Ask the Roofers – Roofing and Skylight FAQ

Yes. We offer free roof and skylight estimates across our Rhode Island service area. You can start with our Instant Roof Estimate to see a range for your roof based on your home. When you are ready to take the next step you can book a free appointment so we can inspect the roof in person and give a detailed written quote.

To learn what is included in a typical residential roof project you can also visit our Residential Roofing page.

The Instant Roof Estimate uses your address and roof details to give a starting range for a new roof. It is meant as a planning tool so you can understand ballpark costs before scheduling a visit. The final price is confirmed after we inspect the roof structure layers skylights and details on site.

If you like the estimate range and want real numbers for your home the next step is to book a free appointment so we can inspect the roof and attic and provide a full proposal.

When you book a free appointment we schedule a visit at a time that works for you. On site we inspect the roof surface the attic flashing skylights and drainage. We talk through your goals and timing and review shingle skylight and siding options that fit your home.

After the visit you receive a written quote that spells out the scope of work materials and investment. You can then review this together with your Instant Roof Estimate range so you understand how everything fits your budget.

Whenever it is safe and accessible we inspect both the roof and the attic. In the attic we look for water staining mold poor ventilation and signs of past leaks. Outside we look at shingles flashings skylights chimneys gutters and siding near rooflines.

This approach helps us design the right solution not just a cosmetic fix. If you want to see everything that is included in a system based approach you can review our Residential Roofing and Residential Skylights pages.

For homes we install complete roof systems that include underlayments flashings ventilation and shingles or metal panels. Most projects use architectural asphalt shingles but we also install composite slate look shingles full metal roofs and metal accent roofs on porches and bays.

You can see how these options work on your home on our Residential Roofing and Asphalt Shingles pages. When you know you want to move forward you can book a free appointment to review the best system for your home.

We focus on architectural asphalt shingles because they give a thicker profile better wind performance and stronger warranties than old three tab shingles. Within that category there are different lines with enhanced impact resistance algae resistance and upgraded color blends.

On our Asphalt Shingles page you can see the main families of shingles we use and how they perform. During your visit we bring sample boards so you can see colors next to your siding and trim while we review pricing from your Instant Roof Estimate and written quote.

The main factors are the age of the roof overall condition and how widespread the problems are. If the roof is younger and issues are limited to one area a repair can be a smart choice. If shingles are curling cracking losing granules or you have multiple problem areas a full replacement usually gives better long term value.

Our Residential Roofing page explains how we look at roofs and design replacements. If you want quick guidance on where you might land you can start with an Instant Roof Estimate and then schedule a visit when you are ready.

Along with asphalt shingles we work with composite slate look shingles metal roofing and low slope roofing systems on porches and transitions. On low slope sections we may use EPDM rubber or modified bitumen so water is managed correctly where shingles are not the best fit.

You can learn more about these systems on our Residential Roofing, EPDM Membrane and Modified Bitumen pages and see when each is a good match. We can combine different systems on the same home so everything works together and is covered in a single free appointment proposal.

Yes. We install full metal roofs as well as metal accents on porches bays and entry roofs. Metal can be a good fit when you want a long lasting system and a sharper design. We plan panel layout trim and flashing so the roof performs well in local wind and snow.

You can read more on our Metal Roof Installation page. If you are unsure whether metal or shingles are right for your home you can start with an Instant Roof Estimate then compare options during a free appointment.

Sometimes replacing one slope or one section is possible. We will be honest about how it will look and how it will age next to the existing roof. There is usually a visible difference in color and wear between new and old shingles.

We review pros and cons during your visit and can show examples on our Residential Roofing projects. If you want to understand what a full system would cost you can use the Instant Roof Estimate tool and then refine the numbers with a site visit.

We install modern skylight and daylighting systems that include fixed skylights venting skylights solar powered units roof windows and sun tunnels. We follow the manufacturer details so you receive proper leak protection and warranty coverage.

You can see residential options on our Residential Skylights page and more complex configurations on our Commercial Skylights and Skylights and Sun Tunnels pages. To discuss the best choice for each room or building area you can book a free appointment.

