Q: How will I know when I need a new roof?
A: Here are 10 things to check to help you determine whether its time for a roof repair or new roof:
- From in the attic or even from outside, look for places where the roof deck is sagging
- Inside on room ceilings, look for signs of water damage or leaking
- Dark spots and trails
- From in the attic, look for outside light showing through the roof.
- Visually inspect your roof for cracked, torn, bald or missing shingles.
- Scan the roof for loose material or wear around chimneys, vents, pipes or other penetrations.
- Watch out for an excessive amount of shingle granules (they look like large grains of sand) in the gutters — this is a sign of advanced wear.
- Check for signs of moisture, rot or mold. Note that wet spots may not be directly under your faulty shingle; water can travel down to its lowest spot before it drips. Mold, fungi and bacteria can grow quickly.
- Examine the drainage, and make sure gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Also ensure all drains are open and allow water to exit, and all gutters and downspouts are free of debris.
- Check that all bath, kitchen and dryer vents go entirely outside of your home, not just into the attic space.
Q: How will I know if I need a new roof or just a repair?
A: If your roof is less than the typical life expectancy for your particular type of roof, and is in good shape, then it can typically be repaired. If you’re inspecting on your own and find worrisome signs, especially if the roof is old or there has been a storm with heavy wind or hail, get a professional assessment. Call Danco Roofing for a free, no obligation estimate at 972.276.0063.
Q: What are static vents/ridge vents and do I need ventilation?
A: We have found that poor ventilation causes roofing material to wear out prematurely. It also ruins the wood deck due to condensation. These two products offer an inexpensive way to greatly improve your roof and attic ventilation.
Q: Can I install a new roof over the existing roof?
A: You can install a new roof over an existing roof as long as there is NO MORE THAN ONE layer of existing roofs. Ideally it is better if the roof is removed. The Uniform Building Code states that only 2 layers of roofing material will be allowed on any residence. This varies by city and county codes. ALSO, there is always the possibility when installing a new roof over the existing roof, that the old roof may carry an uneven look into the new roof.
Q: When installing a new roof over an existing, what types of roofing material can the old roof be?
A: In a normal situation, we can install over composition shingles, cap sheet roofs, and some rock roofs. Generally if the roof has a tile, shake or metal roof it must be removed prior to installing the new roof.
Q: What type of roofing materials are available? What will work the best for my home?
A: The most common choice for residential roofs is a Composition Shingle but there several other choices with significant advantages over traditional composition shingles. Please refer to our Residential Roofing page for more information. Also, our experienced staff, with decades of experience, can assist you in selecting the type of shingle as well as the color to bring out the “best” in your home’s curb appeal.
Second most common, would probably be a tile roof.
Q: Can you install a roof during the winter?
A: Absolutely! We work all year long. Texas winters are usually mild so we are able to work during the winter—however, it is my policy to lay shingles only when the temperatures are 40° F and rising. And, obviously it is better to install the new roof when the weather is dry so we do not work if rain is forecast for that day. Unfortunately, you can’t always predict or plan a roof leak or problem so we work year round. We take extra precautions to ensure that the house stays watertight during any inclement weather. We work as quickly as is safely possible as well as having huge tarps on hand in case of sudden rain. They will cover any area that is open to the weather.
Q: Do you keep the property clean? What do you do with the old roofing debris?
A: Yes, we keep the surroundings clean. The job will be cleaned up on a daily basis. We tarp all bushes, lawns, and shrubbery as needed. We are very particular about our cleanliness. We take pride in our clean-up. We treat your home like it is ours. The roofing debris will be disposed of in a legal and proper fashion.
Q: My shingles got beat up in the last hail storm we had and I’m tired of replacing them. What type of roof should I use?
A: There are several choices which will give you better protection from hail and flying debris. You can read more about impact resistant shingles as well as metal roofing on our Residential Roofing page. Since there are so many choices now, at varying price points, you may find it more beneficial to call a professional at Danco Roofing at 972.276.0063.
Q: How long will it take to complete my roof?
A: On average, one to two days for residential roofs. There are exceptions to this rule. Roofs that are larger than average, in need of extensive structural repairs, or roofs where we are installing specialty materials will require more time to complete. We can give you a more accurate time estimate at the time we come to do your free estimate and no obligation inspection.