Ask an Expert: Things to Ask When Getting Roofing Quotes

Roofing jobs cost a substantial amount of money – we’re talking thousands of dollars. With so much money on the line, you need to make sure the Toronto roofing company you’re working with is both skilled and trustworthy. That’s why we’ve put together these 10 things to ask when getting roofing quotes, so you can ensure you’re getting the best price possible without sacrificing quality. 

For simplicity’s sake, we’ve split this up into general questions to ask a roofer, then more specific things to ask when getting roofing quotes. 

5 General Questions to Ask Your Roofer

These are five questions to ask a roofer before hiring. With these roofings questions and answers, you’ll be much more confident when determining if this is the right roofing company in Toronto for you.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business? 

Nothing speaks to a roofing company’s reliability like longevity. In this business, quality lasts and shoddy workmanship is quickly discovered and replaced. The same goes for shoddy businesses. If the Toronto roofer you’re meeting with has been in the business for a number of years (the more, the better) that simply means that they’ve been delivering quality roofing work long enough to stick around in a highly competitive industry. 

2. Is Your Business Local?

Roofing jobs can take a lot of twists and turns you don’t expect. Your Toronto roofing contractor may be working on one thing, only to discover another issue that wasn’t apparent upon first inspection, for instance. The last thing you want is to work with a roofing contractor in Toronto that isn’t really a roofing contractor in Toronto – actually, their home office is in Peterborough. The farther away they are, the more difficult it can be to bring them back in to fix something, take a second look, or bring in the necessary material needed to complete any additional work. 

3. Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work?

Good roofers have pride in their work; they should be able to readily supply photos and other examples of recent work they’ve completed. While past success isn’t always indicative of future success, it certainly helps to know that the contractors you’re working with are skilled, experienced, and can complete a job. 

4. Can You Ensure Your Workers Will Be Safe? 

Unfortunately, lots of roofing companies in Toronto operate with less-than-adequate safety procedures in place. This can lead to accidents to their workers. In addition to the horror of the injuries inflicted to the workers themselves (roofers have one of the highest fatality rates in construction, making safety precautions critical), this can cause chaos to your project, as well lead to potential litigation. Ensuring your roofers in Toronto take every reasonable precaution to ensure the safety of their workers is simply a good idea all around. 

5. Can You Ensure My Family Will Be Safe? 

Roofing jobs involve lots of heavy tools being used several metres above the ground (not to mention people); a single oversight can be devastating. The good news is that if the roofing contractor takes the necessary precautions, there’s nothing to worry about. Building on that all-important experience we mentioned earlier, if they’ve been doing this long enough, your contractors should know how to keep you and your family safe while getting the job done. 

5 Questions to Ask When Getting a Roof Estimate

Now that we’ve got some general roofing questions and answers out of the way, it’s time to talk dollars: how much is this going to cost? These are questions to ask a roofer before hiring but after you’ve received the quote. 

The following 5 are important questions to ask your roofer once they’ve given you a price, in other words, to ensure that they are worth the spend. 

1. Do You Include Warranties? 

As mentioned above, roofing jobs can take unexpected turns. One of the ways to account for these uncertainties is through warranties. Your roofing company should be confident in their work and back up their confidence with contractual warranties. That way, you can guarantee that the job will be completed to your satisfaction. 

2. How Long Will the Job Take (Estimate)? 

No roofer can ever 100% guarantee that a job will be done at this exact date and time. That said, they should be able to give a fairly accurate estimate of the time it will take to complete the job (barring anything totally unforeseen cropping up like a particularly powerful storm, for instance). 

3. Can You Show Proof of Licensing, Certification, Insurance, Workers Comp Coverage? 

All of the above are just simple and easy ways to verify that your contractors are responsible and able to protect you and their workers in the event of an accident. They should be able to also show certification by shingle manufacturers (not necessary but nice to have) as well as proof of licensing so you know everything is on the up and up. 

4. How Much Can the Price Change?

One of the most important questions to ask when hiring a roofing company is how confident they are in their estimate. If they say that the estimates are subject to large changes, that could be a bad sign. ‘Could be’ because some jobs simply do have more moving parts and potential for fluctuations. That said, most jobs should come out to a similar price to the estimate, barring unforeseen circumstances (similar to the time estimate). 

5. Who Can I Talk to If There’s a Problem?

This is important – there’s a lot of money involved and your home or business’s roof; you deserve to have someone you can go to with your questions and concerns. And your roofing company should be able to give you a name, number, email address, and availability – it’s the least they can do to give you peace of mind. 

