This is probably the most frequently asked question from homeowners and also one of the most difficult questions for us to answer. The best way for us to respond is: What is your budget? Roofing technology has created so many options for customers that you can basically customize your roof to fit your lifestyle and budget. There are many things to consider when looking into a new roof. First it is important to know what types of roofing are available for your roof. Ask yourself: Do I have a flat roof? Or a roof with a slope? Once you have determined that, you may then explore what options you have. Buying a roof is much like buying a car. Ask yourself: Do I want a Honda or a Porsche? and more importantly: Can I afford it?

Again, this answer depends on how you put on your new roof. If your roof has 2 or less layers, you can reroof. Benefits to re-roofing would be 1) it’s cheaper because there is less labor involved, 2) it’s faster to get the job done because there is no tearing off and 3) it’s nicer for the planet because there’s no debris. If you have more than 2 layers, it is HIGHLY advised that you tear off. The length of time also depends on the size of the roof, material availability and contractor’s availability.

Good question. A Contractor’s Watertight Guarantee is a guarantee against water infiltration or leaks. This guarantee does not cover any Acts of God including high winds, earthquakes, tsunamis, etc. By law, a contractor is only allowed to issue a warranty for up to 7 years. A Manufacturer’s Material Warranty covers any defects to the material, not against water infiltration. Manufacturer’s Material Warranties vary according to which product you choose.

Applying a roof coating to your roof will not necessarily protect your roof from leaks. Your roof must first be reinforced, and the coating must be applied according to manufacturer specifications. Once issued a Contractor Watertight Guarantee, your roof is protected against leaks. However to be clear, coating over an existing roof alone will not watertight your roof, it will only make it cooler.

There are many ways to maximize energy efficiency through your roofing products. For example, instead of installing asphalt shingles which absorb heat and then retains in your house, you can install an energy efficient shingle that have ceramic granules which reflect the heat and keeps your home cool. For flat to low slope roofs, try a TPO roofing system or a coating system which is easy to install and also keeps the home cool. Many of the roofing products out there qualify you for a tax rebate which is an added bonus. For more information or questions about how to make your roof more efficient, call our office to have a free consultation!