What Kinds of Tools Do Roofing Companies in Vancouver WA Use?

/in , /by

As you can imagine, maintaining rooftops is a big job. It requires a great deal of training, not to mention experience, to perform the tasks required of you effectively. Safety is also an obvious priority, with professional roofers requiring plenty of time and equipment to ensure the job is performed in a safe manner. When you hire a professional contractor from one of the top roofing companies Vancouver, WA, has to offer, such as Interstate Roofing, they’ll arrive with a veritable arsenal of tools for the task. Here, we’ll break down what those tools are and why they’re necessary for roof maintenance and repair:

The Right Ladder

Since a roofer can’t do their job without being able to access the roof easily, the right ladder is an absolute must. Because they often have to access very high areas, it’s common for roofers to bring extension ladders that can reach lengths of 40 feet when fully extended.

Most professional roofers utilize non-self-supporting ladders, of the type that lean up against the roof. However, when it’s used for roofing, the roofer will secure the ladder, generally with straps, to ensure the workers’ safety as they come and go from the roof.

Fall Protection

Working high up is always a risk, even on nearly flat and seemingly safe roofs. That’s why most roofing workers will utilize some sort of fall protection while they’re on the job. Often, this is a simple harness and lanyard, although other fall protection is more sophisticated. Lanyards are connected to rings that are then mounted in a secure area, helping to prevent roofers from falling as they perform jobs that require the use of both hands.

There are several other methods roofers utilize to increase their safety while they work on rooftops. Toeboards give them temporary footholds. These are simply long boards nailed down and removed after the job has been completed. They may set up scaffolds as well, connected to brackets, which are also temporarily nailed into place on the roof. Roofers may also set up rope grabs to hold on to as they navigate their various tasks.

Tool Belt

A roofer is always on the move. They’re darting up and down ladders and from one side of the roof to the other. That’s why roofing companies in Vancouver, WA, supply their professionals with tool belts capable of holding all of the smaller tools they might need to perform the job. This might mean a bag of readily accessible roofing nails, or it may mean a hammer, tape measure, hook blade, or any other small tool the roofer needs fast access to.

The tool belt itself is a specialty item because it has to carry a large number of other tools, often rendering it quite heavy. This means that tool belts should be made of a heavy-duty material as well as properly padded so they aren’t uncomfortable to wear and designed not to interfere with fall protection gear. They need to be designed in such a way that they won’t snag either, as this can pose a large safety hazard for people climbing around on the roof.

Tear-Off Shovel

Most roofs are covered with shingles, which are excellent for protecting the home from wind, water, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Precisely because they have such a big job, shingles tend to take a beating and occasionally need to be removed and replaced. Sometimes, these shingles need to be removed in large numbers. This is where a tear-off shovel comes in handy.

An item with a long handle and teeth at the end for gripping the shingles, the tear-off shovel can pull out shingles quickly without forcing the roofer to get down on their hands and knees to perform the task. This saves a great deal of time while also having a beneficial ergonomic impact on the task at hand.

Nail Gun

After shingles have been removed from the roof, they must be replaced fairly quickly in order to prevent any water or other damaging environmental factors from seeping in. While it’s certainly possible to nail shingles down by hand, a professional roofer will likely bring a pneumatic nail gun with them in order to make the task go that much faster.

Because the nail gun is pneumatic—that is, powered by air pressure—it must be connected to an air compressor and set to the PSI that the nail gun’s specifications require. The nail gun itself usually weighs only a few pounds and can drive nails in quickly. This makes it perfect for applying shingles in a fast and efficient manner.

Hammer Tacker

One of the biggest parts of the job of a professional roofer is laying down felt. Felt is rolled out and placed underneath the shingles so that it can offer an extra layer of protection. While the shingles themselves are secured into place with roofing nails, the roofing felt is actually held on with staples or plastic caps, depending on if synthetic or traditional felt is used. The felt needs to cover a lot of surface area, being as it is essentially spread over the entire roof, but with the right tools, it won’t necessarily take a roofer a long time to lay it across the roof. A hammer tacker is a heavy-duty instrument that can staple roofing felt down extremely quickly while being held in the tool belt for ease of access and convenience.

 

Spring Is the Perfect Time for Interstate Roofing Maintenance

/in /by

Why Spring?

As the warm weather approaches and we can finally get outside again, your roof maintenance may be the last thing you want to be thinking about. In reality, spring is the perfect time to get it handled before the rush of summer activities. The winter months take a hefty toll on a roof, whether it’s heavy rains, freezing temperatures, ice, or snow, they all have the potential to cause serious and costly damage.

Getting your roof assessed and repaired early and regularly will take a load of stress off you when the glory of summer is fading out and time starts running short before the rains arrive. As summer sets in, you might discover it can be challenging to find an available professional, or you may have a very long wait. When it comes to the roof over your head, it’s better to be proactive and contact Interstate Roofing for an inspection and repair assessment.

Why Choose a Professional?

There are myriad reasons for hiring a professional to inspect your roof. Superior knowledge and experience mean they have the ability to identify issues that a layperson just might not recognize as a problem. They are skilled at identifying peripheral problems, such as issues with a gutter system, chimney, or structural support, and a professional will have all the necessary and appropriate safety equipment and protocols for repairs. Probably the most obvious safety aspect of working on a roof is the fall potential, and if you have a multi-level roofing situation, this could mean a substantial distance to the ground.