Roofing Questions to Ask – Answered. Now It’s Time to Find a Trustworthy Roofing Company in Toronto

You know what roofing questions to ask before committing to a contractor. Now it’s time to identify the best roofers in Toronto. That’s easy: it’s Dominion Roofing. 

With over 100 years of experience helping millions of residents of the GTA get roof repairs or install new roofs, as well as helping businesses with flat roofing services, Dominion Roofers is a contractor in Toronto you can trust. 

Get a quote today or give us a call at 416-789-0601. You can also email us at info@dominionroofing.com. We’re here to handle all your roofing service needs. 

6 Things Homeowners Need to Do to Hire the Ideal Roofer

When you are experiencing a problem with your roof, don’t delay acting on it. After all, your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and you wouldn’t want it to fall into further disrepair.

If you’re lucky, your roofing problem will only require some repairs. However, in some cases, roof replacement is the most suitable option.

For the best results, leaving the repair or replacement job in the hands of professional roofing contractors is pretty much your only choice.

However, it’s not that easy to find the right roofer for your roof, as there are several things you need to do and consider before deciding who to hire.

How do you find the ideal roofing contractor? Here are some tips to help you out.

1. Make Sure The Roofer Has Insurance

It could never be stated enough how important it is to ask about roofing insurance coverage when hiring a roofer.

Keep in mind that roofing is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. One wrong move and the roof workers could cause third-party personal injury or property damage.

With proper contractors insurance coverage, a roofer can take responsibility for accidents on the worksite, leaving you free of any liability.

Never hire an uninsured roofing contractor because you could end up being liable for anything untoward that may occur while they’re working on your roof.

If the roofing contractor you’re interviewing for the job says their company has insurance coverage, don’t hesitate to ask to see a copy of the Certificate of Insurance. You can also verify that the contractor has insurance by asking for the name of their insurer and checking with them.

2. Choose Local Roofing Contractors

Hiring a local roofing contractor has a lot of things going for it.
For one, local roofers know the climate of the area very well and therefore know which types of roofing materials are the best for it.
For another, familiarity with local building codes makes local roofing contractors less likely to commit violations that could end up inconvenient and costly for you.
It’s also easier to make roofers honor any warranty they offer for their work when they live in the same community.

3. Inquire About Warranties

If you’re going for a roof replacement, make sure that the materials and the installation come with a warranty.
That warranty should be clear and comprehensive, and that you should be familiar with all its terms and conditions to ensure that it will come through when the need arises.

4. Don’t Fall Victim To “Storm Chasers”

There are legitimate roofing companies, and there are so-called “storm chasers.”
Storm chasers are supposed roofing contractors who prey on homeowners recently hit by bad weather. They will knock on your door and offer to inspect your roof, often at no cost to you.
An offer for an affordable repair job will then follow. If you bite, then they will most likely perform a haphazard job on your roof, and you’ll only find out about it when the roof starts presenting problems again soon.
By the time that happens, these storm chasers will be in another city claiming more victims.
The best way to steer clear of a storm chaser is to make sure that the roofing company is licensed to operate as a roofing contractor in your state. You can ask to see a copy of the license, which you can then verify with the appropriate agencies.

5. Seek References

When interviewing potential roofing contractors, asking for references should be high on your list. That way, you’d be able to know if they come highly recommended by past clients or not.

6. Ask Friends and Family For Referrals

Recommendations from random references provided by potential contractors are good, but what could be a better and more reliable source of information roofers than friends and family who had work done on their roof recently?
You can count on loved ones to recommend the roofer they worked with if they’re satisfied with the outcome. If they aren’t, then you can expect an honest opinion from them to dissuade you from ever hiring said roofing contractor.
Hiring roofing contractors can be tricky, but as long as you know what to ask and look for in your candidates, you should be able to choose the ideal roofer for your needs.

Get A Roof Repair Or A New Roof During Covid-19

During the Covid times, can you get your roof repaired or install a new one? It depends on many factors. However, yes, you can get your roof fixed or install a new one. However, there may be a delay due to the Covid restrictions and your location.

A significant change in the functioning of industries is a result of Covid. Some industries have shut down ultimately; others operate considering the restrictions. This has shrunk their efficiency.

Roofing is categorized under the construction industry, and thereby, it is an essential service. Roofs are integral parts of houses and safety requirements. Roofing contractors started using the online medium to take bookings, avoiding physical contact.

Read on to know the roof fixing or installing process during the pandemic while abiding by the rules and restrictions for Covid.

Why Should You Avoid Delaying Roof Replacement Or Repair?

