But All Of The Other Guys Said!!!!! I hear this more often than you would believe.  You know what the most frustrating thing about that phrase is?  In practically every single instance, the “Other Guys” either did not really know what they were talking about, or even worse, they knew the right thing to recommend, but took the “Low Road” and did not advise you, the Home Owner about the implications of not doing your roofing project precisely as the manufacturer specified.You might think to yourselves; the “Other Guy” seemed like he knew what he was talking about though.  Ed, what makes your opinion any better and more valid than his?  Aren’t you both just out here to try to sell me a roof and make as much profit on the job as possible?Here is what I say to that; There obviously is some truth to the fact that a reputable company, such as Right Way Roofing Company, which has been serving this area for over 23 Years under the same name and ownership needs to remain profitable to remain in existence.  Yes, I spend a great deal of time with every single Home Owner I make a detailed presentation to; Therefore: Yes, I would like you to understand the value of investing in a quality, properly done roofing system as compared to over 90 % of all roofs done, which do not even meet the “Minimum” standards and specifications.  How can I make a statement like that?  I know the current “Facts” by staying on top of the Roofing and Ventilation Industries and by continually doing intense pertinent research, as you will discover from just browsing through or hopefully from thoroughly digesting the following informational tidbits excerpted from some of the best resources I have discovered, and am now sharing with you for your benefit and prudent decision making process now being contemplated.      Before I begin to ramble on endlessly and bore you with any self glorifying promotion, you may feel concerned enough to read through the following short portions of just a few of the research links I have provided.   This way you will receive a totally unbiased, neutral and objective opinion on some of the subjects that seem to be in conflict from one contractor to another.If your investment in the future of your home is important enough to you, please feel free to inquire with as much vigor and depth as possible to arrive at the safest and wisest conclusion.   The following resources are all referenced as to author and web-site URL links for further analysis if you so desire.  If you would prefer this document to be e-mailed to your attention, so you do not have to type in and search for the web sites, please request an e-mail version and I will gladly comply.When you get done reading through the information; Please ask yourself the following question:  Who was the one who really gave me all of the correct advice, details and specifications to ensure my new roof and theoretical warranty plus my homes interior were not being placed in jeopardy?Was it Ed, from Right Way Roofing Company?Or, was it “the Other Guy”?I hope you appreciate the following information.  Happy Reading!http://www.bobandrodman.com/roofing.html

This is one of the best articles I have ever read about roofing specs being followed and “How to choose a good roofer”.

But over the years I have learned to spot good roofers by asking a few questions and identifying a number of indicators that seem to reveal what they really know about their trade and what kind of job they are likely to do. What I am looking for are those rare individuals who take pride in their work. They keep up with advances in materials and techniques. They make it a point to take to take questions to manufacturer’s technical representatives. They’re responsive to the concerns of their customers. And they are glad to take as much time necessary to explain things clearly.Roofing isn’t rocket science. But the average homeowner is not really familiar with the ins and outs of roofing so they have little choice but to depend on whomever they choose to do the work. This is a trust professionals take seriously. It is not enough that they are concerned and personable – they must also have sufficient resources of experience and knowledge to insure that their professional obligation is discharged to the homeowner’s advantage. That’s why professionals are easy to spot. If you feel educated, as well as comfortable after your visit with a roofer, and the other criteria outlined below are satisfied, then you are as assured as possible that your job will meet your expectations.   

http://www.georgiamagazine.com/archives_view.asp?mon=8&yr=2006&ID=1374

Now about those shingles. Despite all the brands and styles, one thing is common to all: Put them up wrong and their guarantee is void. How is it then that they are so often installed incorrectly?

You might have requested “30-year” shingles, but they are only as good as their installation allows.

From Google search:  http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=inadequate+ventilation+decreases+shingle+life

http://www.homeimprovementsteps.com/solar-energy/Energy-Savings-from-Solar-Products-514

This is an article regarding solar powered attic fan and attic ventilation as a requirement for the shingle manufacturers’ warranty.

When the attic space overheats, the shingled roof will heat on the underside of the shingles. This causes unnecessary wear and tear on your shingles and you risk wearing them out before the end of the warranty period. Shingle manufacturers are aware of this and require ventilation for a correctly installed roof to be covered under their warranty. This information can be found on the shingle package wrapper. Most shingle manufactures even offer formulas on their web sites, which will assist you in determining just how much attic ventilation is required.Without adequate attic ventilation, the manufacturer may consider it an incorrect installation. What does this mean?For example, imagine that you paid $4000.00 for the installation of a 25-year shingle. However, after 10 years it appears as though the corners are curled, and it’s leaking. You contact the shingle manufacturer and complain of shingle failure. They examine the shingles under a microscope and determine that the excessive wear was from overheating caused by lack of adequate ventilation. Unfortunately, the warranty only covers correctly installed shingles and yours were not. This results in another $4000.00 for a new roof, or your INDIRECT expense for inadequate attic ventilation.<Now, add inflation and the actual increases occurring in the petroleum industry and future increases in labor costs into the factor, and clearly, the cheaper roof done incorrectly, would actually would cost significantly more than if you had chosen to “DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME.”>    

http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:ywibBTVtlH8J:www.starfishroofing.com/images/DidYouKnow.pdf+inadequate+ventilation+decreases+shingle+life&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=us

Most asphalt based shingles will fail in 14 to 15 yearsMost structures that were built before 1990 have inadequate ventilation of their building.Most consumers believe that 30 pound felt is better. Felt is an underlayment used to keep the plywood dry until the shingles can be installed “and to prevent the pitch from wood products having an adverse affect on the newly installed shingles.”

