Roofing is physically challenging and hazardous work. Hiring a skilled team of professionals is the best way to steer clear of the typical pitfalls.  

Roof Inspection

In most cases, your insurance agent will require you to have your roof inspected by a home inspector before roof replacement. It helps you determine how much life your top has left. Roof inspections focus on the condition of the roof material and the surrounding features. Inspectors look for curling, loose, or missing shingles, moss, stains, and rust. They also inspect the soffit, fascia, and gutter system. They look for sagging areas and check the seals and caulking around the penetrations, such as skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes, for gaps and deterioration.

Debris Removal

The act of clearing debris from a property is known as debris removal. It can include anything from branches and leaves to downed power lines and poles. It is often called storm debris and is responsible for yearly storm-related injuries. The roof tear-off is the most time-consuming and costly of any roofing project. Experience peace of mind with our Ottawa roofing specialists. They can handle meticulously stripping away all existing materials down to the bare decking, allowing inspection and repair of any damaged decking or roof structure. The resulting debris is then properly disposed of or recycled. 

Permits

Most cities require permits for new roofs, re-roofs, and significant roof repair jobs. Those who conduct these projects without proper permits may face fines. Furthermore, if homeowners try to sell their homes after completing unpermitted roofing work, they’ll have to pay for bringing the house up to code standards. Building permit regulations vary across states, so it’s essential to understand local rules before starting a roofing project. Maintaining thorough records of permits, inspections, and approvals is also valuable for future property assessments and insurance purposes.

Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, varying in cost depending on your selected type. Metal panels are another roof option but are more expensive and require specialized installation techniques. The starter shingles, which are more comprehensive than the regular shingles installed over them, are laid out by the roofers. They then nail the shingle rows, overlapping them. They may also install ridge caps for the roof’s peak and flashing for areas around chimneys, skylights, or vents to ensure a watertight seal. Remember that the size of your roof will determine how many bundles are required for the project and that roof measurements are expressed in squares (plus an additional 10–15% for waste). Finally, the team cleans up and disposes of any old materials.

Underlayment

The roof underlayment, which may be foam or felt, helps remove water that gets underneath the shingles and offers an extra layer of protection against rain. It can be purchased with or without a moisture barrier. A drip edge is put around the outside of your roof. It also helps to protect against rot and foundation problems. Roofing contractors then cover the top with felt paper, which is sometimes referred to as tar paper. It helps remove water collected under the shingles and increases the roof’s fire rating. They then waterproof the roof valleys, using methods specific to each home’s structure.

Flashing

Thin pieces of impermeable flashing are affixed to roof features like chimneys, windows, and door penetrations in walls. It decreases water penetration and prevents indoor mold problems by waterproofing the joints between these elements. Roof flashing is typically fabricated from aluminum, although it can be made from galvanized steel or copper. Installing flashing where roofing materials meet walls, penetrations, and edges is essential. Step flashing consists of short flashing pieces overlapping each other in “steps” where a roof meets a wall. It is often used along dormer windows and can be shaped to direct water away from walls. Other types of flashing include kickout flashing (the lowermost step), pipe flashing, and valley flashing (where two intersecting roof planes form an angle).