Yes. We can add new skylights in many roof and ceiling types as long as framing and structure allow for a proper opening. We plan the location from inside and outside the home then frame and flash the opening and finish the interior shaft.

Our Skylights and Sun Tunnels page shows how new daylighting can change dark rooms. If you want pricing for new skylights we can include this when you book a free appointment.

Modern skylights with the correct flashing kit and a proper roof integration do not have to leak. Most skylight leaks come from old units past their life span or from incorrect flashing during a past roof project.

On our Residential Skylights and Skylights and Sun Tunnels pages you can see how we handle skylight replacement when we install a new roof. If your skylights are older and you are planning a roof replacement it usually makes sense to address both together which we can review during a free appointment.

Yes. We install and replace skylights and roof windows on commercial buildings and multi family properties. This includes curb mounted skylights large format units and grouped skylight layouts. We coordinate protection access and staging so work can be done safely with minimal disruption.

You can see more information on our Commercial Skylights page and our Commercial Roofing page. To review your specific building conditions you can book a free appointment for a site visit.

In many cases yes. We plan the work so interior protection is in place under skylight openings and coordinate timing with building owners and tenants. We work to limit dust and debris inside and keep access routes clear and safe.

On projects where interior operations are especially sensitive we may schedule work off hours or in phases. This is something we plan together after a site review which you can schedule by using Book a Free Appointment.

Yes. We handle commercial roofing for small businesses offices and multi family buildings. This includes both pitched roofs and many types of low slope or flat roofs.

Our Commercial Roofing page explains how we approach inspections repair plans and replacements. To discuss your building schedule and access needs you can book a free appointment for a commercial site visit.

We install several types of flat roofing systems depending on the building and existing roof. These include EPDM rubber membrane modified bitumen and silicone coating systems over qualified substrates.

You can learn more about each option on our EPDM Membrane, Modified Bitumen and Silicone Roof Coating pages. Choosing between a repair coating or full replacement is something we walk through with building owners during an on site evaluation.

Silicone roof coatings can be a smart choice when the existing flat roof is mostly sound but showing surface wear. The membrane needs to be well attached and in good condition at seams flashings and edges. If the roof is too far gone or wet underneath a coating is not the right answer.

Our Silicone Roof Coating page explains where coatings make sense. If you want to know whether your roof qualifies the best next step is to book a free appointment for a commercial roof inspection.

If it is safe stay on the ground take photos of visible damage and protect anything inside that is getting wet. Then contact us so we can talk through what happened and schedule a visit. Our goal is to stop active water entry and then design a repair or replacement plan.

You can read more about how we handle these projects on our Storm Damage and Insurance Claims page. If you know the damage is significant and want an inspection you can book a free appointment for storm damage review.

In our area the most common storm damage includes lifted or missing shingles wind driven rain getting behind flashing tree limb impacts and damage to skylights gutters or fascia. Hail can also bruise shingles even if you do not see missing pieces from the ground.

Our Storm Damage and Insurance Claims page explains how we document these issues and create a repair plan. If you are not sure whether damage is cosmetic or serious a quick inspection through a free appointment can give you answers.

Yes. Some storm damage such as lifted shingles broken seals bruised shingles or flashing movement can be hard to see from the ground. Interior signs like new ceiling stains or damp insulation can also show up later.

If your home was in the path of a storm it is often worth scheduling a roof check even if you do not see obvious damage. We cover what to expect from that process on Storm Damage and Insurance Claims and you can book a free appointment for a closer look.

Yes. When weather and access allow we provide emergency tarping and temporary repairs to protect your interior while a permanent solution is planned. We focus on making the roof watertight and documenting the damage so repairs can be properly scoped.

Our approach to documentation and insurance communication is outlined on the Storm Damage and Insurance Claims page.

We can inspect the roof document damage with photos and provide a detailed scope of work that you can share with your insurance company. We can also meet an adjuster on site when needed to review roofing details and answer technical questions.

We do not control the insurance company decision but we make sure the recommended work meets code and manufacturer requirements. You can see how this process works in more detail on Storm Damage and Insurance Claims.

Yes. On multi trade projects or larger buildings we coordinate with general contractors property managers and other trades so the roof work fits into the overall restoration plan. Communication about schedule access and safety is important when multiple teams are involved.