http://www.starfishroofing.com/images/DidYouKnow.pdf

http://www.tamko.com/Portals/0/documents/Herit.30AR%20F_T.pdf

2. VENTILATIONInadequate ventilation of attic spaces can cause accumulation of mois­ture in winter months and a build up of heat in the summer.These conditions can lead to: 1. Vapor Condensation 2. Buckling of shingles due to deck movement. 3. Rotting of wood members. 4. Premature failure of roof.To insure adequate ventilation and circulation of air, place louvers of sufficient size high in the gable ends and/or install continuous ridge and soffit vents.   

http://www.askthebuilder.com/B59_Asphalt_Roofing_Installation_Primer.shtml

Most roofs are installed incorrectly, i.e.; 98-99%Operator ErrorThe construction industry (of which I was a participant for 20 years) has a major flaw. The learning process in virtually every field is either visual or verbal. Young people beginning to work in the industry simply learn by doing what they are told or by watching more experienced individuals. There is very little reading that takes place. The only widespread exposure of written learning material that I am aware of is the textbook material available to vocational students or those few who go through apprenticeship programs, with a local Certified Union Training Program.Relying on verbal or visual information is simply not acceptable in today’s world. Professionals in fields other than building and remodeling are formally educated and continue to read on a regular basis about changes in their profession. A construction worker who is just entering the field may be taught by an individual who has been doing something wrong or against manufacturer’s recommendations for years. In many instances, these individuals do not even realize that they are making mistakes. Many individuals who install asphalt roofing shingles do not follow written, established roofing practices as outlined by manufacturers and roofing associations. This is prevalent in the industry. In fact, in my own hometown, I am aware of only one roofing contractor who correctly installs asphalt shingles! That means that 98 to 99 percent of all the asphalt roofs installed in Cincinnati are susceptible to leaks or premature failure. The same thing quite possibly is happening in your city or town.  http://www.resercon.com/Ventilation.htmlThough the cold roof cost more to install, the difference is that of instead of your roof only lasting 15 years, it will last 30 to 40.  <A “Cold” roof actually implies a properly Balanced Attic Fresh Air Intake System working together with a Continuous Hot/Humid Air Exhaust System.  The best type of exhaust system usually will be a continuous Ridge Vent, which contains Wind Deflecting Baffles and an Internal Filter, to actually aide the physics and aero-dynamics of the natural wind forces in play, to increase the amount of Hot Air Exhaust capable of being discharged from the interior of the attic environment.> 

http://www.certainteed.com/NR/rdonlyres/71000FD6-6464-4583-A57D-E4C4A8D214E6/0/2003_Asp_ShingleWarr.pdf

Shingles installed on a private home or residence (as opposed to an apartment building, for example) will qualify for a warranty duration of only 10 years with respect to shingle problems related to the absence of adequate roof ventilation.This 10-year warranty duration applies even if CertainTeed’s “top-of-the-line” ( 50 Year Through Life Time ), shingles have been used.      

http://solidrockincorporated.com/rooftop/5.htm

Roofers are normally compensated by the amount of shingles nailed down on a given job. The quicker they can nail them down, the more they make. After all, the roof LOOKS the same whether it is nailed correctly or incorrectly. Shingles that are incorrectly installed tend to develop problems later such as blow-off in high winds, slippage in hot weather and leaks.Manufacturers will not warrant their shingles if they are installed incorrectly. The correct nailing pattern is four nails per shingle with the two outside nails being within one inch of each end and the other two being evenly spaced between the ends. Six nails are advised for areas noted for high winds. The nails should not be too high on the shingle or too low. On a dimensional shingle, it is imperative to locate the nails along ‘the nailing strip’, a one inch wide portion of the shingle. Jack Rabbit roofers cannot possibly hit this nailing strip on a consistent basis and still maintain speed. Jack Rabbit roofers tend to ‘spray’ their nails. They sound impressive and fast while working but the actual truth is they are doing a very poor job.I have had many job applicants who boast, “I can nail down four square an hour.” I would never hire someone like this. I look for quality rather than quantity. It is better to do a job right and have it last than to do it wrong and have problems with it later. On three-tab roofs, many roofers will only use three nails per shingle to gain speed but the roofs show lifting just a few years later. 

http://www.gaf.com/Content/GAF/RES1/ROOF/RS_whyuse_ventchart.html

It is estimated that 9 out of 10 homes in North America do not have proper attic ventilation. 

http://lutterbein.com/Documents/Luterbein%20Newsletter%20Pg%202.pdf 

This one references conclusions from the NRCA, the National Roofing Contractors Association.9 out of 10 attics are inadequately ventilated  http://www.alcoa.com/alcoahomes/LearningCenter/ArticleVentilationSoffit.aspxExperts say inadequate intake ventilation causes 95% of all ventilation problems and will typically void the shingle warranty. http://www.hvi.org/assets/pdfs/CPD_Sec2_05142007.pdf           HVI = Home Ventilation InstituteSoffit VentsLVP10                    Double 5”              Lanced V-Panel Soffit 9.6 in²LVP12                    Double 6”              Lanced V-Panel Soffit 11.4 in²CVPT4                   Triple 4”                                 Center Lanced V-Panel Soffit 4.9 in²LVPT4                   Triple 4”                                 Full Lanced V-Panel Soffit 14.8 in²CVPQ4                  Quad 4”                                 Center Lanced V-Panel Soffit 6.2 in²LVPQ4                   Quad 4”                                 Full Lanced V-Panel Soffit 10.2 in²8VTL                      8”                           Vertical Lanced Soffit 10.5 in²

http://www.hvi.org/resourcelibrary/tradeart.html

Ventilation Controls for Life-Styles, presented by the HVI Sales & Marketing Committee In recent years, as new homes have become more airtight, the awareness of the need for residential ventilation has been growing more than ever. Proper ventilation is essential to removing excessive moisture, which promotes mold and mildew build-up and can deteriorate the building’s structure. Ventilation is also important to help reduce the buildup of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect indoor air quality (IAQ) and may cause health problems for occupants.

