We want to offer you ongoing Value with our

Loyalty Program

This page is for educationnal purposes and we hope it will help you.

A checklist for maintenance of your roof :

Keeping your roof in good condition is very important making it viable for longer period of time and avoiding spending money more commonly than we should.

Here is the checklist :

1) Inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, for signs of damage, wear and tear, or other issues.

Look for cracked, missing, or curling shingles, loose flashing, or any other signs of damage.

2) Keep your gutters and downspouts clear of debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. This will prevent water damage by ensure that water flows freely off your roof and away from your home.

3) Trim back any tree branches that hang over your roof. Falling branches or debris can cause damage to your roof or gutters, and also create an entry point for pests to access your home.

4) Remove any debris, such as excess amount of fallen leaves or branches, from your roof regularly. This will prevent water from accumulating and causing damage.

5) Look for signs of water damage on your ceilings, walls, or in your attic. If you find any, check the roof for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.

6) Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and other protrusions on your roof. Make sure it is securely in place and not damaged.

7) Look for signs of mold or mildew on your roof, which can be an indication of moisture problems. Have any issues addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

8) Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. Proper ventilation can help prevent moisture buildup in your attic, which can lead to roof damage.

9) Have your roof professionally inspected every few years, or after any severe weather events. A professional roofer can identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

A list of questions you must ask to evaluate potential contractors :

1) Are you licensed and insured?

It's important to work with a roofing contractor who is licensed and insured. This ensures that they have the necessary skills and training to do the job and that you are protected in case of any accidents or damages.

2)Can you provide references?

A reputable roofing contractor should be able to provide references from past clients. Contact these references and ask about their experience working with the contractor.

3) What kind of roofing materials do you recommend?

A knowledgeable roofing contractor should be able to recommend roofing materials that will work best for your specific needs and budget.

4) What is your experience with roofing installations or repairs?

Look for a contractor with experience in the specific type of roofing installation or repair you need.

5) What is your project timeline and process?

Ask the contractor about their project timeline and process, including how long the project will take and what steps will be involved.

6) Will you provide a written estimate and contract?

Always get a written estimate and contract before agreeing to work with a contractor. Make sure it includes the scope of work, cost breakdown, and payment terms.

7) Do you have a warranty for your work?

A good roofing contractor should offer a warranty for their work. Ask about the specifics of the warranty and what it covers.

8) How do you handle unexpected issues or changes during the project?

Find out how the contractor handles unexpected issues or changes that may arise during the project, such as additional repairs or materials.

9) Can you provide a safety plan?

Roofing can be dangerous work, so it's important to work with a contractor who prioritizes safety. Ask if they can provide a safety plan for the project.

A Roofing Safety Guide for you :

Although it is the job of a roofing company to know safety measures when doing their job, it can only help if the homeowner also know some safety measures to ensure a successful and accident free project.

Here is your guide :

1) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is critical to ensuring worker safety on the job site. At a minimum, roofing workers should wear hard hats, safety glasses, and slip-resistant footwear. Gloves, respirators, and fall protection gear should also be used as needed.

2) Roofing Equipment: Proper equipment should be used when working on a roof. Ladders should be sturdy and secured, and should extend at least three feet above the roof line. Scaffolding, if used, should be properly installed and secured. Roof brackets, roof jacks, and other types of roof supports should also be used as needed.

3) Roofing Materials: Roofing materials should be properly stored and secured to prevent them from falling or shifting during work. Heavy materials such as bundles of shingles should be lifted with proper equipment, not by hand.

4) Weather Conditions: Work on a roof should not be done in inclement weather conditions such as rain, snow, or high winds. Wet surfaces can be slippery and increase the risk of falls, and high winds can make it difficult to control tools and materials.

5) Proper Techniques: Workers should be trained on proper techniques for working on a roof, such as how to properly use tools, how to walk on a roof without damaging it, and how to safely carry and install roofing materials.

6) Fall Protection: Fall protection is critical when working on a roof. Workers should be trained in proper fall protection techniques, and should always use fall protection gear such as harnesses and safety lines when working on roofs more than 6 feet high.

7) Training and Certification: Roofing workers should be properly trained and certified in safety procedures and techniques before working on a roof. Employers should provide ongoing safety training and ensure that workers are properly certified and licensed as required by local regulations.

Now a Big Roofing 101 guide for you about the roofing industry :

Of course you don't have to know everything that his written here, it is only for educationnal purpose but as seen in the checklist for maintenance, it should prove to help you even a little bit.

