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Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing? Q: How can a Pennsylvania
homeowner recognize when a roof system has problems?
A: All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other
serious damage occurs. Periodic (twice-a-year) inspections often can uncover
cracked, warped or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings;
excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other
visible signs of roof system problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint,
discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
Q: My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?
A: Not necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a
section of the roof system being damaged. A complete roof system failure,
however, generally is irreversible and a result of improper installation or
choice of materials or the roof system installation is inappropriate for the
home or building.
Q: Can I do the work myself?
A: Most work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors are
trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can damage
your roof system by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure
yourself by falling off or through the roof.
Maintenance performed by home and building owners should be confined to
inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring to check for cracked or
curling shingles and cleaning gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris.
If you must inspect your roof system yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off
ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the
ladder (and off the roof system), if possible.
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 slate, clay tile and certain metal (e.g.,
copper) systems, can last longer.
Actual roof system life span is determined by a number of factors, including
local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof system
design, material quality and suitability, proper application and adequate roof
maintenance.
Roofing product manufacturers offer a variety of warranties on their products.
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 will a new roof system cost?
A: The price of a new roof system varies widely, depending on such things as the
materials selected, contractor doing the work, home or building, location of the
home or building, local labor rates and time of year. Keep in mind that price is only one factor, and it
must be balanced with the quality of the materials and workmanship.
For each roofing material, there are different grades and corresponding prices.
There also are a variety of styles and shapes. You need to look at the full
product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs.
Within the roofing profession, there are different levels of expertise and
craftsmanship. Insist on a contractor who is committed to quality work.
If you are
looking for a
Pennsylvania
commercial roofing
contractor to
repair or replace your roof,
please call us
today at
717-354-3737 or
complete our
online request
form
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