COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT ROOFING
FIND ROOFING FAQ'S ABOUT ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF REPLACEMENTS, ROOFING SERVICE AND MORE BELOW
Roofing FAQ's.
Answers to common roofing questions
Our roofing FAQs provide straightforward answers to the questions homeowners and property owners commonly have before hiring a roofing contractor. Learn more about roof repairs and replacements, roofing materials, installation requirements, warranties, roof life expectancy, insurance claims, pricing, and what to look for when comparing roofing contractors. Whether you are dealing with a roof leak, considering a complete replacement, or simply planning for the future, these answers are designed to help you make an informed decision about your roofing project in Knoxville and throughout East Tennessee. Any other questions feel free to call us or send an email over.
SIGNS YOU NEED A NEW ROOF
Your roof doesn’t have to be leaking to show signs that it may be time for replacement.
Some common warning signs include:
- Missing, cracked, curling, or damaged shingles
- Heavy granule loss or bald spots on shingles
- Recurring leaks or water stains inside your home
- Soft or damaged roof decking
- Damaged or deteriorating flashing
- Sagging areas on the roof
- Widespread algae growth or staining that may indicate an aging roof
- Frequent repairs in different areas
- An older roof showing significant overall weather
Seeing one of these signs doesn’t automatically mean you need a new roof. An inspection can help determine whether a repair is enough or if replacement makes more sense.
HOW TO FIND A TRUSTWORTHY ROOFING CONTRACTOR
A new roof is a major investment, so choosing who installs it is just as important as choosing the roofing material.
Here are a few things to look for:
- Properly licensed and insured
- Established local presence & experience
- Good reviews and a proven track record
- Clear, detailed written estimates
- Quality materials from reputable manufacturers
- Workmanship and manufacturer warranty options
- Multiple roofing options- not just one product they want to sell you
- Clear communication before, during, and after the project
- No high-pressure sales tactics
A trustworthy roofer should be willing to show you what they found, explain what your roof actually needs, discuss your options, and answer your questions clearly. Be cautious of anyone who pressures you to sign immediately, gives you a vague estimate, can’t provide proof of insurance, or won’t clearly explain what’s included in the job.
WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK A ROOFER BEFORE HIRING?
Choosing a roofing contractor is a big decision. Before you sign a contract, make sure you know exactly who you’re hiring and what you’re getting.
Here are some important questions to ask:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How long have you been in business?
- What roofing systems and materials do you offer?
- What exactly is included in my estimate?
- How will you handle damaged decking if you find it?
- What manufacturer warranties come with my roof?
- Do you provide a workmanship warranty?
- Who will be installing my roof?
- How will you protect my property during the project?
- How do you handle cleanup and leftover nails?
- Can you provide references or examples of previous work?
- Why are you recommending this particular roofing system for my home?
A good roofing contractor should be able to explain your options, answer your questions clearly, and give you time to make an informed decision-without pressuring you.
IS MY ROOF COVERED BY INSURANCE?
It depends on what caused the damage and the terms of your policy. Homeowners isurance may cover roof damage caused my certain sudden events, such as:
- Hail
- High winds
- Fallen trees or debris
- Certain storm-related damage
Insurance typically doesn’t cover a roof simply because it’s old or worn out. Normal wear and tear, deterioration, and lack of maintenance are generally the homeowner’s responsibility. Your coverage can also depend on your specific policy, deductible, roof age, and how your policy settles roof claims.
HOW LONG DOES A ROOF TYPICALLY LAST?
It depends on the roofing system. Different materials have very different expected lifespans, and factors like installation quality, weather, ventilation, maintenance, and exposure can affect how long a roof actually lasts.
Here’s a general idea:
- Asphalt shingles: 20-30+ years
- SBS Polymer-Modified Asphalt: 35-50+ years
- Designer Asphalt: 50+ years
- Standing Seam Metal: 50-70+ years
- Stone-Coated Metal: 50-70+ years
- Cedar Shake: 30-50+ years
- Slate: 75-100+ years
- Tile: 50-100+ years
- TPO: 20-30+ years
These are general ranges-not guarantees. The quality of the material is only part of the equation. Proper installation and the overall roofing system can make a major difference.
NRCA AI – National Roofing Contractors Association
MULTIPLE ROOFING QUOTES AND WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?
Absolutely-and we encourage it. Getting multiple roofing quotes can help you understand your options. Just remember: the lowest price doesn’t always mean you’re getting the same roof for less money.
When comparing quotes, look at:
- Roofing material & product quality
- What’s included in the complete roofing system
- Underlayment, flashing, ventilation & accessories
- How damaged decking is handled and priced
- Installation methods & workmanship
- Manufacturer & workmanship warranties
- Cleanup & property protection
- Contractor licensing and insurance
- Exactly what is-and isn’t-included in the price
Two estimates can look similar on paper while including very different materials, installation standards, and warranties.
HOW MUCH DOES A ROOF REPLACEMENT COST ON AVERAGE?
The national average currently to replace a roof is $31,871 for a 30 sq roof – according to the Journal of Light Construction linked below. But the truth is, it depends on the roof. There really isn’t one average price that accurately represents every roof replacement.
Your final cost depends on several factors:
- Size of the roof
- Roofing material you choose
- Pitch and complexity
- Number of stories
- Condition of the existing decking
- Amount of tear-off required
- Flashing, ventilation & other components
- Warranty and roofing system selected
An asphalt shingle roof on a smaller, simple home can cost significantly less than a large or complex roof-or a premium system like designer shingles, standing seam metal, slate or tile. That’s why we believe the better question is “What should my roof cost?”.