http://www.hvi.org/assets/pdfs/HVIGuide2006Low.pdf

Static vents, both intake and exhaust, are not electrically powered and depend on natural airflow for ventilation. Intake vents are necessary whether using a static exhaust system or a powered attic ventilator. Static vents include ridge vents, roof vents, gable vents and turbines. 

http://www.ronhungarter.com/roofing_ventilation.html

This is a very, very good in depth author, inspector, consultant, and Expert Court Witness.First, confirmed that every roof has continuous soffit inlet vents that are fully open and functioninghttp://www.roofcalculator.com/attic_ventilation.htmIn homes that have a steeply pitched roof and are over 20 years old, a 98% probability exists that the attic has excessive heat-and even newly constructed homes often have serious attic heat problems. http://ezinearticles.com/?next=1&index=30&order=DESC&cat=Home-Improvement:RoofingTo properly ventilate an attic, two types of vents are needed. Intake vents, which are located at the down slope edge of the roof (a.k.a. eaves) and allow fresh air into the attic; and exhaust vents, which are located near or on the ridge line of the roof and allow air to leave the attic. The use of an exhaust vent in conjunction with an intake vent uses the natural forces of wind pressure and thermal effect, collectively known as the Stack Effect, to ventilate the attic space.  

http://www.professionalroofing.net/past/jan01/tech.asp

Code Requirements:
Each of the four model building codes—The BOCA National Building Code, International Building Code, Standard Building Code and Uniform Building Code—require attic spaces to be ventilated. Generally, building codes require that a minimum net free ventilating area for attic vents be a 1-150 ratio of the area of the attic space being ventilated. The four model building codes also generally allow for a reduction of the ventilation ratio from 1-to-150 to 1-to-300 if attic vents are balanced on a roof and/or a vapor retarder is installed on a ceiling assembly’s warm side. http://www.roofhelp.com/ventilation_main.htmCalculating how much venting your attic needs is relatively simple. All you need to know is the area of the attic floor. Include the garage, if you have one and the soffit overhang because heat gets trapped above them, too.To properly ventilate an attic, two types of vents are needed. Intake vents, which are located at the down slope edge of the roof (a.k.a. eaves) and allow fresh air into the attic; and exhaust vents, which are located near or on the ridge line of the roof and allow air to leave the attic.  

There are several common misconceptions about attic ventilation. One is that many people think that if they have only power vents or turbine vents working near the ridgeline, then their attic is properly ventilated. Remember that in order for an exhaust vent to properly function, it has to have intake vents working with it. If there are no intake vents, then air has to enter somewhere so it will enter through some exhaust vents and exit through others. The result is circulation of only the air immediately surrounding the vents or in between the vents.

http://healthandenergy.com/ventilation.htm

Attic Ventilation

The eave vents on the underside of roof overhangs gradually become clogged and reduce essential attic ventilation.

Clogged eave vents increase air conditioning costs by reducing the removal of attic heat during the summer.

Clogged eave vents increase the odds of mold and moisture damage in the attic.

Eave vents should be checked at least every five years. Clogged eave vents should be cleaned or replaced.

Building codes typically require a net free ventilating area equal to 1/300 of the total area to be ventilated, one-half of the ventilation to be provided in the upper portion of the space to be ventilated with the balance provided by eave or cornice vents. http://www.inspectionconcepts.com/new_page_2.htmNot so!  Most roofs fail in 10 to 15 years. Very few roofs last past 15 years!

http://www.inspectionconcepts.com/venting.htm

90 * = 170 * or more, roof top temperature      http://www.langcoroofing.com/We’re probably not going to be the lowest bidder.Shocked that we would admit that? We’re not…after more than 30-years, we’re proud of that fact. Our reputation has been built on doing quality work – rather than the fastest and cheapest.When it comes to protecting your largest investment with a roof that lasts…is it always wise to go with the lowest bid? Would you get surgery on your foot done by a low bid doctor? In fact, we get a lot of business from people using a low bidder and realize that it cost them in the long run when the first signs of problems show up years later. You won’t see most of the damage caused by cheaper materials…your roof will look nice and it’ll be brand-new…but what’s hiding underneath? Did they short-change you on the plywood? Did they use a premium brand of ice and water shield? Did they use any? Were the workers more caring about the quality of the work or the paycheck at the end of the day? Is your roof properly ventilated? If not, that manufacturer’s warranty you got may be worthless.Sure, you can compare estimates…and we’d love to match up the estimates you get with ours.

Because you can’t put a price on honesty, integrity, passion and experience.

http://www.walkercontracting.ca/shingles.htm

Still another factor affecting asphalt shingle roofs is attic ventilation. Proper roof ventilation is critical in extending the service life of a roof. Proper intake and exhaust ventilation lowers heat and moisture in the attic. Inadequate ventilation may also void your material warranty.

Shingle manufacturers will not warrant their products against “Acts of God or Nature” such as hurricanes, hail storms, severe winds usually in excess of 50 mph, tornadoes, earthquakes, etc. Nor will shingle manufacturers honor their material warranty if the products are improperly installed. This includes improper roof ventilation.

http://www.build-yourown-home.com/roofing.html

Building Contractors are different than you and I, in what way you ask? They start a job knowing that it will end in a short period of time usually on a set budget, or bid price. So, the quicker they finish the more they make. Time is money! If they have another job behind yours, as they often do they go rip roaring ahead to get your job done.At his stage of home construction we put on the roofing. We choose composition because it is durable and I didn’t want to pay for a metal roof. Clearly the metal would last longer, but I like the way the architectural composition looks, and it was 50% less. One note about roofing make sure you get a good roofing company with a good warranty. In other words do your Research. There he goes again! The warranty is especially important if you have a roof with complicated angles and many valleys. We do, and we have had a couple of leaks. We could have gone with the low bid Roofer but choose a company with a good reputation and a 5 year warranty, it has paid off! That brings me to one last point. It is so important to do your RESEARCH prior to hiring a Building Contractor. You must do everything in your power to stick with the ones you start your project with. Why? Because if you have to hire another one in the middle of the project it will cost you time and money. Life is much easier if you choose correctly up front. 

http://www.hunterhomeservices.com/attic.html  Referencing the Shingle Vent II, which I specify.

