Roofing FAQ

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Roofing FAQ's

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Residential Roofing FAQ

Can my roof be repaired or does it need to be replaced?

It depends on the extent of the damage. If you just have a leak and the roof is not old, repairs may be sufficient. If you have broken, missing or cracking shingles, a repair may be sufficient. However, if the roof is reaching the end of its service life or has multiple leaks, it likely needs replacement.

What will it cost to repair the roof?

This can vary greatly – which is why we offer a free, no-obligation estimate. It depends on the type of roof, condition of the roof, and number of shingle layers you have.

How long will my roof last?

There are a lot of factors that go into how long a roof will last. Your roof may wear out quicker due to weather or the environment your property is located in. On average, most roofs will last between 15-25 years. Some types of metal roofs can last up to 100 years!

What causes a roof to wear out?

Weather, environment, mildew and algae are some of the most common factors.

How many years do I have left on my old roof?

There are many different variables. Your roof may wear out quicker due to weather or the environment your property is located in. On average, most roof will last between 15-25 years. Some types of metal roofs can last up to 100 years!

How do I know if I have hail damage to my roof?

It is difficult to see hail damage with an untrained eye. If you have experienced hail in your area, call Fire & Hail Restoration to schedule a professional inspection.

What size hail is damaging to roofs?

There are many variables. If the roof is older, for example, smaller hail pellets can damage it more severely than if the roof were newer. The roof material needs to be considered as well.

How can I find the exact location of a leak?

This can be tricky, as the water can travel for a long distance before you finally see the leak in your ceiling! If it is raining, you may be able to go into your crawl space or your attic to try and trace the leak. To get an accurate assessment, have our company do an inspection and give you a free quote.

My roof is leaking, but I just had new shingles put on last year. What could it be?

There is a possibility that the roof was improperly installed, or your roof may have been damaged in a storm.

How hard is it to repair a leaking roof?

This depends on the age of the roof and what is causing the leak. If it is a minor leak, the job could be completed in a few hours, but if there are more issues and the roof is older it may take a few days or more.

Should I have the old roof removed before the new one is put on?

It is possible, but not recommended.

How long does it take to replace or repair a roof?

It could take anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days.

What is a roofing underlayment?

A roofing underlayment is also known as felt paper and is installed beneath your shingles, over the wood of your roof. It helps protect your roof from wind-driven rain that can get beneath your shingles and potentially damage your home.

Does the wood beneath my shingles need to be replaced?

If the wood has water damage, it should be replaced.

What type of roof should I get?

This is dependent on your budget, where your home is located, and your needs. The roof should also complement the style and architecture of your home.

What color roof should I get?

The color roofing you select should match the style and architecture of your home. First, work with our consultant to choose the best roofing material, and then we will show you the colors available.

What should be done prior to the roofing installation?

This will require very little from you. We recommend removing fragile items on the walls or ceilings as they may be disturbed during installation.

How do you protect my home from damage during the roofing installation?

Protecting your home during roofing installation is on our list of things we are most proud of and where we make extra effort to outshine the other roofing companies. Every home is different when it comes to setting up for a new roof so we don’t have a one size fits all answer to this question. What we can tell you is that the material haulers we use to transport the materials are loaded up for every job with an arsenal of protective materials: 4×8 sheets of wood, lumber, tarps, and any other materials deemed necessary that we determine during the original inspection of your roof. Extra care is given to the setup before the first crew member ever climbs a ladder to begin your roofing project.

How often do roofs need to be replaced?

The type of roofing material used will determine how often a roof needs to be replaced. For example, the average lifespan of a cedar roof is roughly 20 years. However, in drier climates, a cedar roof is likely to need more frequent repair and replacement since it is prone to splitting. A properly cared for tile roof can last up to 100 years, although individual tiles are likely to break. A concrete roof is highly durable and should not need replacing throughout its lifespan.

What should be in a roofing contract?

Finalizing a contract with your roofing contractor is a major step and you should make sure that you understand each portion of the contract before signing. These are the most important elements of the contract that should be included: Project Start and End Dates, Building Permits, Product Details, Installation Procedure, Payment Terms, Warranty Information, Option to Terminate, Lien Release

How do I know my roof needs to be replaced?

Check for signs of: Sagging, Leaking, Water Damage, Dark Spots, Missing Shingles, Holes, Mold or Rot. If you notice any of the above, it is likely that you need a roof replacement.

What questions should I ask a roofing contractor?

