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Roofing/Questions Answered by Expert Tom Souza
| Subject | Date Asked |
| hot tourch roofing | 1/19/2012 |
| Q: I own a building in Southeast Oklahoma. I'm looking into the hot torch repair. Some say that because ... A: I think I agree Expansion, contraction not good and if any water gets under. and then freezes Can ... | |
| bald spots in low slope mod bit roof | 11/25/2011 |
| Q: How do I repair small (1-2 square inch) bald spots in a mod-bit roof? Interested in recomended ... A: If this is a modified Bit roof and the granules are balding, You can get granules at you local ... | |
| Gutters and ice dams | 11/14/2011 |
| Q: My house is an 80-year old cape with balloon framing in northern Mass. I get ice dams every winter. ... A: I am so sorry I could not help you with this one. I live in Calif. And as your aware we really don't ... | |
| EPDM roofing bubbles/creases | 11/6/2011 |
| Q: With the help of my 2 sons we put down a 27x15 foot 1 piece rubber roof section. The temp was about ... A: These new types of rubber roofing products are new to me as well. The best advise I could give you ... | |
| roof inspection | 10/11/2011 |
| Q: I can buy a coupon for 199.00 to have my roof inspected for the winter with shingle replacement and ... A: It sounds like an ok deal. 1. you need to ask how many shingles will be replaced with this deal. 2. ... | |
| Roof drip edging | 10/10/2011 |
| Q: I need to install roof edging on an existing roof and I'm somewhat confused, does the lip of the ... A: Sorry I was out of town The Edge metal should fall at least one inch into the gutter and the other ... | |
| Mira Vista Shake | 9/16/2011 |
| Q: I installed Mira Vista Shake on my roof in 1997 The shingles have become Brittle and faded. I just ... A: The Best way to get the info your looking for is to call the nearest roofing supply company near ... | |
| Metal roof deluges foundation | 8/2/2011 |
| Q: We have a 40x60' pole outbuilding with a concrete slab underneath (no drain inside), roofed with a ... A: Unfortunately, areas with snow and ice packing is not part of my forte. My knowledge is in the ... | |
| Roof | 7/27/2011 |
| Q: We are living in the same house for the past 20 years, the previous owners added a screen house in ... A: You live in florida, The rules and regulation will have to come from the city you live in, That way ... | |
| outdoor carpet on a rubber membrane | 7/19/2011 |
| Q: I,am having problems with carpet splitting at seam because of movement of membrane on a flat roof ... A: It sounds like there is a lot of expansion contraction taken place one, and two it also sounds like ... | |
| energy efficient roof | 7/9/2011 |
| Q: .i am looking for an energy efficient roof to be put on the house. with so many choices, its ... A: The fiberglass shingle would be my choice, with a high wind resistance and a heavy weight. The one ... | |
| energy efficient roof | 7/8/2011 |
| Q: .i am looking for an energy efficient roof to be put on the house. with so many choices, its ... A: Lets look at you situation, summer's very warm, winter's very cold ( snow and Ice ) With lots of ... | |
| Roofing Shingles | 6/3/2011 |
| Q: Which shingle do you consider the higer in quality. etc Certainteed or Ownes Corning? A: I am In northern calif. The Certainteed plant in in Fremont Ca. Mostly used in this market is ... | |
| Flat Roof and outdoor capet | 5/10/2011 |
| Q: I have a boat dock that has a flat roof. Size 16' x 33'. The roof is covered with a rubber membrane ... A: I don't think this a big problem. Keep in mind I can't see The product. I would do the same way. I ... | |
| reroofing | 4/22/2011 |
| Q: Is it possible to heat the single ply or multi ply rolls with a torch over the existing flat asphalt ... A: 1st Installing a Roof over a roof is a bad Idea if you should have a leak you will not be able ... | |
| roofing/edge metel | 3/19/2011 |
| Q: is there any scenario where when attaching edge metal/cleat to a newly installed rubber roof that ... A: I don't Think I would clean with gas this might hurt the roofing itself. There is so many different ... | |
| reroof | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: I had reroof done in Dec.2010. They installed a Timberline architectural series. Shingles went down ... A: A 1 1/4" nail is a standard nail size for a new roof or if you had the old roof removed and and new ... | |