Most homeowners aren’t really DYI roofers, and for good reason. Roofing may seem straightforward on the surface, but there is a tremendous amount of knowledge and expertise that may mean the difference between a roof that lasts the life span of the manufacturer’s estimate, or one that fails, potentially causing water damage to the interior. A professional will know what and where to look to ensure that your roof is working as it should. Even a small leak can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, wood rot, mold, or more.

If you’re a strict do-it-yourselfer, you’ll need some additional information on roofing problems to look for when performing your own roof inspection. Most importantly, if you have an emergency, a prepared professional is going to get that handled effectively and efficiently. Luckily, the Interstate maintenance team is on-call 24/7 for those urgent situations.

What Is Interstate Roofing Maintenance?

Experts recommend having annual roof inspections to evaluate the condition of your roofing materials. Each year, your home is subjected to rain, snow, ice, hail, and wind, and sometimes it can happen all in the same day, so it isn’t surprising to have seasonal physical damage, moss or algae growth, missing vent covers, or improper guttering, each of which can affect the life of your roof. Also, your roofing materials manufacturer may have specific maintenance guidelines that must be followed in order to keep your product warranty in good standing, so make sure you get those details from your roofer.

In general, annual roofing maintenance includes a visual assessment of the roof and then getting any missing or damaged shingles replaced immediately. As mentioned earlier, an experienced professional from Interstate Roofing could also identify less noticeable issues, such as missing granules, curling, cracking, and lifted flashing.

If you have a chimney, the contractor will notify you of any cracked or loose bricks that should be replaced, of loose or cracked mortar that should be addressed, and of any flashing issues. A falling brick or chunk of your chimney can require additional, costly repair.

After the exterior inspection, a professional roofer may also look at your attic. This isn’t common with a standard roof maintenance contract but can be done when issues are identified. Additionally, water stains on the ceilings, bulging or bubbled paint, and mold or mildew are signs that there’s a leak that must be addressed. Finally, your inspector can make recommendations relating to tree branches that may hang over your roof creating problematic shady areas or areas where a branch has the potential to cause friction wear and tear if it can connect with your roof during windy weather.

Roof Cleaning

Once the required repairs have been completed, it’s time for the clean routine. It’s not advisable to have your roof washed each year. If regular maintenance is performed (keeping the roof free of dirt, debris, and moss), you should never have to wash your roof. If a roof isn’t regularly maintained, sometimes the only thing left to do is to remove the moss by pressure washing. “Wash your roof” may not be something that even occurs to you, and for most people, it’s just too risky or physically challenging to be working on a roof. Not to mention, a power washing turned up too high can damage the roof more significantly than the moss you’re trying to get off. Our team of experienced professionals has the proper safety equipment, tools, and techniques to get the job done in the safest way.

A thorough roof washing will include removing all leaves and debris, clearing the gutters and tops of spouts, rinsing the shingles, installing a pesticide (in some cases), and providing recommendations to maximize your roof’s performance. It’s also a good idea to water and protect your landscaping before your roof maintenance begins.

Interstate Roofing maintenance includes gutter cleaning for a very simple reason: a poorly functioning gutter can introduce pathways for water to seep into your structure and ultimately cost you time and money. Your professional roofing maintenance should include checking that the gutter is properly secure, appropriately sloped, clear of any debris that might prevent drainage, and free of rust or cracks.

Maintenance Costs Less than Damage Repair

Roofing maintenance isn’t something to take lightly. Roof maintenance could cost as little as $400. if neglected, small damages can cause big problems in the long run, and replacing an entire roof can cost you $10,000 to $50,000, plus. This is a pretty good incentive to start early and recognize that roof maintenance isn’t a job for a neighborhood college student home on spring break with a power washer. Incidentally, this can cause more damage than good, so take the time to develop a relationship with a roofing expert you can trust.

Interstate Roofing has 30 years of experience in Oregon, and we have a dedicated crew to deliver the high-quality roofing options our clients deserve. Most roofs last about 20 years in the Pacific Northwest. so keeping it in optimal shape is in every property owner’s best interest. Contact Interstate Roofing to schedule your professional maintenance today.

4 Things to Look for When Hiring a Roofing Specialist

/in /by

If you have a damaged roof that needs repair or complete replacement, it’s always advisable to get a contractor for the job instead of resorting to DIY practices. A dependable roof is essential for your safety and the safety of your home, and no one can do it better than experienced professionals. Hiring a roofing specialist is no walk in the park. You need to ensure that you’re picking a professional with the right credentials. Choose the wrong contractor, and you could be left with a permanently damaged roof.

Given the numerous roofing companies around you, it can be stressful to pick the right contractor for the job. Here are four things you should look for before locking in a roofing contractor.

1. Ask About Their Licenses

All commercial roofing contractors must obtain relevant licenses before undertaking projects. It’s actually the law. Plus, working with an unlicensed contractor is not only illegal but also dangerous. As part of your selection process, make sure to carry out a thorough background check and specifically ask for copies of licenses. Bear in mind that different states have different licensing requirements—cross-check the licenses with information available in the public domain. If the contractor cannot show you the paperwork, it’s probably best to avoid working with them.

