FAQs
Here are some questions we are often asked:
Q: My insurance company just told me they will only pay to repair my roof, but it’s old, and I think it needs to be replaced. Is there anything I can do now?
A: I am a licensed insurance adjuster and am qualified to address your concerns with your agency. I have the expertise to look for evidence of significant damage that may warrant roof replacement.
Q: How long will the entire new roof installation process take, including the cleanup?
A: Depending on the weather and the insurance company processing timeline, it should take approximately 3-4 weeks. We will use our crew and several large magnetic sweeps to make sure your property is clean and debris-free following the installation.
Q: What is the difference between architectural shingles and regular shingles?
A: Architectural shingles (also known as dimensional shingles) are an asphalt-based roofing material. They are designed to give your roof a good-looking random pattern or simulate the look of a wood shake roof. It’s a thicker shingle and allows for greater endurance and strength when it comes to wind and other extreme weather conditions. Regular, or 3-tab shingles are flat and have a single tab shape and size. They are uniform, which gives them a matte appearance and are less durable.
Q: Can you please explain the pros and cons between a shingle roof and a metal roof to help me understand which might be best?
A: An asphalt shingle roof is the most common type of roof in the Carolinas; it is durable, easy to install, and economical. A metal roof is durable, fireproof, easy to repair and pest and rodent-proof; however, it is very expensive.
Q: How long does a roof usually last?
A: The estimated lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof in the Carolinas is approximately 15-25 years with proper maintenance and routine inspection. A metal roof can last up to 100 years.
Q: Which should I do first, install gutters or get a new roof?
A: Many homeowners get new gutters at the same time they get a new roof, even if there is nothing wrong with their current gutter system. This is because getting them done at the same time tends to be affordable, saving money on costs such as labor dealing with one contractor. If you get new gutters, make sure you buy a high quality gutter system, and ask us about gutter shields, as this can prevent clogs from happening and future roof damage.
Q: Should I have my roof inspected?
A: If you have an asphalt shingle roof, these are items that Old School Roofing will look for during an inspection:
- Shingle deterioration: This can occur as a result of missing or loose shingles and rotting on the shingles.
- Water damage: Water damage can occur due to poor drainage, improperly installed or damaged flashing and storms, making it possible for water to seep in.
- Mold: Mold growing around attic insulation or a chimney could be a sign of extended water damage. We will highlight any problem areas and look for signs of damage to the wood framework.
- Clogged gutters: If your gutters contain loose shingle granules, this could be a sign that your shingles are worn. These asphalt granules give your shingles weight and protect them from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.