Choosing a roofing contractor for your project is very important and you should never feel like you're asking too many questions! We are here to help! Here are some general questions that can be asked of a roofing contractor:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • What jobs do you have that I can go see?
  • Who will be installing my roof?
  • What training and experience does the crew have?
  • What past customers can I talk to?
  • When would you be able to schedule my job?
  • How long will my project take?
  • Do you have proper licensing and certification?
  • Do you have insurance?
  • Is a building permit required for my project and, if so, will you be pulling one?
  • What steps do you take for the safety of your workers?
  • What steps do you take to ensure the safety of my home and my family?
  • Do I need to be home when the work is being performed on my home? You don’t need to be home when we are working on your roof. We just ask that you remain available by phone if any questions or issues arise.
Will you need access to utilities when working on my house?

Access to standard 120V electrical outlet and water will be needed. If you have an older home, we may need electrical panel access.

Do you need to get inside of the house?

Not for normal roofing jobs.

What happens if you find dry rot on my job?

If we find rotted or damaged wood, we will provide you with an estimate for the cost of repairing the additional damages. No additional work will be performed without your approval.

How can I recognize my roof has problems?

Too often, roof problems present themselves after leaking or another serious damage occurs. Always be alert for danger signs like excessive electric bills, splotchy or dark areas on the roof, cracked, curling or missing shingles, exterior decay, peeling or blistering paint, water stains on interior walls and/or ceilings, water in the attic after storms or leakage after ice buildup.

If my roof leaks, do I need to have it totally replaced?

It depends on the extent of the damage. If you just have a leak and the roof is not old, repairs may be sufficient. If you have broken, missing or cracking shingles, a repair may be sufficient. However, if the roof is reaching the end of its service life or has multiple leaks, it likely should be replaced. If your roof is leaking, call to schedule a free roof inspection as soon as possible to have the situation assessed.

Do I need to get a building permit?

This depends on your location. If needed, we will take care of any licenses or permits that may be required.

How long does a roofing job usually take?

Average residential roofing jobs typically take one or two days of good weather.

How do I choose a good roofing contractor?
  • Make sure they are insured
  • Choose a local company
  • Do not choose based on price alone
  • Avoid storm chasers
  • Get everything in writing
  • Communication is paramount (do they return calls? Get you documentation promptly?)
Can you replace only half a roof?

This is an option but NOT one that we recommend. Here is why:

  • Differing ages: Shingles will last between 25- 50 years. If you only replace a portion of the roof, then the lifespan of the different sections will be different which can cause issues when one slope needs to be replaced before the other.
  • Aesthetically, it won't look right: Shingles will look different as they age so it is possible that your roof will have two different colors and not look right.
  • Logistically, it can be difficult: Some roofs that are older will be brittle and won’t withstand a partial replacement. Another issue is if rotted wood is found, the entire roof will need to be removed to replace the rotted wood anyway. The partial replacement may cause more harm than good.
What insurance should a roofer have?

Roofing contractors should have worker’s comp and liability insurance.

Do roofers work in the rain?

It is very unsafe for roofers to work in the rain as the crew will be at risk for falling on slippery shingles.

Types of Roofing

When considering what type of roofing to install, weigh aesthetics against cost. Roofing materials come in varying grades and corresponding prices. Look at the full product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs. For example, you could spend $30,000 for real slate or wood shakes—or get a similar look for much less. Here are the types of roofing to consider.

  • Asphalt Roofing Shingles: The most popular by far, asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass sandwiched between asphalt and ceramic granules. Relatively light and easy to install, they are a good choice if you're looking for style at a budget price. They may last 30 years or more but can be vulnerable to high winds. Asphalt roofing comes in two types. Laminated shingles, also known as "architectural" or "dimensional" shingles, are layered, and their thickness and depth make them look more like slate or wood shakes. Three-tab asphalt shingles, though similarly priced, are made in a single layer. They're flatter and thinner than laminated shingles and didn't perform as well in past tests. What's more, falling prices for laminated shingles are helping them grab more and more of the market.
  • Fake Slate Roofing Shingles: This composite material looks like the real thing, even close up. And it weighs about the same as asphalt, so there's no need to beef up the roof structure. Made of a variety of compositions, including plastic/polymer, clay, rubber or asphalt, fake slate is slipperier than real slate. (If you live in a snowy climate, consider installing snow guards as well.) Some fake slate may crack under impact or may fade. And it is relatively costly, though not nearly as expensive as slate.
  • Metal Roofing: Metal roofing comes in steel, aluminum, copper, and alloy strips, and in various shapes and textures. Copper is especially expensive. Over time, copper acquires a greenish patina that some people find attractive. Advantages of metal include easy installation and it's ultra-lightweight, about half the weight of asphalt. And of course metal roofing doesn't burn. But it can be noisy in a rainstorm. Although the steel strips we tested dented easily, their textured surface hid minor damage quite well. Such roofing effectively reflects the sun's rays, so it keeps your home cooler in summer—a benefit in hot climates.
Does my roof need a patch of a replacement?

