Shingle FAQ

Shingles 

Q: How can a homeowner recognize when a roof system has problems?

A: Unfortunately, problems with roofs are often discovered after leaking or other damage has already occurred. Periodic inspections can uncover cracked, curling, or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other visible signs of roof system problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discoloured plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.

Q: What is an ice dam

A: An ice dam formation is the result of regular freezing and thawing of snow because of escaping heat from the house, or from gutters being backed up with frozen slush. When ice dams occur, water is driven under the roof which can cause damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and gutters.

Q: How much does a new roof cost?

A: Every roof is different, so there is no general formula. When estimating the cost of a new roof we take into account:

- Old roof removal: are there one or more layers of shingles to be removed?

- Style: how many faces, valleys or gables are present?

- Slope: a 12/12 roof that sits at a 45 degree angle requires more equipment, more time and is more complex than a 4/12 slope (four feet of vertical rise for very 12 horizontal feet)

- Obstacles: how many vents, chimneys, skylights or other obstacles have to be worked around and sealed?

- Access: is the home easy to access, do the materials have to be carried a long way or can they be dumped directly into a dump trailer?

- Materials: what type of shingles does the customer prefer, is premium ice and water membrane required?

Q: Will discarded nails be a safety concern?

A: We install tarps all around the perimeter of your home before we start tearing off your old roofing. We remove all the roofing debris, clean out the gutters, and do a thorough cleaning of the grounds and surrounding landscaping. We also use a magnetic broom to pick up any nails that may have fallen to the ground.

Q. What Brand of Shingles do you work with?

A. We recommend using IKO Cambridge® or Dynasty® shingles or GAF Timberline^TM shingles

Q. What is the difference between IKO Cambridge® and Dynasty® shingles?

A. Dynasty® shingles have a better wind resistance rating and come in a wider variety of colours.

Q. What is the warranty on shingle roofs?

A. IKO Dynasty® and Cambridge® shingles, for example, carry a 40-year warranty. An initial "Iron Clad" 15-year warranty covers labour and material for any damaged areas, and is followed by a 25-year pro-rated period during which a portion of the shingle cost will be covered. A 10-year warranty for any deficiency in labour is provided by Quinn Exteriors Ltd..