetrate the decking at least 3/4" to hold the shingles down in high winds.
Do you hand nail, use nail guns or staple guns?
We either hand nail or use nailing guns on our roofs depending on size and time of year. We never use staples under any conditions.
Do you keep your rain lines and rows straight?
Yes, we take great care and pride in our roofs.
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