Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) related to Roofing

Flashings are used wherever something intersects the roof. These are the most important areas of your roof. Various materials can be used to protect these areas: sheet metal (copper, galvanized steel, aluminum), Lead, ice and water shield, membranes, and sealants can be integrated at siding, chimneys, walls, gutter lines, skylights, pipes, and vents. If the existing flashing is in good shape they can sometimes be re-used. However, since flashing can be the most critical roof component we recommend new flashings if there is any concern about the existing.

For residential roofs, typically, one or two days (of course, if your roof is very large – or if substantial repairs are required – it could take a bit longer). The weather can also delay the process, but we will always ensure the roof is water tight from beginning to end.

Typically, the removal and replacement of gutters will allow the installation of ice and water shield onto fascia boards which would seal the outside edge from water infiltration in ice damming conditions. We can replace gutters with or without a new roof. We install copper, galvanized steel and aluminum gutters. Our roofing professionals will be able to determine this for you, and explain the benefits of replacing your roof and gutters together.

Sometimes we can, depending on your roof and what’s up there. Most re-roofs should be evaluated on a case by case basis. Generally speaking, tearing off existing materials, inspecting the decking (as well as the general integrity of your roof structure) and then installing your new roof will guarantee optimum long-term performance.

Ice and Water Shield is a protective underlayment that is put on over the wood deck prior to any shingles. Ice and Water Shield helps prevent water infiltration during ice damming situations. We typically install Ice and Water Shield along the eaves, around chimneys, skylights and in all valleys.

We’ll rake and sweep all debris from the roof and around the house (sidewalks, driveways, etc.). Then we’ll use nail magnets to find and pick up nails. We will perform a final inspection of your new roof and your grounds to assure your complete satisfaction

For a new skylight installation there’s no better time to have the work done than when you’re replacing the roof on your house. If you have skylights that leak or give you other problems, we will come out and diagnose the problem to the best of our ability. In this day and age skylights on shingle roofs have become much more common, and affordable. If you would like to add a skylight let our estimators know and we will provide you with a variety of options.

We are fully insured for both workers’ comp and general liability coverage. What this means to you is that you will never be responsible for any of these expenses. We will provide certificates of insurance upon request.

SMART Roofing has completed over 10,000 projects in it history. We are happy to provide you with a list of references that will confirm that we do our work as promised. We stand by our work, and will provide knowledgeable, honest answers to your questions.

Surveys have shown that the number one criteria most people use to pick a roofing contractor is trust. The NRCA (national roofing contractors association) recommends that you look for a contractor who fits the following criteria.

Has a proven track record (check references, talk to your local building department, look at work they’ve done in your area). Is stable (How long have they been in business? Who owns the company? If you have an old phone book, check if they were in it). Provides expertise (Are installers experienced? Does the contractor provide training and oversight of work? Has the contractor achieved certifications from manufacturers?).

Provides an understandable contract (Don’t sign something you can’t understand. Make sure you understand what you are getting, what it will cost and when payments are due).

Brava Shake Roofing is a premium synthetic roofing product designed to replicate the look of natural cedar shake shingles. Made from recycled materials, it offers the charm of traditional wood shakes with superior durability and performance.

Yes, Brava Shake products are made from 100% recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle, making them an eco-friendly roofing option.

Brava Shake Roofing is extremely durable, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including hail, strong winds, and heavy rain. It’s also resistant to rot, cracking, and pests, making it a long-lasting alternative to natural wood shakes.

• Durability: Brava Shake resists rot, insects, and weathering, unlike natural wood.
• Low Maintenance: It doesn’t require staining, sealing, or regular maintenance.
• Lightweight: Easier to install than heavy wood or concrete shakes.
• Fire Resistance: Rated Class A or Class C, depending on installation.
• Customizable Appearance: Available in various colors and blends to match your style.

Brava Slate Roofing is engineered for superior durability. It is impact-resistant (Class 4 rated), can withstand winds up to 110 mph, and is highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and weather-related damage.

Brava Slate Roofing is a premium synthetic roofing product designed to mimic the classic beauty of natural slate. Made from 100% recycled materials, it offers a lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional slate roofing.

Hail Resistance: Rated as Class 4 for impact resistance, the highest available.
Wind Resistance: Can withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph (and up to 180 mph in specific tests).
UV Stability: Engineered to resist fading, ensuring long-lasting color vibrancy.

Yes, DaVinci Shake tiles have a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance available for roofing materials.

Durability: DaVinci Shake resists splitting, curling, and cracking, unlike natural cedar.
Weather Resistance: It withstands severe weather, including hail, high winds (up to 110 mph or higher), and freeze-thaw cycles.
Low Maintenance: No need for frequent treatments, staining, or replacement of broken tiles.
Longevity: A lifespan of up to 50 years, compared to the shorter lifespan of natural wood.
Aesthetic Variety: Available in various colors and blends, offering design flexibility.
Eco-Friendly: Made with recyclable materials and reduces the need for tree harvesting.

DaVinci Shake roofing is a high-performance synthetic roofing material designed to mimic the appearance of natural cedar shake. Made from a proprietary blend of virgin resins, UV stabilizers, and fire retardants, it offers the beauty of real wood with enhanced durability, resistance, and longevity.

Impact Resistance: Rated Class 4 for impact resistance, the highest available, meaning it can withstand hailstorms.
Wind Resistance: Tested to resist winds up to 110 mph (and higher in specific tests).
Temperature Tolerance: Designed to handle freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or warping.

DaVinci Slate roofing is a synthetic roofing material designed to replicate the beauty of natural slate. Made from a composite of virgin resins, UV stabilizers, and specialized fire retardants, it offers the timeless elegance of slate with improved durability, lower weight, and reduced maintenance.

Not at all. A metal roof properly installed by a professional is typically fitted above the attic area, as the top of many layers that include insulation, a roof deck, and underlayment. This configuration ensures that metal roofs are just as quiet as other available roofing materials.

Absolutely. Compared to most other roofing materials, metal roofs offer enhanced safety during a lightning strike due to their non-combustible nature. Petersen’s metal roofing systems undergo UL testing for fire safety. Your rep can provide specific information on fire rating.

Yes. In regions prone to significant snowfall, metal roofing is highly favored. Its ability to swiftly shed snow not only preserves the roof’s structural integrity but also prevents the formation of ice dams at the eaves, which can lead to water backup and potential leaks into the home.

Actually, no. A metal roof is on average 50% lighter than a roof made of asphalt shingles and 75% lighter compared to those constructed from concrete tile, fiber cement shakes, and slate.