The roof of the house is an essential aspect of safeguarding the home. If the roof is not fixed at the earliest, there are chances of serious damage to the construction.

Some of the damages that could affect the construction of the house are:

• Constant leakage
• Water damage
• Mold

When contacting a roofing contractor, it is crucial to inquire about their safety protocols and plan to execute them. Do they sanitize their tools? Do they follow the government guidelines for Covid? Means of the transaction – are there contactless payment options?

There are basic guidelines by these governmental organizations that every contractor must follow:

• Safety measures by the CDC
• Guidelines from OSHA
• WHO

The government lays out industry-specific guidelines, and it is necessary to abide by them. However, there are generalized rules that apply to every citizen and industry. Here are some:

• Staying at home when unwell: Health and safety organizations have advised that any individual, if sick, should stay at their home in isolation to break the chain. Coordinate with your contractor and ensure that they follow this measure.
• Social distancing: CDC has recommended maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet between each individual in a public setting or working in a job. As roofing is done at home, this guideline is easy to follow, for there is no crowding.

Cashless transactions: With the restrictions of Covid, contactless services and transactions have been repeatedly highlighted by the government. Before contacting, see to it that the contractor offers digital payment options.

Hiring A Roofing Contractor Avoiding Any In-Person Meetings

Digitalization has eased our chores ten folds in the Covid times. From getting in touch with a roofing contractor to finalizing the contract, selecting roof shingles, and finally getting the roof fixed, all steps can be done contactless.

Online mediums can facilitate the process with some phone calls.

Here is the process of hiring a roofing contractor:

1. Find them online: Independent roofing contractors from the OCRCN who have the badge ‘no-contact service’ can work remotely.
2. Scheduling: After selecting the contractor, you may contact them via email or phone call and schedule an appointment.
3. Inquire: In the virtual appointment, you may inquire with the contractor the details, such as the estimated cost of roofing, the time it will take, and the norms they follow for COVID.
4. Using the technology: While giving you an estimate, the contractor may need to assess the damage. They may use satellite technology for finding the damage and take measurements.
5. Providing photos and videos of the damage: An alternative to using satellite technology can be providing photos and videos of the roof.
6. Finalizing: After assessing the damage, the contractor can email you the estimate, and you can complete the contract, depending on your budget.

Paperwork: The last bit of finalizing the contract is to get the paperwork done. Paperwork can be done online too.

Selecting Roofing Shingles Online

You can choose roofing shingles at your house. How is that possible? Through the advent of digitalization.

The Owen Corning Roofing website facilitates you to choose roofing shingles. You will find:

• Readily available resources to select roofing products
• Variety of styles and colors for roofing shingles.
• Inspiration for exterior design

Online Visualization Tool: DesignEyeQ

If you are baffled by the myriad options available and unsure of choosing the right one, the online visualization tool, DesignEyeQ will ease it for you.

By uploading the photos of your house, you will select the designs and choose the right one for you. The visualizer enables you to understand the color scheme and coordinate the plan appropriately.

Samples Of Roof Shingles

Even after you have chosen a design, if you wish to see the shingles before your final decision, the samples are available. 12×24 inches samples are delivered to you through the mail.

You can get five samples per order, and you would have to pay only for the shipping and handling.

Seeing The Contractor’s Work

Understandably, you would want to cross-check multiple times before you get your roof fixed, as it an integral part of your home. You can contact your contractor and ask them to give you a list of the houses that they have worked on.

You can drive by the area and assess the work. This would give you additional confidence when you hire the contractor.

Build Your Roof

There are facilities to choose the roofing system you desire.

On Build your roof, you can select the layers of the roofing system. This includes the types of ventilation, shingles, and synthetic underlayment; all these layers are available to choose from for building your roof.

You can book a virtual meeting with your contractor to walk you through the process.

To Conclude

It is a daunting task to get things fixed in the middle of a pandemic. However, as much as it is difficult, we need to get certain things fixed. They are essential requirements and cannot be compromised in any situation.

Following all the Covid guidelines and keeping the process limited to the virtual medium, you can get your roof installed or fixed without putting yourself to any risk.

Roof Financing

Roof financing is a solution to all the fund problems for your new roof.  The smooth application, low interest rates, and flexible payment options make it a wise choice to look up to today.

We have compiled a guide for you on roof financing, answering a few of the pivotal questions.

Finance For A Roof Project

Due to many unforeseen circumstances, like a natural calamity or even a storm, your roof might need reconstruction. It may also need reconstruction if it is old and is wearing off. It seems a small task, but many factors end up varying the cost of your roof project a lot.

