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

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Winter Weather Damage & How to Handle It

By Red Hawk Roofing | February 17, 2021

This past week, winter weather that rivaled temperatures in the northern part of the United States hit Colorado and the surrounding states. These winter temperatures and conditions were an eye-opener for most homeowners – that it\’s important to protect your home against winter storm damage before it\’s too late. High winds, ice, snow and hail …

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5 Signs You Need a New Roof

By Red Hawk Roofing | February 2, 2021

Are you wondering if you need a new roof? Chances are if you’re questioning your roof, it may be showing you some signs that aren\’t ideal. For instance, it\’s looking old and worn – in other words, showing its age. It is in your best interest to take note of this and get anything that …

5 Signs You Need a New Roof Read More »

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Signs Your Home has Structural Damage

By Red Hawk Roofing | January 10, 2021

Structural damage to your home can be caused by a number of things – natural disasters, age, or accidents. If you happen to catch or suspect structural damage to your home, it\’s best to get it looked at immediately as it will only get worse if it goes unfixed. Red Hawk Roofing has years of …

Signs Your Home has Structural Damage Read More »

5 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

5 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

By Red Hawk Roofing | December 5, 2020

Winter is here – at least where we\’re at here in Colorado. With the plummeting temperatures and snowfall comes the risk of frozen and bursting pipes. Frozen/ruptured pipes actually happen to be the most common cause of property damage in the winter. This begs the question – have you taken the necessary precaution to avoid …

5 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes Read More »

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How to Pick the Right Roof Color for Your Home

By Red Hawk Roofing | November 20, 2020

Whether you need a roof replacement or are in the process of building a new home, you’ll need to pick out a roof color. How do you go about picking out the right roof color though? Red Hawk Roofing has the answer. We\’ll start by reminding you though that your roof is a big investment …

How to Pick the Right Roof Color for Your Home Read More »

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5 Snow and Ice Removal Hacks

By Red Hawk Roofing | November 12, 2020

Living in Colorado means you have to combat snow and ice in the winter. In just a matter of hours, the Front Range can receive a couple inches to a couple feet of snow. After this happens, most of look outside and dread having to figure out how to get our car out of the …

5 Snow and Ice Removal Hacks Read More »

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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