How long will it take for you to complete work on my roof?

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.

Can you just cover-over my existing shingles instead of tearing them off?

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.

What do you do about roof flashings?

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.

What should I do with my gutters?

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.

What is Ice and Water Shield and do you install it?

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.

What do you do about skylights?

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.

Do you clean-up around our home once you've finished?

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.

Do you carry workers' compensation insurance or liability insurance?

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.

Are you an experienced roofing contractor?

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.

How can I find a contractor that I can trust?

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).

How to Detect Roof Hail Damage

Hail damage leads to expensive insurance claims. Hail accounts for more than $1.6 billion in damage per year, just in roof damage in the United States, according to the Federal Alliance of Safe Homes. When a storm hits your area, it may be difficult to see if the shingles on your roof have been damaged. However, there are some ways to determine if any damage has occurred.

1. Look at the drain downspouts around your house. If you see a high concentration of black mineral deposits around the downspouts, this may be a sign of damage to your roof.
2. Check your gutters. If the metal gutters have dents or dings from the hail, there is a good chance that your shingles were damaged as well.
3. Inspect the ceilings in your home for signs of a leak. This is evidenced by discolored patches or holes in the ceiling and the presence of moisture.
4. Climb on the roof and check the shingles. The signs can be as subtle as a small dimple in a few shingles. If you suspect damage, consider calling a specialist to thoroughly inspect the shingles for you.