Some such factors are:

1.     Size And Complexity

If you have a large roof, reconstructing it will cost an enormous amount. Similarly, if the roof is made of a complex design or a pattern, remaking it will substantially require more funds.

2.     Roof Shingles

Depending on the material they are made of, roof shingles vary in price. Some wear off quickly and need replacement, while some remain intact for long. You need to evaluate different options before you invest in the perfect covering or shingles for your roof.

3.     Contractor

The labor charged by every contractor differs project by project. Although the quality of work might be proportionate to the price they charge, it leads to more holes in your pocket.

4.     Location

The area you live in will impact the number of expenses for a roofing project. The services are readily available in the city area while it may cost you extra dollars in the countryside.

Basic Terms In Roof Financing

Some basic terms you need to know before borrowing any money are –

1.     Term

It is the period for which you take the loan. You need to repay at the end of this period. It is generally in terms of months or years.

2.     Annual Percentage Rate

The annual percentage rate or APR is the interest rate the lender charges you rounded off for the year. It does not include the compounding impact and is used to compare offers.

3.     Principle Amount

It is the total amount of the loan taken. It does not include the interest charged over the term.

Why Is Roof Financing A Better Option?

A roof provides shelter to you and your family and protects your home from the elements. Most of the time, we forget about repairing our roof until there are signs of serious damage. Thus, roof financing is beneficial.

You may not consistently save or have a special reserve ready for the roofing project. The bills amount to multi-thousand dollars that chiefly cannot be covered instantly. Roof financing facility helps you arrange this amount at the best possible terms and conditions.

Even when you are insured, the possible deductibles charged are large. If your roof is old enough, the deductibles will be even massive and for which you will require financing for sure.

The Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network is a group of many such independent contractors. They provide you with the best possible roof financing options.

Some chief benefits that roof financing offers are –

1.     Low Monthly Payments

You might not be able to repay the lump sum amount of the loan, generally in thousands, at once. Roof financing offers an easy monthly payments option that enables you to pay small amounts every month for a particular period till the loan gets cleared off.

The interest rate is decided based on your credit rating but is generally a fair amount.

2.     Defer Payments

Deferring payment refers to delaying the repayment of the loan for a certain period without any interest or surcharge. The lender begins charging the interest after this set period expires. You can even pay back the loan before this period expires without paying any interest.

Defer payment loans are helpful when you urgently require roof financing but are short of funds. It also relieves you of some burden till the project is running.

3.     Quick Approval

Owing to modern technology, you can easily apply for roof financing with a click. You can apply online via your mobile phones or laptops without any in-person dealing and paperwork. The approval also comes online and generally within minutes of submitting the relevant information.

4.     Investment

Roof financing is like a long-term investment as it increases the value of your house. The 2019 Remodeling Impact Report stated that borrowers recovered 107% of the cost in the future due to higher sale value. Anyone would prefer buying a house with a new and safe roof.

5.     Financing During COVID-19

In this pandemic situation, keeping safe options at hand is very necessary. Also, the online processing of the application ensures no physical contact, keeping you safe. It also eliminates all the delays possible due to the social distancing rules applicable.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have in mind regarding roof financing.

1.     How long should you finance for?

The length varies as per the lender though you need to consider various factors before borrowing. Short-term loans ensure less interest and a mental burden for a shorter period. At the same time, you have funds for a shorter period too.

Long-term loans mean funds at your disposal for a lengthy period and no rush to pay back. They also mean interest payments for the longer term and uncertainty of the future.

Reports show borrowers prefer taking a loan for 120 months of the term.

2.     Do contractors offer payment options?

Yes, independent contractors at Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network provide you with various flexible payment options.

3.     Can insurance pay my expenses?

When the reconstruction takes place due to a natural accident, you can claim insurance coverage. In cases when the roof needs repairing due to wear and tear over time, insurers may not pay up to you. Roof financing remains a better option in this case. Further, it depends on your insurance contract.

How to Do a Proper Roof Replacement Estimate

We’ve all had to deal with a leaky roof at some point in our lives. Unfortunately, there’s just no guaranteed way to prevent damages to your roof. Despite our best efforts, something can always go wrong, whether it be a botched construction or an unexpected storm. We know how difficult this can be to deal with, as a sturdy roof is essential to a good home. Read this article to find out more about organizing a total roof replacement.

