If you have decided to replace your roof, you likely already know that it is going to be a big investment. Because of this, you will want to make sure that it is done properly and will last for many years to come. One way to ensure that your new roof is done properly is to ask your chosen roofing contractors a variety of select questions. While there are many questions you may choose to ask, asking the following 15 questions can help you find the right roofers for your project.

1. Do You Provide Onsite Estimates? – It is very important that the contractor you choose is willing to provide you with an onsite estimate. This is because such things as the condition, exact size, and shape of your roof need to be considered to provide an accurate estimate.
2. How Long Has Your Company Been in Business? – When you hire a roofing company that has been in business for a long time, you can be assured that the company is stable and has obtained a good deal of experience.
3. Is Your Company Insured? – It is essential that roofing companies carry workers compensation for their employees and liability insurance in case something goes wrong. Insurance can provide coverage for both you and the company’s employees in case of accidents, injuries, or damage.
4. Does Your Company Follow OSHA Safety Regulations? – OSHA safety regulations were put in place in 1970 to protect workers by ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. Make sure that the company is not only aware of OSHA’s regulations but that they follow them as well.
5. Is Your Company Licensed? – In addition to insurance, roofing contractors should also be licensed in the state where they are working. Some areas may require a permit before installing a roof as well. In this case, the company should handle this for you.
6. Are You a Member of the Better Business Bureau? – Even if the company’s answer to this question is no, you can check the BBB to see what types of complaints (or compliments) have been filed against the company. You can also find out how they are rated overall.
7. Will You Provide a Written Contract? – Oral contracts may be gaining popularity, but they will not protect you in case something goes wrong. Make sure that the company will provide you with a written contract that is clear and easy to understand.
8. Will You Provide a Warranty on the Roof? – Manufacturers typically provide warranties on roofing materials, but you also want to make sure that the roofers provide some type of warranty on their work. Find out what type of warranty they offer and how long it is good for.
9. Will You Remove Old Roofing Materials After Installing the New Roof? – Be sure to ask the contractors if they will clean up the work site after installing the new roof. You will also want to ask them if there will be an additional fee for the clean up and removal of old roofing materials.
10. Can You Provide Any References? – Another question you should ask before hiring a roofing company is if they are able to provide you with any references from past customers. If the company has been around for a while and is known for quality work, they will have no problem with this request.
11. What Type of Materials Will You Be Using? – Even if you are not familiar with all of the different types of roofing materials used today, reputable roofing contractors will be more than happy to take the time to explain it to you and help you choose the most suitable materials for your home.
12. How Long Will the Installation Take? – Many customers are concerned with how long it will take to install their new roof. An experienced roofer should be able to give you an estimate as to how long it will take considering the size of your home. However, you need to be aware that inclement weather can extend this time estimate.
13. What Can I do if I am not Happy with the Results? – Of course, you will want to be happy with your new roof. Because of this, it is important for you to find out precisely how the company handles customers that are not happy with some aspect of the work that was done.
14. Will I be Able to Contact You After Hours? – In the case that something goes wrong after hours (such as a leak), you may need to contact the roofing company after hours. Be sure to get a good contact number that you can use for emergency purposes and find out if they will be willing to come to your home and correct your problem.
15. Will My New Roof Require Yearly Maintenance? – Find out if your new roof will require yearly maintenance and whether or not the contractor will provide the service. Additionally, make sure you find out if the roofers will charge you for such an inspection or if they will only charge you for any necessary materials (for repairs).

If you need to replace your roof, you will want to make sure that you hire a reputable Portland roofing contractor. The best way to make sure the company you choose is perfect for the job is to ask them a variety of questions such as those listed above. These questions can help to ensure that the roofing company you are considering is experienced and will provide you with a quality roof that will last for many years in the future.

Generally, how long a roof will last strictly depends on the type of roof material. Many roof types have long durability in Portland, Oregon, but you must ensure that you maintain them properly if you want them to last for an extended period. In this piece, we have outlined the lifespans of different roofing materials in Portland, Oregon.