This is the most attractive and efficient ventilation device. Its low profile design minimizes its appearance on the roof, while its external baffle provides maximum air flow. It is installed along the ridge of the roof beneath the ridge shingles. This type of ridge vent creates the greatest air flow in all wind conditions by creating a negative air pressure that effectively pumps air from the attic.

http://www.hunterhomeservices.com/faq5.html

How important is ventilation?

Attic ventilation serves several purposes during all four seasons of the year, among them being added comfort, protection against damage to materials and structure, and reduced energy consumption. But the most important function is to provide a uniform flow of cool air along the underside of the roof sheathing which in turn carries the heat out of the attic. Proper ventilation is also required in order to validate the manufacturer’s warranty for your roofing system.

http://www.roofmasters.info/pages/FAQ/

WHAT WILL SHINGLES LOOK LIKE AS THEY AGE?

You may be asking yourself, “What can I expect a roof to look like as this aging process takes place?” One or more of the following conditions may occur over time.
Curling
As the asphalt hardens over time, the granules which were once securely embedded begin to break away. Occasionally you may have seen the colored granules in gutters. Also, as this hardening advances, the asphalt layers begin to shrink. Of course, all this is occurring at a microscopic level and is no noticeable on a daily basis. As the asphalt layer shrinks, it is being countered by the shingle reinforcement, which resists shrinking. We now have a situation in which the top and bottom coatings are shrinking and the reinforcement is remaining stable. As a result, the edges of the shingle may begin to curl.
Surface Cracking
Another manifestation of the normal aging process may be the development of surface cracks. For example, as the flexibilizing oils of the asphalt are depleted due to heat, the shingle becomes more brittle, to the point where surface cracking may appear. The stresses created by thermal shock and the movement of the roof deck also increase the likelihood of surface cracking. Blistering
During the course of natural weathering, small bubble-like raised areas known as blisters may appear on the surface of the shingles. The blisters may be small and pea-sized, or as large as a quarter. The blisters may be open, exposing the asphalt, or closed. Blisters frequently result when minimum ventilation requirements are not met.Staining
Finally, over a period of time, shingles may develop dark brown or black streaks that are sometimes mistaken for soot, dirt, moss or tree droppings. In actuality, this discoloration may be caused by algae growth. Although most roofing systems are susceptible to algae discoloration, it is most readily visible on white or light-colored shingles.
DO LIGHT-COLORED SHINGLES LAST LONGER THAN DARK SHINGLES?
On structures with attics and proper ventilation, light and dark shingles should last about the same amount of time. Without proper ventilation, it is possible that the darker shingles might have a shorter life as a result of their tendency to reach higher temperatures due to increased absorption of solar energy. The hotter deck may bake the shingles, causing the asphalt to become brittle and the shingles to fail prematurely.
IS VENTILATION REALLY THAT IMPORTANT?
Deck movement and deterioration are commonly the results of poor ventilation. In the summer, too much heat buildup due to a poorly ventilated “flat ceiling” attic can cause the shingles to deteriorate prematurely. In the winter, deck-related problems are often due to condensation forming on the deck underside, which is also a result of poor ventilation. It is important to understand that shingles failing before their time due to inadequate ventilation will not be protected by the manufacturer’s warranty.
WHY IS SHINGLE UNDERLAYMENT REQUIRED?
When we look at the performance of the roof system as a whole, underlayment has a legitimate role to play. Underlayment is considered to be an important component in the UL (Underwriters Laboratory Inc) fire resistance classification. It can provide backup protection in case of a shingle blow-off, and during the installation of shingles it can keep the unshingled decking dry.
WHAT IS SHINGLE UNDERLAYMENT?
On slopes below 4/12, down to 2/12, the risk of leaks is great, caused by phenomena like wind-driven rain and capillary action that can make water flow uphill, or by the backup of water behind ice dams. To reduce this risk, a redundant systems called “shingle underlayment” is applied beneath the shingles. Shingle underlayment, also known as tar paper and roofing felt, is a roll product applied over the roof deck before the shingles are installed. The term “underlayment” is not to be confused with the flooring sub-base. The OSB on a roof deck is not shingle underlayment; it is properly termed roof sheathing and must be rated by the American Plywood Association as such. On the other hand, not all shingle underlayment is the same. There are two critically different grades: water-resistant and waterproof. Water-resistant underlayment was invented to keep the roof decking dry until shingles could be applied. Applying this underlayment is called “drying-in the roof.” It was also useful as a separation sheet between the roof sheathing boards and the asphalt shingles before OSB and plywood sheets were used as roof decking. This separation was important because direct contact with resin pockets in the pine planks caused the asphalt to degrade prematurely. Intact water-resistant underlayment sheds most of the water that falls on it, but its water resistance is temporary. As the sun degrades the exposed asphalt the material begins to dry out, absorb more moisture, lose its strength, and eventually tear. The less asphalt used to saturate the underlayment sheet during manufacture, the shorter its life. Since asphalt is the most expensive component of shingle underlayment, lower-priced materials have less asphalt and a shorter life when exposed to the sun, and are also subject to severe wrinkling when wet or even just damp. Water-resistant shingle underlayment is not warranted by the manufacturer.  It is an expendable material because much of its water resistance is destroyed during the installation of shingles by driving hundreds of nails through it. Until recently, only two grades of water-resistant underlayment have been available: Number 15 (standard) and Number 30 (heavy-duty). In recent years new categories have appeared known as premium and high-performance shingle underlayment. These materials are less likely to wrinkle when dampened. Waterproof underlayment is an entirely different product that’s used in locations such as eaves and valleys that are most likely to leak under extreme conditions such as high winds, heavy rains and ice dams. This material is known as WSU (waterproofing shingle underlayment).
On low slopes where the risk is water running uphill, or in valleys where blockage from storm debris or ice dams can cause trouble, WSU is reliable insurance against leaks when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In all cases the product must be applied to a clean, dry roof deck.\
WHAT IS FLASHING AND WHY IS IT REQUIRED?
The roof deck is most vulnerable to leaks where it meets a vertical wall, at penetration sites such as a soil pipe or chimney, or at changes in slope such as at a valley, saddle, mansard, hip, or ridge. This vulnerability is due to:
1. Deferential movements (e.g., the roof deck moves but the chimney does not).
2. An accumulation of turbulent water (e.g., in valleys and on the high side of chimneys).
3. An accumulation of melting snow or ice (e.g., in valleys and on the high side of chimneys).
4. Breaks in overlapped shingles (e.g., at hips and ridges).
Flashing is installed at these locations to bridge adjoining structures and prevent water penetration. Flashing materials include sheet metal; cements, caulks, and sealants; and flexible sheets such as waterproofing shingle underlayment. At hips and ridges the cap shingles, not normally called flashing, serve the same function. Leaving out ice dam backups
and catastrophic damage from severe storms, old age, or gross manufacturing defects, leaks are most likely to originate at a  flashing that has failed or was improperly installed.
WHAT ARE SHINGLE TYPES?
Laminated shingles: There are many different brands and sizes of laminated shingles.
Mid-Weight Dimensional Shingles: These shingles offer a more interesting appearance on the roof than three-tab shingles. Typically they weigh 235-265 lbs./sq. Shadow lines and contrasting color blends are common.
Heavyweight Dimensional Shingles: The heavyweights are sometimes called architectural shingles. Typically they weigh 265-350 lbs./sq. Shadow lines and contrasting color blends give the appearance of a thick shingle. 

