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At Complete Roofing Solutions, we have done our best to create a website which anticipates and satisfies our customers' requirements. If you do not find an answer to your question here, please do not hesitate to contact us.

How long does a roof last?

We find that most roofs installed in the 1990's tend to have a life of 10 to 15 years. Much of this is due to the type of shingles (3-tab-organic) which were used back then.
The architectural shingles we install today are stronger, lighter and have a much longer life expectency.

How do I spot potential trouble signs on my roof?

The most obvious signs of problems on your roof are loose, curling or missing shingles. Damaged vents and loose flashings are other signs of trouble. If you notice any of these problems when looking at your roof, we will be happy to come out for a free evaluation. Any of these signs can lead to leaks and interior damage.

What should you look for when hiring a roofing contractor?

You want to make sure that your contractor of choice has a solid reputation and a history of good installations. Unfortunately, the roofing industry is full of "one year wonders" who are simply not around if you need them a year or two later. You want to make sure that your contractor of choice is fully licensed with up to date WSIB coverage.

Extensive liability insurance coverage is also crucial due to the dangerous nature of roofing. You need to make sure that you and your neighbours are protected for the duration of the project. All roofing staff should be licensed and should have received "Fall Protection" training. You want to make sure that your contractor offers legitimate and comprehensive manufacturers' warranties. It is also very important to make sure that the contractor is a member of The Better Business Bureau with a good track record.

Do not hesitate to ask for documentation for any of the previously listed items. Please keep in mind that all commercial projects require written proof of all of the above before a project begins.

What causes ice dams?

Ice dams are formed when heat from the inside of the home escapes into the attic space and warms the roof deck during the winter. This heat, combined with heat from the sun, can melt snow on the roof. Melting snow on the upper roof and in the valleys then runs down toward the eaves as water. When this water reaches the cold roof deck at the eave, it freezes. The continual thaw and re-freeze process creates ice dams. The result can be water backing up under the roof shingles or behind the fascia board where it can soak through the roof decking. This can cause damage to attics, ceilings and walls.

How do you prevent and protect against ice dams?

There are three ways to defend against ice dams: Ventilation, insulation and ice and watershield membrane underlayment. All three work together. The insulation keeps the attic space cooler by stopping the heat from escaping from the interior of the house. The ventilation keeps the air moving throught the attic allowing it to breathe and maintain a cooler temparature as well as minimizing moisture. The ice and water shield membrane provides a level of protection under the shingles should an extreme amount of ice build up at the eave.

What is attic ventilation?

Attic ventilation is a very important component of a properly functioning roofing system. Proper ventilation keeps the attic temperature as close as possible to the outside temperature. Proper ventilation minimizes moisture and takes the pressure of the roof deck and shingles during the summer months by keeping the attic cooler. Proper ventilation is greatly enhanced by a properly insulated attic. (Please remember that the building code changed in 2008 with regard to proper insulation levels for a residential attic space. The new code is R-40. Most homes have about half the levels required.)

Why are some estimates lower than others?

Make sure you are comparing apples to apples when reviewing your estimates. Licensed contractors who carry liability insurance and are fully covered by the WSIB will always cost more than the "fly by night" operators. The advantage will always be a much better job with a legitimate warranty and ongoing service and protection of your investment. At Complete Roofing Solutions, we install a complete roofing system as opposed to just shingles. We have 28 years of experience to fall back on.

What should you I expect the day of installation?

You should expect a high level of professionalism and a polite crew . The job should start on schedule and the property should be well protected. Your property should be left as it was found (with a new roof of course!).

How long does the job take?

Compete Roofing Solutions completes almost all jobs in one day. If your roof is very large or complex, the process can sometimes go into a second day.

What is the deal with roofing warranties?

The actual shingle and roofing system warranties vary greatly from one contractor to another. Please be aware that two contractors can install the same shingle but the more established contractor (through install history and training) will be able to offer a much better manufacturer warranty on the whole project. At Complete Roofing Solutions, we offer the most comprehensive and extensive manufacturer warranties in the industry as well as our industry leading Platinum Warranty.