Questions and Answers

Here we will answer your roofing questions. The idea is to be a friendly reference who will answer you truthfully, without jargon and without a motivation to sell you something. Imagine you have a sister who is a roofer; what would you like to ask?

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Questions may be edited for clarity.

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Question: A roofer has told us we need a "Tear-Off" instead of just a new roof. What is a "Tear-Off" and why do I need it?

Question: What are these ugly dark/black streaks on my roof and can this guy at the door really wash them off?

Question: I've hired a contractor to do work on my home, he's asking for a 50% deposit before he'll start the job. Is it safe to pay him?

Question: When do you replace your roof or when can you just repair it?

Question: What is a life-time roof and is it really worth THAT kind of money?

Question: My roofer recommends copper flashing but says it will cost me more than what they usually use. Do I need copper? Why? And what is flashing anyway?

Question: 25 year shingles? 30 year shingles? Architect shingles? 50 year shingles? Who knew there were all these decisions in keeping your house dry? What are these people talking about?

Question: What is a power-ventilator and why does my roofer insist I need 3?

Question: I’m trying to get estimates for a new roof on my home. One guys says so much “per square”, another has a less expensive “square” price but has a list of “extras” that cost more. I don’t think I’m stupid, but what’s a “square” and what are “extras”?