http://www.superiorroofingofmass.com/roofing.php

The Life Cycle of Your Roof

Research has confirmed that improperly ventilated air space inhibits air movement and under most circumstances increases moisture content in comparison with properly vented attic air spaces.  Heat shortens the shingles’ life and moisture causes deck movement and/or deterioration, which ultimately affects the performance of shingles.    

http://www.ccandlroofing.com/slate_roofs-warranty.cfm

While manufacturers warranties will vary in terms of what is and is not covered and for how long, most offer reasonable value and protection for the end user. However, it is important to realize that should the product be installed improperly, even the best warranties on the highest quality materials may be rendered void and useless. The manufacturer has a right to expect that their product is aligned, lapped and fastened to meet their minimum requirements, otherwise their product will not perform as designed and the warranty will become invalid. 

http://www.c-risk.com/Construction_Risk/CD_Problem_Areas_01.htm

Roofing is number 1 Construction Defect.Construction Defect Problem Areas: Cause & Effect. Taking a forensic view, or a backward pass, through a statistically significant sampling of Construction Defects (CDs) in order to determine the root cause & effect, we have categorized the most prevalent CD’s into a Top 10 List as follows:

1.  Roofing  
2. Sheet Metal Flashings

 http://www.professionalroofing.net/article.aspx?A_ID=218 Intake vents are important to achieve proper ventilationby Paul Scelsi If you are not convinced about how important intake vents are to attic ventilation systems, consider this: Intake vents are the single biggest reason for most attic ventilation callbacks Dallas-based Air Vent Inc. receives. Not the exhaust vents—the intake vents. For an attic ventilation system to perform properly, it needs a balance of intake and exhaust. Unfortunately, too many houses have sufficient exhaust but inadequate intake. The potential problems vary with the type of exhaust vent being used. For example, insufficient intake can cause an externally baffled ridge vent to pull intake air from itself. That means it could pull in weather. With a power attic ventilator, improper intake could cause premature motor burnout and force the power vent to pull its source of intake air from the living space in the home.       I hope that I have not gone overboard with the information supplied.  I am passionate about providing the absolute best roofing materials and the best service as possible.  Therefore, even though this may seem mundane and obsessive over-kill to you right now, you can at least get a better sense of how I feel about doing your roof on your home, the Right Way.  When your home is taken care of with such passion, you will be proud and glad you chose to do things the Right Way after all. Respectfully and Very Sincerely, Edward G. Fako  (Aka, Ed the Roofer, who provides sought after expert advice on many contractor, home inspector and homeowner advice forums on the internet.) Biography of Ed’s Previous and Continual Roofing Experiences and Education:
Since 1978, Ed served his Apprenticeship with the Chicago Roofing Contractors Union Local 11, achieving Union Journey-Man status one year earlier than scheduled, due to his immediate Supervisors and Foreman’s recommendations, has been involved in all phases of Roofing and Architectural Sheet Metal work, BUR, Single Ply Membranes, Shingles, Cedar Shakes, Clay-Concrete & Slate Tile and has proudly operated Right Way Roofing Company for the past 23 years.  Ed is proud to be associated with the following Industry Organizations; ARMA, (the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association), the CRCA, (Chicago Roofing Contractors Association), the MRCA, (Midwest Roofing Contractors Association), the NRCA, (National Roofing Contractors Association) and NARI, (the National Association for the Remodeling Industry).

