Roofing questions, answered

Yes. There's no cost to you to request help. Roofing contractors in our network pay for referrals. You only pay the company you hire, and you're never obligated to hire anyone.

No. We're an independent referral service. We pass your request to an independent, insured roofing contractor serving your area, and they contact you directly. Any estimate, contract, and work is between you and that company.

For active leaks, the goal is a call back as soon as possible during business hours and promptly after hours. While you wait, catch drips, move belongings, turn off power to any wet light fixtures, and stay off the roof.

Georgia does not issue a statewide license specifically for residential roofing. Many cities and counties require a local business license and permits for roofing work, and larger projects that go beyond roofing may require a state-licensed residential or general contractor. Always ask for proof of insurance and local licensing.

Sudden damage from hail, wind, or a falling tree is commonly covered. Wear and tear, age, and long-term leaks usually are not. Some Georgia policies have a separate wind or hail deductible. Check your policy and talk with your agent.

It depends on the material, installation, and ventilation. Asphalt shingle roofs are often expected to last somewhere around 20 to 30 years, but Georgia heat, poor attic ventilation, heavy shade, and storm damage can shorten that. Metal and other premium materials generally last longer.

Be cautious of anyone who knocks right after a storm and pressures you to sign immediately, wants large payments upfront, offers to cover your deductible, or can't show proof of insurance and a local business address. Take time to compare written estimates.

If damage is limited to one area and the rest of the shingles are flat, intact, and holding their granules, a repair is often enough. Widespread curling, cracking, granule loss, or multiple leaks usually point toward replacement.

Many single-family re-roofs are completed in one to three days, depending on the size and complexity of the roof, the amount of decking repair, and weather.

Hail can fall any time severe thunderstorms occur, but in Georgia it is most common in spring, roughly March through May, with additional storms in early summer.

A professionally installed tarp is meant to be temporary, often a matter of weeks to a few months. Sun and wind break tarps down, so schedule a permanent repair as soon as you can.

Many roofers suggest every few years for newer roofs, more often as a roof ages, and after any significant hail or windstorm.

At least twice a year, typically late spring after pollen and oak tassels and late fall after leaf drop. Homes under pines or large hardwoods may need more frequent cleaning.

Standard asphalt shingles need a minimum slope to shed water, and manufacturers restrict them on very low slopes. Flat and nearly flat sections should use a membrane system instead.