Q: How can a homeowner recognize when a roof system has problems?
"Within the roofing profession, there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. Insist on a contractor who is committed to quality work.
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Buying a new roof is an important investment. All roofing contractors are not alike, and the National Roofing Contractors Association offers the following guidelines to help you select a professional:
• Check for permanent place of business, telephone number, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license.
• Insist on seeing copies of his liability coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of the job. Many building and homeowners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contactors. Also, if a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.
• Check to see if the roofing contractor is properly licensed or bonded. Some states have specific licensing requirements, and others do not. Your state's Department of Professional Regulation or Licensing Board will have this information.
• Make sure the contractor is financially stable. A professional roofing contractor can provide current financial information about his company.
• Look for a company with a proven track record that offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied.
• Insist on a detailed, written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures.
• Have the contractor list the roofing manufactures with which his firm is a licensed or approved applicator. Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.
•Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality-control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge of your project, how many workers will be required and estimated completion time.
• Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations, such as NRCA. Being a member of industry associations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.
• Call your local Better Business Bureau or Department or Professional Regulation to check for possible complaints filed against the contractor.
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Carefully read and understand any roofing warrenties offered, and watch for provisions that would void it.
A: All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. Semi- annual inspectionss can often uncover cracked, warped or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other visible signs of roof system problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
Q: What are my options if i decide to reroof?
A: You have two basic options: You can choose a complete replacement of the roof system, involving a tear-off of your existing roof system, involving only the installation of a new roof system. If you've already had one re-cover installed on your original roof system, check with a professional roofing contractor. In many instances, building code requirements allow no more than one roof system re-cover before a complete replacement is necessary.
Q: My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?
A: Not necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a section of the roof system being damaged. A complete roof system failure, however, generally is irreversible and a result of improper installation or choice of materials or the roof system installation is inappropriate for the home or building.
Q: Can I do the work myself?
A: Most work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can damage your roof systen by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure yourself by falling off or through the roof.
Q: How long can I expect my roof system to last?
A: Most new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for about 20 years. (This figure is generally lower in Southwest Florida.)
Actual roof system life span is determined by a number of factors, including local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof system design, material quality and suitability, proper application and adequate roof maintenance.
Roofing product manufacturers offer a variety of warranties on their products. Take a close look at those warranties to see what responsibilities and financial obligations manufacturers will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lives.
Q: What will a new roof system cost?
A: The price of a new roof system varies widely, depending on such things as the materials selected, contractor doing the work, home or building, location of the home or building, local labor rates and time of year. Keep in mind that price is only one factor, and it must be balanced with the quality of the materials and workmanship.
For each roofing material, there are different grades and corresponding prices. There also are a variety of styles and shapes. You need to look at the full product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs.
- Source: National Roofing Contractors Association