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Frequently Asked Questions about Your Roofing

Onit Roofing & Exteriors Inc. provide exceptional workmanship at a reasonable price and enjoy helping you by answering frequently asked roofing and exterior questions. Whether you are looking for re-roofing, siding, fencing or a new garage, we can make it happen at a fair cost. To more easily navigate this page, please choose a question from this list to be directed to the answer.

Should I repair or replace my roof?

First, know the composition and age of your roof. Each roof varies and it’s important to inspect your roof to determine what it is made of and how old it is. If you do not have any documentation on the age of your roof, a visual inspection can be conducted. Check shingles for loss of granules, fracturing, or curling of the material.

Leaks are usually the first sign that something needs to be fixed on your roof. Some leaks are not obvious and the leak may not even be located directly under the section where the ceiling is dripping. Water can travel along rafters and studs, causing discoloured spots on walls and ceilings some distance from the actual leak. Musty smells can also indicate a roof-related problem.

Have a professional inspect your roof before deciding to repair or replace it.

What factors should I consider before choosing roofing replacement?

Although adding another layer of shingles to your roof may be allowed by local building codes, you may be covering up existing problems. Some roofing problems can only be discovered upon removal of your existing roof. Be sure to check that your sheathing, flashings, and drip-edge are in good condition before re-roofing and ensure they will last the life of your “new” shingles. If your old shingles are brittle, cupping, and/or buckling, you will not be able to lay new shingles flat or seal them down properly. This can reduce the new roof’s life expectancy.

To “properly” re-roof your existing roof, remove shingles approximately 4-feet up from the eavestrough edge to install ice and water guard. Cut back the shingles around the entire perimeter of your roof to install a new drip edge as well. Even with these precautions, you may still be reducing the life of your new shingles. Re-covering or re-roofing the right way can still be just as expensive as getting a new roof.

What factors should I consider before choosing a new roof?

When choosing a new roof, consider two major factors when selecting the roofing materials:

  1. Appearance
  2. Longevity

A highly visible roof can have an impact on your home’s curb appeal. The colour and style of your roof can be just as important as its strength and durability. New roof warranties range from 25 years to a lifetime, depending on the type of shingle and the manufacturer. We recommend getting a warranty that fits how long you plan on staying in house.

What is the cause of ice damming?

With repeated melting and freezing of snow on the roof, ice damming can occur. The cycles of thawing and freezing cause ice to form around the eaves and push up shingles. During warmer weather the ice melts and leaks can develop through the ceiling and walls.

Ice damming problems differ from house to house, depending on certain factors. Sun and warm weather can contribute to the issue along with significant rising heat from the house through the roof. Making sure your roof is properly vented and well insulated can help keep your attic temperature close to the outside temperature. Installing ice and water shields should also be considered.

Why is ventilation so important?

An important factor in prolonging the life of your roofing shingles is proper ventilation. Heat or cold buildup can accelerate the aging process of your asphalt roofing shingles. Air circulation, regardless of outside temperatures, greatly reduces the chances for leaks, blistering, distortions, curling, rotting wood structures, wet insulation, and more.

Why is underlayment so important?

Underlayment is used to reduce the risk of water infiltration do to wind driven rain, or to protect your roof from the elements if the shingles are torn or cracked. It acts as a buffer area between the shingles and the deck.

How can I prolong the life of my roof?

Some tips on prolonging the life of your roof include:

  • Keep eavestroughs free of debris
  • Clean leaves and other material from around chimney flashing, vents, and valleys
  • Clear the roof of anything that could work its way under shingles or flashing
  • Trim trees whose branches might scrape or fall on the roof
  • Inspect the condition of your roofing material as it ages

What is done to protect my property during the roofing process?

All grounds and surrounding area of your home will be treated with utmost care. Onit Roofing & Exteriors Inc. always provides a bin to dispose of old material which provides accessibility without imposing any damage to grass or driveways. Once a job is complete a thorough roof and ground inspection will be completed.

In choosing a reputable roofing company, why is it important to make sure they have their own insurance?

If the roofing company you hire is not properly insured, you or your homeowner’s insurance company are liable for personal injury claims and damages to your home. A reputable roofing company, like Onit Roofing & Exteriors Inc., carries worker’s compensation for injured workers along with adequate levels of liability coverage. The roofing company’s insurance needs to be renewed annually – be sure to ask if their insurance is up to date.

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