Roofing FAQs

How do I determine if I need a new roof?

To Repair or Replace? These are a few signs you may be able to tell for yourself. The Target Roofing Team is always happy to inspect and to identify honestly when it’s time to invest in a roof replacement. Here are a few signs that it’s time to check on your roof status.Â

AGE

If it’s been over 15 years, it’s time to call Target Roofing for an evaluation. Expected lifespan of roofing materials isn’t enough to trust unchecked. Variations in maintenance, ventilation, and other factors such as weather and debris can impact lifespan, so it’s important not to lock into a specific number of years.Â

SHINGLE DAMAGE

Heat, hail, high winds, snow fall, and downed trees can damage the shingles on your roof, leading to cracks and leaks. On a small scale, repairs can be made to fix the damage and keep moisture out for years to come. If there is extensive damage, or your roof is too old to adequately repair, then you may need to invest in a roof replacement.Â

DECK DAMAGE

Roofing isn’t all about shingles. A deck made of plywood and/or wood that keeps your roof intact is also important. If you see plywood sagging or showing signs of water damage, it is time to replace your roof.Â

WEAR & TEAR OF FLASHING

Another important aspect of your roofing system you should pay close attention to are the flashings around vents, chimneys and other penetrations on the roof.  These materials can break down over time, leaving your home vulnerable to the elements. Flashings made of heavy galvalume, copper or lead will outlast most roofing materials.  Other light gauge metal and plastic flashings will need to be replaced with each new roof.Â

ROTTED FASCIA OR SOFFIT

Another tell-tale sign of roof deterioration is visible damage to the wooden overhangs or trim around your roof. The rot and damage are often the cause of leaks coming in from above.  Your roof may also not have enough pitch to shed water fast enough.  This would allow water to wix back into or under the shingles.  It might be necessary to add a peal-n-stick membrane to all eves or entire areas of low pitch. Â

What do I need to know before replacing my roof?

Do any of these signs sound familiar to you? If so, then there is a good chance it is time for a roof replacement. Things to consider when you’re ready to replace your roof.Â

ROOFING MATERIAL OPTIONS

There are several types of roofing materials that can be used when replacing your roof. Roofing technology has come a long way, and you have choices that you probably didn’t even know existed. Traditional shingles made of asphalt and slate are popular options, but many people are also turning to metal roofs. There are alot of new hybrid or synthetic roofing materials that are longer lasting and more energy efficient. Here at Target Roofing, we want to make sure you know all of your available options before making a big decision for your home.Â

THINGS WILL BE LOUD

You will need to accept up front that things will be loud, and there is no way around it. You should warn your neighbors or anyone around the noise before the project begins so they can plan accordingly. If you are having your home’s roof replaced, you might want to try and stay busy during the hours we will be working on your home.Â

IT CAN GET SHAKY

Scraping off old shingles, banging in loose nails, and oading new material on the roof can shake the house.  It is important to take inventory of belongings on the walls, on shelves or in cabinets that could fall.  Moving them to a safe, sturdy location until the job is done is always a good idea.

FOCUS ON QUALITY

Getting a good deal always has a point of diminishing return.  We understand it might sound more tempting to work with a contractor who offers the lowest prices that work for your budget. Remember, though, that a roof is definitely not something you want to cheap out on. Like anything else, you get what you pay for. It is worth it to invest in quality, and a company that cares about your home.Â

WOOD REPAIRS

In many cases you should expect some unknown wood damage to be found after tearing off your old roof. Repairs to the decking, fascia may need to be done in order to install the new roofing system properly.  At Target Roofing we will always do what is best to secure the new roof.  If we do find rotten wood we will take pictures of the bad areas and replace them with like materials so that the affected area is as good as new.Â

DO YOU TAKE ALL THE OLD MATERIALS

Don’t be scared to ask!  Yes we will haul off all old roofing materials and any trash associated with the job. In most cases we will have a dump trailer that we bring to the job at the time we start.  In some cases a small roll off dumpster may be necessary to handle the amount of debris that will be removed or if the job has other trades that will also need a place to put their trash.

If my roof leaks, do I need to replace the entire roof?

This all depends on the condition of your roofing system. Here at Target Roofing we diagnose the problem, and then do a full roof inspection to ensure your roofing system is performing as needed.  In most cases a normal repair can be made as long as the integrity of the roofing material is not affected in doing so.  In the case that your system is deemed “non repairable”, our team will provide you with the different options you have to replace your roof.Â

How long does it take to tear off and replace a roof?

This all depends on many factors: the size, the style of the roof you have, what materials are being used, the weather and how many installers are working on the job.  Most composition shingle roofs can be replaced in 1-2 days with a 3-4 man crew.  However as the roof becomes more difficult ex.(steeper pitch, multiple stories, and broken up architectural designs) the job could take over a week to complete.  Roofs are not kitchen remodels and should not drag on for months and months.  This exposes the house to leaks and is just a bad practice that a good contractor will not do.

What is the life expectancy of a shingle roof?

Diet, exercise and genetics.  Haha. This is probably the only time you will hear they mean nothing.  The type of roof you have will be the biggest determinant of this question.  Three-Tab shingles will have the lowest life expectancy. A natural slate or copper roof will have some of the longest expected life spans.  All other materials will fall somewhere in between.Â

How much will a new roof cost?

The cost of a new roof will be based on multiple different aspects. First being, the size and style of roof you have on your home. For example, Jane might have what they call a “gable” style roof that is not steep. While ol billy may have a more modern style of roof that is steeper. Billy could expect to pay more. Second, you will want to look at the many different roofing systems that are available on the market. Our team can answer all the questions you have regarding the different materials available.

Roof Square Footage

Your roof is always going to have a larger amount of sq footage then the actual size of your home.  The pitch, overhangs, garages, porches, breezeways and style of your roof will come into play in calculating the material and labor necessary to replace the roof.