The inconvenience that this can cause for families is not something anybody wants to deal with. A complete roof replacement is an obvious solution, although it isn’t always obvious how to estimate the cost of roof replacement. We need to know the exact details of the re-roofing procedure to make sure that everything goes smoothly. This is necessary to avoid any hidden fees that could take our budget by surprise. We don’t want to be left in a worse position than before, with a partly replaced roof.

Basics of a Roof Replacement Estimate

There are lots of factors to help us find an estimated cost of roof replacement. Even before we begin, we need to look at payment information and required materials. Construction time and the individual costs of components, like the current roof’s removal and heavy equipment, are also important.

Labor descriptions and work guarantees ensure that we aren’t left with unfinished work. Warranties are another expense that helps to ensure high construction quality. The job contractor needs to be licensed and legitimate, and contract termination must be smooth for both parties. Finally, we should always set aside some budget for unforeseen costs that could crop up.

Factors Affecting the Roof Replacement Cost

Of course, not every roof replacement will have the same price. A significant cost factor is roof size, as larger surface areas need more materials. Another is the slope, which varies between houses and is measured in a rise over run ratio. The number of 100 square foot areas on the surface will determine how much work is needed. Beyond the size, the materials used can have a significant effect on costs. Some region building codes and HOA regulations in Toronto make certain materials mandatory. The final factor is the complexity of the construction, determined by the roof’s design.

Products/Services Included in Roof Replacement Estimates

The roof shingle replacement cost estimate is an essential part of our budget that varies with type and manufacturer. Next is flashing, which are thin steel or aluminum sheets placed over joints around windows and pipes. Underlayment is required to waterproof the roof, and metal strips, called drip edges, help keep water out of the shingles. Valleys allow water to flow off the roof, so attention is needed to protect it from heavy water runoff. Check out this article to learn more about the various products required for a roof replacement.

The most important part in making a decision on replacing your roof is not the price; rather, it’s the value. Look for a fair price that covers the cost of quality products and installation. Contact Dominion Roofing now and inquire about roof replacement estimates.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Make sure to get all the estimated roof replacement cost details from your contractor before starting construction. We need to know if the estimate includes tax and if it covers the whole project. The process for potentially undiscovered damages must also be transparent. Ideally, we should get to keep spare materials to use for repair. Lastly, we should check the qualifications of the contractor. This includes their safety record, examples of their previous projects, and their business experience.

Re-roofing Services in Toronto

We understand that a solid roof doesn’t only bring peace-of-mind, but is also a necessity. It secures home against the weather and keeps you and your family safe. A roof replacement is a big decision, and you don’t want to be left with incomplete work or a poorly done job. Here at Dominion Roofing, we’ll ensure that you receive professional support and high-quality construction with our extensive experience. Call us today or find us here for our expert roof replacement estimate calculator services.

Roof Replacement FAQs

Severe storms have become increasingly common across Ontario recently. Everywhere from Brampton to Toronto, there has been a rise in storm warnings and powerful winds, which usually bring along dangerous hail. This destructive weather event can lead to severe damage to any structure in the storm’s path, with roofs being the easiest to hit.

We understand that a storm-damaged roof can be highly stressful, especially if there are more predicted storms on the way. Apart from making the building unsafe, the damaged roof can also be quite costly to fix. Since we’d recommend repairing it as quickly as possible, it’s crucial to figure out what exactly needs replacing.

Unfortunately, this can be easier said than done. The damage can vary depending on the roof material, as hail has different effects on different roof types. To help make the process as painless and possible, this article will discuss how to identify problems correctly and what to do with a hail damaged roof. 

How Hail Storm Damage Can Compromise Your Roof

Hail can cause a whole range of damages to a roof, especially to the exposed shingles. Anything from the surface layer’s protective granules to the fibreglass underneath can be weakened and cracked. As hail comes in different sizes, it’s difficult to tell what damage has occurred without a close inspection. Roofs have many parts that could compromise the entire structure if damaged. Visit here to learn more about roofs and their various components.

Identifying the specifics of hail damage is complicated and potential problems are easy to miss from the ground. For example, a shingle can become unsealed in a storm, but it might not have blown away. This kind of damage can lead to other shingles around it becoming loose without being noticed. Hail damage can lead to expensive repairs down the road if not acted upon quickly. Possible consequences include:

• Accelerated Shingle Granule Loss
• Premature Failure of Roof System
• Premature Failure of Siding
• Premature Failure of other Exterior Building Items
• Voiding of Manufacturer’s Warranties

How to Check Your Roof for Storm Damage

Various materials are affected differently by hail, which can make identifying damage even more complicated. Each material has its own inspection method, and knowing what to look for isn’t always obvious. 

