Frequently Asked Roofing Questions

Roofing Questions? We've Got Answers!

You have a sneaking suspicion you may need a new roof. Or, you may have a leak that is it making it quite obvious that your roof needs attention. Either way, chances are you have questions. You’re not alone. After having been in the industry as long as we have, there are some questions we are asked more frequently than others. That’s why we have compiled this list of frequently asked roofing questions:

Q: How can I tell if there is a problem with my roof?

A: All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. However, regularly scheduled inspections can uncover issues before they have the potential to become costly. Inspections can reveal deeply cracked shingles or shingles that are warped, missing, or blistered. Other issues of concern are loose seams, deteriorated flashings, and excessive granule loss from the surface of the shingles. Indoors, signs can include cracked paint, peeling wallpaper and discolored plasterboard as areas of concern. It’s important to remember that many roofing issues aren’t spotted from the ground and require the eye of a trained professional.

Q: My roof leaks. Will I need a full roof replacement?

A: Not necessarily. It largely depends on the nature and extent of your leaks. How long your roof has been leaking may be another factor. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a section of the roof system being damaged. A repair may be possible. However, a complete roof system failure is generally irreversible and will need a full replacement. A trained roofing inspector can provide you with the best course of action.

Q: Why do I need to hire you? Can’t I replace my roof myself?

A. This is one of the most common questions posed to roofers. Unfortunately, roofers (and home improvement contractors) have a poor reputation. In fact, The Better Business Bureau has reported that 73% of homeowners don’t trust contractors. However, for your safety and the well-being of your roof, it is important to remember the following:

You could seriously damage your roof. If you improperly nail your roof, it may result in lifted shingles, ripples, and leaks. More drastically, there is the potential for your roof to collapse. Beyond risking costly damage to the structure of your home, you risk bodily damage as well.
It may not even be legal. Depending on the location of your home, your homeowner’s association, and your county’s building code, it may be illegal for a homeowner to do work on their home. Even if it is legally allowed, you will have to pass building inspections.
You may void your manufacturer’s warranty and/or your homeowner’s insurance. Improper installations of roof replacements have resulted in manufacturers or homeowner’s insurance companies not covering a roof that was not installed by a trained, licensed contractor.

frequently asked roofing questions

Q. What should I look for in a roofing contractor?

A. There is certainly no shortage of roofing contractors. When it comes time for you to hire one, it can feel like a very daunting process. When you meet with an estimator from a particular company, here is a list of questions you can ask:

Are they licensed and insured?
What additional certifications or guarantees do they offer (i.e Google Guaranteed)?
How long have they been in business?
How many roofing projects have been completed to date?
Are they truly local? Do they understand the roofing needs of homeowners in your area?
What is their policy regarding the safety of their roofers?
What financing options do they offer?
What is their approach to roofing? Do they just want to sell you a roof replacement or do they offer services such as roof cleaning, repair and regularly scheduled maintenance?
If you are going through your insurance, are they pressuring you to sign an AOB or do they believe you, as the homeowner, should maintain your rights?
Do they have relationships with any new construction home builders?
Don’t forget any questions specific to your particular roof and situation.

Q: What will a new roof cost?

A: There are a lot of variables that will factor into the price of your new roof. Factors include the materials selected, the size of your home or building, whether there are any accessories currently on your roof, the contractor doing the work, and any additional needs your roof may require (i.e. new plywood).

When choosing a material, you should keep in mind that there are different grades and corresponding prices. There are also a variety of styles and shapes. It’s important to consider the full product range to make a choice in line with your budget.

Finally, there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. In the end, price is only one factor. It must be balanced with the quality of the materials and the workmanship of a contractor who has a portfolio of upstanding work.

Q: How long can I expect my roof system to last?

A: Most new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for about 20 years. Some roof system types, such as tile and metal, can last longer. We recommend consulting our guides on shingle, tile, and metal roofs to understand the longevity of each type of system.

However, it is important to remember that, regardless of the system you choose, the actual roof system life span is determined by a number of factors. These factors can include the climate and environment conditions in your area, proper roof design and installation, quality of the material you suggest (and its suitability), and regularly scheduled, quality roof cleaning and maintenance.

Your roofing contractor should offer a workmanship warranty in partnership with the manufacturer’s warranty for your chosen product. Take a close look at those warranties to see what responsibilities and financial obligations manufacturers will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lives.

Q. What separates Roof Commander from other roofing companies in my area?

A. Roof Commander is a licensed and insured family-owned roofing company that has been servicing our neighbors since 2010. We understand the climate, we understand the environment, and we understand the importance of having a roofer you can rely on. The Roof Commander WeatherDefender™ Roof Systems provide homeowners with protection that meets or exceeds the Miami-Dade Building Codes which are the toughest in the industry. Our Signature, Designer, and Armor Series Systems are backed by our WorryFree Guarantee. In addition to offering a quality product, with a strong workmanship guarantee, we have positioned ourselves as a trusted roofing resource for others in the industry and we are proud to pass our knowledge onto our neighbors as well. With Roof Commander, we are roofing made simple.