Roofing and roof repairs

Should I repair or replace my roof?

If the roof is mostly sound and the problem is local, like a lifted section after a windstorm or a leak at a chimney, a repair makes sense. If shingles are curling, cracking or shedding granules across the whole roof, or there are leaks in several places, you are usually paying to patch a roof that is at the end of its life.

We will tell you which one you have. If a repair will do, we will quote the repair.

What causes ice dams?

Warm air from the house leaks into the attic and melts snow on the roof. The water runs down to the cold eaves, refreezes and builds a ridge of ice that backs water up under the shingles. The fix is in the attic as much as on the roof: better air sealing and insulation, balanced ventilation, and ice and water protection along the eaves.

Why do roofs leak around chimneys and walls?

Because that is where the roof surface is interrupted. Flashing has to direct water past the joint, and old or poorly lapped flashing is the most common leak we see. On a re-roof, we replace the flashing instead of reusing it.

Can a new roof go over the old one?

Sometimes it is allowed, but we recommend a full tear-off. Layering hides deck damage, adds weight, and makes the next re-roof harder and more expensive. Taking it down to the deck is the only way to know what you are building on.

What affects the price of a new roof?

Roof area, pitch, the number of layers to remove, how much of the deck needs replacing, and details like chimneys, skylights, valleys and dormers. Access matters too. The quote lists the deck repair rate separately, because nobody can see the deck until the old roof is off.

How long does a re-roof take?

A typical house is usually done in a few days, weather permitting. We only open up as much roof as can be closed in the same day, so your house is never left exposed overnight.