Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I don't see anyone putting new wood shake roofs on anymore. Why?
A: Primarily because of safety. Wood shakes burn fast and hot, and building codes and fire codes have all but eliminated the shake roof. Chemically treated fire retardant shakes are very expensive and still do not meet many city's building codes. |
Q: What are homeowners installing instead?
A: Most are choosing "Composition" shingles. They are a composite of asphalt, fiberglass mat and protective granules. Also known as asphalt, dimensional or architectual shingles. Many roofers refer to them simply as "Comp". TIP: Some of you live in neighborhoods that are self-regulated. (gated communities, communities with CC&R's-see question below) Please ask around: Can I choose any roofing material for my next roof or must I submit samples for approval? |
Q: Why do so many people choose composition shingles?
A: They are the most economical. They are durable too. Manufacturers of shingles offer 30, 40, and 50 year versions, although the warranties they offer are pro rated and not worth much as time goes on. |
Q: Can I walk on them?
A: Unlike tile roofs which break easily, composition or "comp" for short is walkable. Though walking on roofs is always discouraged, at times painting, cleaning and servicing of roof mounted equipment is necessary. |
Q: What about the value of my home and my neighborhood?
A: The perception some have is that composition will lower the value of a home. The reality is that there are many other factors that play a far more important part in determining a home's value. (i.e. Square footage, number of baths, etc.) Usually the roof plays a part in the buying or selling of a home only if repairs or replacement are needed. |
Q. What if I live in a community with CC&R's?
A: Here's what you do: Drive around you're neighborhood with a pencil and paper. Write down two or three addresses of newer roofs that you like. (Color is not an issue at this point.) Invite a roofing contractor to measure your roof for a bid and give him the addresses. Have him write down the type of roofing materials for each address, along who the manufacture might be. Invite two other Roofing Contractors to bid on your roof. Before they come out, ask them if they do "Brand A type roofs, manufactured by ________" , and ask them to bring some color samples. When all three bids are in, compare, making sure they are pretty much "apples to apples" and then go with who you are most comfortable with. You can apply this technique to other projects at your home. |
Cody's notes: Many people are seeing advantages in re-roofing with metal products. There are essentially two kinds: Metal shingles and metal panels. Metal panels are more for schools or commercial buildings, not so much for "resi" [residential] Metal shingles and "stone coated" metal shingles are better than ever! Please call for a free quote for this worry free roof. |
CROCKER ROOFING OFFERS A MOBILE SHOWROOM! -- WE COME TO YOU...Just call Cody on his cell at (916) 230-7266 to make an appointment