2. Don’t Forget the Insurance Coverage

Working with roofing specialists who don’t have adequate insurance coverage is a huge liability. In the absence of an insurance policy, a mistake by the contractor during the repair or installation process could force you to pay for damage caused to the property and additional repairs.

Moreover, working with uninsured contractors can lead to lawsuits in case of any injuries sustained by your family, a roofing employee, or any third party.

3. Check the Terms of the Warranty

A workmanship warranty is a critical factor when choosing a roofing specialist. This will help if there are any issues with the roof repair or installation down the road. A warranty can help you cover the costs. Otherwise, you will be fully responsible for them.

Typically, commercial roofing warranties come in one of the following forms:

Manufacturer’s material warranty: Material defects are covered under these warranties but not the labor to fix the material defects. Such warranties should never be your only coverage, as the coverage is very minimal, and material-only warranties are usually prorated.
Manufacturer’s system warranty: Both material and limited labor defects are covered under most system warranties. While the scope of coverage is broader and the claim period usually has a longer non-proration period, most warranties don’t cover leaks from non-manufacturer-produced parts. As a result, flashing, pitch pans, and so forth are excluded.

Manufacturer’s workmanship guarantee: Both material and labor defects are covered. The claim period has a longer non-proration period which usually covers workmanship. This warranty is incredibly valuable to have.

When you’re shortlisting contractors, check if they’re willing to disclose the terms of the warranty. Anyone who avoids questions about the warranty is best avoided. Since the exact terms of the warranty can vary, you will need to send some time finding a contractor who offers the best terms.

If you live in the Portland-Vancouver area, consider working with Interstate Roofing. We offer comprehensive workmanship warranties. These warranties ensure that you’re covered for both manufacturing and installation-related defects.

4. Don’t Underestimate Experience

Trusting an inexperienced roofing contractor to repair or install your roof can be incredibly dangerous. Someone with little to no experience can do a substandard job, forcing you to shell out extra money to get it repaired by another professional sooner rather than later.

For your reference, always ask the contractor to provide a portfolio of projects handled. If needed, ask for details of previous clients and reach out to them for honest feedback. In the digital age, you can also check out online reviews of contractors and visit their social media profiles to understand how they interact with customers.

Final Words

Your roof plays a central role in protecting the overall structure of your house and keeping your family safe. A competent contractor ensures that every roofing project is completed efficiently and effectively. While it may be time-consuming to filter through various profiles and pick one, the payoff is worth it.

Enjoy the peace of mind you deserve by outsourcing your roofing needs to roofing specialists who know how to get it done.

What to Look for in the Best On-Call Roofers

/in /by

One of the most important elements of a house is a strong, sturdy roof. After all, your roof protects you from the fury of the elements while also keeping your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. For your roof to remain effective, however, it’s critical that you ensure it receives regular care and maintenance.

A well-maintained roof can go for many years without any problems. However, as it receives a constant onslaught of ultraviolet light, rainwater, and other damaging factors, it can wear out over time. A catastrophic failure of your roof can end up costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. That’s without factoring in the damage that can be done to the inside of your home. If you lose your line of defense against wind, snow, and water, even more costly damage can occur.

It’s critical, then, that if you encounter a major issue with your roof, you have a great on-call roofer who can come handle the job for you. But how do you make sure you choose the right person to do the work? Below, we’ll offer some tips and suggestions for making sure you get the best on-call roofer you can find.

Talk to Them First

The first part of your search will involve seeing what’s available in your area. This part is easy enough. An internet search is probably all you’ll need to discover roofing companies near you. Once you’ve figured out your options, you can contact the roofers and ask for some details. You should have a list of questions in mind. Important questions to ask are: Does the company have insurance? Particularly, worker’s compensation insurance? You don’t want to be liable if a worker is injured on the job. You’ll also want to ask about their licensing. What certifications does your prospective roofer carry? How experienced are they? How long have they been in business? Needless to say, a company that has been around for many years is likely to be more reliable than a company that’s newer.

One thing you should avoid getting hung up on is cost. While you shouldn’t be overcharged, you also should avoid roofing companies that seem to lowball their prices. The fact is that a good, reliable company will come with certain costs attached that cannot be avoided. Insurance is one example of this; because insurance is costly for a company, a roofer that’s properly insured will cost more than one who is not. Nevertheless, the extra expense is well worth it because an uninsured roofer becoming injured on your property can be extremely expensive for you.

Make Sure There Is a Contract

The best roofers will make sure all legalities are in order before they perform a job. For the benefit of both the roofer and the homeowner, everything in writing. Make sure your roofer has a contract that accounts for every eventuality: what products will be used, a list of each of the services being rendered, and the costs of each, and any other details that will affect the job itself.

Check References

Ask your prospective roofer to provide you with testimonials from satisfied customers. The best on-call roofers will have no problem doing this, as they will have many successful jobs under their belts. They should be able to provide you with phone numbers or email addresses from customers who have utilized their services before.

Once you have those references, check them thoroughly. Call them and ask if they were happy with the job their on-call roofer did for them. Was it performed to their expectations? Did the cost match the estimate? How did the roof look after the work was accomplished? Ask these and any other questions you may have.

Find One with a Strong Commitment to Safety

Working on a roof, of course, is a job that carries several hazards with it. A well-trained, experienced roofer is able to move nimbly about without much risk to themselves or the property. But even they will have to take several precautions to ensure the job is as safe as possible. Find out if your roofer utilizes the proper safety equipment, as well as a spotter, at all times.

