2 Table of Contents Common Shapes______Pg 3 Terms and Components You Should Know______Pg 5 Troubleshooting Shingle Roof Problems______Pg 7 Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid______Pg 9 Roofing Shingles & materials Extreme Applications______Pg 12 Accessories Matter: Shingle Roof Accessories______Pg 14 Curb Appeal of a New Shingle Roof______Pg 16 Best Roof Shingles at Every Price Point______Pg 18 10 Questions to ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor______Pg 21 3

Common Roof Shapes When you are either deciding to build a home or deciding on getting a new roof, one question that the roofing contractor might ask you is the shape of your roof. This helps also in deciding what type of roofing material you would want to have on your roof. Some designs or shapes, do better with certain materials and some materials do not do so well with certain shapes. Knowing this information is helpful to your contractor and informative to you to learn something about your home. Each shape gives a different characteristics and many are more popular with variances to them from historic homes and now in present unique designs. For now let’s cover the basic shapes. ! The first is the Gable or pitch shape. This is one of the most common shapes you will see which is the triangular shape you come across most often. These roofs are especially used when the building plans call for an attic area.

The next we have is the Hipped roof. These are also popular in homes and they often have shady eaves, these are also meant to offer more resistance to strong winds. You will see that there are also hipped and valley roofs that means they consist of the hipped design with multiple ones which is what makes the valleys. The next we have is the gambrel shape. This is most commonly used for barns and other agricultural buildings that has been used for barns for a long time now. There are some residential homes that use this shape as well. The next that we see a lot of is the flat roofs, especially in commercial buildings. 4

These roofs you do not shingle or use metal, instead you use other roofing materials like PVC, and EPDM. Another shape popular is the shed or skillion shape. It is known for shed most commonly because used to be most sheds used the shape and they are used in some homes and can be very steep. Another that you will see a lot of is the pyramid shape where the roof comes to a point in the middle. These we see especially in smaller homes. These also have attic space.

The saltbox is also a shape that you may see where one side of the roof is longer than the other. These also have attic space. Lastly we have the next common shaped that is the mansard. With is much close to the hipped but can have the flat top in the middle, or the edges of the roof comes down at a lesser angle that the hipped. These are also used for homes with attics. These shapes are the most common used especially in residential home designs. There are more designs that have come around or have been around and becoming popular again that give a different charter to homes likes domed, curved or arched roofs. Many monumental buildings have some of these other designs and as you can see they give a unique look to buildings all over. 5

Roofing Terms and Components You Should Know There are many of us that know everything we need to know about your roof and understand the components and terms when it comes to roofing, but there are also many of you that either never had to deal with it or are new home owners and this information will be extremely useful for you to understand the components and terms used by contractors when it is time to replace or repair your roof. ! Let’s start with the roof system components for steep-slope roof systems. There are always five basic components to these: roof covering, sheathing, roof structure, flashing and drainage. The roof covering is the materials your roofed is covered in that we all know well for majority of homes are shingles, but there are other types of coverings like the tile, slate or metal. These coverings protect the sheathing that is underneath from the weather. Which brings us to the next component sheathing, these are the boards or sheet material that is fastened to the roof to cover the building. The roof structure is the rafters and trusses constructed to support the sheathing. Then we have the flashing which is sheet metal or sometimes other material that is installed into the roof systems various joints and the valleys to prevent water seepage. Lastly, the drainage is the design features (shape, slope, and layout) that affects the ability for the roof to shed water. Now that we have covered the basics of the roofing components for your home, lets go over the terms that you will definitely hear when taking to a contractor. Decking is the surface that materials like plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) are applied. Then we have the dormer which is a small structure that projects from the roof like windows that stick out. Drip edge, this is an L-shapped strip that is installed along the edges of the roof that allows water to run off the deck, eaves and siding. This brings us to the eave which is the horizontal lower edge of the sloped roof. The fascia is the flat board, band or face that is located at the corners outer edge. Louvers are slatted devices that are installed in a gable or soffit that is under the eaves to ventilate the space below the roof deck that equalizes air temperature and moisture. Oriented strand board as we covered is the roof deck panels that are installed lengthwise in layers and are held together with a resin glue. Penetrations are 6 vents, pipes, stack, chimneys or anything that penetrates the roof deck. Rafters are the supporting frame the roof deck is attached. The rake is the inclined edge of a roof over a wall. Then we have the ridge which is the top edge of two intersecting sloping roof surfaces. Lastly we have square which is the measurement for the roof area. Any contractor that gives you an estimate or if you order materials will use this term. And finally the valley is the angle formed at the intersection of two sloping roof surfaces. Knowing the components and terms will help you make sure you know what is going on when working with a contractor.