For multi family and commercial buildings you can review Commercial Roofing along with Storm Damage and Insurance Claims and then book a free appointment to plan your project.

Yes. Roof and gutter systems work together to move water away from your home. Many roof projects include new gutters and downspouts or changes to drainage so water is not concentrated in one area.

You can review options on our Gutter Systems page and then decide whether to include gutters in your written quote when you book a free appointment.

We install seamless aluminum gutters in common sizes along with a range of downspout layouts and accessories. We match the gutter color to your trim or siding and design the layout so water flows cleanly to drainage areas.

Our Gutter Systems page walks through common styles and options. During your appointment we can show you how each choice fits with your roof and fascia design.

We look at roof size roof pitch and how roof sections drain into each other. Larger contributing roof areas and steeper slopes can require larger gutters or additional downspouts to handle heavy rain.

When we design a roof and gutter system together we explain why certain sizes and downspout locations are recommended so you know the layout is based on more than just matching what you had before.

Yes. In areas with a lot of trees gutter guards can help reduce clogging and maintenance. Not every guard product fits every situation so we look at roof pitch valley locations and tree types before recommending a system.

If you want to include gutter guards in your project we can outline options on our Gutter Systems page and in your quote when you book a free appointment.

Clogged or undersized gutters can cause water to back up onto the roof, overflow onto siding, or dump water next to the foundation. Over time this can contribute to ice dams, wood rot, foundation settlement and basement moisture.

By pairing the right roof system with the right gutter layout we move water away from the home. You can read more about system thinking on Residential Roofing and Gutter Systems.

Yes. We can replace gutter systems as a stand alone project when the roof is still in good condition. We still evaluate roof edges fascia and soffits to make sure new gutters will be attached to sound materials.

If you know a roof replacement is coming soon it can be more efficient to plan gutters together with the roof which we can outline during a free appointment.

We inspect fascia and rake trim at the eaves and gables during roof projects. If boards are rotten soft or pulling away from the house we can replace them before the new roof and gutters are installed.

Our Fascia and Rake Trim page explains why these components matter for appearance and performance. Addressing trim at the same time as the roof often saves time and keeps the exterior looking finished.

Common signs include peeling paint that never seems to hold, soft or spongy wood, visible gaps between trim and roof edges, staining from overflowing gutters and active wood rot.

If you see these issues while also planning roof work it is usually best to correct them during the roof project. We review this during your free appointment and outline trim work in your proposal when needed.

Yes. We can replace damaged wood fascia and trim with PVC or similar low maintenance materials in many locations. These materials do not rot the way wood does and can be painted to match the rest of your exterior.

You can see how trim upgrades fit into the overall system on our Fascia and Rake Trim page and our Siding page.

Fascia boards provide the mounting surface for gutters and help close the gap between roofing and exterior walls. Rake trim protects the edges of gable ends and gives a clean finish to the roofline.

When we design a project we look at roofing, gutters and trim together so attachment points are solid and water is directed away from wood components. This is part of the system approach described on Residential Roofing and Gutter Systems.

Yes. Storms and long term leaks can damage fascia, rake trim and nearby siding. After we address the source of the water we can repair or replace damaged trim and coordinate finish painting so the repaired areas blend in with the rest of the home.

This kind of repair often ties into the work described on Storm Damage and Insurance Claims and Siding.

We check soffit condition and attic ventilation during roof projects because both affect roof life and interior comfort. When soffits are blocked or deteriorated we can open and restore vents and repair or replace soffit panels as needed.

Good ventilation is part of a complete roof system. We review this when we inspect your roof and attic during a free appointment.

We work with several siding systems including composite siding fiber cement siding natural cedar siding and CertainTeed Cedar Impressions. Each option has its own look maintenance level and price point.

You can see how these systems can update and protect your home on our Siding page. When we meet at your home we can compare siding options next to your roof and trim choices from your Instant Roof Estimate and roofing plan.

Composite siding is made from engineered materials designed to look like wood while reducing maintenance. It resists rot and insect damage and is available in many styles and colors. It can be a strong option when you want the look of painted wood without frequent scraping and repainting.

