How can a homeowner recognize when their roof system has problems?

All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. In Yakima twice-a-year inspections need to be made (especially after the first 10 years) so you can determine if any damage has occurred during the last six months.

Outdoors: Look for cracked, warped or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating and causing clogging and drainage problems in the gutters or downspouts; mildew or debris on your roof; overhanging trees; and other visible signs of roof system problems.

Indoors: look for cracked paint, ceiling discoloration, bubbling paint, rot or mildew, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas. Other areas of concern:

My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely?

Not necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a section of the roofing shingles being damaged by wind. A complete roof system failure, however, generally is irreversible and your roof will need to be totally replaced. Sectional damage can be the result of improper installation such as using staples to roof the home, or the nails are too short to get a good grip on the sheathing under the shingles. Also the wrong shingles could have been used for the house.

What are my options if I decide to reroof?

First, contact A-1 Construction to give you a free roof inspection. If it is determined that you need a new roof, you can choose one of two options: 1) a complete replacement of the roof system, involving a tear-off of your existing roof system and replacing it with a complete new roof, or 2) repairing the roof system if the damage is limited to a few shingles, such as when a wind storm has done a little damage.

Can I do roof repair work myself?

Most work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. There are many techniques learned over many years that allow them to install your roof properly to insure a leak proof job. You can damage your roof system by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure yourself by falling off or through the roof. It is better if you do what you know how to do ... and let a professional roofer help you to ensure your roof protects the investment you have made in your home.

Maintenance performed by home and building owners should be confined to inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles and cleaning gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you must inspect your roof system yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the ladder (and off the roof system), if possible, if the roof is too steep to walk on easily, view the roof from the ladder or have a free roof inspection conducted by a competent roofing contractor to determine any roofing repairs that may need to be done.

How long can I expect my roof system to last?

Most new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for 20 years to 50 years. The manufacturer of the roofing system provides information about the expected life of the various roofing systems they offer. Some roof system types, such as slate, clay tile and certain metal (e.g., copper) systems, can last longer than shake roofs, for example.

Actual roof system life span is determined by a number of factors, including local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof system design, installation techniques, material quality and suitability, proper application, ventilation, insulation and adequate roof maintenance.

Roofing product manufacturers offer a variety of warranties from 30 to 50 years. Recent federal law also requires a wind warranty of 70 to 110 miles mph on roofing systems and products. Take a close look at those warranties to see what responsibilities and financial obligations manufacturers will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lives. These warrantees can be viewed on their websites.

What will a new roof system cost?

The price of a new roof system varies widely, depending on such things as the materials selected, contractor doing the work, home or building, location of the home or building, local labor rates, and the time of year. To get a good estimate for your roof system, get two or three proposals from reputable contractors in your area. Keep in mind that price is only one factor, and it must be balanced with the quality of the materials and workmanship. Also ask friend or relatives for recommendations.

For each roofing material, there are different grades and corresponding prices. There also are a variety of styles and shapes. You need to look at the full product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs. You need to purchase the most expensive roofing materials you can afford because all the other items used on the job, such as felt paper, ice & water guard, metal trim, vent flashing costs the same with all the shingles. The labor is usually the same, the only difference is the cost of the shingles.

Within the roofing profession, there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. Insist on a contractor who is committed to quality work.

How can I determine my annual roofing cost?

When considering your roofing options, the following formula may help:

Annual Roofing Cost = Total Cost (Materials & Labor)
Life Expectancy of Roof System (in years)

What is the advantage of using Ice and Waterguard?

Ice and waterguard underlayment is installed underneath the shingles for extra protection in areas that are prone to water leakage. High wear areas like the valleys on the roof, around dormers, rakes, eaves and skylights are good places to put an extra barrier of protection against water leakage caused by ice damming and wind-driven rain. Waterproofing underlayment is self-sealing so that it seals around nails providing a water tight barrier against moisture.

All our roofs are nailed

We do not use staples, staples can cut the shingles and allow them to blow off easily. The major cause of wind damage to shingles is the use of staples instead of roofing nails.

How can I pay for my roof repair or replacement?

We accept cash, check, or credit card payments:       

A-1 Construction of Yakima, Inc. is a proud member of the

Washington State Contractor's License #A-1CONYI039M9