On-call roofers who are committed to safety may not be able to perform their work in all conditions. This can prove to be somewhat frustrating for homeowners because the very conditions that can damage a roof and leave it in need of repairs can also render that roof unsafe for workers. Heavy wind is an excellent example; it can tear shingles away, damaging the roof. A good roofer will wait until the weather is more stable before they begin climbing around performing repairs.

Conditions that may be unsafe for roofers to work include heavy winds and extremely rainy or hot days, and they may also not be able to perform work during the night.

A good roofer will avoid inclement conditions, but the best on-call roofers will ensure you aren’t left high and dry just because it’s unsafe for them to climb at that moment. They will still answer the phone and discuss the situation with you. They will also talk you through how to mitigate property damage until suitable repairs can be made. Then your roofer will slot you in for repairs as quickly as possible.

Look for a Roofer Who Will Perform Regular Maintenance

Of course, while you may at some point need good on-call roofers to come and perform an emergency repair for you, in many cases, you can avoid major problems by ensuring your roof is cared for and maintained. You’ll want to schedule regular inspections and occasional repairs with a company like Interstate Roofing. They will be able to offer you the best on-call services, but they’ll also be able to help avoid needing those services in the first place.

What Kind of Work Is Included with Residential Roofing Jobs?

/in /by

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you may not have much experience shopping for one. That’s actually a good thing. You want your roof to last for as long as possible. In fact, depending on the type of materials used, the average roof can last 20+ years. That means if all goes according to plan, you shouldn’t need a new roof installation more than a few times during the course of your homeownership.

But perhaps the time has finally come, and you find yourself in need of a roof replacement. If you’re uncertain what services are included with residential roofing jobs, then you’ve come to the right place for some clarification.

Interstate Roofing has been helping residential customers such as yourself for more than 30 years. Our customers keep coming back because they know we go above and beyond in providing quality service, as well as long-lasting roof replacements and installations. Here’s everything you can expect when you hire Interstate Roofing to perform your residential roofing job.

Inspection

A quality roofer should first inspect your roof to determine the best course of action. It may not be necessary, for instance, to replace your roof altogether. Instead, your roofer may be able to replace broken tiles or shingles or repair areas of the roof that are damaged or deteriorating. If you have a leaky roof, a qualified roofer may also be able to repair the problem areas and seal them to make them watertight.

If your roof does need to be replaced, then your roofer should recommend a new installation and thoroughly discuss all your options. There are many types of roofing materials to choose from for residential roofing jobs. A roofing contractor will explain each type to you and explain the details, including brand, color, price, and warranty information so that you’re able to make the best possible selection for your home.

Estimate

Regardless of whether you choose to repair or replace your roof, a trusted contractor will provide you with a detailed estimate. In fact, you should be wary of any roofing contractor who is reluctant to provide a written estimate prior to performing a large job. For large projects, such as new roof installation, you should have a sense of the project scope, length, and cost before the first tile is ever laid.

If you decide to hire the roofing contractor, make sure they outline the project details for you in writing as well. This should include the project start and end dates, a detailed description of the contracted work to be performed, including the type of materials to be used, cost and payment terms, as well as insurance and license details. A workmanship warranty should be outlined in the contract as well. More on that in just a bit.

In addition to a written contract, the state of Oregon requires certain notices to be provided to a homeowner before the project begins. Before you hire anyone for a roofing project, make sure they’re fully insured and licensed, and provide you with all the required information. For a list of required notices for residential roofing projects, take a look at Interstate’s documents list.

Maintenance

In some cases, you may be able to opt in on maintenance agreements with your roofing contractor. Making sure your roof is properly maintained and cared for is incredibly important in prolonging the life of your roof, making it look its very best and getting the maximum possible return on your investment. It’s also sometimes a requirement of the manufacturer’s and workmanship warranties.

We highly encourage you to inquire about a maintenance agreement with your roofing contractor. With an Interstate Roofing maintenance agreement, not only do you have a professional roofing contractor observing your roof on a regular basis, saving you the personal safety risk of having to inspect it yourself, you’ll also have priority access to our after-hour emergency leak response team. That means you’ll have priority in service if a leak occurs. With an Interstate Roofing maintenance agreement, you’ll be able to weather any storm knowing that if you need us, we’re only a phone call away.

Warranty

Residential roofing jobs should always include a warranty for the work being performed. But keep in mind, there are different types of warranties you’ll need to have.

First, you’ll want to have a manufacturer’s warranty to cover the materials used in the project. But in addition to this, you’ll also want to inquire about a workmanship warranty. This will guarantee the work performed by your roofing contractor.

Interstate Roofing has 5-, 10-, and 15-year warranties available so you can select the one that suits you best. In addition to these three options, we also offer transferable warranties. If you decide to sell your home or pass it down to a child or grandchild, you can transfer the warranty to the new homeowner for a small fee. This ensures the workmanship warranty remains in effect for the new homeowner and can even be a great selling point should you ever decide you want to settle elsewhere.

A new roof installation can be an investment that pays dividends in return. But only if you choose the right roofing contractor to perform the job. All of these features should be a part of any large residential roofing project. So before hiring anyone, make sure the company provides these services in addition to offering a competitive workmanship warranty.

