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Roofing FAQ - Repair vs. Replace: Making the Right Choice
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GUTTERS FAQ
SIDING FAQ
WINDOWS FAQ
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How Long Does a Roof Last?
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The lifespan of a roof varies by material. older 3 tab shingles last 12-20 years, architectural Shingles installed with a full roofing system will last 25-50 years while metal roofs can last 40-70 years. Regular inspections and maintenance can extend a roof's life​​​​.
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Should I Repair or Replace my roof?
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Deciding whether to repair or replace depends on the roof's age and the extent of damage. Significant damage or a roof near its life expectancy necessitates replacement​​.
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How much does a new Roof Cost?
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Costs depend on materials, size, slope, labor, and removal of existing materials. Contacting trusted roofing contractors for a no-obligation quote is recommended for accurate estimates see or table for more accurate figures​​​​.
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Will homeowners insurance get me a new roof?
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No, homeowner’s insurance typically only covers major damages like fire or storms, while warranties may cover materials and labor. Policies vary, so it's important to review your coverage​​.
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How long does it take to install a new roof?
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Installation generally takes 1-2 days, affected by roof size, type, and whether existing materials need removal. Weather can also influence timing​​.
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Can a new roof be installed in the Winter?
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Yes, you can install a new roof in winter, though it may take longer due to the need for extra caution and suitable weather conditions​​.
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What are the most Common roofing Materials?
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3 tab shingles (cheap, no longer widely available), Architectural Asphalt shingles (affordable, widely available, best overall value) Metal (durable, energy-efficient), clay tiles (long-lasting, good for hot climates), wood shakes (natural appearance, insulation properties, high maintenance), and slate (very durable, premium, High repair cost).
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What is Roof Flashing?
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Flashing is crucial for directing water away from vulnerable areas of your roof, preventing water damage. It's typically used around chimneys, skylights, and edges​​.
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What if my roof suffers Storm Damage?
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If a storm damages your roof, ensure safety first, then document the damage, contact a reputable roofing contractor for an assessment, and file an insurance claim if applicable​​.
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Should I install a metal roof over my old roof?
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No, some contractor will, but its never recommended. These installations are most common with existing asphalt roofs. Metal roof require a fireproof barrier and having a existing roof under it will void the warranty. If your roof is in poor condition, you need to replace it entirely.
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Does a metal roof affect cell phone reception?
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No, metal roofs don’t affect cell phone reception. A poor cell phone signal is likely the result of where you live, your home’s distance from a utility tower, harsh weather conditions, and the type of cell service carrier you use.
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How loud is a metal roof when it’s raining?
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Not loud, a good Metal roof is not loud when it rains. A poorly installed or cheap metal roof will sound extremely loud. This is a common misconception about metal roofs because of unlicensed or cheap contractors using inferior materials.
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When is it Time for roof Replacement?
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Replace your roof when you notice signs of aging, such as curled or missing shingles, leaks, or if it's beyond its expected lifespan.
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Should i install a New Roof Over Old the old one?
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No, sometimes referred to as a Reroof or a Layover a new roof can be installed over an old one if there's only one layer of shingles and no major issues, but it's never recommended by a good contractor due to potential underlying damage, no warranty of any kind and a increased future cost when there are issues.
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Are there Financing options / Incentives for my roof?
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Yes, financing options include home equity loans, a good licensed contractor will offer financing, and sometimes rebates or incentives for energy-efficient roofing.
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Does a new roof increase my home Value?
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Yes a new roof can significantly increase home value, particularly if using high-quality, long-lasting materials.
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How do I choose a roofing contractor?
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Look for licensed, certified and insured contractors with good reviews, who offer warranties and have a good reputation.
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What should I Expect in a roof Installation Process?
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A professional inspection, removal of old roofing, synthetic underlayment installation, new roofing material installation, dumpster, cleanup and a full magnetic nail sweep.
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How should I prepare my Home for a roof install?
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Secure loose items inside due to vibration, move vehicles away from the work area, ensure pet safety and consider mowing your lawn to help with the nail sweep.
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What are some roof Maintenance Tips?
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Regular inspections, prompt repair of minor issues, keeping gutters clean, and removing overhanging branches will extend the lifespan of your roof.
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Can I DIY my roof?
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No you shouldn't, small repairs like replacing a few shingles might be DIY-friendly, but significant repairs or replacements should be Professionally done. Roof work is extremely dangerous.
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What are Immediate Attention Signs for my roof?
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Active leaks, large areas of missing shingles, sagging, or visible daylight through the roof boards need urgent professional attention.
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Are new roofs Energy Efficient?
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Proper insulation and ventilation, along with choosing materials like metal roofing, can improve home energy efficiency.
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Can a new roof protect my home from Extreme Weather?
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High-quality materials and proper installation are crucial for roofs in areas prone to severe weather, offering better resistance to wind, rain, and snow.
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What kind of roof Warranty Types are there?
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Warranties typically cover materials (20-50 years) and workmanship (2-10 years). Understand what's included and any maintenance requirements.
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Can a new roof lower my Insurance?
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Yes, a new roof may lower insurance premiums due to improved durability and resistance to damage. Inform your insurer after installation.
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What's the Best Time for getting a roof Replacement?
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Early spring to late fall offers ideal weather conditions for roofing work, but emergency repairs should be addressed immediately regardless of the season.
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