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Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the GV Roofs FAQ section, where we provide answers to the most common questions about our roofing services. We understand that choosing the right roofing company is an important decision, and we want to ensure you have all the information you need. In this section, you’ll find comprehensive responses to inquiries about our roof installation, repair, and inspection services, as well as details about the materials we use and our commitment to safety. We’ve designed this FAQ to address your concerns and provide transparency about our processes and expertise. If you have any additional questions or need further clarification, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team. Your confidence in choosing GV Roofs is our priority, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Roofing Solutions Unveiled: Your FAQ Guide
When Should I Consider Roof Replacement?
Recognizing the signs of a deteriorating roof is crucial for timely action. Here are some indicators to be aware of:
Asphalt Shingles:
- Missing Granules: Granules from shingles accumulating in your gutters.
- Exposed Asphalt: Areas where the asphalt layer is exposed due to missing granules.
- Curling Shingles: Shingles that are curling or buckling.
- Loose Shingle Pieces: Finding loose shingle pieces around your property.
- Discolored Shingles: Shingles appearing discolored or faded.
- Algae and moss : Growth of algae and moss, particularly after five years on a new roof.
In the initial stages of roof deterioration, you may notice granules shedding from the shingles, leaving your gutters filled. Sections of shingles might lose their granules, exposing the asphalt beneath. Loose shingle pieces could be found on the ground or in gutters, and the shingles may exhibit discoloration. The growth of algae and moss, if observed, can accelerate the deterioration process.
Cedar Shakes/Shingles:
- Rotting Bottoms: The bottoms of shakes or shingles showing signs of rot.
- Splitting or Cracking: Cedar starting to split or crack.
- Curling: Shakes or shingles displaying signs of curling.
- Brittleness: Shakes or shingles appearing brittle and worn.
- Rusted Flashing: Rust on flashing components.
Torch-on Membrane:
- Cracking Membrane: Cracks in the membrane.
- Blisters and Bubbles: Noticeable blisters and bubbles in the membrane system.
- Exposed Asphalt: Patches where the asphalt layer is exposed.
- Poor Adhesion: Membrane not fully adhered, allowing lifting at the seams.
- Rust on Hardware: Rust, especially at the base of hardware components.
Being attentive to these signs can help you determine when it’s time to consider roof replacement, ensuring the continued protection of your property.
How to choose the Right Roofing Materials?
Several factors influence the choice of roofing materials for your project:
- Budget: Your available budget is a primary consideration.
- Expected Lifetime</strong style=”color:#000000;”>: How long you want your roof to last.
- Roof Type: Whether your roof is flat or sloped.
- Aesthetics: The style and appearance you desire.
Sloped Roofs offer a wide range of options:
- Cedar Shakes: A luxurious choice with a longer lifespan but a higher cost compared to asphalt.
- Asphalt Shingles: Cost-effective with various styles, colors, and lifespans (typically 20-30 years).
- Clay/Concrete Tiles: Aesthetic appeal with a lifespan of 30+ years.
- Metal Roofing: Exceptional durability and longevity.
For a Flat Roof, options include:
- EDPM Rubber: A cost-effective solution with moderate longevity.
- TPO: Environmentally friendly and durable.
- PVC: Longer lifespan than some other flat roofing materials, with added value in terms of warranty.
- Torch-On SBS: Standard for flat roofs in Canada, cost-effective, and typically lasts 15-25 years.
Ultimately, the choice of roofing materials depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Each material has its advantages, and our team at GV Roofs can help you select the one that best suits your project.
What is the Typical Cost of a Roof Replacement?
- Asphalt Shingle to Asphalt Shingle: $6,000 – $10,000
- Cedar Shake to Asphalt Shingle: $9,000 – $15,000
- Cedar Shake to Cedar Shake: $20,000 – $30,000
- Torch-On to Torch-On: $14,000 – $19,000
- Tar and Gravel to Torch-On: $15,000 – $20,000
- Metal Roof: $20,000 – $30,000
Please note that these are approximate price ranges intended to assist with budgeting for your roofing project. The actual costs may vary based on various factors involved in your specific project. Our team at GV Roofs can provide a more accurate estimate tailored to your needs and preferences
What Factors Are Considered When Determining My Roofing Project's Cost?
Several factors come into play when calculating the price for your roofing project:
- Access: Considerations like whether materials can be easily loaded onto the roof and if bins can be placed in proximity to the roof affect costs.
- Difficulty: The complexity of the roof, including the number of sections and varying levels, can impact pricing.
- Slope: Roof slope, whether steep or low, can affect the complexity of the installation and thus cost.
- Obstacles: The presence of protrusions and potential obstructions, such as trees, can influence the overall project difficulty and cost.
- Layers: The number of existing layers, whether it’s shingles, cedar, torch-on, or tar and gravel, can affect the time and effort required for removal and installation.
These factors are essential considerations when determining the precise cost of your roofing project. Our team at GV Roofs takes all these elements into account to provide you with an accurate and transparent estimate tailored to your specific needs.
Which Elements Contribute to the Computation of My Roof's Pricing?
- Accessibility (Can materials be easily delivered to the roof? Is bin placement near the roof feasible?)
- Complexity (How many roof sections are there? Are they at varying elevations?)
- Pitch (Is the roof steeply sloped or low in pitch?)
- Obstructions (Are there numerous protrusions or potential tree obstructions?)
- Existing Layers (Does the roof have multiple layers of shingles, cedar, torch-on, or tar and gravel?)
What Criteria Should I Consider When Selecting a Roofing Company?
Different individuals may conduct their research differently, but here are several factors to consider when hiring a roofing company:
- Worker’s Compensation (WCB) Coverage: It’s crucial to check if the company has WCB coverage. This is important to avoid liability if an accident occurs on your property.