He is a selected member of the “Professional Roofing Advisory Council”, a recipient of the Master Roofer Award, regularly recertifies as a V.I.P, (Ventilation Installation Professional), has passed and continues to study and administer the Master Shingle Applicators Test to other Roofing Contractors and Apprentices, was selected as an articulate informational unbiased Moderator for the ContractorTalk dot com Forum with over 14,000 registered Contractor Members, and regularly contributes Veteran advice on JLC Online dot com, Roof-Links dot com, DIY Chatroom dot com, NACHI dot org, ( the National Association for Certified Home Inspectors) and Home Owners For Better Builders, HOBB dot org in his ongoing passion to assist those in need of impartial Roofing and Attic Ventilation advice.Words to Live By:  “You can’t put a price on Honesty, Integrity, Passion and Experience.”

Lets see if any of this is interesting or bores the heck out of you. The remainder of the document provides links, URL’s, and short poignant excerpts from each of the pertinent sources.

I will supply you with the first link, as if all of them were included, this would be too large to post. For your information, click on the one link provided for a very thorough article on “How To Choose A Reputable Roofing Contractor and What To Do Once You Find One.”

For anyone who knows me, you know I have a fuller and longer more detailed version done too. Egads! I just don’t know when to stop sometimes.

Ed

P.S. I want comments and any editing provided if you feel you have something worthwhile to add or delete.

But All Of The Other

Guys Said!!!!!

I hear this more often than you would believe. You know what the most frustrating thing about that phrase is?

In practically every single instance, the “Other Guys” either did not really know what they were talking about, or even worse, they knew the right thing to recommend, but took the “Low Road” and did not advise you, the Home Owner about the implications of not doing your roofing project precisely as the manufacturer specified.

You might think to yourselves; The “Other Guy” seemed like he knew what he was talking about though. Ed, what makes your opinion any better or more valid than his? Aren’t you both just out here to try to sell me a roof and make as much profit on the job as possible?

Here is what I say to that; There obviously is some truth to the fact that a reputable company serving this area for over 23 Years under the same name and ownership needs to remain profitable to remain in existence. Yes, I spend a great deal of time with every single Home Owner I make a detailed presentation to, so; Yes, I would like you to understand the value in a quality, properly done roofing system as compared to over 90 % of all roofs done, which do not even meet the “Minimum” standards and specifications.

Before I begin to ramble on endlessly, and bore you with any self promotion, you may feel concerned enough to read through the following short portions of just a few of the research links I have provided, so you could receive a totally unbiased, neutral and objective opinion on some of the subjects that seem to be in conflict from one contractor to another.

If your investment in the future of your home is important enough to you, please feel free to inquire with as much vigor and depth as possible to arrive at the safest conclusion.

The following resources are all referenced as to author and web-site URL links for further analysis if you so desire. If you would prefer this document to be e-mailed to your attention, so you do not have to type in and search for the web sites, please request an e-mail version and I will gladly comply.

When you get done reading through the information; Please ask yourself the following question:

Who was the one who really gave me all of the correct advice, details and specifications to ensure my new roof and theoretical warranty plus my homes interior were not being placed in jeopardy?

Was it Ed, from

Right Way Roofing Company?

Or, was it “the Other Guy”?

I hope you appreciate the following information. Happy Reading!

http://www.bobandrodman.com/roofing.html

This is one of the best articles I have ever read about roofing specs being followed and “How to choose a good roofer”.

But over the years I have learned to spot good roofers by asking a few questions and identifying a number of indicators that seem to reveal what they really know about their trade and what kind of job they are likely to do. What I am looking for are those rare individuals who take pride in their work. They keep up with advances in materials and techniques. They make it a point to take questions to manufacturer’s technical representatives. They’re responsive to the concerns of their customers. And they are glad to take as much time necessary to explain things clearly.
Roofing isn’t rocket science. But the average homeowner is not really familiar with the ins and outs of roofing so they have little choice but to depend on whomever they choose to do the work. This is a trust professionals take seriously. It is not enough that they are concerned and personable – they must also have sufficient resources of experience and knowledge to insure that their professional obligation is discharged to the homeowner’s advantage. That’s why professionals are easy to spot. If you feel educated, as well as comfortable after your visit with a roofer, and the other criteria outlined below are satisfied, then you are as assured as possible that your job will meet your expectations.
 

another excerpt: From GAF

It is estimated that 9 out of 10 homes in North America do not have proper attic ventilation.

another: From Alcoa
Experts say inadequate intake ventilation causes 95% of all ventilation problems and will typically void the shingle warranty.

another:
Calculating how much venting your attic needs is relatively simple.
All you need to know is the area of the attic floor. Include the garage, if you have one and the soffit overhang because heat gets trapped above them, too.

To properly ventilate an attic, two types of vents are needed. Intake vents, which are located at the down slope edge of the roof (a.k.a. eaves) and allow fresh air into the attic; and exhaust vents, which are located near or on the ridge line of the roof and allow air to leave the attic.

another:
IS VENTILATION REALLY THAT IMPORTANT?

Deck movement and deterioration are commonly the results of poor ventilation. In the summer, too much heat buildup due to a poorly ventilated “flat ceiling” attic can cause the shingles to deteriorate prematurely. In the winter, deck-related problems are often due to condensation forming on the deck underside, which is also a result of poor ventilation. It is important to understand that shingles failing before their time due to inadequate ventilation will not be protected by the manufacturer’s warranty.

another:
While manufacturers warranties will vary in terms of what is and is not covered and for how long, most offer reasonable value and protection for the end user. However, it is important to realize that should the product be installed improperly, even the best warranties on the highest quality materials may be rendered void and useless. The manufacturer has a right to expect that their product is aligned, lapped and fastened to meet their minimum requirements, otherwise their product will not perform as designed and the warranty will become invalid.

another:
Roofing is number 1 Construction Defect.
Construction Defect Problem Areas: Cause & Effect.

