Question 1

How will I know if I need a new roof?

Accepted Answer

While leaks are an obvious clue that your roof needs repair or replacement, the condition of the shingles will determine whether a repair or replacement roof is appropriate.nnWhen worn out, shingles sometimes curl, warp, or lose granules. Also, there may be missing or damaged shingle tabs. Pay particular attention to any visible signs inside your home such as discoloration spots on the wall, loose wallpaper, peeling paint on the ceiling, and drips.

Question 2

What will the estimator look for when inspecting the roof of my home?

Accepted Answer

ARC estimators inspect the roof covering, the drainage systems, the flashing (around skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes), the ventilation systems, and the roof’s rafters and trusses (if access to the attic is available).

Question 3

How long will a new roof last?

Accepted Answer

The lifetime of a roof depends on several factors including its exposure to natural elements such as sun, rain, humidity, wind, snow, and ice. These conditions will eventually age the roofing components if you have a few roof shingles that are damaged or missing. This can have a cascading effect of weakening adjacent shingles, shortening the lifetime of the roof.nnClogged gutters also pose major problems to roofing components. Gutters that do not drain properly will allow rain water to flow back onto the roof underneath good shingles possibly rotting the decking. Overflowing gutters will eventually cause problems along the fascia such as paint peeling, mildew, and wood rot.nnInadequate roof ventilation and insulation can also reduce the lifetime of roofing components. Without sufficient attic ventilation, extreme temperature variations between the attic of the home and the outdoors will cause an expansion and contraction of roofing components which may rub granules off shingles and cause the shingles to curl.nnDepending on the selection of roofing components, new roofs are given a 30 year to limited-lifetime warranty. EPDM (rubber) roofs have a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 years. In general, the validity of a manufacturer’s warranty is determined by the manufacturer’s specified roofing components which must be installed together and include: the eave guard membrane, felt underlayment, shingles and roof ventilation system. You must choose an approved applicator that is certified to install materials according to manufacturer roofing guidelines in order to meet the requirements of their warranty.

Question 4

Are estimates free?

Accepted Answer

YES. Please call to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced estimators. After our inspection, we will provide you with a written proposal detailing our findings, options, and cost.

Question 5

Do you provide roof inspections for home sellers or buyers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For a $275 fee, ARC will inspect the roof and write a letter reporting the current condition of the roof and if any repairs are required. Please note that this is not a warranty with this letter of inspection.

Question 6

Do you install skylights and sun tunnels?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Velux and Starlight are the brand that we most frequently use. Specialty skylights and sun tunnels can be custom fabricated to accommodate your home lighting needs. We also do complete interior finished light wells (framing, insulation, and drywall).

Question 7

Do you do chimney work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, flashing and new rain caps. Any major chimney repairs must be referred to a mason.

Question 8

What is an ice dam?

Accepted Answer

Melting snow often refreezes on the roof’s overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. Ice dams block proper drainage into the gutter causing water to backup underneath roofing components triggering wood rot of decking and rafters. During heavy snow periods, an accumulation of snow, ice, and water may clog downspouts and gutters, damaging them beyond repair or tearing them off the house. While there is no guarantee against ice dams forming, the following preventive measure will reduce your risk:nnMake sure your attic has adequate insulation. Check that insulation does not cover your soffit vents. If you don’t have soffit vents, consider adding them.nInstall sufficient ventilation to expel heat and moisture. Ridge vents combined with soffit vents will improve attic air flow while validating most manufacturers’ shingle warranty requirements for ventilation.

Question 9

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are fully insured with liability insurance. We also require the same of any contracted employees. We will gladly provide copies of both our license and insurance certificates when requested.

Question 10

What happens when the roofing materials are delivered to my home?

Accepted Answer

Approximately two days before your job is to begin, the roofing material will be delivered to your home and loaded on the roof. If there are power lines, tree branches, or other obstacles blocking delivery, the roofing material will be unloaded in your driveway. We do request that you keep the driveway clear on the day the roofing material is to be delivered.

