Five Commonly Asked Questions About Roof Replacement
For most of us roof replacement is an event that only happens once or twice in a lifetime. That leads to many commonly misunderstood facts about the process. If a roof replacement is in your near future, we invite you to get the answers to the most common questions homeowners ask us during the free estimate process.
What Are Visible Signs I Need a New Roof?
Cracked, curling, missing, or loose shingles are evidence that your roof is at the end of its lifespan. A roof leak can also act as evidence that roof replacement is necessary. Many times, hail damage also creates the need for a new roof.
My Roof is Leaking; Does That Mean I Need a New One?
While a leaky roof can signal that a new roof is needed, it doesn’t always mean that is the case. For example, a roof leak can be a red flag that your roof’s flashing needs replacement. This is often the case when a roofing contractor reuses preexisting flashing on a new roof. However, if a reputable roofing contractor verifies that hail damage is the origin of your roof leaks, a new roof is a must.
Go Behind the Scenes on a Twin Cities Roof Installation by Lindus Construction:
How Long Should a Roof Last?
There’s no hard and fast answer to this question because of the factors involved. GAF, the nation’s largest manufacturer of asphalt shingles offers roofs that are accompanied with a 50-year, non-prorated warranty that covers both labor and materials. However, this warranty is voided if the installing contractor fails to adhere to GAF’s stringent specifications. Cheaper builder grade roofs have lesser lifespans, proving the point that you do get what you pay for. Cedar shake roofs can have a lifespan of less than a decade if not properly maintained. When it comes to metal roofs, the industry’s premier metal roofs can have a lifespan of up to 50 years, though the finish warranty is typically no more than 35 years.
I Need A New Roof. Does My Homeowners’ Insurance Policy Cover That?
In one word, sometimes. In the event that a natural disaster occurs, your insurance policy should cover roof replacement. Common examples include hail, hurricanes, wildfires, and falling trees. However, if your roof requires replacement due to its lifespan being exhausted, the replacement cost is the responsibility of the homeowner.
My Roof’s Shingles Are Curling. Why Is This Happening?
There are two likely reasons that your roof’s shingles are curling. The first is that your roof’s levels of ventilation is incorrect, and moisture and heat are being trapped in the attic, wreaking havoc on your shingles. Shingles can also curl when a roofing contractor installs new shingles on top of old ones, rather than tearing off the first layer. Defective products, old shingles or improper shingle installation can also be reasons roof shingles curl.