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Troubleshooting Shingle Roof Problems 1. Shingles that are cracked, torn, curling on the bottom, and have heavy loss of grit or granules may all be signs that the roof is approaching or has reached the end of its life cycle. The older shingles become the less pliable them become, brittle shingle are easily cracked or torn. In come cases the shingles may curl or lift up on the bottom due age or excessive heat from lack of attic ventilation. 2. Dark stains or streaks on the roof can be caused from several things including algae growth, fungus from lack of sun light on roof, and even environmental pollution.

3. Missing shingles are most often result from high winds that have blown shingle off or from shingles that slide off from improper or inadequate nailing. The first is an act of God the second is poor installation technique. 4. Stains on ceilings and/or mold or mildew growth are most generally caused by leaks in roof but it is not alway the case. Moisture problem lower on the exterior walls of home or building may be related to clogged gutters, missing siding, unsealed masonry, or even pluming issues. 5. Roof shingle, sheeting, and siding decay may be a result of poor attic ventilation. Too few vent can allow a build up of excessive heat and moisture in a home can cause many problems from high energy costs to blistering or peeling paint on exterior of home. 8

6. Roof Leaks only after a driving rain may be a result of deteriorated or absent flashing around walls, dormers, and chimneys. Masonry walls must be counter flashed correctly or they will most certainly leak. 7. Leaks on sections of roof that are fairly flat may be caused from inadequate pitch or fall of roof. Roof shingle need a 2/12 pitch at a minimum to function correctly. Contrary to popular belief shingles are not water proof, they shed water but can become saturated with moisture when water stands on shingles from lack of fall. 9

Common Installations Mistakes to Avoid Whether you’re going to install your roof yourself or hire a roofing contractor, here are several things to keep in mind when planning your next roofing project. !1. Not tearing off the old roof. Not removing the old shingles might seem like a good idea at first, after all it is one of the hardest parts of the job and requires more labor, special shovels to remove old shingles, and some way to clean up mess and haul away debris. But by not removing the old roof and laying new shingles on top of the old you add excessive weight to the structure, greatly reduce the life of new shingles, and void manufacture warranties. It is impossible to examine decking for rot and worst of all if you should have a leak in the future it can be incredibly hard to find with two layers of roofing. Reputable roofing companies will stay away from doing shingle layovers. 2. Properly nail off shingles. There are three basic ways to go wrong when nailing shingles, nail to low, nail to high, or not nail enough. A low nail is a nail that is not covered by the following shingle of the next row. The nail head then is exposed and can be seen in the face of the shingle. refer to these as “shiners” because when the sun reflects off of a low nail 10 the glare shines. Low nails are nothing more than future leaks and must be removed and replaced. In an attempt not to low nail many inexperienced roofers or homeowners will high nail. A high nail is a nail installed above the nail line on the shingle. High nails cannot be seen as they are covered by the next course of shingles but they can cause big problems. When the shingle is nailed too high the nail does not penetrate the shingle below it. High nailed roofs are easily blown off in windy or stormy conditions because the roof isn't “connected” like it should be. Inadequate nailing means big reduction in wind rating. Most shingle manufactures require at least 4 nails per shingle and 5-6 nails for warrantied jobs and to achieve highest wind rating. Proper nailing is 5-6 nails per shingle and on the nail line.