How Long do Asphalt Shingles Last?

Primarily, asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material used today. These roofing shingles have durability of about 15 to 30 years, provided that you take good care of them through proper maintenance. Ideally, many people like these roofs because they come at reasonable prices, and they have a fair lifespan. Asphalt shingles are made of several materials, including cement fibers and organic materials, making the roof more durable as it becomes resistant to UV rays.

Architectural Shingles

This type of roofing shingles has a durability period of between 25-30 years. They look like asphalt shingles, but they are more sophisticated. Ideally, asphalt shingles are the standard shingles, and the architectural shingles are the premium version of asphalt shingles. They are more beautiful, and they give your home a luxurious touch.

Typical age of Wood Shingle Roof

If a wood shingle roof is well taken care of in Portland, it can last up to 30 years. While it can last for such a long time, you must ensure that you do the roof’s annual maintenance. Otherwise, it may not last for a very long time. Wood shingles are mostly made of cedar wood because they are resistant to rot and insects, which significantly boosts durability. Wood shingles create a unique touch on your home, mainly because they are natural and uncommon.

Life of Clay Tile Roof

Clay tile roof is a popular roofing material used in most parts of Portland, Oregon, and it is because of how durable they are. Impressively, a clay tile roof has a durability period of up to 50 years, and a manufacturer can give you a warranty period of up to 30 years. Many people mostly use this type of roof because it also has a low maintenance cost.

How long does a Metal Roof Last

A metal roof can last up to 70 years because it is resistant to many factors that spoil the roof. For starters, it cannot be eaten by insects, and it cannot be easily corroded. The prices of these metals range depending on the thickness you want. Ideally, the thicker the metal roof, the higher the price, and the longer the lasting period. If you choose to go with the cheapest metal, you should keep in mind that it may only last up to 25 years. As such, it would be best to choose a heavier metal, regardless of the price, for a longer lifespan. Metal roof warranties vary from 20 years to a lifetime, depending on the metal roof thickness you choose. You can learn more about metal roofing here.

More Factors That Determine The Lifespan of a Roof

Essentially, many factors determine how long a roof will last. It would be best to get acquainted with these factors to ensure that your roof lasts for an extended period.

The material of the roof is an essential factor that determines how long a roof will last. Generally, some roof materials are more durable than others because of many reasons. For starters, a metal roof is more durable than a wood roof because it can withstand harsh weather conditions. For sure, the stronger the roofing material, the longer the durability of the roof.

• Installation
Installation is vital in determining how long your roof will last. If your roof is installed the wrong way, it is likely to fail sooner than expected. Improper installation may lead to premature repairs, which will cost you more money. To avoid these early defects due to installation, you should ensure that you work with qualified roofers who understand everything about roof installations. If a roof is installed correctly by the best roofing contractors like us, for instance, it will last for a very long time, and it may last longer than its approximate lifespan.

• Sun Exposure
Too much sun might damage your roof. Ideally, the heat that the sun generates affects the roof by accelerating wear and tear, making it to fail sooner. However, some roof materials are not severely affected by the heat from the sun. For example, a metal roof can be able to withstand this heat, unlike some roof shingles. As such, it would be best for you to choose materials that can handle the sun well for more extended durability.

• Ventilation
Ventilation is beneficial in strengthening roofs, especially roofs that are made of asphalt shingles. Poor ventilation makes shingles weaken, and the roof might end up failing sooner than you expected. Therefore, you should ensure that you ventilate your house well if you want your roof to last longer.

Indeed, proper roof installation is the key to having a long-lasting roof. We are the best roofing contractors in Portland, Oregon, and we will be delighted to do your roof installation for you. Our roofers have adequate experience in installing roofs, and we assure you of the best services.

When it comes to replacing your roof, there are a lot of things to consider. In addition to the expense, you also need to think about the materials, style and installation process.

One type of roof you might want to consider is a metal roof.

Benefits of a Metal Roof

There are plenty of advantages that come with installing a metal roof. One of the most prominent benefits is its longevity. Metal roofs last much longer than other types of roofs.