| roof repair??? | 10/30/2010 |
| Q: Just bought a house in west newton MA, and today went up to assess the "damage" on the roof. What I ... A: The best thing to do is go to a local roofing supply company and show them a piece of the product. ... | |
| ridge vents | 10/21/2010 |
| Q: We had hail damage and we are replacing our roof. We want to get the ridge vents to get a better ... A: I am sure if you talk to the construction company who is doing the work on your roof they will ... | |
| Roof leak | 10/7/2010 |
| Q: Yesterday during a hard down pour, there was water dripping from a recessed light in my living room. ... A: With out see the problem it would be very hard to determine, But water will travel along a straight ... | |
| Flat roof leak at gas flue entry | 10/6/2010 |
| Q: Can you tell me if we can repair our flat tar and gravel roof in the rain as I think we have to have ... A: Sorry for the delay They do make some things for a quick fix, it does depend on how big of a hole it ... | |
| Hidden fastners standing seam roof | 10/2/2010 |
| Q: I just had a 28 g Hidden fastners standing seam roof installed. Ideal roofing is the ... A: I have seen standing seam roofing with the screws at the bottom, I also have seen some with out. ... | |
| Mansard Shingle Roof | 7/22/2010 |
| Q: Need a detail suggestion for the top of the shingle mansard that meets the almost flat roof of a ... A: If I am picturing this detail It sounds like an L type metal or What is called roof to wall metal is ... | |
| Roof replacement quality and workmanship issues | 7/11/2010 |
| Q: I had a flat roof replaced this week and have question about quality of replacement and workmanship. ... A: First If this is a flat roof and it sounds like it is, I don't recommend a one ply Torch-on, I would ... | |
| Roof Sugestions | 7/6/2010 |
| Q: I have a 1600 sq ft home in south florida. It has partial flat roof with asphalt material and mild ... A: first, The pitch for fiberglass shingles Here in California is 2/12, I have no knowledge about ... | |
| Reroofing with cedar shakes. | 7/2/2010 |
| Q: Can you reroof over cedar shakes with cedar shakes? If not what is the best method to remove the old ... A: Yes, You can, Depending on how Thick the shakes are depends on the length of the nail, medium shakes ... | |
| Reroofing with cedar shakes. | 7/2/2010 |
| Q: Can you reroof over cedar shakes with cedar shakes? If not what is the best method to remove the old ... A: No you can not roof over cedar Shakes. In most cases you can roof over Cedar wood shingles. It's ... | |
| replacing shingles on roof | 6/13/2010 |
| Q: What are the advantages of Metal shingles on a single dwelling in Northern Ontario Price wise for ... A: It's hard to tell you what kind of metal shingles are they?, what is on the roof now? Some metal ... | |
| roof pulling up at end | 6/12/2010 |
| Q: I had a small room roofed and it is now pulling up at the end and looking like an Asian roof, ... A: Keep in mind it hard to determine what is exactly going on since I can't see it. What it sounds ... | |
| replacing roof plywood | 6/10/2010 |
| Q: Our roofer removed the shingles to discover water-damaged plywood. He has purchased 1/2 inch plywood ... A: First, The damaged plywood should be removed, then replaced with new and not put on top of the old ... | |
| modified bitumen | 6/1/2010 |
| Q: Can modified bitumen be installed by a DIY homeowner and if so what is the best way? Tom A: Yes you can, I do not recommend it. When doing torch-on you are using an open flame That you can't ... | |
| roof leaks where sun room attaches H.roof | 5/18/2010 |
| Q: Champion, installed sun room about 15 yrs ago I had roof problen and discovered mold on roof ... A: It sounds like it needs to be looked into, This is a common problem when connecting to eve areas if ... | |
| torch down repair | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: i own a 10,000sq ft commercial bldg,flat roof. i recently added a mansard around the entire bldg, ... A: A couple of things come in to play 1. Is the roof pitched to the drains 2. Is the drains lower ... | |
| Paint Removal | 4/28/2010 |
| Q: How do I remove paint from the shingles on my roof. Painters accidentally brushed part of a brand ... A: The shingles are oil based, so trying to remove the paint is going to be very hard to do, The two ... | |
| Reroof | 4/27/2010 |
