Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about roofing, home improvement, and hiring a roofer

Roofing & Services

Common questions about roofing types, replacement, and maintenance

Metal roofing offers exceptional durability, typically lasting 40-70 years compared to traditional asphalt shingles at 20-30 years. Metal roofs provide superior weather resistance, excellent energy efficiency through reflectivity, and a modern aesthetic appeal. They're also environmentally friendly due to their recyclability and longevity, which means fewer replacements over a home's lifetime. For New England properties, metal roofing is particularly valuable due to its performance in harsh winters and seasonal weather variations.

We recommend professional roof inspections at least annually, with additional inspections after severe weather events such as heavy storms, ice damage, or high winds. Regular inspections help identify potential issues early before they become costly problems. New Hampshire's diverse seasons make spring inspections particularly valuable after winter weather, and fall inspections help prepare for winter conditions. Early detection of small issues like missing shingles or flashing damage can prevent water damage and extend your roof's lifespan significantly.

Most residential roof replacements take 2-5 days depending on the home's size, complexity, weather conditions, and the type of roofing material being installed. A typical single-family home replacement might take 3-4 days. A good contractor coordinates scheduling to minimize disruption to your household and neighbors. Weather delays can extend timelines, so expect some flexibility in the plan, and ask how the crew will protect your property during the work.

Often, yes. Many roofers work with lenders, and homeowners also use home equity lines of credit or personal loans. If storm damage is involved, insurance proceeds may cover part of the cost, and a good contractor will provide the documentation your insurer asks for. Compare the full cost of any financing, including the rate after a promotional period ends, before you sign.

Usually two kinds. Material warranties come from the manufacturer and vary by product, typically ranging from 15 to 50+ years depending on the roofing material selected. A workmanship warranty comes from the contractor and covers installation quality. Ask for both in writing, with the length and terms, before work starts.

Finding & Hiring Contractors

Questions about selecting quality professionals

Start by checking with the New Hampshire Home Builders Association, which represents over 500 members across the state's residential building and remodeling industry. New Hampshire does not license roofers at the state level, so look for contractors who carry liability and workers' compensation insurance and will provide references from recent projects in your area. Ask for certificates of insurance and check online reviews from past customers. Ask about their experience with your specific roofing type and request detailed written estimates from multiple contractors before deciding.

Look for contractors with manufacturer certifications from major roofing material suppliers. These certifications indicate specialized training and adherence to specific installation standards. Contractors should carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Many professional roofing companies pursue certifications from roofing associations and maintain continuing education in safety and best practices. Ask contractors about their certifications and don't hesitate to verify them directly with issuing organizations.

Ask about their experience with your specific roofing type, insurance coverage details, references from completed projects, warranties provided, project timeline, payment terms, and how they handle permits and inspections. Inquire about their safety protocols and whether they'll provide a detailed written contract. Ask how they handle change orders and unexpected issues discovered during installation. These conversations help you understand their professionalism and ensure alignment with your expectations.

Roof replacement costs vary significantly based on roof size, complexity, material selection, and local labor rates. In New Hampshire, asphalt shingle replacement runs roughly $4.50 to $7 per square foot installed, about $9,000 to $14,000 for a 2,000 square foot roof. Metal costs more per square foot, and premium materials can exceed these ranges. Your home's size, pitch, and existing roof condition affect pricing. It's important to get multiple estimates and compare what's included. Don't automatically choose the lowest bid, as quality materials and expert installation often provide better long-term value and fewer future problems.

Storm Damage & Insurance

Understanding coverage and emergency response

Safety first: if it's safe, document the damage with photos and video from ground level. Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage and request a claim adjuster. Take temporary protective measures like tarping damaged areas to prevent further water damage. Don't make permanent repairs until the adjuster inspects the damage, as this could complicate your claim. Professional contractors can provide emergency tarping and documentation that supports your insurance claim. Many roofers offer emergency tarping after storms, so ask how quickly they can respond.

Coverage depends on your specific policy and the cause of damage. Most homeowners policies cover roof damage from storms, hail, and other sudden events, though many have deductibles. Age of the roof can affect coverage decisions. Roof wear and tear or gradual deterioration typically aren't covered. Review your policy carefully and discuss coverage with your insurance agent. After storm damage, file claims promptly and provide thorough documentation. Professional inspections and damage assessments support your claim and help secure maximum coverage.

Yes. Many roofers work regularly with insurance companies and can provide damage assessments, repair estimates, and documentation that supports your claim. Some will answer an adjuster's technical questions about the roof. Keep your own copies of every photo and estimate, and remember the claim is between you and your insurer: the contractor can support it, but the decision is the insurer's.

Professional roof repair team demonstrating quality workmanship

Still Have Questions?

These answers cover the questions we hear most, but every home and situation is unique. We are glad to hear about your specific roofing and home improvement questions. We share plain information and honest advice to help you make informed decisions about your property.

Send us your question and we will reply with what to ask, what to watch for, and, where it helps, the kind of local roofer worth calling.

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