Do your research beforehand as well. Three-fourths of our work at Interstate Roofing comes from repeat customers and new referrals. That’s because we have built an excellent reputation as an industry leader and we stand by our work. Whoever you hire for your residential roofing job should be able to say the same.

5 Reasons to Use a Local Roofing Company in Portland

/in , /by

Finding a Portland roofing company to replace or fix your roof can be quite a chore. Any major changes are bound to be very expensive, so you need to make sure you hire a Portland roofing company like Interstate Roofing that can get the job done the way you want it. Hiring a Portland roofing company is always preferable because by bringing in a local contractor, you’re ensuring yourself of multiple unique advantages in the process. And, of course, by finding the very best Portland roofing company for your needs, you’re not only doing what you must to protect multiple essential functions of your home, but you are also taking the proper precautions that will keep your home in tip-top shape.

So why hire locally?

1. Knowledge of the Area

If you hire a Portland roofing company, they’re already experts on local rules and regulations, which saves time, money, and energy that an outside contractor would need to use to find these things out. They are aware of exactly how to comply with city, state, and town codes and have the proper permits to do the job without being delayed by red tape a non-local contractor may not know about.

They also understand local weather conditions and how they can affect the type of roofing work you need done. For example, somebody in the northeast would be best served by a strong asphalt roof that can help protect against snow, rain, and brutally cold weather. The asphalt is powerful enough to keep the snow from caving in the roof, which is something you would want in a place like New York but would be an unnecessary expense somewhere like Florida or Arizona.

2. Quick Response and Availability

When you’re choosing a Portland roofing company, it’s only natural that you’re going to have plenty of questions. A local roofing company can more quickly respond to your inquiries and even send somebody directly to your home to answer them if necessary.
Also, if an emergency occurs, a local roofing contractor is in a position to serve your needs right away. As an example, if you live in California and an earthquake destroys your roof, a company located nearby can be on the scene to help rebuild that roof much faster than one that’s not located nearby. And they’ll have previous experience working with homes with earthquake damage, better preparing them for your job. Having your roofing company be local can give you enormous peace of mind, especially during seasons that produce horrible weather conditions.

3. Greater Accountability

By hiring a local roofing company, there’s a much greater chance your warranty will be backed up and your problem fixed because the company cannot run and hide the way they might be able to if they were out-of-towners. Additionally, most roofing companies offer a full warranty that covers labor and material issues. This means that should an issue occur with the original installation, you always have an easy solution nearby.

4. Local Experience

A local roofing company that has existed in your community for many years will have built an extensive network of resources, including material suppliers as well as other tradesmen, such as electricians and plumbers. This can help the company get favorable rates on needed goods and services, which would lower their overhead and create savings that can be passed on to you. Not to mention the fact that they could help with rates if you need separate work done by these tradesmen, and the roofing company could provide a network of valuable referrals to you that would provide you with trustworthy companies to handle other necessary work within your home.

Plus, a local roofing company will prioritize your business heavily because they know they can’t afford to get negative word of mouth from customers in the area. Word of mouth is one of the most important business generators for a local company, and having negative words spread about a company all around the local area is something any local contractor would desperately want to avoid so as to not develop a bad reputation. A non-local company may have more flexibility in this area since word from out of town doesn’t travel as well.

In addition, many of the owners and workers live in the local area because the owners and workers live and operate in the local area, they’ll have extra incentive to do an outstanding job because they want their city to be as high caliber as possible. It reflects well on them and their families, who share the community. An out-of-town company won’t have this concern and might see making money as its primary goal.

5. Being Neighborly

Sure, you want to get the best deal and the best company possible when you’re shopping for a contractor to fix or replace your roof, but when you can do that within the local community, there are added benefits. For starters, by giving business to a local contractor, you’re ensuring that your money stays within the local community and continues to help its growth and prosperity.

Second, when you help a local business out, it can mean they’ll help your community in a way that helps you out in return, in addition to simply doing a great job for you. For example, if you own a business in the local community yourself, by hiring a fellow local business, you can develop a relationship that could result in that roofing company hiring your business down the line. And when word gets around about you doing business locally, it could help you generate business from other local merchants or help you develop a positive reputation that could get you favorable rates from other businesses in the area.

What Should You Look for in a Roofing Contractor?

/in , , /by

A leaky roof is more than just an inconvenience: it can be a disaster, as water damage is capable of doing great harm to your home, valuables, and health. Even without water getting in, if your roof isn’t secure, heat can leak out and greatly drive up your energy bill. That’s why keeping your roof in great condition through regular care and maintenance is an absolute must, and why it’s important you have a great roofing contractor.

The right roofing contractor will get the job done quickly and effectively, without overcharging you for the work they do. Of course, finding the right contractor may prove to be a bit of a challenge in its own right. While there are plenty of roofers around, how do you choose the best one to work on your home?

As with many things in life, it’s all about doing your homework and knowing what to look for. Below are a few things you should look for in a roofing contractor in the Vancouver, WA, area:

The Cheapest Option Isn’t Always the Best

Of course, saving money should be near the top of your list when looking for a roofing contractor. However, that shouldn’t always mean going for the cheapest option; as with many things in life, you get what you pay for. You’re paying for the experience, skill, and talent of your roofers, not to mention the quality of the materials they use. All of these things have an inherent cost.