Roofing Replacement | Asphalt Shingles – Journal of Light Construction
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A ROOF REPLACEMENT?
A full roof replacement is more than just putting on new shingles. A quality roofing system typically includes:
- Removal of the old roofing materials
- Inspection of the roof decking for damaged or rotten wood
- Ice & water protection
- New synthetic underlayment
- New drip edge
- New or properly replaced flashing
- New pipe boots & roof penetrations
- Proper ventilation based on the roofing system
- Installation of new roofing material
- Ridge caps & finishing components
- Complete cleanup & magnetic nail sweep
- Final inspection to make sure everything was installed correctly
Not every roof is the same. The exact components should be based on your home, roof design, and the roofing system you choose.
HOW LONG DOES A ROOF REPLACEMENT TAKE?
For most homes, a standard roof replacement can be completed in 1-2 days.
The exact timeline depends on a few things:
- Size and complexity of roof
- Type of roofing system being installed
- Weather conditions
- Conditions of the roof decking
- Any additional repairs discovered during tear-off
Larger or more complex roofs-and specialty systems like metal roofing-may take longer.
ROOF MATERIAL OPTIONS: WHICH ONE SHOULD I CHOOSE?
There isn’t one roofing material that’s right for every home. The best choice depends on your budget, home style, long-term plans, and what you want out of your roof.
Here are some of the options we install:
- SBS Polymer-Modified Asphalt – Enhanced flexibility, durability and impact resistance compared with traditional asphalt shingles
- Designer Asphalt – A premium shingle option for homeowners looking for added dimension and high-end curb appeal
- Standing Seam Metal – Long-lasting, low-maintenance and a clean, modern appearance
- Stone-Coated Metal – The durability of metal with the appearance of more traditional roofing materials
- Slate – A premium natural roofing material known for more traditional roofing materials
- Tile – Durable with a unique, upscale architectual look
- Cedar Shake – Natural Wood roofing with a distinctive, timeless appearance
- TPO – A single-ply roofing system commonly used for commercial and low-slope roofs
SHOULD I REPLACE MY ROOF IF ITS 20 YEARS OLD?
Not necessarily. Age is important, but a 20-year-old roof doesn’t exactly need to be replaced. What matters most is its current condition.
We look for things like:
- Missing, cracked, or damaged shingles
- Granule loss or exposed areas
- Signs of leaks or water intrusion
- Damaged flashing or roof penetrations
- Soft or damaged decking
- Overall wear and deterioration
If your roof is around 20 years old, having it inspected can give you a much better idea of how much life it may have left.
IS $30,000 TOO EXPENSIVE FOR A ROOF REPLACEMENT?
Not necessarily. The cost of a roof replacement can vary significantly from one home to another.
A $30,000 roof may be completely reasonable depending on:
- Size of the roof
- Roofing material you choose
- Roof pitch and complexity
- Number of stories
- Condition of roof decking
- Flashing and ventilation requirements
- Labor and installation requirements
That’s why comparing roof replacement based on the total price alone doesn’t always tell the whole story.
WHAT IS I CAN'T AFFORD A NEW ROOF RIGHT NOW?
A roof replacement can be a big, unexpected expense-but you may have options. We can help you understand the condition of your roof first and determine whether replacement is actually necessary.
If you do need a roof, we offer:
- Financing options
- 0% interest financing options for qualified homeowners
- Multiple roofing systems at different price points
- An honest assessment of what your home actually needs
- No-pressure guidance to help you choose an option that fits your budget
Don’t put off serious roofing problems simply because you’re worried about the upfront cost. We can walk you through your options and help determine the best next step.
ROOF WARRANTY: WHAT'S COVERED AND HOW DO THEY WORK?
Roofing warranties can be confusing because not all warranties cover the same things.
Most roofing projects can involve two main types of protection:
- Manufacturer Warranty – Covers qualifying defects in the roofing materials. Coverage and length vary depending on the manufacturer and roofing system you choose.
- Workmanship Warranty – Covers qualifying issues related to how the roof was installed. This coverage is typically provided by the roofing contractor
What usually isn’t covered? Damage from storms, falling trees, improper maintenance, alterations made after installation, or other causes unrelated to a product defect or the original installation may not be covered. Exact exclusions depend on your warranty. And when you see terms like “lifetime warranty” it’s important to read the details. Coverage can change over time and may include limitations, prorated periods, registration requirements, or transfer rules.
*For the roofing warranties we offer feel free to reach out and we can discuss the different options.*
NRCA AI – National Roofing Contractors Association
ROOF REPAIR VS ROOF REPLACEMENT?
Not every roofing problem means you need a new roof. Sometimes, a repair is all you need. Other times, continuing to make repairs can end up costing more than addressing the entire roof.
A repair may make sense when:
- Damage is limited to a small area
- The roof is otherwise in good condition
- You have a minor leak or isolated issue
- The roofing system still has plenty of useful life remaining
A Replacement may make more sense when:
- Damage or wear is widespread
- The roof is approaching the end of its useful life
- You’re experiencing recurring leaks or repairs
- There is significant deterioration or storm damage
- Repairing one area won’t address the overall condition of the roof
The right answer depends on your roof-not just its age.