We outline composite siding benefits on our Siding page and can show samples during your free appointment so you can compare them with other siding systems.

Fiber cement siding is a durable material that combines cement sand and cellulose fibers. It holds paint well resists rot and insect damage and can be manufactured to mimic wood shingles or traditional lap siding.

If you want a long lasting low maintenance exterior with a wood look fiber cement can be a good fit. You can learn more about it and see style options on our Siding page.

Natural cedar siding has a classic New England look and can be left to weather or finished with stain or paint. It does require more maintenance than some other options and needs correct installation and ventilation so it can dry properly.

If you love the look of real wood and are comfortable with periodic maintenance cedar can be a great choice. We discuss these tradeoffs on our Siding page and can compare cedar to composite or fiber cement during a free appointment.

CertainTeed Cedar Impressions are vinyl shingle panels molded from real cedar shingles. They give a cedar shingle look with very low maintenance and are available in many colors and profiles. They are popular on coastal and traditional style homes.

We often recommend Cedar Impressions when homeowners want the look of cedar shingles without the upkeep of natural wood. You can see how they compare to other siding options on our Siding page.

Yes. Roof work and storm damage often affect siding near rooflines. We can coordinate siding repairs or full siding replacement with roof work so everything is planned together and the exterior is finished as one project.

For larger exterior projects you can see more on our Siding page and Storm Damage and Insurance Claims page and then book a free appointment to review the full scope.

Roof pricing depends on roof size and shape pitch number of existing layers details around chimneys and skylights and the specific system you choose. Many projects fall within common ranges but each home is different.

The best way to start is with our Instant Roof Estimate which gives a range for your home. When you are comfortable with the range and want an exact number you can book a free appointment and we will inspect the home and provide a written quote. You can also review system details on Residential Roofing and Asphalt Shingles.

Skylight work adds to the project cost based on the number of units size type and interior finish work. Replacing skylights during a roof replacement often saves labor compared to separate projects and ensures everything is flashed and integrated as one system.

To plan your skylight budget you can review our Residential Skylights and Skylights and Sun Tunnels pages and then include skylights in your Instant Roof Estimate and follow up quote.

Yes. We offer financing options that can spread the cost of your project over time instead of paying everything at once. This can be helpful when you are dealing with an unexpected leak or simply prefer a monthly payment.

You can see an overview of available options on our Financing Available page. During your appointment we can walk through current plans while you review your written quote from a free appointment.

Most single family asphalt shingle roof replacements are completed in one to two working days depending on roof size and complexity. Homes with multiple levels many skylights or structural repairs can take longer.

When we meet at your home we give a realistic schedule for your specific roof. You can learn how a typical project is staged on our Residential Roofing page and then book a free appointment for your own project plan.

We use ground protection tarps and plywood where needed to shield siding decks and landscaping. We keep the work area organized and use magnets to pick up nails around driveways and walkways after tear off and installation.

At the end of the job we walk the site with you so you can review the roof and the cleanup. For more on how we treat your property you can see our project information on Residential Roofing and Commercial Roofing.

If we uncover rotten or damaged roof decking when we remove old roofing we show you what we find and explain how much wood must be replaced. We only install new roofing over solid clean decking so the system performs the way it should.

We explain how unexpected decking replacement is handled in your written proposal so there is clarity before work begins. You can always ask about this during a free appointment.

Every project includes a manufacturer warranty on the roofing skylight or siding products and a workmanship warranty from our company. The details depend on the exact shingle system flat roof system skylight package or siding system you choose.

Our Residential Roofing, Commercial Roofing, Residential Skylights and Siding pages describe these systems. We review the specific warranty documents for your project when we present your quote at your free appointment.

Use the search box at the top of this page to look for key words related to your question. If you still do not see an answer you can use the chat tool at the bottom of the page or book a free appointment so we can answer your question directly.

We add new questions and answers here over time based on what homeowners and building owners ask us most often.

Many homeowners read the sections that match their project such as Residential Roofing, Residential Skylights, Commercial Roofing, Siding or Storm Damage and Insurance Claims. They then write down their own questions and bring them to the visit.

You can also use the Instant Roof Estimate tool before you book a free appointment so you already have a sense of cost when we meet.