FAQ

Ridge caps are shingles installed along the tops, or ridges, of a roof once the rest of the roof system is complete. They typically come in two options – high profile and low profile – with high profile resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and higher-quality roof. High profile ridge caps are generally preferred on higher-end homes, whereas low profile ridge caps are more affordable. We see a lot of roofs being installed with 3-Tab hip and ridge shingles. These are not a specific ridge designed to fold and bend over the ridge and hip. 3-Tab shingles are designed to be installed on flat surfaces only – not curved. When installing a new roof, it is important to make sure to use a true ridge cap shingle product whether “high profile or low.” A true ridge cap product is designed to make those bends and curves for the hip and ridge.

The type of valley used for a roof depends on the roofing product being installed. Open valleys, which are required for some products, are used for thicker designer shingles to eliminate a hump look when a closed valley install is performed. Open valleys are also used to direct water away from the roof with a center rib in the middle of the valley. Closed valleys overlap two slopes to create the finished valley. Regardless of valley type, we recommend ice and water shields to be installed underneath for extra protection.

A ventilation system might seem like an odd thing to have on a roof, but it’s essential for the proper function and optimum life of a roofing system. Roof vents allow hot air and moisture to escape from attics and other areas of a home, preventing mold, mildew and other factors from damaging a roof and potentially causing health concerns. There are many different roof vents – each with its own strengths and weaknesses – the most common types being box vents, ridge vents, wind turbines, power vents, off-ridge vents, cupolas and soffits. Using a ventilation calculator (smartphone apps available) can help find the appropriate amount of ventilation needed for your house. We can also determine which vent or combination of vents is best for your home. We love solar-powered ventilation. It has the most power, requires fewer holes in your roof and comes with tax-incentive rebates.

Traditionally, roofers install a protective layer of roofing material on the roof’s sheathing before nailing on the shingles to complete the project. Two primary options exist for this layer – organic felt and synthetic felt. Organic felt underlayment has been used for years and is known for its affordability, workability and availability. However, it also tends to dry out, deteriorate more quickly when exposed to rain and sunlight, and is prone to tearing. Synthetic underlayment is more expensive, but it is lighter, stronger and more durable. It’s easier to walk on, sheds water and is tear-resistant to certain points of pressure.

All shingles carry some sort of warranty. System warranties, however, cover the entire roof, or roofing system, including the essential components that work together to protect your home and deliver lasting performance. If that roofing system ever fails, then the manufacturer covers the cost of the roof, accessories and labor. Nonsystem warranties cover only the shingles, leaving the homeowner to pick up the substantial cost of the accessories and labor.

A complete roofing system consists of:

• Roof deck – the roof’s foundation, typically constructed with high-quality plywood * Underlayment – felt or rubber membrane that sits on top of the roof deck, covering and protecting any exposed portions to increase the longevity of your roof

• Leak barrier – barrier that runs along the roof’s edge and prevents moisture from leaking through openings around gutters, eaves, chimneys, skylights or vents

• Start strips – similar to leak barriers, these are placed around the roofline to keep wind and water from getting under the shingles.

• Shingles – the outer layer of your roof, shingles come in a range of colors, textures, and thicknesses that give your roof style and function

• Flashing – these go around vent pipes, chimneys and other places on your roof where water can penetrate

• Ventilation – vents allow heat and moisture to escape from your attic, preventing premature wear and tear on the roofing materials while keeping your home clean and comfortable

• Shingle cap – these go along the roof’s peak and can improve the appearance of the system

Roofs aren’t necessarily meant to be waterproof; they are designed to shed water. Flashings and crickets help with drainage and proper water-shedding, directing water away from the chimney and other areas on the roof. Custom-fitted flashings and crickets, which are code items on chimneys larger than 30 inches, can last a lifetime, and they also eliminate the need for caulking and other less durable sealants.

Either type of flashing is a solid option. It really just depends on your budget and specific needs. Galvanized steel flashings are more affordable, available and easy-to-make than other types – but they’re also less durable and less resistant to harsher climates. Copper flashings come in soft and cold-rolled varieties, each offering its own set of advantages. Although traditionally more expensive than other flashings, copper is durable, won’t rust and is easy to manipulate, making it a versatile, attractive choice.

Anyone can call themselves a contractor, but not everyone is licensed. We are registered with the state of Oklahoma’s Construction Industries Board, which means we meet and work to maintain industry-wide requirements for safety, liability, education and more. We are an Oklahoma-owned company, and we have been since our founding in 1981. As an established, local company, we carry insurance, liability and labor warranties for our customers’ protection. In short, we’ll be here whenever you need us. Out-of-town companies and fly-by-nights, on the other hand, often can’t be counted on to honor their warranties – or even be around when the time comes.

Experienced contractors should be able to determine accurate budget numbers at the frontend of any project. That’s why we offer free estimates on every job. We wouldn’t make a decision without first having the information we need to set clear expectations, and we don’t want our customers to, either.

Metal roofing is durable, long-lasting and stylishly modern. It comes in many styles and can be customized to match the look of your home. Here is a quick summary of its pros and cons:

Advantages

• Longevity. Metal roofs can last between 40 and 70 years, compared to 12-20 years for traditional asphalt roofs.

• Durability. Metal roofs won’t corrode or split, and they can even stand up to strong winds, some as high as 140 miles per hour. They also require little maintenance other than the occasional inspection.

• Safety. Unlike traditional roofs, metal roofs won’t ignite in the event of a wildfire, lightning strike or other fire hazard.

• Energy efficiency. Metal roofs reflect the sun’s rays, reducing heat and energy costs by as much as 25 percent.

• Environmentally friendly. Metal roofs are made partly of recycled materials, and they can be recycled once they wear out. Shingles, on the other hand, contribute to 20 billion pounds of waste each year.

Disadvantages

• Affordability. Because metal roofs last longer and are more durable, they cost more than traditional roofing.

• Noise. Think about the difference in sound between dropping a rock on asphalt and dropping one on a piece of metal. This issue can be addressed with additional insulation, but that also raises the cost of the roofing system.

• Fluctuation. Metal roofs often expand and contract with changes in temperature and other environmental factors. This can result in panels coming loose if they aren’t installed correctly.

• Colors. It can be difficult to match the exact color of a metal roof if only a portion of the roof is being replaced. This is due to the limited nature of materials and the tendency of colors to fade over time.

• Weather damage. Although metal roofs are usually stronger and more durable than traditional materials, in climates where severe weather or heavy moisture are persistent, metal roofs can rust and crack.