It depends on the extent of the damage. If you just have a leak and the roof is not old, repairs may be sufficient. If you have broken, missing or cracking shingles, a repair may be sufficient. However, if the roof is reaching the end of its service life or has multiple leaks, it likely should be replaced. Check for signs of:

  • Sagging
  • Leaking
  • Water damage
  • Dark spots
  • Holes
  • Missing shingles
  • Mold or rot

If you notice any of the above, it is likely that you need a roof replacement.

What is included in roof replacement?

Our roof replacement process is as follows:

  • Property Protection: Our first step is protecting your home with tarps and plywood. We also recommend that you put away any fragile items on or near walls or ceilings as our hammers or other machinery may cause vibrations in your home.
  • Removal of Old Roofing Material: We will remove all of the old shingles and will check the condition of the wood underneath.
  • Roof Inspection: If the wood decking is found to be soft, wet or rotted, it may need to be replaced. If there is an additional cost we will give you an additional estimate and if approved we will re-nail and replace the wood decking so your new roof is safely secured!
  • Preparing The Roof Surface For Shingles: After we prepare the wood, we will put drip edges along the perimeter of the roof to prevent rain from getting underneath your new roofing material. We will then install a shield against ice and water to protect the wood against water leaks. Next we cover the shield with roofing felt, which will prevent the shingles from sticking to the wood.
  • New Roofing Material Installation: We will then lay out the new roofing materials and install ridge vents and flashing if required.
  • Site Cleanup: We will clean the site daily after completing work.
  • Final Inspection: We will then inspect our job to ensure the roof was installed properly and that you are completely satisfied with our work.

For more information or to schedule your free roof estimate, contact us today at +1 (720) 771-8921.

How do I prepare my roof for replacement?
  • Think about kids and pets: Think about the loud noises and vibrations to the home that may occur throughout the project. Make sure that your yard is off-limits while our project is in progress.
  • Relocate your vehicles: Our crew will need to access their tools and trucks throughout the day and will need to unload materials.
  • Remove wall decorations: The vibrations from hammers and machinery may travel to your walls and ceiling.

Roof Coating FAQ

Why would I choose a coating over a re-roofing?

Coating a roof will cost about 65% less than roofing.

What are the benefits of a roof coating?

Roof coatings are energy efficient – which will save you money on utility expenses. Coatings are wind, fire and hail resistant.

Are roof coatings environmentally friendly?

They are! There isn’t any tear off waste, which would end up in a landfill.

What are additional benefits to a building owner?

Our coating help building owners achieve LEED certification and other environmentally sustainable programs.

Do roof coatings generally need permits?

Typically, no – because coating a roof will not affect anything structural.

Do roof coatings have a warranty?

Yes – between ten and twenty years.

Are the warranties pro-rated?

No, our warranty is a full warranty from the manufacturer. Our warranty is covered 100% for the entire term of the warranty. However, most re-roofs are pro-rated warranties and the actual value of the warranty reduces over time.

Is the warranty transferable to a new business owner?

Yes!

How often should I coat my roof?

Typically a coating will last around 10 years.

What is roofing muck?

This is a cement that is used as a patching material for leaks and holes in the roofing material.

Metal Roof FAQ

Why would I choose a coating over a re-roofing?

Coating a roof will cost about 65% less than roofing.

What are the benefits of a roof coating?

Roof coatings are energy efficient – which will save you money on utility expenses. Coatings are wind, fire and hail resistant.

Are roof coatings environmentally friendly?

They are! There isn’t any tear off waste, which would end up in a landfill.

What are additional benefits to a building owner?

Our coating help building owners achieve LEED certification and other environmentally sustainable programs.

Do roof coatings generally need permits?

Typically, no – because coating a roof will not affect anything structural.

Do roof coatings have a warranty?

Yes – between ten and twenty years.

Are the warranties pro-rated?

No, our warranty is a full warranty from the manufacturer. Our warranty is covered 100% for the entire term of the warranty. However, most re-roofs are pro-rated warranties and the actual value of the warranty reduces over time.

Is the warranty transferable to a new business owner?

Yes!

How often should I coat my roof?

Typically a coating will last around 10 years.

What is roofing muck?

This is a cement that is used as a patching material for leaks and holes in the roofing material.

Roofing Articles on the Blog

Buying a New Home? What to Look for in a Roof

Buying a New Home? Here’s What to Look for in a Roof!