If the work is offered too cheaply, it may be because it’s simply not good quality. While you may be able to get a repair job performed extremely cheaply by a less-than-reputable roofer, it may not hold up. In the long run, this will end up costing you a good deal more money when your roof needs to be repaired again after a short time.

That isn’t to say you should overpay, however: there are also less-than-reputable roofers who may artificially gouge their prices. To make an educated decision, look for a roofer like Interstate Roofing, which offers transparency with regards to their prices. They charge a minimum service call charge that covers the first hour of labor. Every hour after is billed at a lower rate, with an additional cost for materials. Larger, more extensive repairs will cost more.

Do They Offer Emergency Services?

A great roofing contractor will be available 24/7. That’s because major roofing problems can occur at any time. If you discover your roof is leaking during a rainstorm in the middle of the night, you may need to have a roofer come in right away to avoid catastrophic damage to your home and property.

Before deciding on a roofing contractor, you should find out if they offer on-call emergency services. A roofing emergency will not wait for the most convenient time to occur. That means you need a roofer who’s always available, no matter the day or time.

Do They Take Safety Seriously?

It may sound obvious, but safety needs to be a top priority for all roofers. It’s a risky job, after all: climbing around on a high rooftop, possibly under wet or icy conditions. Doing this safely requires proper training, equipment, and care. So how can you ascertain whether your roofer has the appropriate commitment to safety?

Start by heading to their company website and researching what steps they’ve taken to keep their workers safe. Do their employees undergo a safety orientation? Have they been trained in CPR and first aid? What is the company’s safety policy? Does it meet the bare minimum state requirements, or has the company gone above and beyond what’s required of them?

All of these are important to take note of when looking for great roofing contractors. Vancouver, WA has strict safety standards, but a good roofer will do even more than what’s required.

Is Their Paperwork in Order?

Another important quality to look for in a roofing contractor is the proper licensing and insurance paperwork. If you’re considering any particular roofing company, make sure to ask what type of insurance they hold. Are they covered in case of damage or injury?

You’ll also want to ask what certifications your roofing contractors hold. You should look for a company that’s certified by various roofing material manufacturers. This helps to ensure your contractor is fully committed to safety, as well as to customer satisfaction.

It’s also worth doing a little research on what organizations your prospective roofing contractors are allied with. For example, a great roofing company in Vancouver, WA, will probably be a member of the Pacific Northwest division of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

Look for Satisfied Customers

Of course, all the licenses and paperwork in the world won’t matter if the customers aren’t happy. When looking for a roofing contractor, you should always look for testimonials from satisfied customers. Check online and read reviews on sites such as Google or Angie’s List. Read referrals that the company has online as well. If possible, talk to your neighbors about their experiences; do they have a roofing contractor they’re especially happy with?

You’ll also want to make sure the company has a reputation for working to keep their customers happy. A good rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can be a clue that your prospective roofer makes customer satisfaction a priority.

When you’re checking these references, make sure you go back a few years. A great roofing company will have many years of satisfied customers. Interstate Roofing, for example, has been in business since 1988 and can furnish “Report Cards” filled out by satisfied customers.

What Are the Features of a Quality Oregon Roofing Company?

/in , /by

When it comes to roof repair, you want someone that you can trust. You want someone that you can depend on. You want someone that you know will not scam you. Because of this, it’s important to choose an Oregon roofing company that has good qualities.

What are these good qualities? That’s the question that we’re here to help you answer. As an award-winning corporation that has been serving roofing replacement, repair, and maintenance needs in Oregon since the late ’80s, we know a thing or two about providing quality services. That’s why we want to guide you and ensure that you choose the best roofing company, one that will not only give you the best value but treat you well too. Here are some of the features you should look for when choosing a quality Oregon roofing company.

They’re Insured

Accidents happen. That’s a fact when it comes to all aspects of life and includes while making home repairs. An accident can happen on the job, while roof repair is being done on your home. You don’t want to be responsible for this accident. You’re already paying for work on your roof. The last thing you want to do is spend even more money due to an accident occurring on your property. Because of this, you want to ensure that the company you select to work on your roof is insured.

Sure, a company that’s not insured may offer you a cheaper rate. However, if there’s any loss that happens due to accident, damage, or injury, you’ll be liable and have to pay for any costs. If a worker is hurt on the job, as the homeowner, that becomes your responsibility, not necessarily the responsibility of the company you hired. If an outside party is hurt due to something involved with the roof repair, that also falls under your responsibility and not the workers’ or company’s.

Be sure to take a look at and verify the company’s insurance. Make sure it’s up-to-date and valid. The two most common and most important pieces of insurance to look into are workers’ compensation and liability insurance.

They Have the Proper Credentials

You need a license to do work on your Oregon home. Make sure the company you’re looking to hire has the proper credentials, such as a CCB number, to do the work you need done. Make sure they’re not expired and that it will be valid during the entire time it will take to do work on your home. Be sure to look into the proper registrations and permits needed to do work in your specific neighborhood and ask the company if they have them. Ask if they have any additional certifications as well, as it will further emphasize their professionalism and trustworthiness.

Getting the proper licenses and permits can be expensive, which is why some non-quality roofing companies may choose not to get them. If you get an estimate that’s quite a bit below all the rest, be sure to look specifically into the company’s credentials. The offer could be lower because it hasn’t met all the requirements for the area.