3. Using the Correct accessories. Have you ever heard that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link? The same comparison can be made to installing a 50 year shingle but not 50 year accessories such as ice and water guard, hip and ridge cap, starter strip, and proper ventilation. Using Ice & Water guard in the valleys, Pitch breaks, and eves not only gives you added protection in the leak prone areas of the roof it can prevent damage caused by ice dams in winter. The advantages of using a starter strip under the first course of shingles far outweigh flipping a shingle over or using a three tab to start off with. Besides the fact that the starter strip doesn't cost any more than the alternatives, it has a tar strip that lines up the the tar strip on the shingle and this adhesion greatly reduces the chance for blow off. Starter strip may also be used on the rakes to upgrade wind rating of roof in high wind -storm areas. Two options exist for hip and ridge cap, 1) you can purchase a hip and ridge cap that is designed to last 50 years to complement your 50 year shingles or 2) you can buy three tab or 25 year shingle and cut the hip and ridge cap yourself. This is a quick way to turn a fifty year roof back into a 25 year roof. The benefits of installing the correct accessories to go along with your shingles far outweigh the small amount of additional cost you will incur. 11 4. Properly Venting the roof. Letting a house “breath” is a common saying among carpenters and roofers alike, exactly how much a house should breath has been a subject of much research in recent years. But one thing is for sure, an improperly or inadequately vented attic can not only harm your roof but can damage your entire home. A build up of super- heated air in your attic and cause • Premature aging of shingles • Warping, cracking, and break down of wood • Roof deck warping and rotting • Mildew and mold growth • Damage to siding and soffits • High energy cost and less comfortable living space The FHA (Federal Housing Administration) recommends 1 square foot of attic ventilation per 300 square feet of attic space. 5. Replace flashing and counter Flashing. Flashing and counter flashing are found where shingles meet a wall, such as a height change in roof system or dormers and around chimneys. Homes covered in siding need step flashing but not counter flashing, the siding is the counter flashing. However masonry walls and chimneys will need to be flashed and counter flashed preferably with aluminum coil stock. The aluminum comes in many colors to match roof and will not rust. Installing new flashing and counter flashing during roof project only makes sense, as a matter of logistics, getting things done while you or your roofing contractor are set up, and financial sense in that a fifty year shingle roofing system is only as good as the components it is composed of. The rising cost of roofing materials and labor mean that roofing a house right the first time isn't cheap, however it is worth it. Thinking of your roof as an investment in your home rather than an unwanted expense is a step in the right direction. 12

Roofing Shingles and Materials for Extreme Applications While a good quality roofing system will provide all of the protection required in many areas, homeowners or businesses in harsh environments need more from their roof. High winds, ice and snow or extreme cold present additional problems that the right roofing shingles can overcome. Consider your average conditions to help you select the best shingles and complete system for your needs. more Start with what is underneath The foundation of your roof must be strong to support the shingles and the extra weight of snow and ice. If the sheathing has been damaged or warped from exposure, it should be replaced. To add an extreme layer of protection, insulated panels are available. These are applied over the sheathing and increase both the insulation and the ventilation of the roofing system. Panels are also available without extra ventilation. Tongue and groove installation reduces heat loss and increases durability. #15 roofing felt does smooth the finished appearance of the roofing shingles. However, for harsh conditions, #30 felt is a better choice. This provides a stronger layer between the shingles and the sheathing. This felt resists tearing and prevents condensation build up under the shingles from penetrating the wood underneath. By keeping the shingle surface smoother, the shingles are less prone to blow off from wind lift under the shingle edges. For extremely harsh conditions, an ice and water shield is recommended. The 100 percent waterproof shield stops water penetration by wind driven water. The barrier also resists water and ice forced under shingles from ice dam formations. Dams occur when snow melts along the top of the roof and refreezes on the outer edge. The ice is then forced up under the shingles. 13 Additional ventilation systems Roofs need adequate ventilation to increase longevity and reduce the potential for ice dam formation and moisture build up in attic areas. Box vents can be installed just below the ridge line to reduce heat build up in attic crawl spaces. Vent systems are screened to prevent animals or debris from entering the attic space. Box style vents are available in standard louver systems, solar powered, and regular or powered turbines. Ridge vents systems are available in several types, including some designed for extreme snow conditions. This style includes a filter to prevent snow from entering the ventilated area. Ridge vents also add a better-finished appearance and greater durability than individual shingles folded over the top of a roof. Hip cap shingles can be used when ridge area is insufficient for adequate ventilation. Superior roofing shingles Many styles of shingles come with a Limited Lifetime warranty. Standard three tab shingles normally do not offer more than 25 to 30 years at the most. The higher warranty level assures you that the manufacture stands behind the quality of the product. Lifetime shingles are available with improved impact resistance. This provides a greater level of protection against hail damage. Features also include wind resistance up to 130 miles per hour. Special adhesive seals provide a stronger grip to prevent blow off during severe winds. Some of the features may also help homeowners reduce insurance premiums, adding savings to the greater roof protection. Remember that the shingles you select are just one part of the overall roofing system. To achieve maximum protection against high winds and harsh weather, have a complete roofing package installed by a professional roofing contractor. The roofing system is only as good as the installation, so work with a professional you trust. 14