By Red Hawk Roofing | April 29, 2022

When looking to purchase a new home, it’s always important to get a good look at the roof. In some cases, it even makes sense to hire a professional roofing company, such as Red Hawk Roofing, to inspect the roof to ease your mind on any potential concerns. If you choose to check out the …

Buying a New Home? Here’s What to Look for in a Roof! Read More »

Checklist for Spring Cleaning Your Roof

Checklist for Spring Cleaning Your Roof

By Red Hawk Roofing | April 14, 2022

Who doesn’t love some spring cleaning? Well, just like the inside of your home, your roof needs spring cleaning too! Our Red Hawk Roofing experts have put together a roof spring cleaning checklist, which is below, in order to guide you on the important steps to take. Before continuing on, please note, If there’s any …

Checklist for Spring Cleaning Your Roof Read More »

Do you want to start managing commercial roofing claims in Colorado but don't know the requirements needed? You need to have several qualifications if your roofing company wants to handle commercial roofing claims services. People want to engage roofing companies that will help if their roofs develop a problem. Companies offering commercial roofing claim services must have the right credentials and licenses to enhance customer satisfaction. What is Commercial Roofing Claim? Most commercial roofing companies include insurance claims as one of their services. Here, the roofing company handles all the communication with the insurance company. The roofing company saves you from undergoing the tedious insurance claim process. If a person has never been through a commercial roof claim, the insurance company takes control of the claim by sending an adjuster to the affected building. It's advisable to have your roofing consultant help the insurance adjuster access the damage done. An experienced roofing company will advise you on how to handle any required demolition effort. They help you meet all the post-loss requirements dictated by the insurance policy. Complying with all your insurance provisions helps you gain fair recovery for all the losses incurred. Why You Should Hire Roofing Companies that Work with Insurance Claims A good roofing company understands how the insurance claim process works. They ensure you comply with your insurance company and get the correct amount they agreed to pay. The contractor works with the insurance company to prevent you from committing fraud. You won't have to deal with other problems after your property's roof is destroyed. Who can Manage Commercial Roofing Claims? Not every contractor is qualified to handle commercial roofing claims. Here are the requirements that roofing contractors must fulfill. Certification You should produce a certificate showing you've passed a nationally recognized examination that addresses roofing work on commercial and residential properties. For example, contractors in Denver must have a supervisor certificate and meet all the standards put in place by the Denver Community Planning & Development Office. Also, you must have an insurance certificate indicating general liability protection of not less than $500,000. Lastly, you must have current Colorado Worker's Compensation Coverage documentation indicating the roofing classifications. A signature showing your company abides by the CRA Code of Ethics is also required. Licensing In Colorado, all roofing contractors are classified alongside general contractors. That means they don't have to possess a particular state license. However, they're required to have a state business license. To handle commercial roofing claims, you must have a Class A or Class B license that allows contractors to work on any building project. Also, contractors must pass an International Code Council (ICC) exam. Roofing contractors handling commercial roofing claims should have a business license that shows a company has been in operation for not less than two years. After passing the licensing test, the Colorado jurisdiction or municipality will issue the license. You also need to have a contractor license bond awarded at the municipal level. How to Get a Contractor's License in Colorado Almost all cities in Colorado follow the same process when issuing licenses. Some of the essential things an applicant must provide to the municipality include: Proof of education Any previous certificates/licenses Tax ID number. Insurance Some cities require you to pass ICC National Standard Building Contractor Exams. Moreover, cities such as Denver require applicants to have a supervisor certificate. After you've met all the requirements, you can take the application form to your municipality. Some municipalities such as Thornton, Denver, Jefferson, and Fort Collins require applicants to do an ICC-validated exam. The application is then processed after passing the exam, and you are issued a contractor's license. The card can only be collected by you or the people listed on the application form. Experience Before your roofing company starts managing commercial roofing claims, you should prove having worked with insurance companies. A good contractor must be manufacturer-certified to show that you've been appropriately trained to work for commercial roofing claims. You're required to have specialized knowledge of handling commercial roofing claims. You should have verifiable evidence of how you previously managed and worked with an insurance company. Qualities to Look for When Engaging a Commercial Roofing Company for Insurance Replacement 1. They are Located in Your Area When looking for a contractor to handle insurance work, it's advisable to pick one near your area. Ideally, they should have a local physical office and phone number with your area code. Hiring a local contractor saves you from hiring a quack who will fix your roof poorly without following the correct local codes. 2. Have Appropriate Paperwork Your preferred roofing contractor must be licensed, insured, and explicitly bonded to work in your area. Appropriate paperwork ensures your rights are protected, and you get the best services. How do these documents help you? Bond: It ensures that the roofing company doesn't get out of the deal when repairing the roof. Being bonded ensures the roofing contractor follows the correct roofing procedure. Insurance: Contractors must have general liability insurance to protect them during commercial roofing. If you're unsure whether their insurance policy is valid, you can reach out to their insurance carriers. License: Work with a registered and licensed contractor. A contractor with a $25,000 job should have a general contractor license. 3. Provide You with a Warranty Warranties are essential because they protect you from paying for work done poorly. A good roofing company will offer a warranty. The duration of the warranty varies from contractor to contractor. Choose a contractor whose warranty is longer to save money and resources. References Good roofing contractors are always proud to show their previous work. Getting recommendations from other building owners assures you that you're hiring a reliable contractor to repair the roof. Final Thought It can be pretty challenging to handle commercial roofing claims on your own. That's why most commercial roofing companies offer insurance claim services on behalf of their clients. However, not every roofing company can handle such insurance cases. A roofing company offering insurance claim services must have the right certificates, licenses, and experience. Contact us today if you want to hire a company that understands your needs.

