Roofing FAQs
How can I tell if I need new roof?
Here are some sure signs your roof needs to be repaired or replaced:
- Missing, cracked or curling shingles
- Blistering or peeling paint
- Shingle, sheathing or siding decay
- Leakage in the attic after heavy rains
- Leakage in the attic after heavy rains
- Leakage in the attic after heavy rains
How can a homeowner recognize when a roof has problems?
All too often, roof problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. Periodic (twice-a-year) inspections 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 problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard, and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
My roof leaks. Do I need to have it totally replaced?
Not necessarily. Leaking can result because some flashings have come loose or because a section of the roof has been damaged. A roof failure, however, is generally irreversible and results from improper installation or choice of materials, or from the installation of a roof system inappropriate to the building.
How long can I expect my roof to last?
The condition and lifespan of your roof will depend on the type of roof you have, the effects of your local environment and the maintenance which the roof has received. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, asphalt shingles generally last 15-20 years; wood shingle/shakes, 10-40 years; clay/concrete tiles, 20+ years; slate, 30-100 years; metal roofing, 15-40+years. Roofing product manufacturers off a variety of warranties on their products.
How long does it take to replace a roof?
Replacing a roof, whether on a commercial or residential building, is a labor-intensive project and, depending on the type of roof, could take anywhere from a few days to 2 or more weeks. The time involved is substantially affected by the weather, as well. Wind, snow, rain, or even just the threat of one of these and will slow the process considerably.
For built-up roofs, removing and replacing the roof will probably proceed at a rate of approximately 1,500 square feet per day. For single-ply roofs, the rate is closer to 2,000 to 4,000 square feet per day. Careful planning and close project management can reduce some of the delays caused by bad weather.
Window FAQs
How can I tell if I need new roof?
Here are some sure signs your windows need to be repaired or replaced:
- Windows rattle in the wind
- Difficulty opening them
- Drafty, with air leaking through or around the window
- Excessive condensation or icing on the inside of the window panes
- Paint chipping or peeling
- House is always too cold in the winder or too hot in the summer
What are the advantages of custom replacement windows over pre-made, standard-sized windows?
Because custom windows are made to fit perfectly, they provide the best energy efficiency and can be installed much more easily and with very little mess. Also, because of the myriad of options available that affect appearance and efficiency, custom windows allow consumers to get exactly the windows they need or want. In addition, custom-made windows allow you to choose the best solution to the problems you want to solve by replacing windows.
What makes windows energy efficient?
Energy efficient windows have a number of traits in common with one another. They are manufactured using quality frame materials that insulate well and prevent heat transfer. They have multiple panes with air or gas in the middle to insulate better.
The most energy efficient windows are those with argon or krypton between panes, gases which insulate better than air. They have low e glass to reflect infrared light and keep heat in the house during the winter. And energy efficient replacement windows have warm edge spacers to keep panes the correct distance apart. These spacers also insulate pane edges and reduce heat transfer.
How can I tell if a window is energy efficient?
Check the window’s NFRC rating label. The NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) is an independent testing organization that rates the “U-Factor” for replacement windows. This is a measurement of the window’s ability to resist the transfer of heat and cold. U-Factor is the amount of heat transferred through a material. The lower the U-Factor, the slower the rate of heat flow, therefore the better the insulating quality.
Can new replacement windows stop drafts?
Drafts are caused by windows that are poorly sealed, inadequately insulated, or improperly installed. Even new replacement windows can be drafty if these areas are not addressed correctly. A quality contractor will address the insulation around the rough opening and properly insulate during installation. Good windows themselves are well insulated, and when closed and locked will effectively seal off outside air. Proper installation and the choice of window are both important, working hand in hand to effectively prevent drafts.
Can I reduce the condensation on my windows?
Yes. In order to reduce condensation, humidity must be controlled and air movement must be generated. As the exterior temperature drops, the humidity level needs to decrease if condensation is to be controlled.
Rain Gutter FAQs
Do I need rain gutters?
Yes. Rain gutters prevent water from destroying many components of your home. Dripping rainwater can cause cracks in foundations and walkways. These cracks lead to costly repairs. The rainwater rots all the lower wood components on your home. This wet, rotting wood attracts termites and carpenter ants which need damp conditions to reproduce and thrive. Rain gutters also protect entrances from becoming wet and slippery.
This is a great question as all guttering systems require some maintenance to insure the integrity of it’s protection for your home.
You should periodically make a visual inspection of the system to make sure your gutters are free from all foreign objects, debris, leaves, granules from roof shingles, and birds or insect nests that may impede the flow of water through the system.
What are seamless gutters?
Seamless gutters are custom fitted, one-piece gutters manufactured at your home. They are far superior than sectional plastic or aluminum gutters bought at home improvement stores. Seamless gutters do not have in-line seams, which always fail. Seamless gutters are made of aluminum, copper or steel that will last for years.