The first step is to check for any noticeable damage from the ground. We recommend that you use binoculars to see immediate problems easier. Next, try to remove any debris from the roof that the storm blew there. Loose objects could have damaged the roof in other ways on impact and can lead to further problems.

Once those issues have been identified, it’s time to call in the professionals. Damages like large holes and broken shingles need to be fixed correctly and safely, so you should get in touch with us for fast and efficient repairs. A free inspection by a roofer can also let you know your roof type and what to look for in the future.

Signs of Hail Storm Damage On Your Roof

Thankfully, major hail storm damages can sometimes be easily recognized. Hail can make noticeable dents on cars, and broken shingles or tree limbs on the ground indicate substantial damage. If you see roof contractors in your neighbourhood after a storm, that should tell you repairs are needed to various roofs in the area. 

Here are some common damages possible for different roof types:

• Asphalt-shingle roofs:
  • Cracked shingles
  • Exposed granules
  • Exposed/broken fibreglass mat
  • Loose seal
  • Missing shingles
  • Leaking roof
  • Torn shingles
• Wood shingles and wood shake roofs:
  • Split wood
  • Rotting/mouldy wood
  • Holes in roof
  • Water leaks
  • Gray shingles
• Tile roofs:
  • Shattered tiles
  • Fractures
  • Impact marks
• Metal roofs:
  • Dents
  • Leaking roof
• Flat roofs:
  • Chipped/split panels
  • Rusted panels

To properly diagnose and fix hail storm damage to a roof, get a contractor who specializes in roofing to help you. We here at Dominion Roofing want to help you with your roofing needs and be your first choice for assistance with the roof of your business or home. Contact 416-789-0601 today!

What to Do After Hail Storm Damage Impacts Your Roof

After finding out about hail damage to a roof, we recommend you contact your homeowner’s insurance agent and request a roofing contractor immediately. Any damages need to be examined and quickly repaired before they get worse. 

Once all the problems have been identified: 

• Document the damage
• Fix potential hazards and submit an insurance claim
• Make an appointment with an insurance adjuster
• Get in touch with a trusted roofing contractor
• Have your roof replaced or repaired

Get in Touch With Dominion Roofing for Your Roofing Needs

As the effects of hail can vary wildly on different roof types, it can be difficult to find every problem that needs fixing. Get in touch with us at Dominion Roofing here and let our professional team take care of diagnosing your roof and putting it back together in no time. We offer everything from new roofs to all types of repairs that will make it even better than before.

PRO TIP:

“After a hail storm, document all damage to your roof with detailed notes and multiple photos—both interior and exterior. This documentation will prove useful when you submit your insurance claim.”

How to Handle a Hail Storm-Damaged Roof FAQs

Do I Always Need to Replace a Roof Damaged by a Hail Storm?

You should fix any significant damage immediately before further problems can develop. With our experience, we can help you identify and start repairs or replacements as soon as possible.

What Should I Do If I Suspect Hail Damage to My Roof?

Call in a roofer for a free basic inspection and get in touch with us for a complete analysis of hail damages to your roof. We don’t recommend trying to find all the problems yourself, as many issues can be hard to spot and lead to further troubles down the line.

How Can I Protect My Roof from Storms?

There isn’t a way to prevent storm damage from occurring in the first place, but once it happens, there are some actions you can take. The first thing to do is to clear any debris and loose objects off your roof. This includes snow, sticks, leaves, and anything else that could cause damages.

Your home could be one of the largest investments you’ll make. So taking care of your roof is crucial to maintaining its value and preventing damages. 

Reacting only when problems arise can result in costly repair work. That’s why regular maintenance is vital in extending the lifespan of your roof and your home. 

Doing the roof maintenance work yourself, however, is not advisable. No matter how small the repair job is, getting onto a roof can be very risky, and hauling heavy tools up there can add to the danger. 

Safety Concerns in DIY Roofing Projects

Being on a roof has elements of danger that inexperienced people might not be aware of. Attempting a DIY roofing project has the potential of someone seriously harming themselves.

Experienced roofers have skills that allow them to maneuver around with ease.

If you still want to try it yourself, please consider the following before attempting a DIY project for your roof:

• Your ladder needs to be of good quality and it needs to reach high enough for you to get onto the roof easily. Ensure it’s stable before climbing it.
• Take extra care with steep roofs. Make use of a safety harness, roof anchors, straps, and crash barriers to prevent falls. Your equipment should be in good condition and one of the best brands. You don’t want to jeopardize your safety.
• Take special precautions if there are any power lines near your roof, and avoid contact with conductors. 
• Ensure that there’s no person, pets, or vehicles on the ground that could be hit by any falling objects.