Accessories Matter: Shingle Roof Accessories Your roof is comprised of much more than you see from a street view. The shingles on your roof are the top layer of protection. The components, or roof shingle accessories, make a major difference in your shingles lasting and resisting water penetration. These accessories make up the entire roofing system. more Underlayment Protecting the deck of your roof is an important part of the roofing process. Any water condensation under the shingles can damage the wood sheathing. This protection is often created with the use of roofing felt. Felt is available in #15 and #30 thicknesses, with synthetic materials also available. #15 is a lesser grade, #30 offers more durability and is recommended for architectural shingle applications. In addition to providing protection and improving the appearance, #30 felt provides a safer installation surface for workers by reducing slippage. Synthetics include fiberglass, which reduces unevenness, and specialty materials that include fire-resistant protection. In extremely cold climates, an ice and water shield is recommended. This shield provides the additional protection needed to reduce damage from ice dam formations. Water forced up under the roof edge will not penetrate through to the sheathing. Shingle Starter Starter strips for shingles improve the installation speed by allowing a neat line for workers to start from. This roofing piece also reduces the chances for shingles to lift in high winds. The starter strip includes adhesive sections to hold the pieces firmly in place. This gives extra protection along the roof edge. You benefit with a straighter edge appearance and no need to have messy adhesives added. Ventilation Your roof requires ventilation to breathe properly and reduce heat build up. Airflow can be drawn through the soffits and eaves and released at the ridge, or through box vents located near 15

the top of the roof. Ridge vents or exhaust systems improve the efficiency of the insulation of your home. The systems reduce the moisture that will form from condensation inside your home. This helps prevent mold growth and damage to walls and ceilings. Ventilation will reduce the heat on the shingles, allowing them to last longer. Proper ventilation can also reduce the possibility of ice dam formation. Dams form when snow at the top of the roof melts from extra heat and then refreezes as it reaches the outer edge of the roof. Hip and Ridge Caps Ridge cap shingles are run along the very top of your roof. They provide a clean, finished appearance as they are pre- formed to evenly cover both sides of the ridge. Caps are also thicker and offer extra protection from blow off than individual shingles placed along the top. Additional adhesive seals are often included with quality ridge cap shingles.

The minimum recommended amount of ventilation is one square foot for every 300 square feet of total attic space. For homes that do not have sufficient ridge area for ventilation, hip vents can be installed under the cap shingles along the hips. The ventilation systems have filters or screens that will prevent animals or debris from entering the attic space. Do look at your roofing project as being made up of a system of components that work together to provide you with the most protection. Your professional roofing contractor will be able to give you in depth information on the shingle accessories that best meet your unique needs. 16

Curb Appeal of a New Shingle Roof Your roof not only protects your home, a quality roof can add to the appearance. The roof covers a large amount of area and selecting the right roofing materials can add to the curb appeal of your home. You do not have to choose the most expensive roofing shingles, you can find attractive styles in all price points. ! Colors and styles Shingles are no longer just black, you will find a variety of colors available in many styles including three-tab, architectural and designer shingle series. You can select a color that blends into your home or adds contrast. Take a look at other features of your home. You may want to choose a color that blends with shutters or other trim work. Look around your neighborhood at similar homes. This should give you a good idea of what different colors and styles work well and what do not. If you find something you really like, make a note of it. Your contractor can most likely drive by the home and identify the exact color and design in use. Do use some caution, a roofing material on a small roof may not look as attractive on a larger roof or one with multiple features. Keep in mind that dark colored roofing materials will absorb more heat and may not be the best choice in hot climates.

