A: All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. However, regularly scheduled inspections can uncover issues before they have the potential to become costly. Inspections can reveal deeply cracked shingles or shingles that are warped, missing, or blistered. Other issues of concern are loose seams, deteriorated flashings, and excessive granule loss from the surface of the shingles. Indoors, signs can include cracked paint, peeling wallpaper and discolored plasterboard as areas of concern. It’s important to remember that many roofing issues aren’t spotted from the ground and require the eye of a trained professional.

A. This is one of the most common questions posed to roofers. Unfortunately, roofers (and home improvement contractors) have a poor reputation. In fact, The Better Business Bureau has reported that 73% of homeowners don’t trust contractors. However, for your safety and the well-being of your roof, it is important to remember the following: You could seriously damage your roof. If you improperly nail your roof, it may result in lifted shingles, ripples, and leaks. More drastically, there is the potential for your roof to collapse. Beyond risking costly damage to the structure of your home, you risk bodily damage as well. It may not even be legal. Depending on the location of your home, your homeowner’s association, and your county’s building code, it may be illegal for a homeowner to do work on their home. Even if it is legally allowed, you will have to pass building inspections. You may void your manufacturer’s warranty and/or your homeowner’s insurance. Improper installations of roof replacements have resulted in manufacturers or homeowner’s insurance companies not covering a roof that was not installed by a trained, licensed contractor.

A: There are a lot of variables that will factor into the price of your new roof. Factors include the materials selected, the size of your home or building, whether there are any accessories currently on your roof, the contractor doing the work, and any additional needs your roof may require (i.e. new plywood). When choosing a material, you should keep in mind that there are different grades and corresponding prices. There are also a variety of styles and shapes. It’s important to consider the full product range to make a choice in line with your budget. Finally, there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. In the end, price is only one factor. It must be balanced with the quality of the materials and the workmanship of a contractor who has a portfolio of upstanding work.