| Q: Question - I need to install new dimensional (GAF Timberline) shingles over top of an existing Gaf ... A: It's not a good Idea to roof over an existing roof. 1st, The new roofing will not lay as flat as ... | |
| roofing | 4/23/2010 |
| Q: What do you think about IKO Roofshake 40 Vs GAF Timberline 40 shingles to be used in Sountern ... A: I live and work in the San Francisco bay area, This market doesn't see much Iko product, we do see ... | |
| Modified Rubber flat roof leaks large area | 4/11/2010 |
| Q: My Church has a modified rubber flat roof, there is a large area that is sunken in. there is no ... A: The concern is the sunken area. is there dryrot taken place or is the lumber under the roof damaged. ... | |
| torch down roofing | 4/1/2010 |
| Q: Is there a roof coating that I can spread over my flat roof? It is covered with a ten year old torch ... A: First, anything you may put on it must be a water base product, Now the one that comes to mind is an ... | |
| 4 ply built up roof-correct install | 3/24/2010 |
| Q: Attached are several photos of a 18,000 sq. ft roof with a membrane coat that is less than 1 year ... A: What concerns me from the only photo I see is. Is this a new structure? Or an Older building? older ... | |
| Soil Boot Replacement | 3/16/2010 |
| Q: Tom - I was told by a roofer that I need to replace 4 soil boots (boot collars) on my roof. The ... A: I did a little research on a soil boot, since I have never heard of this. from what I can tell it ... | |
| Roofing Material | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I have had problems with ice damns in the same spot on my roof for a few years. I am planning on ... A: You could use a standard shingle, I still would call around to the supply companies and see want's ... | |
| Roofing Material | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I have had problems with ice damns in the same spot on my roof for a few years. I am planning on ... A: First, Going over a roof is something I don't like doing, Do to the fact you maybe hiding problems, ... | |
| moisture on ceiling and walls in bedroom | 2/8/2010 |
| Q: We bought a home in Rodeo Ca in Dec 2008.It has a flat tar and gravel roof. Recently I have noticed ... A: This may sound strange, One time I was inspecting a house The lady said she had water coming from ... | |
| ceiling leaking in downstairs bedroom | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: The ceiling in my daughter's downstairs bedroom is leaking about a foot in from the outside wall. ... A: This would be easier over the phone Please call me at 650-921-7663 Lets try this over the Internet, ... | |
| ceiling leaking in downstairs bedroom | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: The ceiling in my daughter's downstairs bedroom is leaking about a foot in from the outside wall. ... A: Every case is different Water could be coming in though a non sealed window, It could be getting ... | |
| condensation under the roof eaves | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: I live in a home that was built in 1960 (cedar siding). The home was in need of a new roof ... A: No I don't feel you have a concern, Condensation is normal with long overhangs, moister tends to ... | |
| box vent | 1/22/2010 |
| Q: I want to replace the turbines on my 20-year old ranch style (recently replaced roof)with box style ... A: It sounds like you might have enough venting, Rule of thumb id 1.5 sq ft for every 100 sq ft of ... | |
| Roof | 1/8/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know please specfically why Leaves on Roofs are Bad for the roof? A: Good morning John A few reasons 1. If left on roof as a lot of people do, The leaves hold moister ... | |
| correct nail size | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: how ya doen, I just had a roof put on my house and when I went up into the attic, I noticed that the ... A: The nail size to use can vary depending on the thickness of the shingle being used. in most cases ... | |
| cold weather installation | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: Is it okay to install shingles on a pitched room when the temperature is 30 degrees or less A: If the shingles are fiberglass, I Won't install Them at this low of a temperature, the shingles are ... | |
| membrane repair | 12/28/2009 |
