With a roofing consultation, construction, or repair quite literally hanging over your head, it’s natural to have questions. Clark Roofing has the answers so that you have the power to make a well-educated decision.
GENERAL
Q: At a glance, how do asphalt shingles, wooden shingles and shakes, and slate shingles compare:
A:
Q: How does one determine if they should replace a roof?
A: Walk around the outside perimeter of your home and inspect your roof for cracked, curled or missing shingles or shakes. For an asphalt roof, look for an excessive loss of the protective mineral granules. Also, in the attic (if you have one), take a flashlight and look at the underside of the roof deck and rafters for any stains or wet spots indicating water leaks. If any of the latter signs of wear and/or damage are present, it is wise to contact a roofing contractor immediately. However, please be advised that rather than replace your entire roof, you may simply be able to repair it. If a roofing contractor is quick to tell you to invest in new roof, seek a second opinion.
Q: How do I stop moss from growing on my roof?
A: For older roofs, have zinc or copper strips installed at the apex. Modern shingles eliminate this corrective measure as they are treated with zinc during production. Both copper and zinc react with rainwater to eliminate moss growth.
Q: Do you have any other construction knowledge that you bring to a work site?
A: Yes, Clark Roofing has been involved in many construction projects and is highly capable to perform most every aspect of building, from frame to finish. Among our specific areas of expertise are siding and trim. Clark Roofing’s vast knowledge will help to determine the right application for you. One common problem we find is fascia rot. The best time to replace rotten fascia is during the roofing process.
Q: Are Clark Roofing estimates free?
A: Yes.
Q: How soon can I expect to hear back from you after I submit my request?
A: Within 24 hours.
ASPHALT SHINGLES:
Q: Why do some roofs have hexagonal shingles? Are they asphalt?
A: It really boils down to aesthetic preference. What you’re seeing is a specific variety of asphalt shingles called large format shingles. Different from both laminated (a.k.a. architectural shingles) and traditional 3-tab shingles, large format shingles are generally hexagonal in shape and do not have cutouts or tabs.
Q: What type of shingles should I consider if my house is exposed to strong gusts of wind?
A: If you want greater wind resistance and overall durability, consider a 50-year rather than a 30-year shingle.
Q: When is the best time of year to get a new asphalt roof?
A: It is best to have asphalt roofs installed in warmer weather so as to optimize the lifespan of the roof. For Vermont roofing projects, this generally means late spring through early fall.
Q: Can I apply new shingles over old shingles?
A: It can be done. However, Clark Roofing recommends removing old shingles in an effort to reduce the weight on the rafters. By removing old shingles, we also have the opportunity to examine your roof deck, which would otherwise remain concealed.
WOODEN SHINGLES & SHAKES:
Q: What exactly is the difference between wooden shakes and wooden shingles?
A: The difference is both in production and appearance. While shakes are hand-split for a more rustic appearance, shingles are sawn for smoother surfaces. In addition, shingles have a thinner body.
Q: When should wooden shingles or shakes be replaced?
A: Wooden shingle and shake roofs need periodic replacement. They can last between 30 and 50 years, depending on the integrity of the construction and the shingle, as well as the geographic location of the house. They should always be replaced before other wooden components of the building start deteriorating.
Q: Can old shakes be reused from roof to roof?
A: Unlike slate shingles, wooden shingles and shakes unfortunately cannot be recycled in this manner.
SLATE SHINGLES:
Q: Should I be concerned about the pitch of my roof?
A: The pitch of a roof can be a factor in the life expectancy of a slate roof. Generally, slate will last longer the steeper the roof slope. A sharper pitch sheds rain and snow more quickly, allowing the roof slates to thoroughly dry.
Q: Will my slate roof need to be replaced because the nails have gone bad?
A: Having to replace a roof due to bad nails is a common myth — one that’s usually, not true. In fact, nails from old roofs can often be recycled and used again in new roofs. There are some rare instances where nails do go bad, especially in places on leaking and neglected roofs. However, this is typically because the wrong nails were used to begin with. If a roofing contractor has suggested that you replace a slate roof due to bad nails, you should be very skeptical.
Q: I had a roofing contractor advise me to get a new slate roof because the roofing paper had deteriorated. Is this necessary?
A: No. Roofing paper does initially help to protect the roof. But, keep in mind that when slates are installed, the integrity of the paper is immediately weakened by thousands of nail holes. The roof, if properly constructed, will remain waterproof. Consider for a moment that century-year-old barns are waterproof and typically are installed without roof paper.
