Tips

Take note

Take note of flashing on chimneys, dormer walls, vent pipes, etc. If you see roofing cement (black in color) covering these areas it is usually an indication of previous repairs, poor workmanship and/or missing flashing.

Roof Pitch Matters

Flat & low slope roofs need routine maintenance. Chances are, if it is a few years old and hasn’t been maintained that a thorough inspection and some maintenance is needed.

Why Wait?

Don't wait weeks to get an estimate for your roof! On average it takes Tri-Town less than a week to estimate your roof and send you a detailed proposal. We thank you in advance for your consideration and look forward to serving your roofing needs!

Determining the condition of your roof?

Roofing shingles deteriorate slowly over time. This can make it difficult to determine when to invest in a new roof. The longevity of your roof depends on many factors, including: shingle weight, quality of installation, degree of exposure, and probably the most overlooked and the number one reason of early roof failure, ventilation. Shingles that last 25 years on one house may only last 15 years on another. Shingle decay is the most accurate indicator of your roof’s remaining life. An experienced contractor should be able to assess and propose the right roof system for your home.

Inspecting your roof

There are 3 stages of shingle decay and wear that you can spot from the ground...

STAGE 1: TIME TO START PLANNING

In stage one, the colored stone granules that are embedded in the shingle’s surface begin to wear away. This stage is easy to spot on a light colored roof because as the granules wear away, you will see patches of the base material which is black. If you have a dark-colored roof, you may need to do an up-close inspection of the shingles. Generally, roofs do not leak at this stage. The shingles however become brittle and begin to curl.

STAGE 2: TIME FOR A NEW ROOF

In stage two, bare spots where base material is exposed become clearly visible and are widespread. The roof may appear blotchy and gray.

STAGE 3: URGENT! REPLACE!!

In stage three, exposed sections of shingles will crack and begin to break off. You will also find worn shingles in your gutters and on the ground, exposed nails and underlayment. At this stage if it is not leaking it soon will!

 

THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR 

Buying a new roof is a big investment. First and foremost, you should insist on working with a professional roofing contractor. Follow these tips for choosing the right company for the job.

 

Credibility & Stability

Check for permanent place of business, tax identification number and business license. Make sure the company is financially stable. A good roofing contractor can provide current financial information about their company.

Proposals & Procedures

Insist on a detailed proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications. Ask about start and end dates and payment procedures.

Guarantees & Warranties

Carefully read any roofing warranties offered, and look for provisions that would void it. Remember…A warranty is only as good as the company. In 2010 through 2011 there were over 100 roofing companies created in the Buffalo & 150 went out of business.

 

Insurance & Verification

Ask for proof of insurance. In particular, insist on seeing copies of liability coverage and workers compensation certificates. Make sure the coverage is in effect through the duration of the job. If a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.

Materials & Products

Have the contractor list the manufactures with which his firm is a licensed approved applicator. Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.

Training & Safety

Ask the contractor what type of safety training he provides for his workers and what industry education programs they have attended. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system.

 

Satisfied Clients & References

Ask for a list of references and ask former clients if they were satisfied with their work.

Memberships & Associations

Check to see if the contractor is a member of any professional associations, such as The Better Business Bureau.

You get what you pay for..

Be wary of the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors below cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors are often uninsured and perform substandard work.