You want to ensure that the best work possible is being done on your roof, so it’s important to choose an Oregon roofing company with the proper permits and licenses.

Be Sure They Have Warranties

You want to be sure you’re getting the best possible service, right? Quality roofing companies know this. Don’t be afraid to ask what their warrantees are. The manufacturer warranties most products and materials that contractors use when working on your roof. At least a one-year guarantee for roof installation is common. For instance, at Interstate Roofing, we offer various warranties based on the work that you’re getting done, up to 20 years of workmanship coverage.

A quality Oregon roofing company will understand that roofs are an expensive investment and that you want to be safe from needing to pay more money for a while. That’s why you’re doing repair work on your roof now, right? To get rid of all the problems at once. A warranty gives you peace of mind that if something goes wrong after all of this hard work and money spent, it will be taken care of smoothly.

They Have Great References

Word-of-mouth remains one of the best ways to find out about contractors. However, it’s not uncommon to ask around and discover no one has had work done on their roof recently. This is where technology comes in—you can read real reviews and references online.

Look into a company before choosing it. A quality Oregon roofing company will have reviews or testimonials online for you to read or will have references available to send you, all written by real people who have used their services. It shouldn’t be a problem to get at least 10 different references if the company has been around for a bit and is of good quality. Additionally, by reading their reviews and references, you can get an idea of how happy customers were with the work the company did on their home. That is an extra layer of assurance that you are choosing a quality roofing company.

When it comes to choosing a quality Oregon roofing company, it all comes down to trust. You want to choose a contractor who will do hard work, make sure that your roof is in tip-top shape, and won’t charge you obscene prices. How do you go about doing this? By verifying all of the above. Make sure the company has the proper licenses, insurance, permits, certifications, and warranties. By checking all of this, you know you’re getting the real deal.

If you have more questions about choosing a quality roofing company, give us a call at Interstate Roofing. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and even come out for an estimate.

What Does Roof Cleaning and Maintenance in Tigard Involve?

/in , /by

Maintaining a clean, well-cared-for roof is an important part of your home’s curb appeal, and one that an unfortunately high number of homeowners neglect. It’s not just about the visuals either. A poorly maintained roof will have a shorter life span, and a lack of maintenance can increase the likelihood of a catastrophic failure, which can end up costing you a great deal of money.

If you’re on this page, though, you probably already know all that. And you already know that regular cleaning and maintenance of your roof is one of the wisest choices you, as a homeowner, can make. Exactly what this involves and how often you need to have your roof cleaned and cared for depends on the type of roof you have. It also depends on the climate you live in. For example, if you live in a place like Tigard, Oregon, your roof will receive around 41 inches of rain every year—well above the national average. It will also have to weather snow, hail, sleet, and the blazing sun of the summer. In a climate like that, roof cleaning for Tigard, Oregon, homes might need to be more regular than in other places.

Read on to learn more about what roof cleaning and maintenance involves.

Cleaning Your Roof

The first step in keeping your roof clean is an obvious one. You’ll need to make sure your roof is free of debris, such as leaves, sticks, and branches. This is especially true if a buildup of material has begun to clog your rain gutters. If water can’t properly flow off your roof, it will eventually back up and begin to leak into your home. This can ultimately cause thousands of dollars in property damage as rainwater drips into your home, ruining everything in its path.

Regularly clearing your roof of debris is something you can do on your own, without the help of a roofing professional, provided you have the right equipment. As with any big job in the home, always think of safety first. Don’t attempt to climb onto your roof without the right ladder. You should have one that can be secured to your roof so that you can move safely. Make sure you have a pair of gloves as well, and be aware of where all power cables and other hazards are located. You should never climb onto your roof alone either. Always have a spotter to help keep an eye on your safety.

When it comes to keeping your roof clean, you can take preventative steps as well. For example, you can help to avoid getting a lot of leaves and branches on your roof by keeping nearby trees regularly trimmed and cared for. Unhealthy branches should be removed, and dead trees should be cut down before they pose a hazard to your property.

Moss and Algae

Especially if you live in an unusually wet area, your roof may be vulnerable to the growth of moss, mildew, and algae. Roof cleaning for Tigard, Oregon, homes, for example, involves a good deal of moss killing and/or removal because of the extra moisture in the climate. At first, moss and algae are simply unsightly, but over time, they can cause catastrophic damage to your roof. That’s why it’s important to nip the problem in the bud.

Moss spores are carried to your roof by the wind. If your roof happens to be wet and dirty (as most roofs are at some point in time), they’ll find ideal conditions for their growth and begin to spread. Over time, this moss will degrade shingles and allow water to track in unusual ways it wouldn’t ordinarily.

Cleaning moss off your roof is simple enough, even if it is a lot of work. Industrial products that kill moss are only available to those that are trained, tested, and certified by the Oregon Department of Agriculture. In most cases, you’re better off asking a professional roofer, such as the ones at Interstate Roofing, to do this maintenance for you. If you hire a professional, make sure they’re licensed to apply the product they’re selling. There are only a small handful of contractors in the state that are.

Roof Maintenance

Of course, there’s more to maintaining a roof than simply cleaning. As with any part of your home, you’ll want to have regular inspections performed in order to discover if there are any repairs needed. A well-cared-for roof can last for many, many years, but only if problem parts are replaced before they cause further damage. In addition, all manufacturers’ material warranties require roof maintenance.