Taking a forensic view, or a backward pass, through a statistically significant sampling of Construction Defects (CDs) in order to determine the root cause & effect, we have categorized the most prevalent CD’s into a Top 10 List as follows:

1. Roofing
2. Sheet Metal Flashings

I hope that I have not gone overboard with the information supplied. I am passionate about providing the absolute best roofing materials and the best service as possible. Therefore, even though this may seem mundane and obsessive over-kill to you right now, you can at least get a better sense of how I feel about doing your roof on your home, the Right Way. When your home is taken care of with such passion, you will be proud and glad you chose to do things the Right Way after all.

Respectfully,

Ed (Aka, Ed the Roofer)

Roofing is Not Brain Surgery.  There are many Wrong ways to roof a house.  But…There is only…One “Right Way”, By Following All of the Manufacturers Specifications.  Over 90 % of All Roofs Done – DO NOT Qualify for the Manufacturers Long Term Warranty!!!  ( According to studies by GAF Roofing Corp., Air Vent Inc., & Alcoa )

10 Important Tips You Should

Always Follow On

“What You Should Know

Before Hiring Any Contractor!!!”

1)        RELIABILITY:  Verify that the contractor you call has been in business in your area for At Least 10 Years.  Over 85 % of all roofing contractors are out of business in less than 5 years, way before the warranty expires and before many roofing problems begin to show up and cause problems.  85 % of those remaining do not last till the 10^th  year.  (Department of Labor Statistics) 

2)        INTERVIEW:  Make time to meet with any contractor you call, in person, at your home to review the proposal and detailed specifications.  Try to select a Knowledgeable, Organized, Experienced, and Locally Established contractor who will take a personal interest in your roofing project.  Choose one who has an established track record of many similar roofing projects done in your local area.  If they will farm out your roofing job to an unknown subcontractor, you should interview them as well.   

3)       REFERENCES:  Insist on a minimum of at least 20 – 50 recent job references &

also several from each year they say they were in business.  Ask for customer

testimonials.  Drive past several of the jobs to check for proper venting, flashing

details, and general appearance.  Ask previous customers if they were satisfied and

if they would use them again.  Contact your local

building inspector for verification.

4)       BUYER BEWARE:  Be suspicious if any contractor requires you to get the roofing permit.  The party who applies for the permit is responsible for building code compliance.  What happens when the roofing specs do not conform to the local codes?  Why won’t they be responsible for it?  Also, Do Not Ever pay more than 50 % when paying a deposit. 

5)       ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER:  Make sure that the contractor actually has a physical location that you can find if you need to locate them in the future, not just a mailbox etc., drop box.  Do they have an actual office and material storage shop or just work out of the back of their pick up truck.  Make sure they have an actual local telephone # and not just a cell phone.  When problems occur, it is much easier to find someone if you already know how to, in advance.  Check out his drivers license address. 

6)       LICENSE, INSURANCE AND BONDS:  Insist on receiving a copy of the Contractors State of Illinois Roofing License, General Liability Insurance, Workers Compensation Insurance and their Roofing Bond.  Don’t just assume they have it because they tell you so.  They should have enough pride in themselves to include a copy for each customer. 

7)       PROPOSAL AND/OR CONTRACT:  Insist on a very thorough and detailed written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate length of the job and payment procedures.  Verbal agreements should be added to the written agreement.  You MUST, by law, be advised in writing of your 3-Day “Right To Rescind” if you change your mind and receive all of your deposit money refunded to you. 

8.)       EMPLOYEES OR SUB-CONTRACTORS:  If your contractor farms out the job to a sub-contracting crew, they too must supply you with their Roofing License, General Liability and Workers Compensation Insurance and Roofing Bond.  If they don’t and someone gets hurt, you may be liable.  The sub-contractor should be interviewed as well.  Dedicated trained experienced Employees are more desirable due to continuing training and experience. 

9.)       CONTRACTOR TRADE ASSOCIATIONS:  Quality control begins with dedication, the amount of proper knowledge and previous training from past projects and from advanced learning through many contractor trade associations.  Memberships in any related trade association and certificates of completion from manufacturers product training classes authenticate the more dedicated professional.

10)    USE YOUR NOGGIN:  85 % of all construction lawsuits involve roofing related

problems.  You only have one chance to make the “Right 1^st Choice”.  If one

contractor tells you something extremely different than another contractor, then

either do your own research or have the contractor provide documentation to justify

and support his analysis, especially about Intake & Exhaust Ventilation, Plywood

versus OSB Board or Particle Board, Ice & Water Shield & Flashings.

  You need to be concerned with the initial price only once… But you are goingto be concerned about Quality…for many years to come!!!

The following named Roofing Contractor is an esteemed selected board member of the Professional Roofers Advisory Council, (PRAC).  If You Want Solutions, Not Problems, Call…

Right               (847) 742-6644     

   Way           (847) 426-9730

       Roofing Company                

The areas where “Flashings” get installed are the most common source of roof leaks!

Rarely, are they done correctly!  Does that sound too negative about the trade I partake in and make my own livelihood from?  Well, when you see so much crap out there, every single time you are doing an inspection, it really ticks me off, that roofers do not know how to do a proper job of installing flashings.  (I won’t even discuss what plumbers and “Handy-Men” do to the roof flashings too.  The common roofer is bad enough!)

Ed

Are you having a problem with how your shingle roofing seems to have been applied, or an unknown question as to why it is prematurely failing?

Ask those types of questions here.

Ed

This area is where you should be asking about specific details and specifications to be included in your Roofing Proposal.

