Long Island’s Trusted Roofers: Repair, Maintenance & Installation

Is your roof showing some signs of wear and tear? Here are a few tips to help you decide if a repair will suffice:

• Small Issues: A few missing shingles or minor leaks can be addressed with a simple repair.
• Localized Damage: Damage in a specific area of the roof often doesn't require a full replacement.
• Recent Roof: Repairs will be enough if your roof is relatively new and has suffered damage, such as from a recent storm.

Identifying a bad roofing job early can save you from costly repairs in the future. Some warning signs include:

• Visible damage, issues such as missing or damaged shingles, and stains that may indicate leaks.
• Poor installation practices, such as improper nailing and the absence of underlayment or drip edges.
• Uniformity issues like mismatched shingles or sagging rooflines.
• Reused materials like flashing and vents can compromise your roof's integrity.

Ensuring that your roof is installed with quality materials and by a skilled professional can help you avoid these problems. If you suspect something is wrong with your roof, don’t hesitate to contact us for a professional assessment.

After a hailstorm, it’s important to check for signs of damage. You can start from the ground by looking for dents, cracks, or missing shingles. On asphalt shingles, hail damage often appears as dark spots, bruising, or granule loss, which can be found accumulating in the gutters. For wood shingles, watch out for small indents, cracks, or holes.

Additionally, inspect roof features like vents, skylights, and flashing for signs of damage. If you notice anything suspicious, it’s best to have a professional inspect your roof to assess the extent of the damage.

Ice dams form when snow melts and refreezes on your roof, causing damage if not addressed. If you notice an ice dam:

• Safely remove icicles to prevent injury or damage to your property.
• If possible, chip away the ice or pour hot water to melt it. However, do this cautiously to avoid damaging your shingles.
• Applying calcium chloride can also help to break down the ice.

Consider hiring a professional to remove the ice dam for safety and efficiency. To prevent future ice dams, improve attic insulation and ventilation and ensure your gutters are clear of debris.

Asphalt shingles come in three main varieties:

• Architectural Shingles: More durable with a dimensional look, often resembling slate or wood.
• Three-Tab Shingles: Basic and cost-effective, ideal for homeowners on a budget.
• Luxury Shingles: The highest quality, offering excellent aesthetic appeal and durability at a fraction of the cost of premium materials. Your choice will depend on your budget, desired appearance, and preferred level of durability.

The choice between cedar shakes and asphalt shingles depends on a few factors:

• Cedar Shakes offer a natural, rustic look and excellent insulation, lasting up to 30 years. However, they are more costly and need regular maintenance.
• Asphalt Shingles are more affordable, easier to install, available in a wide range of styles and colors, and require less maintenance. They are also fire-resistant and last up to 20 years. The choice ultimately depends on your budget, desired look, and the maintenance you’re willing to undertake.

Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are worth considering if you live in an area prone to hail, high winds, or other extreme weather. Designed to withstand impact from debris and hail, these shingles reduce the need for frequent repairs and extend your roof's lifespan. Additionally, many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with Class 4 shingles, helping offset the initial cost.

Roof lifespan varies depending on materials and environmental factors:

• Architectural Asphalt Shingles: 24-30 years
• Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles: 15-18 years
• Metal Roofs: 30-45 years
• Concrete Tiles: 35-50 years.

Factors like material quality, installation quality, roof color, slope, and climate all play a role. Regular maintenance is key to maximizing your roof’s longevity.

To determine your roof's age:

• Contact the Previous Owner: If you purchased your home recently, the previous owner or real estate agent may have details.
• Check Records: Look for home improvement records, building permits, or warranties.
• Professional Assessment: A professional roofing contractor can accurately assess the roof’s age and condition.

Adding new shingles over existing ones can be a cost-effective and faster option, known as a roof overlay. However, this can lead to issues like hidden damage, added weight, and shorter roof lifespan. Roof overlays are suitable when the existing roof is in good condition and has no more than one shingle layer.

However, a tear-off, where old shingles are removed, is often preferred for a thorough inspection and to ensure a strong foundation for the new roof.

Choosing between dark and light shingles depends on your climate and aesthetic preference:

• Dark Shingles absorb more heat, which helps melt snow faster in colder climates.
• Light Shingles reflect more sunlight, which helps keep your home cooler in hot climates and may reduce energy costs. Ultimately, the difference is minimal if your home is well-insulated, so choose based on the style that best complements your home's design.

The best color for your asphalt shingle roof will depend on factors like:

• Architectural Style: Darker shingles often make large roofs look less imposing, while lighter shingles can make a smaller home appear larger.
• Neighborhood Aesthetics: Consider the colors of other homes in your area to maintain a consistent look.
• Environmental Factors: The color should also be chosen with climate in mind—dark colors absorb heat, while lighter colors reflect it. Aim for a harmonious contrast between your roof and siding for maximum curb appeal.

A new roof can significantly boost your home's value with an average return on investment (ROI) of 60-68%. Beyond aesthetics, a new roof enhances energy efficiency, structural integrity, and buyer confidence, potentially increasing your home's resale value by about $12,000.

Roof replacement costs can vary significantly depending on factors like size, complexity, and materials used. On average, homeowners in DuPage County can expect to spend between $7,000 and $10,000 for an asphalt shingle roof on a 2,000-square-foot home. The final cost will also depend on additional features like skylights and vents, with materials accounting for around 40% and labor for 60%.

Hiring a local roofing contractor comes with several advantages:

• Personalized Service: Local contractors can offer faster and more tailored service, especially for follow-up or emergency repairs.
• Familiarity with Building Codes: Local contractors are familiar with regional codes and climate conditions.
• Community Investment: Local contractors have a reputation to maintain within the community, leading to higher quality workmanship and better customer service.

A standard roofing warranty usually has two parts- a work warranty and a manufacturer's material warranty. The contractor's workmanship warranty covers any installation errors and typically lasts around 10 years. On the other hand, the manufacturer's material warranty ensures the quality of the roofing materials and can range from 25 to 30 years, with some extending up to 50 years.

With these warranties in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof's installation and materials are well-protected.