How to choose the right shingles for you home Ask the roofing contractor to provide you with a couple of full size shingles in the colors or styles you are considering. The small squares that you see in a brochure do not give you the full picture. You also want to view these in natural daylight. Your contractor may even be able to place a couple of the shingles on your roof to give you a clear idea of the finished appearance. 17

Just remember that the function of the roof is the most important factor in your material selection. Whether you are replacing your roof to improve the resale value, or you intend to remain in your home, do choose the highest quality shingles in your budget. A poorly installed or low quality roof will not improve the curb appeal or add to the value of your home. When you are looking to improve the curb appeal of your home with new roofing, do not forget about the gutters and downspouts. These items are not only important for directing water away from your roof and foundation, damaged gutters will detract from the overall appearance. No one will be attracted to a home with small trees growing in the gutters or mold forming on downspouts. Take your time in selecting a quality roof to meet your needs. Your roof is an investment in your home and should provide you with years of solid protection. Use the same diligence when choosing roofing contractors. No matter how wonderful the roof shingles look, if they are not installed properly they will not last. Work with a contractor that answers your questions and is willing to work with you to select your new roof. 18

Best Roof Shingle at Every Price Point Roof shingles are available in a variety of types and prices to meet the needs of different residential styles, climates and budgets. Even economy shingles can provide reliable protection with proper installation. When you understand the types of shingles available, you will be able to make the right choice for your property. ! Economy Shingles

Traditional shingles or three tab shingles are commonly used for residential applications. This type of shingle is inexpensive and is easy to install. Purchasing the right brand can provide a long lasting roofing application. For example, consider the Royal Sovereign roofing shingle by GAF. GAF has over 125 years of experience in shingle manufacturing and the Royal Sovereign line comes with a 25-year limited warranty. This line is considered the best in the economy class. The shingles come in a variety of colors, depending on region, and offer an attractive finished look. There are lesser quality shingles on the market, but the price range is similar and you may only receive a 15-year warranty. Average cost: $65 to $75 per square - 10 x 10 square feet Entry Level Architectural Roofing Shingles

Moving up to Architectural or three-dimensional roofing shingles provides a stylish look. The IKO Cambridge shingle is the least expensive in the class and offers excellent performance. Homeowners that desire the Architectural look without higher costs will do well with this selection. Cambridge Architectural shingles come in 15 different colors to complement any home. The shingles have built-in algae- 19 resistance, a Class A fire resistance rating and are backed by a Limited Lifetime warranty. Average cost: $68 to $75 per square Mid-Range Architectural Shingles

Owens Corning is a well-known manufacturer in the roofing industry and is active in researching new roofing shingles and materials. The Oakridge Architectural shingle is widely available and provides an excellent mid-range shingle for any residential application. Oakridge shingles provide the durability of Architectural shingles and come in 14 artisan colors. This line offers 10 years of protection against algae and handles winds up to 110 to 130 miles per hour. Owens Corning provides a Limited Lifetime warranty. Average cost: $78 to $85 per square