The Experience you Need to Properly Manage a Commercial Roofing Claim in Colorado!

By Red Hawk Roofing | April 8, 2022

Do you want to start managing commercial roofing claims in Colorado but don’t know the requirements needed? You need to have several qualifications if your roofing company wants to handle commercial roofing claims services. People want to engage roofing companies that will help if their roofs develop a problem. Companies offering commercial roofing claim services …

The Experience you Need to Properly Manage a Commercial Roofing Claim in Colorado! Read More »

The Importance of Roofers Relationships with Suppliers

The Importance of Roofers Relationships with Suppliers

By Red Hawk Roofing | April 7, 2022

Success in business is largely defined by relationships. Each company sits in the middle of a chain of relationships created with suppliers and customers by taking raw materials, products, and services from one end and adding value to generate profits at the other end. In the roofing industry, the supplier relationship takes the form of …

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5 Reasons Property Management Companies Choose Red Hawk Roofing

5 Reasons Property Management Companies Choose Red Hawk Roofing

By Red Hawk Roofing | April 5, 2022

Any experienced property manager would tell you that the secret to keeping a residential or commercial property safe and intact is to have a trusted restoration and repair company on your speed dial. A professional property management company should only work with trusted and qualified companies. When it comes to roofing, a dependable company should …

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Blog Post Headers Best Time of Year to Replace Your Roof - Red Hawk Roofing | Denver, CO - Roof Inspection, Repair, & Replacement - Fire & Hail Roofing & Restoration

Best Time of the Year to Replace Your Roof

By Red Hawk Roofing | March 31, 2022

If you’re starting to notice signs of wear, tear, damage, and aging on your roof and gutters it’s probably time to get your roof replaced. You may be wondering though, what is the best time of year to replace your roof and what factors play into it? One season is usually out of the question, …

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An Estimator You Can Trust

Our staff and crew have been in this industry for over a decade.

Call Rico, the owner, with any questions or concerns you may have. He will always answer his phone and respond to your fire damage faster than anyone else.

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Inspections

Let us take a look.

A friendly design consultant conducts a complete and thorough inspection; then takes measurements to understand the design space, all while getting to know your home.

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Estimates

Consider your options.

Our experts will provide you with cost estimates and samples that meets your budget and needs. We will help you decide which styles, colors, and price ranges make the most sense for your interior design project.

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Financing

Keep it simple.

All major credit cards, cash, and checks are accepted. Monthly payments are affordable, and we can help you get you approved for financing quickly!

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Get it Done

Hassle no more.

We arrange for the materials, schedule the installation, obtain all permits, and manage the logistics. Payment is due only when you are satisfied with the outcome.

Next steps to take.

Step 1 - Get a Roof Inspection

Step 1

Get an inspection

Call Red Hawk Roofing for a free inspection. We will perform a comprehensive inspection, take measurements, and identify your options.

Step 2 - Get an estimate

Step 2

Get an estimate

Based on a price range, style, and color estimate, you can decide on the design and style that work best for you.

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Step 3

File An Insurance Claim

Red Hawk Roofing provides financing options, whether you need your kitchen remodeled or a full home renovation.

Red Hawk Roofing - Insurance Claim Guide

Have insurance claims questions?

Our experts can answer all your concerns!

You should contact our team if to help guide you through the process of making insurance claims. We know which products work best for Colorado's climate because of our years of experience. We have a specific process we use so that we can assist you with restoration, design, and installation that is economical and suitable for your needs.

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