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How to Prepare Your Home for Roofing Installation
Arthur’s Roofing installation is a labor-intensive process that requires special skills and equipment.
First, the old shingles are removed and the plywood base is inspected for damage. Then, ice and water protection is placed, along with new drip edge and replacement wall flashings.
There are many roofing materials to choose from, each offering different protection and aesthetic appeal. A roofer can walk homeowners through all the options that fit their goals, architecture and budget.
Roofing materials include shingles, flashing and gutters. The right shingle material will provide durability and weather resistance that matches the climate of your region.
Other roofing components include drip edges, venting and ridge caps. These features are installed to prevent water damage. Drip edges are channels that collect rainwater and channel it away from the fascia and soffit area, protecting against moisture buildup. Ventilation systems like ridge vents, soffit vents and powered exhaust fans promote airflow in the attic space to avoid moisture buildup in the eaves.
The roofing contractors you hire to complete your re-roofing project should be equipped with the proper tools and safety equipment for the job. Pry bars can be used to remove nails, staples and other fasteners from the old roof decking. Hard hats, protective eyewear and gloves shield the workers from falling debris and dirt.
Rolled roofing is another option that provides a low-cost, utilitarian look for flat or sloped residential roofs and outbuildings like sheds. It consists of long rolls of asphalt-impregnated and mineral granulated material rolled into strips that overlap each other. It can be installed on bare wood sheathing or over a layer of felt. The felt protects the sheathing against condensation and leaking.
Preparation
Roofing contractors need a clear workspace to work safely and efficiently. To prepare your home for a new roof, remove outdoor items like patio furniture and lawn ornaments from the area around your house to prevent them from being damaged by dust or debris during the roofing process. It is also a good idea to move any vehicles that are kept in the garage or other outside areas away from your home during the roofing installation, as this will help keep them out of the way and safe from construction debris.
Inside your home, the roofing process can create vibrations that could damage framed photos, paintings and other wall hangings. Wrap any valuables in blankets or bubble wrap and place them in a safe spot until the roof is finished. Backup any computer files, as power tools can cause electrical surges that could affect the integrity of your data. Take down any light fixtures prone to vibration damage and put away fragile decor items that could fall during the project.
Ask your roofing contractor to inspect your gutters and make sure they are clean of leaves and other debris. They should also inspect the flashing around chimneys, skylights and other roof protrusions, as well as the ridge vent. A professional will know how to replace these areas with proper flashing and sealants to protect your home from water intrusion.
Shingles
Shingles are the main part of your roof, and they provide the protection that keeps your home safe from the elements. They can be installed on a variety of roof types and styles, such as flat, pitched, or sloping. There are also various color and design options available to fit your style, whether you prefer a classic 3-tab, architectural, or premium shingle.
When installing shingles, it’s important to follow the roofing installation instructions provided with your materials. This ensures the best results, as well as protecting your roof and helping to maintain its warranty coverage. If you’re working with a new roof, it is a good idea to have someone nearby to help you get the material up onto the roof and unrolling properly. You may need to create a hoist system or use a ladder extension to reach certain areas of your roof.
Start with the first course of shingles (called a starter course). Cut off the tabs from a full shingle and place it on the bottom of your roof, overhanging the drip edge by about 1/4 inch. Nail it in place with four nails per shingle, being careful not to nail into the wood sheathing.
Continue to lay down shingle courses in overlapping rows, making sure each one overlaps the next by at least half. Check the roof for any damage and make repairs as needed before moving on to the next section of your roof.
Flashing
Flashing is material that’s installed at critical points where water could leak into walls or roofs. These include valleys where two different roof slopes meet, wall-roof intersections, and projections like chimneys, dormers, and skylights. Flashing helps prevent leaks in these areas and directs rainwater away from the structure.
Generally, flashing is made of either metal or rubber, though it can also be made from plastic. The type of flashing used will depend on the material chosen for a roof and other factors such as cost considerations, architectural design, and compatibility with adjoining materials.
The most common flashing material is galvanized steel, which works well with metal roofs and protects against corrosion. Lead flashing is also available, and it’s considered to be one of the most durable types of flashings due to its naturally long-lasting resistance to moisture and changing exterior temperatures.
When laying down flashing, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. For example, pipe flashings should be placed carefully around soil stacks to avoid leaking. It’s also necessary to use nails sparingly when securing flashings, as too many can cause the flashing to break down. When nailing the flashings, be sure to place a dab of roofing cement over each exposed nail for extra protection against leaks. Corner flashing is also sometimes required, and it can be made by bending a piece of standard step flashing into a “L” shape. This is accomplished by using tin snips to cut along the center fold.
