Frequently Asked Questions

Nails are the preferred method of fastening asphalt shingles due to their superior holding strength. The following fastening tips apply to most shingles. (Check specific product application instructions for further information):

• A minimum of four fasteners per shingle are used.
• Correctly place and position fasteners below the sealant strip, but above the cut-out on three tab shingles, and in the nail line on laminated shingles.
• The fasteners must be straight and flush with the surface of the shingle, not sunk into the shingle or sticking up at any point.

The plastic strip is biodegradable and is simply a protective strip to prevent shingles from sticking to each other in packaging. Removing this strip will void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Ice and water shield is a protective underlayment that is applied over the wood deck prior to any shingles being installed. It provides an extra layer of protection in areas that are most prone to leaks and ice damming problems. We typically suggest installed ice and water shield along the eaves, around chimneys, skylights and in all valleys.

No. The manufacturers of older organic shingles have not required underlayment under the shingles, but they highly recommend having it installed under fiberglass core shingles. The reasons are that fiberglass shingles will not curl up at the end of their lifespan, as organic shingles do, so you may not know exactly when to replace them. If there is some kind of damage later in the roof’s lifespan due to aging, you will still have some protection before you can have the roof replaced. Also, the underlayment is a second line in defense against any of the elements that may get under the shingles. All high warranty roofing products do require some kind of underlayment installed first, because all sloped roofing products shed water, but do not seal it out. It just makes sense to have that second line of defense installed on your roof.

Yes, we handle many claims and have a great relationship with insurance companies. Ask your insurance adjuster about our great reputation.

If a homeowner hires someone “under the table” who is not enrolled in Workers’ Compensation, the homeowner can be held financially responsible if that person is hurt while working on the homeowner’s property.

Not necessarily. An excessive amount of granules are applied during the shingle manufacturing process to ensure that the bitumen on the roofing sheet is completely covered. It is important to completely cover the sheet with granules so that the bitumen is not exposed to ultraviolet light.

This may be due to settling of the structure or simply poor construction practice. A required buildup of sealant at the corners will also be the cause. Check all outlets to make sure they are cleared of all debris.

Rule of thumb is no more than 40 linear feet of gutter for each down pipe; this will also depend on how many corners are in the gutters. Keep in mind the amount of downpipes is not as important as the size of the opening, which supplies the downpipes eg: 1 7/8” vs. 2 3/4”

There are many variables and every roof is different. Speak to one of our estimators who will be able to get you the right answers for your home.