Even if you take all these safety precautions and wear the necessary safety gear, you still risk injuring yourself or others. Potential accidents include:

Falling – You can have an unforeseen slip-and-fall accident. Even with safety measures in place, you could still get dizzy or suffer a heat stroke, depending on the weather. Also, a weakness on the rooftop can result in you falling through the roof with potentially fatal consequences. 

• Equipment and materials – Faulty equipment can result in an unexpected injury. Not knowing how to use specific tools can also be dangerous.

• Insect bites – Being so high up and unprotected could leave you vulnerable to insect bites.

• Electrocution – If your ladder or any other item accidentally knocks a power line, you could be shocked, and that could potentially be fatal.

Improper Roof Repairs

Inexperienced DIY roofers with no knowledge of using the necessary tools can end up with a roof incorrectly installed or poorly repaired. Too often, shoddy repairs occur because people: 

• Lack of knowledge or experience
• Use incorrect materials or ones of inferior quality
• Are unable to use the tools correctly or don’t use the correct tools for the job
• Are unable to move around confidently

Improper roof repairs can lead to some unsatisfactory results, including:

• You could cause more damage than there was initially. You might use a method not suited for your roof or step on a weak spot, resulting in more needed repairs.
• Improper repairs lead to you seeking professional help, which adds to your expenses.
• DIY metal roofing repairs not done correctly can result in water pooling on your roof, which could also lead to more problems in the future.

Enlisting the help of experienced and professional roofers is highly recommended. At Dominion Roofing, we can help by getting the job done right the first time, ensuring a longer lifespan for your roof and your home.

Increased Costs in Roofing

Seeing your own roof repairs might seem like a cost-effective method, and that can be true in some cases. However, besides purchasing the needed supplies, you’ll have to sacrifice your time and lots of effort to get the job done.

The following risks can also potentially increase your costs:

• Improper repairs can lead to water leaks into your home, which could result in more expenses.
• What seemed like a small fix could result in a huge repair. It also prolongs the time initially set aside for a “quick fix” and costs you more.
• If you sustain any injuries from your roofing DIY project, you’ll have medical expenses as well, and a potentially long recovery period.

While DIY roofing projects aren’t a bad idea, not all projects around the home should be done by yourself, especially when it comes to your roof. Call roofing professionals at Dominion Roofing at 416.789.0601 today!

Voided Roof Warranty

Another thing to consider is that warranties don’t generally cover DIY projects. They’re limited for a certain period and only when qualified contractors do the repairs.

A roof warranty can be voided when:

• Installing a satellite dish or antennae yourself
• Not using a qualified contractor to do your repair work
• Installation is done incorrectly
• Inadequate roof ventilation
• Using non-system components

Get the Right Services for Your Roof

Most homeowners can tackle specific DIY projects successfully. However, when it comes to your roof, it’s better to leave repairs to the professionals.

Aside from your entire house, your roof is usually the next-most-expensive item on your property. Protecting it is crucial, and you should avoid any damage to it if possible.

At Dominion Roofing, we have the skills to repair or replace your roof for you. Whether it’s fixing a leak or having shingles replaced, we’ve got you covered. Making sure you’re satisfied with our work is our priority.

We offer a good range of residential and commercial roofing services. We do repairs, re-roofing, inspections, new roof constructions, retro-fitting, aluminum and vinyl siding, custom roofing and copper work, slate and metal roofing, and more.

Call us at 416-789-0601 today!

PRO TIP:

“If roofing is completed incorrectly, it will end up costing you in the long run. If you don’t get your roof repaired in a timely fashion, this can result in further problems. Therefore, it’s a good idea to seek professional assistance in the first place.”

The Dangers of DIY Roofing Projects FAQs

How do I stop my roof from leaking?

First, try to locate the leak. On shingle roofs, you could straighten curled shingles or replace the damaged ones using the correct equipment. Flat roofs are a bit more tricky to fix, but you could apply a patch if the damage is not too significant. For best results, contact Dominion Roofing for assistance.

Can painting my roof void my warranty?

It would depend on the manufacturer. It’s better to allow a professional roofer to attend to all your maintenance.

How do I know when shingles need to be replaced?

When they start curling, cracking, or getting discolored, or where granules are missing.

There are a lot of misconceptions about attic ventilation that make it hard for people to decide whether to install one or not. These misconceptions have also led people to make mistakes and spend money on unnecessary installations.