Ed

People say, ” I was told to get 3 bids “. 

Well, using that logic and the roofing industry statistics for the per-centages of residential shingle roofs being done improperly and not up to the manufacturers specifications, you would need to get more than 10 bids, YES, I said over 10 bids, just to possibly find the one contractor who is going to do the job right.

The problem with getting 3 bids, is that almost every single roof done, looks adequately good the day and the month and even possibly for several years down the road after it was done.  Then the incorrectness of the adherance to specifications comes into play.

Then the problems begin to surface.

Then, you can not find the contractor who gave you a 10 year labor guarantee.  Well, he seemed like a nice guy, right? 

Here are some of the most important aspects you should research about the roofing contractor, prior to hiring them to do a project that is understood to have about a 30 year life cycle.  Darn, thats a long time.  I hope you choose the one out of the 10, who will do your roof the “Right Way!”

Check references and then ask the previous homeowners how everything went.

If you fail to do that, you only have yourself to blame.

Check out references from 10 years ago, 5 years ago, last year, and current jobs.

Who will be providing the most detail in their proposal will also probably be the one who will put the most detail in there job sites.

Do they use their own in-house trained employees, or do they farm out the job to an unknown subcontracting company that you never met when you thought you were hiring company A.

Over 90 % of all residential shingle roofs are installed incorrectly according to the major manufacturers own research studies. Therefor, only a little less than 10 % even qualify for the long term peace of mind warranty you expect.

Questions to ask:

1)Reliability: Over 85 % of ALL contractors are out of business or have changed names within the 1st 5 years and out of the 15 % who remain, 85 % of them are out within the next 5 years according to the Department Of Labor statistics.

2) Interview: Meet with each of them and go over all of the WRITTEN details. If it is not in writing, it is not part of the agreement.

3) Beware of any contractor who does not get the permit for the job and wants you to get it. The person getting the permit is the party responsible for following the building codes.

4) An actual address and phone #. Not a pick up truck and a cell phone. How can you find them if anything goes wrong?

5) An actual copy of their License, Insurance, and Roofing Bond, if required in your state.  They are all required in Illinois.  Remember, there is Property Liability Insurance, Vehicle Liability Insurance, and Wormans Compensation Insurance.  This also goes for the subcontractor they did not tell you about.  They need all of these insurances too.  OH!  By the way.  Call up the insurance agent listed on the certificate of insurance and verify the information and most importantly, see if have “exempted” themselves from being covered with the Workmans Compensation Insurance.

6) A detailed well defined scope of work, and not a one page generalization of things.

7) I already discussed employees vs sub-contractors. Why? Because something always gets overlooked when passing the buck through multiple chains of command. It does not matter that they will put up a dozen immigrants to make sure the job is done in one day, but it does matter that the job is done correctly by trained and skilled and hopefully certified roofing mechanics. Why? Because most roofs fail within 12-15 years. They are supposed to last up to 30 years and longer if done the Right Way, which is by following the manufacturers specifications.

8.) Do they belong to and/or participate in any contractors associations where they continually strive to broaden their understanding of current technologies and implementation methods?

9) Walk away if something they are feeding you sounds like a bunch of Bull. You only have one chance to do it Right the 1st Time. Anything after that point is just a repair.

10) References. They are the most critical of all aspects to appreciate to differentiate the various contractors.

Find the contractor you know will fulfill all of the job scope requirements and pay them what they deserve. A 25 % to 50 % difference in price is common, and so too is poor craftsmanship and minimal specifications using the non-name brands with no proven quality and a track record of long term duration. 

Everybody can buy the same brands of shingles in the market place.  It is how they are installed, that makes the difference for the long term success.  Remember, anybody can do a cheap job wrong.  It takes talent, experience and a continuing dedication to their craft by using highly trained and certified employees that determines the difference.  This also is true for the initial specifications which were written in the first place.  A good technician can only do what the contract specifies him to do.

Ed

 ShingleVent II install

You mentioned proper balance of venting. I am building my 2-story house which has 1342 sq ft on the second floor. Since I am putting ShingleVent II at the ridges and have drilled holes in the blocking at the eaves my calcs say I need 4.47 sq ft of venting (1/300). I have 5 sq ft at the ridges but only 3.27 at the eaves. Is this a problem since I have 8.27 sq. ft. total?

thanks,

stan

My name is Ed.  Say, HI ED!!!

Okay, we have introduced ourselves, so the intent and purpose of this newly created roofing blog will be to bring up the most common questions I come across and have read on various Contactor discussion forums I participate in. 

You may post and ask your questions directly here, or you may decide to additionally do some internet research.  Once you post your question, I will do my best to reply in a prompt and attentative manner to all respectfully made queries.  All of my advise is my own opinion, but based on many years of continuing education  about all things roofing related, for the past 29 years.

If you would like to see a sample of my posting demeanor and depth that I plunge into for the correctness of any particular answers, you may check out my User Name, Ed The Roofer, where I Post and Moderate at ContractorTalk.com and its sister site DIYChatroom.com and at JLConline.com where professional contractors try to assist each other and the curious home owner on how to best find solutions to a particular problem.  Also, although I am not a home inspector, I have been requested to articulate on roofing and ventilation related problems and solutions on the site that is strictly for the National Association for Certified Home Inspectors, and I graciously and enthusiastically have been assisting the Home Inspectors with their specific Roofing and Ventilation Questions.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Ed

Welcome to   http://rightwayroofing.wordpress.com/ which is being hosted and brought to you, free of charge from WordPress.com. If this is your 1st time here, please check out the various categories to choose the most appropriate one in which to post your question and start blogging! 

This message has been brought to you by our sponsor, with gratitude, to WordPress.com and I sincerely hope you find this blog helpful, so read on to the next entry now, please.

Ed