Metal roofs come in a variety of colors, are low maintenance and can last up to 50 years. In addition, metal roofs are light, so they help to maintain the integrity of the roof’s structure. Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly and can increase the resale value of the home.

While these are just a handful of benefits, but they are some of the best. In fact, a lot of homeowners these days are switching to metal roofs because of these reasons alone.

Styles of Metal Roofs

There are three different types of metal roofing you can choose from. These include panel, standing-seam and lookalikes. By lookalikes, we mean you can use metal tiles, cedar or slate instead.

Durability

Metal roofs have higher levels of durability when compared to traditional roofing. They are highly resistant to harsh winds, can withstand heavy rain, snow and hail and are also fire resistant.

They can also help prevent things that homeowners dread such as rotting, rusting and infestations. Due to their near invulnerability, metal roofs can help you save you of money on roof in the long run.

Energy Efficient

Although you may not realize at first, metal roofs can actually help you save on your energy bills. In fact, people have been able to save up to 40 percent on their utility bills with metal roof installation. Because metal roofs are able better equipped to reflect solar radiation than traditional roofing, they help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Metal roofs are also material recyclable, which helps benefit the environment and can be reused again.

Economical

Despite all of the advantages you’ll have, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind. Metal roofing is more expensive than the other types of roofing. However, it is cheaper than installing asphalt shingles, and with its long lifespan, saves you money overall. On average, the cost of installing a metal roof can range between $11,000 up to $30,000, depending on style, size and materials.

Although anyone can have a metal roof, they should really only be considered if you plan on residing in the house for an extended period of time. Metal roofing is the perfect choice for new homeowners or homeowners who plan on living in their home for the length of the mortgage. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider a metal roof if you plan on selling your home. It’s more along the lines of if you’re renting a property.

Whether you need to replace your existing roof or simply want a roof that’s long lasting and energy efficient, metal roofing may be right for you. Be sure to take your time to think about what type of roofing system makes sense for you and if you would like to reach out to our expert Portland metal roofing installers, get in touch today.

If you are planning to replace your skylight, you need to work with roofers who will help you pick the right skylight, save money, and complete a perfect installation. Use the tips below to find the best skylight, pay a fair price, and keep your home in good condition.

When Do You Know Your Skylight Has Gone Bad?

Your skylight is part of your roof, and that is why you need to talk to roofing contractors when it is time to replace your skylight. The skylight might start leaking, or it might start fogging up because water has gotten between the panes of glass. You might have broken flashing that is dangling on your roof, or the skylight might be cracked.

Plus, some skylights will start to tilt because they are not steady in the housing that was created. You should contact a roofer as soon as you notice any problems with your skylight. Let the roofers explain what needs to be done to keep your home in good condition, and ensure that you get an estimate for the replacement.

What Is The Price Range?

The price range for skylights varies widely. You will need to pay for labor and installation when you choose a skylight, and the total job will cost somewhere between $400 and $1400. Of course, every skylight is different. You might buy a cheaper skylight to save money. You might find an installer that charges low prices, or you might spend a bit more money to get better quality.

You can start by shopping for a skylight that you think you will like. You might find a skylight that you love, and the contractor will order it for you. If you do not know which skylight you want, you should ask the roofer which one they would buy. The roofer has a catalog of options that you can choose from, and each of these options will change the way that your home looks.

You should get a full estimate for the replacement, and you need to review the estimate before signing a contract. You can follow along with the estimate when the replacement begins, and you can ask your roofer questions as they start the replacement.

Which Brands Should You Try?

Brands like SunOptics. Natural Light Energy Systems, Velux, and Fakro are all reliable brands that you might like to try. You should take a look at all the different brands that fit in your price range, and you should consider the different styles that might look unique. You may have had a basic skylight, but you can move up to a more interesting skylight that adds value to the house.

Bristolite, Wasco, Columbia, Crystalite, SunTek, and Daylite are all interesting manufacturers of skylights. You might choose a skylight that is made from plastic, or you might choose a reinforced glass skylight. You need to look through all of these brands to ensure you find the right one.

