Residential Roofing FAQ’s
As a trusted roofing contractor, Summit Point Roofing is committed to offering expert guidance and valuable information on all your roofing needs. On this roofing frequently asked questions page, we aim to address common questions regarding roof replacements, roof inspections, roof leaks, storm damage, eco-friendly options, and selecting the right roofing contractor. Explore below to find answers to your roofing questions for your property.
General Roofing Questions
A Class 4 impact rating refers to the durability and resistance of roofing shingles against hail damage. These shingles are composed of a blend of materials including asphalt, rubber, and laminate. The rubber content in Class 4 shingles enables them to withstand hail impact by allowing hailstones to bounce, rather than causing damage. Due to their thicker composition compared to other shingles, Class 4 shingles maintain their structural integrity against hailstones as large as 2 inches in diameter. Additionally, opting for Class 4-rated shingles may qualify homeowners for insurance discounts, reflecting their superior durability and protective qualities.
Architectural or dimensional shingles differ from standard 3-tab or strip shingles in their design. Unlike single-layer 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles are multi-layered or laminated, offering enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
Roof leaks occur when there is a break in the waterproofing layer. This can result from mechanical damage, gaps in sealants like pitch pans and caulking, or defects and deterioration in the roofing materials. Our emergency roof leak repair goal in roof management is to prevent leaks by addressing these issues promptly and maintaining the integrity of the waterproofing layer.
When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s important to consider several factors. Start by ensuring the company has extensive experience and a record of successful projects. Look for positive customer reviews and testimonials. Verify that the contractor is properly licensed and insured, and ask about the warranties they provide. Summit Point Roofing combines expertise, credentials, and a dedication to excellence, ensuring we meet all your roofing needs with professionalism.
Certainly! Property owners have several green options available. These include solar shingles that harness solar energy, cool roofing materials designed to reflect sunlight and reduce energy consumption, and metal roofing made from recycled materials. Opting for eco-friendly roofing not only promotes sustainability but can also enhance property value and lead to lower energy costs.
Roof leaks may result from several factors, such as worn-out shingles, damaged shingles, clogged gutters, cracked flashing and improper installation. Proactive measures and routine maintenance can help prevent leaks such as promptly addressing minor issues and regular gutter cleaning. We provide thorough maintenance services to keep your roof leak-free and ensuring the security and integrity of your roof.
Not all types of roofs are suitable for every home in Michigan. Factors such as the home’s structure, local climate, and architectural style can influence which roofing types are appropriate. Certain roofing materials may be more suitable for your home than others. During our free consultation, we take time to understand your preferences and make tailored recommendations.
Each of these products has its own distinct advantages, along with unique aesthetics that differ from conventional asphalt shingle roofs. For example, a slate roof is renowned for its longevity, often lasting 100 years or more. Metal roofs can enhance the efficiency of your home and offer durability and longevity, green roofing characteristics that other products may not provide, and curb appeal.
Although asphalt shingles are prevalent on Michigan roofs, we also specialize in installing cedar roofs, slate roofs, metal roofs, flat roofs, shake roofs, stone coated steel roofs, and synthetic slate roofs.
If you’re located in West, Mid, or North Michigan, reach out to us at (616) 622-6343 for after-hours emergencies. Your call will be promptly returned, and we’ll dispatch one of our full-time roof repair specialists to assist you. Remember to prioritize your safety when dealing with a roof leak. If you’re uncertain about the severity of the leak, avoid the area until help arrives.
Preparing for a new Residential roof repair or replacement
The frequency of roof inspections can be influenced by both the age of the roof and the local weather conditions. It’s generally recommended to conduct annual roof inspections for older roofs to promptly identify and address any wear and tear or potential issues. However, in regions prone to severe weather like extreme temperatures or heavy storms, more frequent inspections are recommended. Routine inspections are essential because they enable early detection of issues, thereby preventing expensive repairs. Additionally, this can prolong the life of your roof. Annual inspections coupled with annual maintenance are also required by some manufacturers in order to maintain the warranty on your roof system.
The timing for roof replacement varies based on the type of roof and its specific wear characteristics. Key indicators that it may be time for replacement include:
- Multiple roof leaks occurring in various locations.