Underlayment
A critical layer between the roof deck and the roof covering, underlayment protects the home from moisture that would otherwise penetrate the roof surface. Moisture penetration can cause a host of issues, including leaks, wood rot, mildew and mold. There are several types of underlayment available, from asphalt-saturated felt to rubberized asphalt to non-bitumen synthetic underlayments.
Felt underlayment is one of the oldest and most common types of underlayment. It is made from organic paper or fiberglass mat that has been saturated with asphalt and comes in two standard weights, 15 and 30 pounds per hundred square feet. It is typically installed in courses and requires a selvedge edge along the edges where rolls overlap.
The underlayment helps to create a strong, watertight seal at the joints of the rolls and is also designed to help the rolls stay in place during installation. It is also available with a non-skid surface, which makes it easier for roofers to walk on during installation.
The underlayment is usually designed to last as long as the outer roofing material and is resistant to fungal growth, UV damage and tear. It is also a barrier against moisture, which makes it an important feature for homes in wet climates. However, it’s important to note that using certain types of synthetic underlayment may void the warranty of some roof covering materials. It’s best to consult your manufacturer’s recommendations before choosing a particular underlayment for your project.
Cleanup
A thorough and professional cleanup after a roof installation is crucial to the success of the project. The removal of old shingles and materials can leave behind a variety of unsightly debris on your lawn, sidewalks, driveway, and neighboring properties. These materials may contain nails and other sharp debris that can pose a safety risk for anyone walking barefoot or pets roaming the area. They can also block gutters and downspouts, which can lead to water accumulation in the roof that can damage the new shingles.
Your roofing contractor should outline their cleanup process in the contract, ensuring that this is a priority for the crew. This will be a significant factor in their ability to deliver on their commitment to provide you with a clean, finished project. In addition, your contractor will provide you with clear communication channels so you can understand how they will perform their work.
Prior to the roofing job starting, your contractor will probably have a dumpster delivered and placed on your property for waste disposal. You should prepare your yard for this in advance by moving vehicles from your driveway and removing any outdoor furniture or potted plants that could be damaged during the roof tear-off process. Having your lawn mowed and shrubbery trimmed will help to ensure that loose shingle debris makes it into the dumpster and not onto your property. Your roofer will also likely use a magnetic sweeper to search for and collect any stray nails that don’t make it into the trash.
Top Roofing Services: Reliable And Professional Roofers Near You
Whether you’re looking for a new roof or roof repair services, it’s essential to choose the right Helena Roofers. Look for local pros with years of experience and verified customer reviews. They should be licensed and insured so you can rest assured they follow industry standards and regulations.
Get referrals from friends and neighbors, or ask at local lumberyards and home improvement stores. Check that the prospects have workers’ compensation and general liability insurance coverage.
Experience
When choosing a roofing contractor, look for someone with years of experience. This is particularly important if you are considering having your roof repaired or replaced. A good way to gauge a potential roofer’s experience is by looking at their customer reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. You can also ask for local references. A reputable roofing company should have references from previous clients who are happy with their work.
We have the expertise to repair all types of commercial and industrial roofs, including historic restoration projects. They are also known for their excellent customer service and quality craftsmanship. In addition to their roofing services, they also offer general construction and facility maintenance.
You can find a locally based residential and roofing contractor that offers remodeling, roofing, and home improvements. They have over 40 years of industry experience and are known for their high-quality workmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction. In addition to their roofing services, A-Top can help you add value and charm to your home with window installation and protection.
If you have a shingle roof, it may need to be replaced or repaired. In this case, you should hire a professional roofing contractor to perform an initial inspection to assess the condition of your roof. A good roofing company will be able to identify the problems and recommend the best solution.
They provide services that include roof installation, repairs, coating and restoration, and maintenance. They also offer a roof asset management system called TectaTracker.
The best roofing companies will be able to identify the cause of your roof damage and provide solutions that will last for many years. They will also be able to provide you with advice about the best materials and installation methods for your roof. They will also have the necessary licensing and insurance to protect you in the event of an accident during the project.
Reputation
You want to choose a roofer with a good reputation for quality work and great customer service. They should have a long history in the business and be licensed and insured. You should also check their website for online reviews and testimonials. Make sure the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and displays this on its website.