Question 11

What preparation do I need to make inside my home before the work begins?

Accepted Answer

Please make sure that any valuable items are covered in your attic because a certain amount of saw dust and debris will unavoidably fall. If we are removing skylights, please make sure a drop cloth is placed under the opening to catch any falling debris.nnThere will be vibrations during a roofing job, so it is recommended that ceiling fixtures are protected and all pictures and other items of value are removed from the walls. If you need assistance, please be sure to ask us before the project begins.

Question 12

Will you protect the garden and shrubs around my home?

Accepted Answer

ARC takes every precaution to ensure that the home and surrounding areas are protected during the roof installation process. Please mark any underground sprinkler heads and make sure outdoor furniture is protected and barbecue equipment is covered. We would be happy to assist in moving any items that you would like protected.

Question 13

Do I have to be home during the roofing project?

Accepted Answer

Not unless you choose to be there. Roofing is a noisy, messy project, but when we are through, you should not be able to tell we were there.nnIf you have children, please make sure they remain inside during the installation. If you have pets, please keep them indoors, as well.nnAfter the completion of the job, your property will be raked, and a nail magnet will be used to pick up any debris. After the first rain, you will probably see shingle granules that wash out through the gutters so it is a good idea to check your yard for debris that may not have been visible to the roofers at the time the job was completed.nnWe recommend that you move your car to the street parking area so it is accessible if you need to leave during the roofing installation.

Question 14

Invoicing for Insurance Companies

Accepted Answer

Upon completion of all work, American Roofing & Construction, LLC will supply you with an invoice for the contract amount. In many cases your insurance claims department will require a copy of the invoice in order to release the remaining depreciation funds from your insurance claims department, if warranted.

Question 15

What's included in the warranty package?

Accepted Answer

After receipt of full payment, we will provide you with a Warranty Package that includes the following:nnLien waiver. A lien waiver guarantees that you could never be held liable for any unpaid bills incurred by a contractor for material, labor, etc. used for your home.nFive Year Limited Labor Warranty.nManufacturer’s Warranty Paperwork. This paperwork will be filled out, signed, mailed or registered online by the homeowner (if applicable) to be valid.

Question 16

Do you accept credit cards?

Accepted Answer

YES. We accept most major credit cards. There will be an additional fee of 3.8% added to the cost of using a credit card.

Question 17

How can I receive Federal Energy Tax Credits for a new roof, windows, and doors?

Accepted Answer

The guidelines for the Federal Energy Tax Credits contain specific timelines and product performance ratings determined according to regional zones. For updates and details about Federal Energy Tax Credits in Colorado, please consult the Energy Star website.

Question 18

Can a new roof lower my energy bills?

Accepted Answer

A properly insulated attic and well-ventilated roof will help you reduce heat loss and moisture condensation in the winter and heat retention in the summer enabling you to conserve energy. Adequate ventilation and insulation in your attic will also help reduce the possibility of ice dams from occurring caused by uneven roof temperatures and melting snow.

Question 19

What should I be aware of when choosing a roofing company?

Accepted Answer

Going door to door does not mean that a contractor is not legitimate. Most contractors that go door to door are just trying to make a living. Unfortunately, in today’s world, not all contractors are created equal. There are some things to be aware of to keep from getting scammed or taken advantage of by some contractors.nnStorm Chasers: Because they literally chase storms, they are usually in and out of town without any regard for warranty work or any problems you may have. More than likely, they will not be familiar with local codes either.nDishonest Contractors: Seek out an ethical contractor who is looking out for your best interest and desires to complete your job to code without cutting corners.nInexperienced Contractors: Some contractors lack the proper experience to complete your project. It may end up costing you more time and money in the long run.

Question 20

How can I protect myself against fraud?

Accepted Answer

Check with the BBB.nCheck your local phone book or their website. Many times, they may get a temporary local phone number in order to not arouse suspicion.nAsk for local references.nAsk for proof of general liability insurance.nBe suspicious if they ask for all of the money up front.nAsk about their warranty.nAsk for references.

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