- Repairs that exacerbate leaks or lead to new leaks developing afterward.
- Persistent leaks that persist despite multiple repair attempts.
The lifespan of a roof varies widely due to factors such as construction quality, maintenance levels, design suitability, and exposure to wear and tear. While poorly designed and installed roofs can fail in as few as six or seven years, well-constructed and properly maintained roofs can last over sixty years. Generally, most building owners, roofing contractors in Michigan, and designers consider 20 years to be an acceptable service life for a roof.
Several signs suggest that your roof may require replacement. Keep an eye out for curled, cracked, or missing shingles. Another clear sign is water damage, indicated by stains on your ceilings or walls. Consider replacing your roof if it is nearing the end of its typical lifespan, which is usually 20 to 25 years for asphalt shingles. Before making a decision, our Roofing Consultants will evaluate your roof’s condition and assist you in making an informed choice based on your budget and its current condition.
When deciding whether to do a roof repair in Michigan or a full replacement, our roofing consultants consider several factors, including the quality of the previous installation, the roof’s age, the cost of the repair, and various other factors. Once we have gathered all the necessary information, we provide a consultative approach with a detailed estimate to help you make the best decision for your roof.
It’s better to act sooner rather than later! Contractors start roofing jobs as soon as the weather warms up. As soon as the weather warms up, roofing contractors begin work. We can start working on your project as soon as the roofing season begins.
An asphalt shingle roof, the most common roofing material, typically lasts an average of 15-20 years in Michigan. However, the lifespan of your roof can vary, depending on factors such as the materials used, exposure to the elements, workmanship, and other considerations.
Recent data indicates that the cost of a new roof, on average, falls between $8,500-$15,500 This estimate includes tearing off the existing roof and the cost of asphalt shingles. Please consider that every roof is unique, and several variables can affect the cost, such as:
- Size of your roof
- Pitch (slope) of the roof
- Existing roof installation and support
- Types of building materials and roofing used
- Code requirements
- Presence of pipes, skylights, chimneys, etc.
To prepare for a new roof installation, follow these steps:
- Clear your driveway and the area around your home to provide easy access for the roofing crew and their equipment.
- Relocate items from walls and shelves to prevent them from falling due to vibrations from hammering.
- Make arrangements for pets if you think they might become anxious due to noise.
Summit Point Roofing Company FAQ’s
Summit Point Roofing, the premier roofing company in Michigan, distinguishes itself through unwavering dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction. With years of industry experience, our team of experts handles every roofing project with precision and expertise. We value transparent communication and dependable service, keeping you informed and satisfied during the entire process. By using only high-quality materials from trusted suppliers, we ensure results that exceed expectations. Choosing Summit Point Roofing means choosing a company that values your property as highly as you do.
We service West, Mid and Northern Michigan. If you are unsure if we service your area, please contact us.
Contact us to schedule a no-obligation presentation of our available roofing products. During the appointment, we will showcase a comprehensive range of samples and answer any questions, helping you make an informed decision.
We offer around-the-clock emergency roof leak repair services, ensuring you have access to professional help whenever you need it. Our team of dedicated service professionals is always on standby to locate and repair leaks swiftly. If you experience an emergency leak, we will immediately dispatch one of our experienced roof repair specialists to your location, even in the middle of the night. If you need after-hours emergency roof repair, call (616) 622-6343 to speak with one of our representatives
We specialize in shingles, metal, cedar, slate, epdm, tpo, stone coated steel, slate/shake, and a number of other roofing products.
We repair nearly all types of roofs, including shingles, cedar, slate, metal, stone coated steel, EPDM, TPO, synthetic, slate/shake, and various other roofing materials.
Gutter Repair and Replacement FAQ’s
The material your gutters are made from has a big impact on price, with vinyl the cheapest, aluminum (the most commonly chosen material for gutters) in the middle, and copper the most expensive. The type of gutter and its size can also impact cost. The good news is that a quality gutter system can last 20 years or more. Additionally, gutter repair in Michigan may be a better option.
Ideally, you should clean your gutters twice a year, in the spring and fall. This ensures your gutters are clear before Michigan is hit with our wettest months. Cleaning your gutters before winter is especially important to prevent ice dams.
