F.A.Q.
How to choose the right roof.
When selecting a roof system, durability and cost of course head the list. But keep in mind, aesthetics and architectural style are important as well. The right roof system for you is one that balances all these considerations.
What is the minimum slope needed to install asphalt shingles?
Don’t go lower than 2:12 which means two inches of vertical rise for every twelve inches of horizontal run. Anything between 2:12 and 4:12, you should consider installing two layers of #15 felt underlayment, reducing the exposure of the shingle – the exposure or the area of the shingle that remains visible after installation, or both. In case of both of these, you may want to install a self-adhering water underlayment over the entire deck surface.
What kind of felt underlayment should I use?
Felt paper is a vapor barrier plus keeps the oils in the shingles from leeching out and into the wood substrate ( i.e. plywood or OSB roof deck), so #15, 20, or 30 will work for any shingle roof. The type I recommend depends on roof shape.
Slopes less than 4/12 – use 2 layers of #15. This helps reduce the risk of leaks. The felt overlaps in ” shingle fashion”.
Slopes 4/12 to 6/12 – use one layer of #15 or #20.
Slopes < 6/12 – use one layer of #30. It is heavier so on steeper slopes, you don’t slip and tear it as easily.
Helpful pointers in selecting a qualified roofing contractor.
- Make sure that your contractor has a Roofing License, and ask to see a copy.
- Verify that he/she carries General Liability Insurance to protect your home and neighbors, and ask to see a copy of their certification.
- Verify that he/she currently has Worker’s Compensation and ask to see a copy of the policy. This will protect you against any employee injury lawsuits. If your roofing contractor does not carry Worker’s Compensation, you may notice that the estimate is considerably less in price.
- Make sure the roofing contractor is bonded and ask to see a copy.
- Make sure the roofing contractor is highly qualified in installing your product.
- Ask to see a list of references. If the contractor is reputable, he/she should have them on file and be able to provide them immediately.
- Make sure your contractor has a local city business license on file prior to starting your job.
- In order to be free of any liens, make sure your roofer offers you a material and labor lien release before final payment.
- Make sure all proper permits are pulled before the work is started.
- Upon final payment, you should receive a manufacturer’s warranty signed, dated and authorized from the roofing contractor.
- To ensure timely installation, make sure your job is properly scheduled.
- To ensure the highest quality of work, ask who will be supervising the job daily.
- Make sure the contracts are legal and state your rights and the contractor’s rights. The contracts should also specify materials, length of warranty, and what it covers.