You should also ask about any guarantees or warranties. A reliable roofing contractor will provide strong manufacturers’ warranties and a minimum of a 5-year guarantee on workmanship. You should also find out whether the roofing contractor is a member of any professional organizations, like the National Roofing Contractors Association. These groups help ensure that your roofing contractor follows strict quality standards and is qualified to install, repair, or replace a roof.
Greenwood Industries is one of the fastest-growing $50M+ commercial roofing contractors in the country. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including new construction, replacement, maintenance, and historic restoration. They use sustainable materials and energy-efficient insulation to reduce heating and cooling costs. They are also committed to providing excellent customer service and have a strong focus on safety.
A good roofer will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate that includes the cost of labor and materials. You should always compare estimates from several different companies before choosing a roofer. You should also consider the type of materials used and their durability. For example, a metal roof may last longer than a shingle roof.
Choosing the right roofing company is essential to preserving your home. The roof is the most important structural element of your home, and you should only work with a professional roofing contractor. Ensure you hire a roofing contractor with the experience and qualifications needed to complete the job on time and within budget.
Before you hire a roofing company, you should prepare your property for work by moving any vehicles out of the way and mowing the grass to avoid damage from nails or debris. You should also remove any items that are too close to the house, such as toys, plants, or patio furniture. You should also clear the area around your roof for easy access and removal of materials.
Warranties
A roof is an incredibly important part of a building or home, protecting the interior from the elements. Roofing problems, such as leaks and missing shingles, can quickly create a chain reaction that affects the entire structure. For example, water leaks can damage the foundation of a building, cause wood to rot, and introduce excess moisture that creates a haven for mold growth. Therefore, it’s important to work with a reputable and experienced roofing contractor when you need roof repairs or a new roof installed.
Most reputable roofing contractors will offer warranties for their services. These warranties can be in the form of a manufacturer warranty or a workmanship guarantee. Manufacturer warranties typically apply to the materials used for a new roof and cover issues that occur due to manufacturing defects. These include things like faulty shingles, underlayment that fails prematurely, and sealant failures. Often, these warranties will also cover the cost of labor and other materials that are required to make the necessary repairs.
Roofing workmanship warranties, on the other hand, apply to the installation side of the job. These warranties are designed to cover any issues that arise as a result of the work being performed. These may include a leak that was caused by improper installation or a problem with the ventilation system. Depending on the roofing contractor, these warranties can last for 10 or more years.
When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s important to understand what each warranty covers and what limitations are attached. Regardless of whether you’re getting a new roof or needing repairs, it’s always wise to go with a company that offers both a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship guarantee. These warranties will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a reputable roofing company.
However, even the best roofing warranties do not cover everything. For instance, the typical roofing warranty will not include coverage for heavy snowfall or hail damage, and unauthorized repairs by other contractors may also void a warranty. This is why it’s important to follow the guidelines in your roofing warranty and to hire a professional roofer to perform any subsequent maintenance or repairs.
Insurance
When hiring a roofer, make sure they have the proper insurance to protect you and their employees. Most states require roofing contractors to have workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. These policies cover medical bills and lost wages if an employee gets injured on the job. It also covers funeral expenses if an employee dies.
You should also make sure the roofing company is licensed and bonded. Obtaining a bond is a lengthy process that involves submitting a business plan and financial assurances. A professional contractor will be able to explain the types of bonds available and provide you with the best option based on your needs.
In addition to liability and workers’ compensation insurance, the roofer should have builder’s risk insurance and commercial auto insurance. These policies protect the property that is being worked on, as well as the equipment and materials. They can also cover vandalism and weather damage. These policies can be invaluable to a roofing business.
If you want to save money, consider a business owner’s policy (BOP). This bundles three types of coverage into one, including liability, commercial property, and business interruption insurance. Business interruption insurance covers any loss of income if your roofing business has to close due to a disaster. It can also help pay for moving expenses if your roof is destroyed.
When choosing a roofer, it’s important to find one with experience and a solid reputation. Check their reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Angi to see how customers rate their work. Beware of roofers who offer low prices but do shoddy work. A good contractor will be able to supplement your insurance claim and ensure the new roof is up to code.
Choosing the right roofing contractor is a crucial decision that can impact your home’s value and safety. Luckily, some companies offer a variety of roofing materials to fit any budget and needs. Their experienced staff can even help you select the best color and design for your new roof. They are also a member of a community that brings together professional roofers to discuss new technologies and share stories.