When choosing the right vents for your home, you should consider affordability, effectiveness, durability, and ease of installation. You should also note that every type of ventilation has its pros and cons.

Picking and installing ventilation does not mean that you’ll immediately have good air circulation in your home. Read on to know the common misconceptions about attic ventilation that make people commit mistakes when installing air vents.

If You Want More Ventilation, Install Roof Vents

In the current market, ridge vents are considered the most cost-effective type of air vent; however, if installed without baffles that keep air out, they’ll provide little to no ventilation. On the other hand, Gable vents circulate air effectively, but only in the area around them.

There’s also the static roof-line vent which provides adequate ventilation but may be prone to leaks. Lastly, soffit vents are the right choice for most homes, but for the others, it leaves air trapped at the top of your attic. 

At present, one of the most effective ventilation systems employs a “ride-and-soffit” continuous system. Choosing this type of system does not guarantee that you’ll have an effective one since this design varies from roof to roof. To get the best ventilation system for your home, turn to our professional team. We can inspect your current system and any inherent weaknesses that may be present.

Aside from the type of vent, the vent’s installation also affects the amount of air circulation it provides. A wrongly installed vent will not provide proper ventilation, and it may cause leaks to your home.

The bottom line is, various kinds of vents work differently from one another. That is why merely installing air vents may do more harm than good. What matters is that you should inspect and determine your home’s needs, and you should know the elements of a premium roof so that you’d pick the perfect air vent that suits your home.

Only Homes in Hot Climates Need Vents

Contrary to the belief that vents are only needed in warm or hot climates, vents are actually required in all weathers. This is because vents provide proper attic ventilation, energy efficiency, and prevent moisture build-up and condensation in the attic. 

Even though homes in hot climates like Florida and Hawaii benefit most from properly ventilated attics, homes in all climates can also take advantage of those benefits.

For places that experience colder seasons, preparing the roof for winter is essential. One step to be prepared is to install proper ventilation since the combination of too much heat in the attic, and cold snow on the roof may cause significant damages to your home. Through these vents, you can prevent ice dams on your roof and moisture-related damages.

Your House Needs More Ventilation

Ideally, your attic ventilation balance would equal the size of your home. This means that the attic insulation has the perfect amount of exhaust space to match the air intake. Roofing experts use a roof inspection checklist that includes your attic’s size and slope to determine the ideal amount of ventilation that your home system demands.

Not having sufficient attic ventilation can lead to moisture problems and decreased energy efficiency; however, too much ventilation can be just as bad. Installing more than the required vents may lead to more roof penetrations (places where leaks can occur).

Aside from increasing your risk of leaks, needlessly increasing the number of vents may cause blowouts during intense hurricanes. So, consulting a team that specializes in air ventilation would be a good idea.

Ready to address attic ventilation and other roofing concerns? Reach out to Dominion Roofing, and let’s talk more about how we can help you.

Attic Vents Remove Warm Air During the Winter

Usually, heat will rise into your attic then escape through the vents if a roofing system has insufficient, damaged, or old insulation that allows warm, moist air coming from your home to enter your attic.

When warm air is removed from the attic, it isn’t because of the vents. Instead, it is caused by the inability of the insulation to perform its functions. Attic vents won’t create a drag on your heating system. That is why, if you notice that warm air creeps into the attic, make sure that your attic insulation is well maintained and functioning correctly.

When checking for roofing-related problems (damaged air vents, insufficient insulation, broken roofs, etc.), you should also check chimneys as they may contribute to the leaks in your home. Contact Dominion Roofing if you need help with roofing-related issues or installations. 

PRO TIP:

“Regular roof inspection should not be considered as an additional expense, but rather as an
investment to keep your building sturdy and properly maintained.”

Common Misconceptions About Attic Ventilation FAQs 

How important is attic ventilation?

Attic ventilation systems are critical since it allows cool, fresh air to enter into the attic and hot, moist air to escape. A good system will help you prevent future problems caused by too much heat in the attic or no heat at all. A balanced ventilation system includes eaves, soffits, and exhaust at or near your roof ridge.

Can you have too much attic ventilation?

Yes. It is okay to have too much attic ventilation as long as the intake vent area is equal to or more than the exhaust vent area. However, if you can prevent too much ventilation, you should do so since a lot of exhaust ventilation will disrupt the natural airflow of the system.

What happens if your attic is not vented?

If you don’t put vents in your attic, you may experience a lot of problems which includes moisture build-up that leads to condensation, damages to the roofing materials, the formation of mildew and, ice dams forming on the roof, molds, and higher bills due to the AC being turned on for longer periods.