Roofing FAQs

Not necessarily. Roof leaks can be a result of a variety of issues – from storm damage to a failed seal on a vent pipe. However, some leaky roofs can be a sign of a roof failure, which is generally irreversible.

You should remove all loose or valuable items from walls and shelves. The constant hammering may cause enough vibration to shake these items down. Outdoor flower pots and other landscaping items should be removed when possible. Make sure your driveway is clear, as well as the areas surrounding your home. While we always take every precaution to protect your property, at times, materials from the tear-off process can fall into the driveway or the area around your home. Clearing your driveway also allows a place for materials to be stored and for trailers to be placed for waste removal.

Re-roof or new construction installation times all depend on type and size of the roof, type of material, and most notably - the weather. Generally, for a standard family home it can take 1-2 days from tear-off to installation. Large commercial projects can take anywhere from a few weeks to months. Alpha Roofing technicians will manage your project closely and efficiently so ensure your project moves smoothly and that your expectations are properly managed along the way. 

Like any building component, roofs degrade at different rates depending on a large number of factors. Major contributors to your roof's longevity include: 

Quality of original construction

Type of material used

Level of abuse, 

Amount of maintenance

Weather conditions in your area

So, how long should a roof last? We have seen poorly designed and installed roofs go as few as 3-5 years before they fail, and other roofing systems can last up to 40 years. Most building owners, roofing contractors, and designers agree that 20-30 years is a standard serviceable life for an asphalt roof in our region. When choosing your roof, ask your technician what the service life is in your area of Kansas. You might be surprised to find that most roofs do not last for the full warranty period.

Roofing underlayment is a membrane that goes under the roof covering to help prevent water intrusion. Underlayment usually comes in rolls and is laid out across the roof and attached using caps, nails, staples or ring shank. Another type of underlayment is adhered directly to the deck of the roof and is typically used on low sloping areas, valleys, eaves and other areas prone to ice damming or water infiltration. Carefully installed underlayment is a vital part of the integrity of your roofing system.

Most roofing work should not be done yourself. Manufactures generally will not give a warranty if you do not have a professional roofer install the product. Professionals are trained to handle the environment on the roof and can handle the conditions that may present themselves when doing a roofing job. The dangers to a homeowner with trying to do your own roof work could be a lot more expensive than just hiring a roofing professional to come out and do the work.

Installing a new roof over the top of an existing roof is generally acceptable under these guidelines:

A building cannot have more than two layers of roofing material

No wet insulation can be left in place

The roof structure must be able to handle the additional roof load, and 

The new roof must be attached to the roof deck to meet wind loads (it is not generally acceptable to adhere the new roof to the old roof).

Most manufacturers and professional roofing companies recommend removing existing shingles to expose the roof deck for inspections.

Most building codes allow a structure to have two layers in place, but not a third. Most people fail to consider the weight factor when adding additional layers. Too much weight on your roof can cause structural issues down the road.

Before calling a roofing professional there are a few questions that will help you determine if you can expect a roofing repair or replacement.

• How old is the roof? 
• Does it look rough or warped to the naked eye?
• Does the roof leak in numerous locations?
• Do leaks continue, despite repeated repair attempts?
• Do repairs seem to make leaks worse, or do new leaks develop after rain?
• Have there been major storms in your areas? 
• Do you see increased roofing activity in your neighborhood?

The best way to determine the condition of your roof is to call a professional to assess your roof. Most roofing companies offer free estimates. 

The roofing market offers a wide selection of good products, each having attributes and faults. The key to selecting the proper roof system is to find a company you trust to help identify the specific roof design for your building and discuss how each roof system works to meet your specific requirements.

The price of a new roof is generally determined by 3 things:

• Type of material you select
• Height, pitch and size of your roof
• Number of layers present 

When it's time to replace your roof we recommend getting estimates from at least two reputable companies. Just because a bid is cheaper does not necessary mean that it’s better. If one bid comes in higher than the other be sure that you ask the right questions about the type of material being used.