First, you’ll want to contact a trustworthy roofer, like the ones from Interstate Roofing. Your roofer will look for any signs of moss, leaks, exposed sealant, or damaged shingles. They can clean any moss growth, remove any debris that has accumulated, and check vents, gutters, and other openings to make sure there’s no blockage.

Damaged nails, screws, flashing, and bolts will be removed and replaced by your roofing contractor. They may also make upgrade recommendations. For example, you may have the opportunity to switch your flashing to a higher quality material. If your roofer discovers any damaged shingles, they may replace them. In some cases—depending on how well your roof was maintained before—this may be a huge project. If it’s been a while since your roof was last serviced, your roofer may find that many of the shingles need to be replaced. They’ll also check the wooden parts of your roof to discover any signs of rot or other major damage.

In extreme cases, the entire roof may need to be replaced. While this isn’t common, it shouldn’t be put off, because if a roof becomes too far gone, it may collapse completely. It goes without saying that this will be a financial disaster.

5 Questions to Ask When Looking for Portland Roofers

/in , /by

Deciding to replace the roof of your home is one of the most important things a homeowner will ever do. It’s something most homeowners will only do once, and it’s a major expense. So with that being the case, you need to make sure you hire a contractor who will serve your needs well. However, you may be somebody who’s in unfamiliar territory when it comes to choosing a roofer.

If that’s the case, you need to know how to go about hiring the right Portland roofers. Interstate Roofing can help. As a professional and experienced contractor, we can tell you there are a variety of questions to ask before you hire Portland roofers. The answers you receive will be crucial in helping you make the right choice.

What Does Past Work Look Like?

Reputation and word of mouth are two incredibly important components of vetting potential contractors. If you need Portland roofers to come in and replace your roof, you’re likely going to do what you do when you’re thinking of trying a restaurant for the first time or looking for a family doctor. That is, ask friends, family members, and acquaintances for recommendations. After all, if people you trust give a product or service a thumbs up, you know it’s on the level.

That said, we live in a time when thousands of people review everything from libraries to hospitals on the internet. When choosing Portland roofers, you should absolutely look to those close to you first for recommendations. You should also surf the web for reviews by unbiased, third-party customers. This will give you a strong general idea of whether a contractor has a history of doing good work.

How Long Has the Contractor Been in Business?

If you’re looking for a new family doctor, you probably wouldn’t want to pick somebody who just graduated from medical school. This is nothing personal against that doctor. It’s just that whoever you trust to be your doctor is going to be crucial to your family’s health. You want somebody with a proven track record of being successful with numerous patients.

While choosing Portland roofers may not be quite as important as choosing a family physician, it’s still critical to hire contractors who have proven over time that they can produce high-quality roofing work. So selecting contractors who have been in business for a long time is generally a smart move. It’s rare that a company would be operational for many years if it wasn’t good at what it does.

This isn’t to say that just because a company has been around for a significant period of time it’s the right one for the job. No matter what, you still need to investigate the company’s reputation and reviews. However, knowing they’re not new and unproven is often one of the first steps in determining whether to look into the company further as a potential candidate to replace the roof of your home.

Should You Base Your Decision On Price?

It’s not that price isn’t important, because it is, especially if you’re on a tight budget. However, you would be wise to remember the adage, “You get what you pay for,” when selecting a contractor.

Sometimes, a company’s price is the lowest around for a reason, and it isn’t always because it’s just a great deal. It could be because that company does subpar work or uses cheap materials and inexperienced workers.

The best course of action is to get estimates from multiple roofing contractors and compare those prices. Then weigh those price estimates against each company’s reputation and past work history. You may ultimately decide to go with the cheapest estimate, but you should keep in mind that sometimes it’s worth paying a little more if you know you’ll get more in the way of quality. It’s all about doing your research.

Is the Contractor Licensed and Insured?

Replacing the roof of your home is a job that’s often too complex to be done by yourself, unless you have a background in roofing. That is precisely why most homeowners hire a roofing company to do the job. However, even after you make the decision to hire a specific contractor, it’s essential that you make sure they have the proper insurance. You also want to ensure they up-to-date licensing and permits before you sign on the dotted line.

It doesnt matter how good a contractor’s work is. If they don’t have the proper licensing and permits, it could result in the work on your house being shut down or delayed for a significant length of time if the violation is discovered and the local government acts accordingly. Also, not having the proper insurance could be highly damaging to your wallet if anything bad happensduring the work. If a worker gets injured on the job and the contractor doesn’t have the proper insurance, there might be issues. It’s possible the worker could sue both their employer and you, the homeowner, in order to try to get restitution.

Similarly, if there’s damage to your property while the work is being completed, the proper insurance will ensure you’re not left financially responsible once the workers move on. Whatever you do, never put yourself in a position where there’s any chance whatsoever that you could be held personally liable for damage or a roofing worker’s injury.

Will They Give You Everything in Writing?

No matter who you select to replace your roofing, get the details of the work to be done in writing. The agreed-upon price should be in writing too. This is critical to protecting you against dishonest contractors that promise things they cannot deliver or try to ask for additional money even after having agreed to do the job for a specific price. Having everything that has been agreed upon explained clearly and concisely in writing gives you the means to take legal action against that contractor if the need arises.