Key Questions to Ask Your Roofing Professional

When consulting with a roofing expert, asking the right questions ensures you get the information needed for informed decisions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential questions, organized by topic.

Material Selection Questions

About Shingles

• ”What are the pros and cons of different shingle materials for my climate?"
• "Are there new shingle technologies that could benefit my home?"
• "What’s the expected lifespan for each material option?”

About Underlayment

• ”Which underlayment type works best for our local weather conditions?"
• "How does underlayment choice affect overall roof performance?"
• "What moisture protection features should I consider?”

About Flashing

• ”What types of flashing will be used around chimneys and vents?"
• "How do different flashing materials compare in durability?"
• "What are the most common flashing-related issues to watch for?”

Technical Considerations

Roof Structure

• ”How does my roof’s pitch affect material choices?"
• "What ventilation improvements might my roof need?"
• "Are there structural concerns that need addressing?”

Measurements and Calculations

• ”How do you calculate materials needed for complex roof designs?"
• "What’s your process for estimating costs accurately?"
• "How do you account for waste in your calculations?”

Installation and Process

New Installation vs. Replacement

• ”When is a complete tear-off necessary versus re-roofing?"
• "What preparation is needed before installation begins?"
• "How long will the installation process take?”

Quality Assurance

• ”What warranties are available for materials and workmanship?"
• "How do you ensure proper installation in challenging areas?"
• "What quality control measures do you implement?”

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular Maintenance

• ”What routine maintenance does my new roof require?"
• "How often should professional inspections be scheduled?"
• "What maintenance can I safely perform myself?”

Common Issues

• ”What are early warning signs of roof problems?"
• "How can I prevent ice dams and water damage?"
• "What causes blistering, and how can it be prevented?”

Regulations and Standards

Building Codes

• ”What local building codes affect my roofing project?"
• "Are there upcoming code changes to consider?"
• "How do you ensure code compliance?”

Permits and Inspections

• ”What permits are required for this project?"
• "Who handles the inspection process?"
• "What documentation will I receive upon completion?”

Cost and Value

Budget Considerations

• ”What factors most affect the total project cost?"
• "Are there energy-efficient options that qualify for tax incentives?"
• "What financing options are available?”

Long-term Value

• ”How will different material choices affect my home’s resale value?"
• "What’s the return on investment for premium materials?"
• "How do energy-efficient options impact utility costs?”

Emergency Preparedness

Weather Events

• ”How do you handle emergency repairs?"
• "What should I do if I notice a leak?"
• "How can I protect my roof during severe weather?”

Remember: A reputable roofing professional should be able to answer these questions clearly and thoroughly. Their responses can help you gauge their expertise and determine if they’re the right fit for your project.