Yes we do, but not all types of gutter protection. It is important to install a gutter protection system that does not interfere or require penetration in your roof system. Gutter protection that interferes with your roof or requires fasteners to be placed into the roof system can void your warranty and lead to leaking.
These telltale signs means it’s time to call the pros — that’s us — to repair or replace your gutters.
CRACKS OF ANY SIZE
Larger cracks are generally visible, but smaller crackers may only be noticeable after rain or when snow is melting. A few individual cracks can be repaired, but widespread cracking means it’s time to replace your gutters.
COMING APART AT THE SEAMS
Whether you have a leak or separation, issues at the seam, which is where two horizontal sections of your gutter meet, can create issues. These can sometimes be mended, but swapping them for seamless gutters means you no longer have to worry about it.
PEELING PAINT
Anywhere you see peeling or bubbling paint on your home’s exterior, check the nearest gutters for leaks. Or the paint could be peeling on the gutters themselves. If this issue is in just a few areas, a repair might do. More than that and you’re likely looking at replacement.
ROTTEN WOOD
Exterior wood elements, like window sills and door jambs, can become rotted when gutters can’t keep water in them. This inadequate drainage is best addressed by getting new gutters.
MILDEW IN YOUR BASEMENT
When downspouts aren’t working or break off (it happens!), the water isn’t redirected away from your foundation, like it’s supposed to be. If new areas of mold or mildew appear, look at your gutters and consider repair or replacement.
POCKED CEMENT
Anywhere your cement (driveway, porch, etc.) looks like something has been slowly chipping away at it, look up at your gutters. Water dripping or pouring down from them is the likely culprit, and a repair or replacement might be in order.
PULLING AWAY OR SAGGING GUTTERS
If your gutters are pulling away from your house or sagging in sections, the weight of the water and debris stuck in them is too much for them to hold. There may be multiple underlying causes, but they for sure need to be repaired or replaced
Roofing Pricing FAQ’s
We offer complimentary estimates and evaluations for both residential and commercial building roof repairs and replacements. Our services include free inspections, budget planning, and future forecasts to showcase our expertise and commitment to customer service. We provide detailed photo documentation and a comprehensive condition assessment report at no cost. This thorough evaluation can help you understand the state of your roof and potentially save you a significant amount of money by identifying issues early.
The pricing for each commercial project varies due to the specific challenges associated with each circumstance. The pricing of your new commercial roof is influenced by several factors.
These factors include:
- Type of warranty
- Roof size
- Current roof condition
- Choice of insulation
- Type of membrane selected
- Installation method
- Roof penetrations
- Roof access
According to current data, the average cost to repair a roof is about $1,000. Most homeowners spend between $375 and $1,670. However, this is just an average. Actual cost can vary depending on the specifics of the project.
Weather Related FAQ’s
Sloped roofs should be assessed for snow retention systems. Roofs such as synthetic materials, slate, and metal typically don’t hold snow very well and should be evaluated for snow retention measures.
Snow retention systems help keep snow on your roof, allowing it to melt and slide off in controlled amounts. Large amounts of snow can slide off your roof, potentially damaging your gutters, landscaping, and anything else in its path without a snow retention system.
It depends on the roofing material. We utilize various systems to manage snow on your roof effectively. Product selection varies accordingly. Metal roofs require a clamp-to-seam bar-style system, whereas shingles, slate, and synthetic products typically use a pad-style system.
It’s crucial to inspect your roof for signs of storm damage following a severe weather event. Check for loose or missing and curled shingles, dents, and cracks in tile roofs. A sure sign of damage is water stains inside your home or building. Another sign is granules from shingles that are visible in your gutters. If you suspect your roof may have storm damage, contact us as soon as possible for storm damage repair service. Our team will perform a comprehensive assessment and recommend necessary repairs or replacements to ensure the security and integrity of your roof.
Ice dams are formations of ice that develop near the eaves or gutters of a roof. They are caused by heat escaping from the interior of the building into the attic, warming the roof decking. This heat melts the snow and ice on the upper sections of the roof, creating water runoff. As this melted water flows down to the colder eaves or lower areas of the roof, it can refreeze, leading to the formation of ice dams.