- Liability Insurance: Ensure the company has liability insurance, ideally with at least $1 million in coverage. This protects you in case of mishaps like flooding or fires caused by the roofing work.
- Reputation: Check the company’s reputation by asking for references and testimonials. Platforms like Homestars, Google Plus, and Yelp can provide insights into their standing in the industry.
- Trust: Trust is paramount. If you feel uneasy in any way, it’s essential to heed those instincts.
- Written Agreements: Ensure that all agreements are documented in a signed contract between you and the contractor.
- Installer’s Experience: Inquire about the experience of the installation crew. The crew leader should ideally have at least five years of experience working with your type of roof to ensure quality work.
- Inspections: Ask if quality inspections are conducted during the project and upon completion. Midway and final inspections provide peace of mind, knowing that your roof was properly installed and thoroughly assessed.
What Possible Challenges Might Arise During a Roofing Project?
Water damage and rot are typically the most significant worries when it comes to re-roofing, particularly if there has been prolonged leakage. If any wood components such as plywood, trusses, or rafters are damaged, it might be necessary to conduct repairs. It’s essential to ensure that the contract includes a specific section detailing the expenses associated with any required woodwork.
Is Roof Maintenance Necessary for My Roof?
Yes! Every roof needs maintenance especially cedar shakes, asphalt shingles and torch-on SBS roofs.
What is the Lifespan of a New Roof?
- Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years
- Cedar shakes: 20-30 years
- Torch-on SBS: 15-25 years
- Metal: 25-40 years
- Tile: 30-50 years
These approximated lifespans are contingent on roofs being correctly installed. The duration may fluctuate depending on the materials employed, the roof’s slope, and weather conditions.
Is Roof Ventilation Important?
Indeed, it’s highly crucial. Maintaining adequate intake and exhaust ventilation plays a pivotal role in extending your roof’s lifespan. Inadequate ventilation in the attic can lead to overheating and moisture retention, expediting roof deterioration and potentially fostering the growth of mildew and mold in your attic.
Should I Opt for Roof Repairs, a Roof-Over, or Full Roof Replacement?
Consider these inquiries:
- What is my intended duration of residence in this home?
- What financial resources are available?
- Is the roof in such a state that repair is no longer feasible?
- Is there a possibility that the house will be demolished?
- How old is the existing roof?
When in doubt about the appropriate course of action, it’s advisable to reach out to a local roofing contractor. They can assist you in posing the relevant questions specific to your circumstances and determine the most suitable solution for your situation.
What Causes the Presence of White Spots on the Underside of My Plywood?
This accumulation of mold results from inadequate attic ventilation. The trapped heat in the attic is causing harm to your plywood.
What is the Duration of a Roofing Project?
For an average-sized home, roof replacement typically spans 2-4 days. However, larger homes and commercial projects can extend from a week to as long as six months, depending on favorable weather conditions.
Is Gutter Repair or Replacement the Right Choice?
If you observe gutter seams leaking, signs of rust accumulation, and incomplete attachment to the fascia boards, it might be necessary to consider gutter replacement.
Does the Shingle Color Impact Attic Temperature?
Ventilated Roof = 1-2 degrees higher for dark-colored compared to light-colored shingles.
Unventilated Roof = Over 20 degrees higher for dark-colored compared to light-colored shingles.
What Sets Tar Paper Apart from Synthetic Underlayment?
Tar/Felt Paper
Pros
- Cost-effective.
- Offers protective layers underneath the shingles.
- Fastened with staples.
Cons
- Lower quality product.
- Tends to tear when walked on or applied in valleys.
- Staples create openings for water penetration.
- Can potentially “telegraph” (result in wrinkles) under the shingles.
Synthetic Underlayment
Pros
- High-quality product.
- Lighter and more durable than tar paper.
- Provides a waterproof layer when applied with suitable fasteners.
- Easier to install.
Cons
- Higher cost product.
Can my Roof be Replaced In the winter?
Yes! We work year-round.
Are There Alternatives to Unattractive Box Vents on My Roof?
Instead of employing exhaust vents, you can opt for ridge venting, a concealed ventilation method hidden beneath the ridge capping.
When is the Ideal Time to Replace My Roof?
Generally, when weather conditions consistently improve, typically from late spring to early fall, is the best time for roof replacement. It’s advisable to secure your slot by signing up during the winter months.
Which Parts of My Roof Are Prone to Vulnerability?
Skylights, chimneys, valleys, and roof penetrations are the regions most susceptible to vulnerability. To enhance their protection, it is recommended to have an Ice and Water Shield or Peel N Stick underlayment installed around these areas.
VELUX vs. Columbia Skylights?
Columbia skylights offer a cost-effective choice with a reasonable lifespan, while Velux skylights are known for their superior build quality. If you’re seeking a skylight that will endure for over 20 years and you have the budget, Velux would be my recommendation.
Which Key Roofing Terminology Should I Familiarize Myself With?
- Deck: Also referred to as the substrate, this provides support beneath your roof, typically composed of shiplap boards, plywood, or OSB.
- Drip Edge Metal: Flashing positioned along the edges of your roof to cover the fascia boards.
- Underlayment: A protective membrane situated beneath your shakes, shingles, or metal roofing.
- Flashing: Metal components installed around the perimeter of your roof, as well as walls, chimneys, skylights, and valleys.
- Shingles: Waterproofing materials made from asphalt, wood, or rubber, used for roofing and wall cladding.
- Soffit: The underside of the roof overhang, usually extending out 1.5-2 feet.
- Fascia: Treated and primed wooden boards located on the gables and eaves (behind gutters) of your roof.
- Vents: Aiding in the exhaust or intake of air from various sources, including chimneys, bathrooms, stoves, and general attic ventilation.