1) Roofing Materials: There are several types of roofing materials to choose from, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, clay tiles, and wood shingles. Each type of material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on factors such as your climate, budget, and your aesthetic preferences.

1) Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used in North America. They are made from a fiberglass base that is coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. Asphalt shingles are affordable, durable, and available in a wide range of colors.

2) Metal Roofing: Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability and energy efficiency. It can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper. Metal roofing is lightweight, long-lasting, and can be installed in many different styles.

3) Clay and Concrete Tiles: Clay and concrete tiles are popular in areas with hot climates due to their ability to keep buildings cool. They are heavy and require a strong roof structure to support their weight. However, they are durable, long-lasting, and available in a wide range of colors and styles.

4) Slate: Slate is a natural stone that is durable, long-lasting, and has a unique appearance. It is a high-end roofing material that requires a strong roof structure to support its weight. Slate is available in a range of colors and styles and can last for more than 100 years.

5) Wood Shingles and Shakes: Wood shingles and shakes are made from cedar, redwood, or other types of wood. They are an attractive roofing material that is eco-friendly and long-lasting. However, they are also more expensive than other roofing materials and require regular maintenance.

6) Solar Panels: Solar panels can be installed on a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and tile roofing. They provide a renewable energy source and can help to reduce energy costs.

2) Types of roofs : Each type of roof has its own unique benefits and challenges, and the type of roof that is best for a particular building will depend on factors such as the building's design, location, and intended use.

A. Flat Roofs: Flat roofs are typically found on commercial and industrial buildings, but can also be used on residential homes. As the name suggests, these roofs are mostly flat, with a slight slope to allow for water drainage.

B. Sloped Roofs: Sloped roofs are roofs that have a gentle slope to them. Sloped roofs are commonly used in residential homes and are covered with shingles, tiles, or metal panels.

C. Pitched Roofs: Pitched roofs have a steeper slope than sloped roofs and are commonly used in residential homes and can be covered with shingles, tiles, or metal panels. The steeper slope allows for better water drainage and increased durability.

3) Roofing Installation: It is the process of putting a new roof on a building or replacing an existing roof. Here are some of the basic steps involved in a typical roofing installation:

1) Remove the Old Roof: The first step in any roofing installation is to remove the old roof. This may involve tearing off the old shingles or other roofing materials, depending on the type of roof.

2) Inspect the Decking: Once the old roof has been removed, the decking (the surface that the roof is installed on) should be inspected for damage or rot. Any damaged decking should be replaced.

3) Install Underlayment: Before installing the new roof, a layer of underlayment should be installed over the decking. Underlayment is a waterproof barrier that helps protect the roof from water damage.

4) Install Flashing: Flashing is a material that is installed around roof penetrations (such as vents and chimneys) to prevent water from seeping in. It's important to ensure that flashing is installed properly to prevent leaks.

5) Install Roofing Materials: Once the underlayment and flashing have been installed, the new roofing materials can be installed. The installation process will vary depending on the type of roofing material being used.

6) Finish the Roof: After the roofing materials have been installed, the final step is to finish the roof by installing ridge caps, sealing around vents and other roof penetrations, and cleaning up the work area.

It's important to hire a qualified roofing contractor to ensure that your roofing installation is done correctly.

4) Roofing Replacement: It is necessary when your existing roof is beyond repair or has reached the end of its lifespan. Here are some basic steps involved in a typical roof replacement:

1) Inspection and Assessment: Before beginning a roof replacement, the roofing contractor will inspect the existing roof to determine its condition and identify any issues that need to be addressed.

2) Estimate and Planning: Based on the inspection, the roofing contractor will provide an estimate for the cost of the replacement and develop a plan for the replacement process.

3) Material Selection: There are a variety of roofing materials available for replacement, and the homeowner will need to choose the material that best fits their needs and budget.

4) Remove Existing Roof: The existing roof will need to be removed to prepare for the replacement. This involves removing all shingles, underlayment, and other roofing materials.

5) Repair and Prepare Substrate: Once the old roof is removed, the roofing contractor will inspect and repair the substrate (the layer beneath the roofing material), making any necessary repairs or replacement.

6) Install New Roofing Material: Once the substrate is repaired and prepared, the new roofing material will be installed. This may involve laying down underlayment, installing shingles or other roofing material, and sealing joints and edges.

7) Clean Up and Inspection: After the replacement is complete, the work area should be cleaned up, and a final inspection should be conducted to ensure that the replacement has been done correctly.

It's important to hire a qualified roofing contractor for any roof replacement to ensure that the replacement is done correctly and safely.