FAQs

Class 3 shingles have a hail impact resistance up to 1.75″ or the size of a golf ball.

Class 4 shingles have a hail impact resistance up to 2″. They are typically thicker and some brands have a rubberized mat between the layers of asphalt instead of a fiberglass mat which is much more heavy duty and more resistant to impacts.

What’s the Typical Turnaround Time from Requesting an Estimate to Completing a Roof Replacement?

Our record is 14 minutes. Most estimates will be back to you in 24 hours. We pride ourselves on getting rough estimates out quick. No roof is the same so I like to do an inspection to make sure we are 100% ready to go and can address any issues that arise quickly on the install date.

How Can I Get a Sample Book to Choose the Right Shingle Color?

If you are in Dickinson we can leave one at your door, or meet and go over any questions you have free of charge. We have books we can ship you as well. Click here to fill out a form.

Why Did My Shingles Fall Off?

There are several reasons why blow offs happen-

Not enough nails or improper nailing. Laminated shingles are actually two shingles and should be nailed in the “common bond”. Our area is classified as a high wind area by shingle manufacturers and should have 6 nails per shingle. When the next course above is installed, those 6 nails also go in to the shingle below it. With 12 nails in most shingles on your roof and a shingle with a premium sealant they should not be blowing off. Sometimes you get a bad bundle of shingles with a manufacturers defect in them and wont know for many years. That’s why its important to choose a trusted roofing contractor.

Skimping on extra material to get the job done right in the first place. In North Dakota starter course shingles are not code on rake edges but probably should be. Starter shingles have tar strips on them and help bond the shingles on the edge of your roof to your roof structure. We include starter shingles standard around the perimeter of the home on all our jobs.

Your shingles may have been a “builders grade” shingle. Builders typically use inexpensive shingles when they are putting up homes in bunches. It is not uncommon for these shingles to begin having issues 10 years after they were installed. They could have been installed in the middle of winter and did not seal down before dirt, sand, or everything the wind carries to your roof on those windy days, collected on the seal strips and prevented them to ever seal.

Your decking substrate could be bad. If you have had multiple roof replacements done, your decking could have 60-100 thousand nail holes in it. New decking is important if you want your shingles to hold. No matter what roof covering you use, its only as good as the decking it gets fastened to. In most circumstances if you are going with a metal roof we will recommend to replace the decking unless its relatively new. If your rafters or trusses are the correct size, we can put fresh 4×8 sheets of plywood or OSB on top of the old 1X decking which is what most older homes have.

How Long Will Install Take?

Most installs are completed in one day. Depending on the scope of work and size of job it could take 2-3 days.

Will My Gutters Need to Be Replaced Too?

Not always. If you have suffered storm damage, it is likely covered by your home insurance. If your current gutters are held up by gutter spikes and are barely holding on, its probably time to replace the gutter apron metal, and have new seamless gutters installed. Remember to keep your gutters clean in the summer or mosquitos will lay eggs in them and you’ll be itchy!

Can I Add Another Layer on Top of My Current Roofing System?

It was common practice in many areas of the country to complete a “roof over” or laying multiple layers of shingles on top of each other. It is still possible depending on the style of shingle you currently have on, but is rarely advised. Your rafters or trusses need to be able to handle the extra weight, and you have to factor in snow load. You’re basically kicking the can down the road as tear off expenses will be higher the next time your roof needs done. Also, no manufacturers will warrant a roof over with multiple layers of shingles.

Why is Ice and Water Important?

Especially if your gutters are clogged up, during heavy snowfall when the snow begins to melt during the day and refreeze at night it can begin to back up under your shingles or regular felt paper. Ice and Water shield is a continuous waterproof sticky membrane that comes in 3′ rolls. Depending on the size of your roof overhang you will either have 3′ or 6′ of ice and water shield protecting the bottoms of your roof. Ice and Water shield is self sealing and seals around nails after they are installed.

How Do I Know Which Ventilation is Best for My Roof?

A balanced intake and exhaust ventilation is best. To expect 30+ years out of your roof it needs to be ventilated correctly. On older homes that could mean installing new vented soffit and adding insulation to your attic. Each roof is different, if you think you might have issues with proper ventilation currently, you’re probably right. Ask us which is the best system for your roof.

Can I Get a Discount on My Home Insurance for Replacing My Roof?

YES! Installing a hail impact resistant roof can earn you significant discounts. In fact, the discounts typically pay for the better grade shingles within the first year or two. Some insurance companies offer discounts for 10 years or longer with a new Class 3 or Class 4 roof. They truly are an investment.

How Do I Choose the Right Roofing Contractor?

You want someone that specializes in roofing. The days of 4 buddies getting together and putting roofs on throughout the neighborhood are pretty well gone. Choose someone local and check their reviews. Your roof is a big purchase. Make sure your contractor is licensed with the state and holds insurance. Ask about warranty and beware of tail light warranties. If you have any issues with your roof, rest assured we will be there to help you in the future.

Which is the More Durable Option: Shingles or Metal Roofing?

They both have pros and cons. I am a huge advocate for shingles because if you can have a class 4 shingle vs a class 4 metal roof, the shingles win as far as the best bang for your buck. You also need to check your insurance policy. Some policies state they will not cover cosmetic damage. If you spend a lot of money on a nice metal roof and tennis ball hail smashes it up you’re not going to be happy.

How Long Will My New Roof Last?

If your attic is ventilated and insulated correctly, your roof will last a very long time. Just like everything else, your roof should be periodically looked at and maintained. Animals can actually cause damage to your roof, and major storm events can drastically reduce the life of your roof.