Designer Shingle Series Designer roof shingles provide a unique look to enhance roofing systems while still providing the protection and durability required. GAF offers the greatest selection in designer roof shingles for anyone desiring a special appearance. GAF has seven different lines of basic designer shingles; each line offers numerous color options. Designer styles include Monaco, which creates the look of European tile at less than half the cost. The Grand Sequoia gives the appearance of wood shake with the durability of shingles. Other options include the look of hand-cut shingles or slate 20 and all lines come with a Limited Lifetime warranty. Average cost: $150 to $160 per square Warranty Information To fully understand the roofing shingles you are purchasing, you should understand general manufacturer’s warranties. Each type and brand of shingle will come with a set number of years guaranteed against manufacturing defects and weather or wind damage. During the initial portion of a warranty, both the materials and labor are normally covered. After this portion of the warranty ends, the roof shingles are covered. With most Limited Lifetime warranties, the shingle will be prorated after 25 years in use. Extended coverage may be offered and many manufacturers allow a shingle warranty to be transferred to a new homeowner. To benefit from a manufacturer’s warranty, a professional roofing contractor should be used for installation. Manufacturers will not cover damage that comes from poor workmanship. A professional roofing contractor should be able to offer you a range of roofing shingles at different price levels. Make sure that you get answers to any questions you have regarding durability and warranty. When you have sufficient information, roofing selection is not a difficult process. 21 10 Questions You Should Ask Before hiring A Roofing Contractor When you are in need of a roofing contractor, you should ask a handful of pertinent questions. By asking specific questions about the contractor, their methods and their past projects, you'll have a better understanding of their ability to get the job done right. Below, we've outlined some of the best questions to ask of potential roofing contractors. ! 1. While it might seem a bit basic, you should find out if the roofing contractor has a physical address. You need to dive deeply into the background of candidates. If you uncover a candidate who operates from his own residence and uses his garage and work truck for storage, don't give him your business. You deserve the attention, commitment and extensive services provided by a legitimate roofing contractor that has an established business address. 2. Find out if the roofing contractor provides free inspections and estimates. Make sure that he'll actually come out to your home or business and perform the inspection and estimate in person instead of over the phone or based off of pictures that you e-mail to him. You need a roofing contractor who'll view your roof firsthand to understand the nuances of the issue. 3. Find out how long the contractor has been in business for. If you have a list of candidates and some have only been in business for under a year, opt for the more experienced contractor. Let someone else make the mistake of doing business with an inexperienced contractor. While experience won't guarantee high quality work, it'll increase the probability of few significant errors being made during your project. 4. Find out if the contractor has insurance. If you find a candidate without insurance, rule him out right away. He should have liability insurance in case he or any of his crew are injured on your property. Additionally, the contractor should have workers' compensation insurance as well. This way, you won't be liable for any expenses like medical care or lost wages 22 in the event of an accident. Don't take a roofing contractor's word that he has insurance. Verify that the contractor has insurance by requesting physical proof. 5. Ask if the contractor is licensed. Make sure that he is licensed to work on roofs and his license must be applicable to your state. Customers should be aware that each state requires roofing contractors to be licensed. It's not an option. Check with your city / town's government office to see if there are specific local regulations that roofing contractors must meet to work on roofs in your area. 6. Ask if he'll remove your property's old roof. Believe it or not, some roofers actually shingle over an old roof instead of removing it. Doing so saves money and time. You need a contractor to pull up your old roof to determine if there is rotten wood or soft spots. If there are significant problem spots under your old roof, you'll have a very expensive problem down the line. Only hire a who is willing to completely replace the old roof before installing a new one. 7. Find out if the contractor is willing to perform a full clean-up of the work site. This will include the complete removal of old roofing materials. Not only should he remove them from your property, he should also cover the cost to do so. Don't assume that this is part of the job. Otherwise, you might end up with piles of discarded materials on your property that you'll have to dispose of yourself. 8. Ask if he always provides a written contract for each job. The old days of a gentleman's agreement with a handshake are long gone. You need written documentation of the job to protect your interests if something goes wrong. Make sure that the contract is written clearly, covers all the relevant details and explains how long the job will take to complete. The contractor should also be able to put the brand of the materials in the contract along with a list of their cost as well as the cost of labor. 23

9. Ask if there is a warranty on the workmanship. Materials don't last forever so find out if the ones that he uses on your roof are covered through a manufacturer’s warranty. This will be critical in case there are problems with your roof in the future. Always make sure that the proof of the warranty is in writing and that you've saved a copy for your own personal files. 10. Ask for references. A roofing contractor who has completed past jobs with success should be willing to provide the contact information of past customers. Contact these customers and ask if they are happy with the contractor's work.