Roofing & Gutter Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know when my roof needs to be repaired or replaced?
A: The first thing to look for is leaking from the ceiling. If, upon inspection of your roof, you noticed that some shingles have slipped, shingles have curled and others are missing, that’s an indication that a repair or complete replacement is needed. Other signs include significant amounts of granular loss and exposed flashing or pipe boots that appear to have deteriorated. If you are unsure if your roof needs a repair or complete replacement, contact us today and we can provide you with an answer and a free estimate for the service costs.
Q: What is considered regular maintenance for a roof?
A: We recommend, first and foremost, that you check periodically to ensure your roof is free of debris, as that can lead to a build-up of moisture, causing accelerated deterioration over time. An effective roofing maintenance program would involve an inspection every five years to ensure your roof and all individual elements are in the best possible shape.
Q: What are the biggest threats to my roof?
A: The biggest threats to roofs in Augusta are the heavy amounts of wind and hail. Debris build-up, which is commonly associated to pine straw, can cause water to run horizontally instead of vertically down the roof’s slope. When that happens, the water will eventually run between the water bonds, and that can contribute to a leaky ceiling.
Q: How long can I expect my roof to last?
A: the typical life cycle of a roof is around 20 to 25 years. In the south, your 20 to 25 year three-tab shingle may begin to wear out in 12 to 17 years, especially if yours is a low-pitch roof or one that is exposed to direct and constant sunlight. Only an inspection by a certified roofing professional can give you a clear and honest answer, as well as a free estimate for a repair or complete roofing replacement.
Q: Why is roof ventilation important?
A: A roof’s ventilation services a crucial purpose, particularly in the coldest winters and hottest summers. In both instances, a buildup of heat and moisture can lead to a deterioration of the sheeting, which can drastically diminish the lifecycle of your roof. We recommend that your roof have adequate ventilation at all times, be it from hidden ridge vents, passive vents, gable vents, turbine, vents, louvered gables, or additional soffit vents.
Q: What can I do if there is storm damage to my roof?
A: We recommend that you call our company if you notice any damage to your roof following a severe storm before calling your insurance agent. Your insurance agent will typically advise you to ensure that your roof is still water-tight. If that’s the case, call our roofing contractor out right away. We have the training and experience to repair your roof to prevent further damage including tarping large areas if necessary.
Q: Do you provide gutter cleaning?
A: Yes, we certainly do. Our gutter installation experts also know how to make your gutters sparkle during any season. A backup of debris can cause gutters to become ineffective. Clean gutters cause the water to flow better, directing it away from your house before mold or other moisture-related problems can occur.
Q: What is your process for installing and repairing gutters?
A: In the past, homes used five-inch gutters that had large seams and 2×3 downpipes. Today, we use six-inch gutters with 3×4 downpipes, which carry twice as much water. Our gutters are also seamless, which means they practically blend-in with the roof of your home. A seamless gutter is not only virtually-hidden, but it reduces the areas where leaks could occur. Instead of spikes and ferrules that were used for traditional gutter installations, we use hidden hangars, which are screwed into the fascia board instead of being nailed in. Let us custom-assemble a seamless gutter for your home on-site and to your precise specifications.
Q: What gutter options do you offer?
A: We offer a variety of leaf guards and gutter colors to match your home and style. Our gutters are leak-proof and easy to clean, though our gutter guards may have to be cleaned by hand, but that’s an easy job for a hose or leaf blower. If you’re looking for a specific type of gutter, us during your next installation or service call.
Q: How long does a roof replacement usually take?
A: An average single story ranch home takes one to two days depending on square footage.
Q: Why should I request Valley Liner?
A: You should request this option because the valley is one of the most potential places for a leak and should have additional protection, we use a modified membrane that is an ice and water shield.
Q: My pipe collars look good. Do I still need to replace them?
A: In most cases, your pipe collars won’t last as long as your new roof. They should be changed when the roof is replaced by a roofing professional.
Q: I found rotted or deteriorated sheeting. What should I do?
A: We recommend that you call our roofing contractor for a roofing repair or replacement as needed. We recommend that you call us to determine if your sheeting is delaminated or rotted.
Q: If my roof installation leaks, will you pay for painting the ceiling and walls?
A: If a leak occurs because there is an issue with a roof installed by us, yes, we will pay to repaint your ceiling and walls. However, this happens so rarely, because we strive to do the best job possible the first time around.
Q: Is the color of my roof important?
A: Yes. A dark colored roof won’t show as many defects, whereas a lighter color may produce many shadows when the roof deck is uneven, as well as staining mildew.
Q: Do I need to replace the metal flashing?
A: The metal flashing that comprises your roof should only be necessary if the installation was faulty or the metal has become deteriorated. This can be determined upon removal of the shingles.