FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Roofing FAQ
What is the estimated time for a roof installation?
In general a roof 3,000 sqft or less can be installed in one day. A roof larger than 3000 sqft will take two or more days depending on the weather, complexity and square footage.
Is a Metal roof better than an Asphalt shingles roof?
A Metal roof is more energy efficient, and offers homeowner significant energy savings through the use of cool roof pigments and above sheathing ventilation. Cool roof pigments are designed to reflect sunlight which lowers the amount of energy absorbed by the roof material.
Can I install a Metal roof over shingles?
Yes, you also get additional protection from the shingle roof as well as additional insulation. Shingles under the metal roof can reduce some of the sounds that can transfer from a metal roof. Make sure you get a roof inspection before your metal roof is installed.
What are the advantages of a Metal Roof installation?
- Quick and easy to install
- Variety of styles and colors
- Long lasting, it can last up to 50 years or more depending on maintenance
- Easy to maintain
- It can be installed over the existing roof
What are the Disadvantages of a Metal Roof?
- More expensive than other roofing materials
- Metal roofs tend to be noisy during a heavy rain or a hail storm but adding more attic insulation can solve this problem
- If water accumulates anywhere on the roof because of poor-quality installation or repair, it can eventually cause serious damage. Low-grade metals may also be thinner gauge and less durable. Some metals rust in certain climates or dent more easily than others during hailstorms or installation.
What are the advantages of an Asphalt Roof installation?
- Asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material
- Quick and easy to install
- When installation has been performed correctly it can last from 25 to 30 years
- Easy to repair
What are the disadvantages of an Asphalt Roof Installation?
- In cold weather frozen shingles are more exposed to ice damage
- Sudden temperature changes can cause shingles to crack
- Asphalt shingles are more exposed to wind damage
- Mold and mildew growth
What is the most common roof valley installation method?
There are two types of roof valleys, Open Roof Valleys and Close Roof Valleys. A Close Roof Valley is the most common method used, this installation consists of overlapping shingles where the opposing planes of the valley meet.
What can I expect to be replaced during my roof replacement?
- Decking boards: usually the contractor will charge an additional fee to replace any rotten decking board.
- Installation of new boot pipes, vents and step flashing.
- If the contractor believes your drip edge is no longer in a good condition this will be replaced.
- Chimney flashing needs to be replaced if the flashing is rusted and if the area around the chimney is soft or rotten.
- Why is there an additional fee for decking board and it’s not included in the total price? The amount of boards that needs to be replaced is unclear while doing a roofing estimate or inspection, you will only know the condition of the sheathing boards when you have torn off the roof by removing old felt or synthetic paper.
What is the process for a roof replacement?
- Material will be delivered to your home.
- Vehicles should be moved out of the way to prevent any damage while tearing off the roof.
- Tarps are used to ensure protection of your property. They will be used to cover the ground, bushes, plants, dump zone and siding. It also makes it easier to leave the space clean.
- Your old roof will be torn off, this includes removing old ridge vents or ridge caps, old shingles, synthetic or felt paper, rotten plywood or boards, and old vents or boot pipes.
- Blowing off the roof and cleaning gutters are an important process so the contractor can have a clean space to start the installation.
- Your contractor will start by installing new synthetic/felt paper, ice and water shield, drip edge, starters, shingles, flashing and boot pipes.
- Last step is the most important and it is cleaning up after finishing the installation. The roof will be blown off one last time to remove all debris and clean the gutters. Contractor will run a magnet over the ground, around the house and driveway to ensure there are no nails left and to prevent a flat tire.
Home Addition FAQ
How much should I expect to spend?
Overall costs will vary depending on the type of addition you have in mind. To get an exact estimate you should request a quote.
- Home Addition $90-150/ SqFt
- Garage Addition $40-60/SqFt
Will you take on our project if we provide the materials?
Unfortunately, we do not take on projects without sourcing the products ourselves. We do this to ensure we install quality products with no defects.
Flooring FAQ
What is the most durable flooring material?
Hardwood: most common tree species used in making hardwood floors are maple and oak. When installing hardwood is recommended to do it in areas with low moisture and less foot traffic. This will prevent it from shrinking and swelling.
What is the advantage of having a hardwood floor installation?
- Good return on investment as the value of wood flooring continues to increase with time.
- Easy maintenance, hardwood does not keep dust or attract debris.
- Hardwood is good for babies ; it is harmless and non-toxic
How long does a hardwood floor last?
- Long lasting flooring, hardwood tends to last more than 100 years if well maintained.
What are the disadvantages of hardwood flooring?
- The cost of hardwood flooring is much higher than other flooring materials.
- Hardwood flooring is prone to scratching more easily.
- Constant wear and tear, and excessive movement can alter certain sections of the wood flooring causing clicking and creaking sounds as you walk.
How long does it take to install hardwood flooring?
Usually takes from 1 to 3 days depending on the square footage.
How long ceramic tiles last?
Ceramic Tiles can last 75 to 100 years
What are the advantages of ceramic tiles?
- Ceramic tiles don’t easily attract dust
- Can be installed in any area of your home floors or walls.
- Best for high traffic areas like kitchens and hallways
- Best for wet rooms, laundry and bathrooms
What are the disadvantages of ceramic tiles?
- Can break or crack if any heavy object falls on the floor
- Hard to repair or replace
How long does LVP flooring last?
- If installed correctly and maintained appropriately, the flooring can last from 10 to 20 years depending on location and thickness.
What is the advantage of LVP flooring?
- Easy installation
- Durable
- Easy maintenance
- Variety of designs
What is the disadvantage of LVP flooring?
- Inconsistent quality
- Some LVP might not have UV Resistant protective layers
- Hard to remove
Siding FAQ
Why should I consider vinyl for my home?
Today’s vinyl siding products can mimic wood, insulate your home, and even stand up to tornado-force winds, making them a highly desirable exterior cladding option.
How can I tell if my siding needs replacement?
There are numerous signs that indicate your siding needs replacement, including the appearance of fungus, obvious separation of seams, swelling, delaminating, caulking failure, warped appearance, paint failure, moisture on the inside of your property, and more.
How much will it cost to replace the siding of my property?
Since every siding material has a different price point and every property is unique, we’re unable to provide an accurate answer without an on-site consultation.
How long does fiber cement siding last?
Fiber cement siding is one of the more durable siding options due to its high resistance to severe weather. Many fiber cement siding options are warranted for as long as 50 years.
How often does fiber cement siding require painting?
Fiber cement siding needs to be painted every 4-5 years. Many fiber cement siding options come with pre-finished options that have high UV resistance.
How long does vinyl siding last?
Vinyl siding typically lasts between 20 to 40 years depending on thickness and weather constraints. Vinyl siding can crack in extremely cold weather. Vinyl siding is also susceptible to warping and discoloration under extreme heat.
How long can wood siding last?
Wood siding typically lasts around 20 years. Cedar siding can last for 25+ years, offering a more durable wood species. The proper application of a finish coat can allow wood siding to last for decades.
AHK Contracting provided excellent affordable home improvement/ contractor services…check them out! – Alicia Freshwater