FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• First call a local roofing company that specializes in roof replacements and identifying storm damage to see if your property will qualify. 
• Call your insurance agent to open a claim.
• The roofing contractor will assist the adjuster in identifying all the storm damage. Typically the adjuster will mark a 10×10 square on both sides of the house and look for 6-7 hail hits on the shingles.
• The adjuster will then send the homeowner the detailed damage report and settlement amount.
• Your roofing contractor should review this document to ensure all line items are correct and nothing has been omitted.
• The insurance company will issue an initial payment for the claim amount. Once the work is complete the remainder will be released to the homeowner.

A roof replacement tear off is when a roofing contractor removes all roofing material to bare roof sheathing. The contractor installs all new shingles, underlayment, flashings and vents. With a reroof the roofing contractor cannot inspect the decking because they just install a new layer of shingles on top of the existing.

It is important to note that with a full replacement the contractor should offer a full warranty which is not available when installing a second layer. Our recommendation is to always do a full tear off to ensure the roof decking is solid and all proper accessories and flashings are installed.

To fix a metal flashing leak it is important to have a professional roofing contractor inspect the flashing to see if it needs to be replaced or resealed. To repair the flashing area purchase polyurethane sealant and a caulking gun. It is important to apply the polyurethane sealer to a dry and clean surface. Remove any dirt and debris from the flashing joint prior to sealant installation. Using a quality caulking gun apply steady pressure force the sealant into the joint. It will take a couple of days for the sealant to fully cure.

Leaks that form around chimney fireplaces may be difficult to identify. A common problem is usually the chimney flashing. Chimney flashing is metal that is cut into the brick joints and protects the chimney. The chimney flashing may be old and needs to be resealed or replaced.

If the chimney fireplace is made of brick the actual brick may be cracked and tuckpointing work is required to fill the cracks in the mortar. It is best to have a roofing professional look at the chimney to try to identify the source of the leak.

There are many different types and styles of siding including: Vinyl, Fiber Cement, Cedar, and engineered Wood. There is a 3 step process to choosing the best siding.

1. Meet with a professional siding installer.
2. Discuss the specifications and costs of each type of siding (i.e. Vinyl siding is the least expensive while fiber cement and engineered wood is the most expensive).
3. Choose a style of siding that will compliment the exterior design of the home. Also go over maintenance requirements for each of the 4 different types of siding (i.e. Cedar siding has the most maintenance of the 4 types including regular painting and repairs).

There are many different types of roofing shingles available on the market and it is important to choose the right shingle for your home. Keep these tips in mind while choosing your next roofing shingles:

1. Architectural shingles come in different levels of quality and price. Architectural shingles are typically higher quality than 3 tab shingles.
2. Check the warranty of the shingles; some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties on the shingles and even the workmanship when installed by a certified installer.
3. Prevent black streaks on your roof by having stain protected shingles installed. Some manufacturers will give an extra warranty on the appearance of the shingles.