– by Paul Pellow, Admirals Roofing –
How do I know if I need to replace my roof, or if it can just be ‘fixed’?
Most roofing products in our area last 18 – 22 years depending on installation, maintenance, conditions and type of materials used. Shingles curling and buckling, roof valleys that are unable to channel water into guttering, missing shingles, worn chimney flashing, shingle granules in the gutters, and daylight showing through the roof boards (when you look from inside the roof space) are all signs that your roof may need replacing.
Are all roofing materials basically the same? Will the cost be significantly different with different materials?
There are a variety of products available some more expensive than others and depending on location and conditions of the property can dictate which is most suitable.
One of the most common roof coverings consists of individual overlapping elements; shingles have over the years been made of various materials such as cedar shakes/ shingles and most commonly “asphalt shingles” which consist of tar paper saturated with asphalt and coated with granules. Due to increased fire hazard, wood shingles and paper-based asphalt shingles have become less common than laminated fiberglass-based asphalt shingles. If you want the best environmentally friendly product for your roof – cedar shakes and shingles are for you. Cedar shakes have proven to be a sustainable practice. Wood, by nature, is thermally efficient and the only major building material that is renewable. The cells in wood products allow them to function as an insulator. Cedar shakes and shingles are a renewable resource, biodegradable, energy conserving and a free insulator for your home.
How much disruption can I expect during roofing work?
Removing the old roofing is a dirty, dusty and noisy job it can be a lot of disruption especially for that stage of the job, be sure to find a contractor who can do everything possible to keep it to a minimum.
Does a new roof require a building permit?
A building permit is not required unless the structure is being altered ie; added on to or structural changes.
What are some of the most common problems you come across with roofs in this area?
A lack of proper attic ventilation, ceiling fans ducted into the attic space and poor installation of the original roofing.
Are there any new developments that are changing the way new build roofs are designed?
The building code and manufacturer’s warranty requirements are constantly being upgraded which is good for the customer in that the work is being done to a higher standard to give a better long term job.
For more information visit www.admiralsroofing.com