Every roofer has had their own experiences with these lights, and you should ask them what they think will work best. Inform yourself before buying, and use that information to ask your roofer questions.

Which Type Of Skylight Do You Want To Try?

There are several types of skylights that you might like to try. A plain glass skylight is typically an inset on the roof. These flat skylights let light into the house. You might get a large skylight that ts just one panel of glass, or you could get a skylight that is sectioned like a window.

There are dome-style skylights that have a curved glass or plastic surface. You might choose something that is pointed like a cupola, or you might select a skylight that actually opens. Ask the roofers on the job what they would do in your home. If you can reach the skylight, you can use the window style so that you can let air into the house.

There are advanced skylights that come with built-in shades, and these skylights might have frosted glass so that you get a nice effect when the light enters the house. Choose the skylight that you believe will fit in with your home’s design.

What If You Only Need To Replace The Flashing?

You may need to replace the flashing around the skylight, and that is why you must ask the roofer to inspect the current skylight before you make a decision. You may need to replace the flashing because that is what is causing the leak. You may enjoy your skylight as it is, but that does not mean that the flashing is in good condition.

Your roofer can replace the flashing around the skylight, check for leaks, and leave the skylight in place. You should get an estimate for replacing just the flashing or the skylight itself. You can determine how much you want to pay, and you might save money.

Conclusion

Contact your roofing contractors as soon as possible so that you can get an estimate for a replacement. You can research skylights, figure out how much you want to pay, or replace the flashing if you have some leaks around the edges. You need to replace your skylight when the glass fogs up, when the glass cracks, or when it is not sitting in its housing properly. The skylight adds value to your home, and you can buy a new skylight that will make your home beautiful and comfortable.

Do I Need a Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?

If you believe the National Roofing Contractors Association, a roof should last around 20 years. However, the repair or replace your roof question should become clear after considering several questions about your roof. These questions are not just something that should come into focus after a hailstorm, windstorm, etc. You need preventative maintenance on your roof to promote longevity. If you can repair your roof instead of replacing it, you may save money and the environment (dumping old roofing materials into landfills).

Even if your roof is leaking, it does not mean that a complete roof replacement is necessary. Many times, roofing companies will tell you to replace your roof without ever inspecting it. Depending upon your home and roof, this can cost thousands of dollars. However, many roof leaks are caused by flashing that has come loose or even deteriorated.

Roof damage is inescapable and usually occurs gradually, not by one big event such as a tornado or an ice storm. Causes of roof damage include a poorly ventilated attic, wind, the sun, rain, snow and ice, and trees and leaves. You should take these factors into consideration when deciding whether you need to repair or replace your roof. These factors can lead to some signs that will help you determine whether to repair or replace.

First, consider if your interior walls have moisture stains on them or if the paint is peeling from the walls, as these can be signs of roof leakage. One or two stains or paint peels can be signs that you may just fix the problem. However, multiple stains may show more widespread damage to your roof, and a replacement may be necessary.

Second, inspect your roof from the outside for missing and/or damaged shingles. The damage may include shingles that are curled, torn, split, or missing. A good rule of thumb is if 30 percent or more of the roof is damaged, then a roof replacement may be the better option.

Third, has your roof withstood a windstorm, hailstorm, tornado, or other potentially damaging event lately? This is a sign that the whole roof should be replaced because usually there is damage that you cannot see. This damage, while not visible, can “snowball” over time and create more and bigger problems.

Fourth, your roof’s age should be considered. Is the roof on your home past its expected lifespan which can vary depending on the roofing material used for your roof. Asphalt shingles, wood shingles, slate shingles, metal and aluminum, and clay or concrete tile have different expected lifespans. You should also realize that some materials on your roof can be overlaid and some materials should be removed before adding additional roofing materials.

Ultimately, always seek professional advice from expert roofing contractors 

Tonys Roofing LLC

4450 SE 125TH Ave, Portland OR

503-415-0438