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FAQs

Have questions about our roofing, siding, or other exterior services? Find answers here, and please contact us if you have any additional questions. We believe in transparency and communication, so let us know how we can help!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical roof installation take?

Our typical roof installation takes one to two days depending on the size of the roof, how steep the roof is, and how much wood decking needs to be replaced.

What factors influence the cost of a new roof?

The factors that influence the cost of a new roof are generally the quality of material used, the difficulty of the installation, number of stories of the home, and the number of layers currently on the roof. You can read our blog post here for a more in-depth explanation on the factors that influence the cost of a new roof.

Do I need a permit for a roof installation?

Yes, have us pull the permit, because whoever pulls the permit is then liable for the work. Most cities in Southeast Michigan DO require a permit, with average permit costs between $150 and $600 based on the city where the work is being done.

What types of roofing materials are available, and which is best for my home?

• Homes are unique and our knowledgeable sales team will provide a personal inspection of YOUR current roof, then provide you with our recommendation of the best material solution for your home.
• We offer 30-year and 50-year dimensional asphalt shingles for most roofs, and for those homeowners who have flat roofs, we provide EDPM installation, Flintlastic installation and Silicone Coating Systems.

How do I choose a reputable roofing contractor?

• Check out their ratings and reviews. Look at the good and the bad. Things don’t always go perfectly, so how does the contractor handle that situation? Are they genuine reviews?
• Verify that your contractor has an up-to-date license and insurance.
• If they are not willing to pull the permit, big RED Flag!
• Do they offer free inspections, and did they ask to get into the attic?
• Ask if they offer a guarantee and how long it lasts.
• Are they certified by the manufacturer of the shingles they are installing? And if so, is their work covered through a manufacturer’s warranty?
• Do they take before, during, and after photos of the work?
• Are they willing to provide referrals from previous customers?

What is the lifespan of different roofing materials?

• For Shingled Roofs: There are two main asphalt dimensional shingles. The first has a lifespan of approximately 30 years and the second has a lifespan of approximately 50 years.
• For Flat Roofs: For EPDM, a rubber base membrane, the lifespan is approximately 10 years. Flintlastic, a rolled-out asphalt roofing material for flat roofs, lasts approximately 15 years. Lastly, Silicone Coating encapsulates the current roof and can extend the lifespan of the roof for approximately 20 years.

Can I install a new roof over my existing one, or does the old roof need to be removed?

• We advise that removing and replacing is a MUST, especially if you have any leaks. If we go over what’s there, we have no idea what is actually underneath, leaving potential for mold growth and more leaks. Additionally, new shingles will not last nearly as long when covering the old ones.
• Michigan building code states that 2 layers is the maximum allowed here, so if you have two layers, we must do a complete tear-off.

What is the difference between a flat roof and a pitched roof?

The steepness of the roof determines if it is flat or pitched and this is measured on a scale of 0/12 to 12/12. If a roof is a 2/12 or lower, it is considered flat, and flat roofing material must be used for installation, not only for the safety of the home but to meet building code requirements as well. Here in Michigan, if your roof is measured at 3/12, we are required to cover the entire roof deck (the wood the roof sits on) with ice and water shield.

How can I ensure proper ventilation of my attic during the roof installation?

Ventilation is the most critical component of your roofing system, and this is how we achieve the longest lifespan of your roof! We will explain the current type of ventilation you have in detail, what is needed to balance the airflow, and how we are going to install it. Our sales team and our installers are certified year after to year through AirVent, Inc. to ensure we are up-to-date on optimal ventilation and available products.

What warranties are typically offered for roofing materials and installation?

Be wary! We have all heard of extended warranties that panned out to be worth about…. Nothing. We are a 5-star certified contractor through CertainTeed, which means that our entire team has to test each year, ensuring we are up-to-date on the materials we use and exactly how to install them. Our work is inspected by members of CertainTeed’s team, and we must be current on our liability and workers compensation insurance as well as be in good financial standing. Meeting those high standards means we offer an exclusive warranty directly through CertainTeed that covers tear-off, material, disposal and labor! Almost unbelievable right?! The best part? If we win the lottery and move to Bora Bora, CertainTeed can only replace our work with another 5-star certified contractor.

Will the roofing contractor handle the removal of the old roof and disposal of materials?

You mean you don’t want to climb up onto your roof, rip the old roof off and handle getting all the old nasty nails and debris into a dumpster? Of course not—but WE do! This type of home remodel takes the right tools, equipment, and knowledge. We will handle it all from the start with our professional set-up to the final nail clean up. We leave your home looking better than when we arrived.

What steps can be taken to prepare my home for the roof installation?

The only preparation is covering and/or removing any valuable or precious items that may be stored in your attic or garage. Old dust, sawdust and granules fall through the rafters while we are working, so covering items or removing that precious Hot Rod or Harley before we come really helps! As for patio furniture, grills or items normally stored outside, we will move them away from the home during installation and then put them back into their spot once we are finished.

How can I identify if there is damage to the roof deck during installation?

Once your old roof is completely removed, the deck will be visible to assess for damage. Our team leader/foreman will take pictures of the deck and then replace only the area/s that require replacement. If you are home during installation, we will knock on the door and let you know if there is damaged wood and our plan for replacing it. If you are not home, we will call and keep you updated on the decking the day of install.

Are there any energy-efficient roofing options available?

The very best way to ensure energy efficiency in Michigan is by having the most efficient ventilation system and the proper amount of insulation in your attic. These two systems work together to create a long life for the roof and additionally, they take the pressure off your furnace and air conditioner.

What kind of maintenance is required for the new roof?

The best way to maintain your new roof is ensuring the gutters are clear of debris to facilitate water dispersion and to trim back any tree branches that may be touching the roof. That’s it!

Can you provide a detailed estimate, including labor and material costs?

Our estimates include a free roof and attic inspection, a personalized meeting with one of our knowledgeable sales team members, an open discussion of all available options and the best solutions for your home, a value-driven price including all skilled labor, quality materials, and disposal. When it comes to your home and your money, we make it personal!

How can you handle unexpected issues, such as rotted wood or structural problems?

We determine the “very worst case scenario” prior to beginning and openly discuss this with you. We are transparent and open about your home, and while most installs do not have structural issues, we are homeowners, too, and no one wants major surprises during a large project like a new roof. Not only will we be prepared before we start, but we document everything and will keep you informed along the way.

Do I need to be home during the installation process?

• You do not need to be home; however, we do ask for the best way to contact you during install so we can keep you informed on how the project is progressing.
• If you are home, you are always welcome to come out, take a look around and ask questions. If you are a dog owner and your pet needs to go out while we are installing, we can quickly run a magnet to ensure that your pet is safe while we are working.

What safety measures are in place during installation to protect my property and the workers?

• Safety first! Our crews follow all OSHA regulations and communicate heavily throughout the install to ensure all members are safe.
• We always use rubber-wheeled dumpsters to protect your driveway.
• We believe that setting up the property for protection is KEY. How do we do this? One very special piece of equipment called The Catch All. This is a special net system that protects landscaping and catches the nails and debris. It is breathable to protect the grass, not like the old school tarps that would cook the grass and create hot spots. This new technology is really a game-changer!

How often should I have my roof inspected after installation?

We recommend inspection at least once every five years. If we have extreme weather events with hail, strong winds, and ice, call us. We are ready and willing to come take a look. Proactive inspections help us maintain your peace and protection.

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