7 Essential Residential Roofing FAQs Answered

Roofs can make or break your home. Whether you’re looking for repairs or a full replacement, there are a lot of questions about how roofing works. Today, we’ll put these worries to rest with our residential roofing FAQs. From price to material, we’ll address all your concerns so you can begin your roofing journey with confidence.

Residential Roofing FAQs

#1. How Do I Know If I Need a Roofing Repair or Replacement?

Damaged roofs are no joke. They can lead to major leaks and serious mold problems. When in doubt, inspect your roof. You’ll know it’s damaged if you notice any of the following:

• Curled, cracked, or missing shingles
• Sagging roof
• Missing granules (or granules in the gutter)
• Leaks
• Rusted or damaged flashing
• Other visible signs of damage

Some of these issues only require a quick roofing repair. Replacing cracked shingles with fresh ones or patching flashing can often do the trick. However, some damage points to an underlying problem that can only be solved by a complete roofing replacement. The best way to know is to ask a professional.

If your roof is over 20 years old, it’s not in good condition, or there are signs of mold, that’s a clear indicator that it’s time for a replacement. Contact KSW Construction LLC for an expert opinion on the best solution for your roof.

#2. What are the Best Roofing Materials for a Pennsylvania Home?

Another residential roofing FAQ we hear often is: what is the best roofing material? Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question. Like with most things, it depends on your situation.

You want a roof that can withstand the wide variety of Pennsylvania weather you’ll experience in a year, from snowy winters to intense heat. And don’t forget about storm season and high winds! Your roof needs to be strong enough to handle it all.

The best roofing material comes down to this: what are your priorities as a homeowner? Here are some factors to consider:

• Price
• Aesthetics
• Lifespan
• Energy efficiency
• Sustainability
• Durability
• Maintenance
• Ease of repair

If you’re working on a budget, asphalt shingles are your best friend. They are the most common roofing material because they work well in a variety of climates. If you want a roof that lasts a lifetime, metal might be a better choice. For a classic option, slate or cedar might be a good fit.

There is no one best material, but once you decide on the features that matter most, you can make an informed decision for your home.

#3. What’s the Cost of a New Roof?

Think you’re ready for a roofing replacement, but not sure if your wallet can handle it? The cost of a new roof depends on the material you choose, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation.

A new roof is an investment, and it’ll pay off when it’s time to sell your house. A roofing replacement can get you a high ROI up to 68%.

On average, an asphalt shingle roof in Pennsylvania costs anywhere between 5k and 24k. But don’t let that number deter you! We offer financing options to make this payment manageable. Home improvement is our specialty, and we want everyone to have access to a quality roof. Chat with our team to learn more about your lending options or schedule a free estimate.

#4. How Long Will it Take to Install a New Roof?

Most roofing installations can be done in a day or two, but it depends on a few factors. Asphalt shingles are quick and easy, but other materials like wood shakes or slate tiles may take a few extra days. The size of your house also impacts the installation time because we have more surface area to cover.

Another factor to consider is the roof’s complexity and pitch. Navigating around multiple chimneys and pipes can slow down the process. Additionally, steeper roofs are more challenging to walk on, which will extend the installation time.

Simple, single-story homes can often be completed in a day, but larger homes with steeper roofs and more obstacles may take longer. Regardless of the project’s size, we always strive to be as non-disruptive as possible. Our crews work efficiently to get in and out quickly, while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

#5. How Long Does a Roof Last in PA?

Like many of our residential roofing FAQs, this answer depends on your situation. Several things impact your roof’s lifespan.

The first is material. Some of the most common roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. Others, like metal or slate, can last for upwards of 50 years. Color also plays a role. Dark-colored roofs absorb more heat, which causes them to expand. As they cool, they shrink. Over time, this movement can cause your shingles to crack.

Another factor is climate. Heavy rain, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures can damage a roof and impact how long it lasts. Roofs are made to withstand weather, but frequent storm damage can definitely take a toll.

Maintenance is also a consideration. Just like other areas of your home require seasonal maintenance, so does your roof. Without this, it won’t last as long as it should. Some common maintenance items include cleaning gutters, removing moss, and inspecting your shingles.

The quality of the installation will also determine how long your roof lasts. A poor roofing installation from an inexperienced team can lead to leaks and loose shingles. With KSW, you don’t have to worry about that! Our certified roofing technicians have 50 years of combined experience and guarantee a rock-solid roof every time.

#6. How Do I Weatherproof a Roof?

Worried about storm season? You’re not the only one. This residential roofing FAQ covers important steps you can take to ensure your roof is prepared for the upcoming weather.

Start by having your roof professionally inspected to ensure there are no safety hazards or damage that could cause problems after the first rainfall. Additionally, do your own inspection from the attic—check the underside of the roof to confirm everything is in good condition and properly insulated.

Next, clear any debris from your roof to prevent it from trapping moisture. Trim nearby trees to avoid branches falling onto your roof during a storm. Also, replace any curling or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks, and secure any loose shingles to ensure they don’t get blown off during high winds.

Finally, clean your gutters and downspouts, as they’re essential for directing water off your roof and away from your home’s foundation. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool, leading to leaks and damage. To reduce debris buildup, consider installing gutter guards for added protection.

#7. What Do I Look for in a Residential Roofing Contractor?

This final FAQ is one of the most important. The residential roofing contractor you choose can make a significant difference, so here are the key factors to consider when selecting the right company for the job.

Explore their past work. Look at both interior and exterior projects to ensure the quality is up to your standard. Also research how many years they’ve been in business. Experience is crucial, which is why our team at KSW has over 50 years of combined experience, so every project is completed with skill and care.

Consider their values as a company. Do they do the little things right? What do they prioritize? When you work with us, we focus on knowledge, stability, and workmanship. We promise expert guidance and a job well done, every single time.

Our biggest tip is to read reviews. See how previous customers feel about the process and end results. This will give you insight into the quality of your residential roofing contractor, their customer service, communication, and reputation in the community.

See what our customers have to say: