ROOFING FAQs
Most frequent questions and answers
A: At times the answer can be obvious… Holes in the roof, leaks, missing shingles, or animals getting in the attic. Sometimes they can be a little more subtle, curling shingles, missing or damaged flashing ice dams, and discoloration on your ceiling or walls.
Before moving forward with the decision to replace your roof entirely, there are a few signs to watch for to determine whether the time is right for you and your home. Here are six telltale signs it’s time for a new roof.
- Your Roof Is Old – The majority of roofs last between 20 and 25 years.
If your roof is over 20 years old, it is probably at or near the end of its life. But do not wait 20 years to have your roof inspected. Under normal circumstances, your roof should be inspected at least once a year.
- Worn Down Chimney Flashing – Cement and tar flashing wears down over time. Make sure you take a good look at the flashing around your chimney. Metal flashing is usually a better option as it generally stays watertight.
- Damaged Shingles – When it comes to shingled roofs, look for curled, buckled, or missing shingles. This is a sure sign that it is time for a new roof replacement. Check for shingle granules in your gutters. This indicates that your shingles are too old.
- Daylight Coming Through Roof Boards – If you see light streaking from the roof’s decking, you may have a big problem as this means the nails have fallen through or corrosive materials used have lost their weatherproofing properties as well (i.e. flashing, collars, and step flashing).
- Excessively High Energy Bills – High heating and cooling bills can be from energy escaping due to poor ventilation and insulation in your home, especially in your attic and roof. If you notice you have high energy bills in addition to any of the warning signs listed above, it could be because your roof is under-performing.
- Roof Leaks – Leaks are usually the first sign of roof failure. If your roof is beginning to leak, other areas of your home and its foundation are put at risk, especially if you do not address the roofing problem as quickly as possible.
A: Simplified answer is 15-25 years. This answer varies greatly depending on the materials used. While there have been significant advancements in the technology of new shingles and materials that are exponentially more durable the life expectancy of singles can be up to 25 years.
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A: Every roof is different therefore every price is different. Things that will be factored into the price include size, old roof removal, style, shape, and materials needed. Things to also factor in are features like chimneys, skylights, and vents that would need to be worked around.
For your FREE, no-obligation consultation, call (860) 650-1951 or complete our online request form.
A:
Shingles (Asphalt, Fiberglass, Composite) – Almost 90% of homes in the US use composite asphalt shingles because they’re affordable, durable, and easy to install. They can last up to 30 years and can be recycled to make pavement. They are also low-maintenance, easy to find, works in most climates, and come in various colors.
Metal Roofing – Metal roofing feels like a modern choice, but they’ve been around since the 1800s. Metal sheets and shingles are a popular choice today because materials like aluminum and zinc are affordable, easy to transport, low-maintenance, and beautiful—even with age. They can last up to 80 years and are durable but will need to be soundproofed to reduce noise, and can require specialized labor when repairs are needed.
Wood Roofing – Wood roofing pairs well with charming Cape Cod cottages and cozy Craftsman and Tudor-style homes. They start sandy brown and silver with age. Wood roofs can last 50 years, depending on your climate. However, they are higher maintenance, although they provide added curb appeal for your home.
A: Older shingled roofs will last 20 – 25 years depending on materials used, installation, and ventilation. When an underlayment is used on a shingled roof it can increase that number.
A: If your roof is leaking, you have options. At times leaky roofs can be fixed, and don’t always need to be replaced. Several factors contribute to the solution. The current roof age, warranty, and extent of the leak. At Pawcatuck Roofing we’ll never sell you on something you don’t need.
Give us a call, and we’ll come out and thoroughly inspect your roof and come up with the perfect solution for you.
A: Up to 40% of your home’s curb appeal is due to the condition of your roof. A damaged or leaky roof may cause issues getting full-price bids if you’re selling your home. Replacing your roof before you sell it can help you avoid any trouble, and you may recoup most, if not all, of the costs when you sell.
A: Each roof requires a customized solution and comes with many options. The shape and style of your roof determines whether you need shingle, flat, asphalt, or designer. With every option comes different materials and varying prices. You can choose from materials such as shingles, tiles, slate, or rolled roofs.
While the material type is what you’ll see, we also factor in things like decking, drip edge, ice and water barrier, underlayment, flashing, and ventilation. The professionals at Pawcatuck Roofing know what is right for every solution. Give us a call today to discuss your individual needs. CONNECTICUT: (860) 650-1951 // RHODE ISLAND: (860) 926-1657
A: No, if they are in good shape, we will work around them. If your gutters are in relatively good condition but need a minor repair, or need to be replaced, we can provide this service too.