| Q: There are several leaks in the gutter membrane around my house. I had reroofing done in 2005. The ... A: Liat This sounds like a dutch gutter system or a built-in gutter, Normally this is covered by a new ... | |
| torch down roofing | 12/21/2009 |
| Q: i own a 10,000sq ft commercial bldg with a flat roof, with torch down roofing. i recently had a ... A: This is something that I would ask a local roofer to help you with, You can torch on top. the ... | |
| RIDGE VENTS | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: I HAVE A 13 YEAR OLD HOME THAT NEEDS A ROOF REPLACEMENT. THE ROOFER HAS SUGGESTED USING THE RIDGE ... A: I personably don't like the ridge vent Idea, I heard of wind blowing up water into it as well as Ice ... | |
| quality of work from professional install | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: I had a rubber roof put on part of my house today and the rubber is somewhat loose and has lots of ... A: I am in Northern Ca. I have not worked with The new rubber system, I have seen many. All of them I ... | |
| roof repair, dimensional shingles | 12/3/2009 |
| Q: Shingles blew off our 5 yr old roof with fiberglass dimensional shingles. When I look at the ones ... A: The plastic strip on the back of the shingle are not required to be removed, This strip is so the ... | |
| replace flat tar and gravel roof on commercial building | 11/19/2009 |
| Q: what is better to use tpo or bitumen matiriel to replace it with or none of the above please advice ... A: I am from Northern Calif. I think you will get a better idea if you call a roofing supply company in ... | |
| Reroofing | 11/17/2009 |
| Q: Our roof is 19 years old in fair condition, it probably is a 30 year composition roof, but we are ... A: Using the titanium is good and installing the tile over it is also good, When putting tile on the ... | |
| crooked ridge caps | 11/12/2009 |
| Q: I have recently paid a roofing contractor for a new roof. the job was completed and I was left ... A: A crooked ridge line more than likely should not be a problem, Ridge is like a piece trim or ... | |
| Cement fiber roof tile | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: A home I purchased has a 10 year old roof with cement fiber s- shaped tiles. similar to CEMWOOD ... A: The product you are speaking of I believe is called Maxi tile, If you look on the side of it looks ... | |
| Shake shingles | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: Can I use 2 layers of 15# felt for shake shingles instead of one layer of 30# felt both as a layer ... A: great Question It is not recommended using #15 pound felt for a wood shake liner. I recommended ... | |
| cedar roof maintenance | 10/27/2009 |
| Q: here is a picture, tom thanks, mitch @@@@@IMAGE:37744:Roofing-1598/2009/10/X_3.jpg##### ANSWER: Hi ... A: You could nail down the staples and then seal them, add nails as well next to the staples and seal ... | |
| cedar roof maintenance | 10/26/2009 |
| Q: here is a picture, tom thanks, mitch A: From the picture It looks like nails are coming up from ridge area pull nails that are coming up and ... | |
| cedar roof maintenance | 10/26/2009 |
| Q: i have a 12 year old non-leaking cedar shake roof that is in decent repair. i recently had ~100 ... A: When removing the old nails from ridge area fill hole with a good caulking ( sicaflex is one ) When ... | |
| Blocked Soffit Vents and Insulation | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: We live near Chicago and recently bought a 55 year-old, ~1200 sq ft ranch house with a relatively ... A: you did a very good job of explaining the situation. with out seeing it it's hard to give a ... | |
| Sealing Vent Flashings | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: My roof is 4 years old. Rains started this fall, and we have a leak. The roofing guy thinks it was ... A: Looking at the picture this is a fiberglass shingle, Normally this doesn't happen the flashing on ... | |
| Waterproofing deck (with living space below) | 10/19/2009 |
| Q: On a Deck (with living space below) can you use torch down material (instead of hot mop) for ... A: From My experience, Hot mop works the best between these two products, The torch-on leaves a raised ... | |
| IKO vs BP | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: I live in Calgary. I am quoted between IKO Roofshake 40yrs and the BP Harmony 35 yrs The difference ... A: I live in the San Jose area in Northern Ca. The Two roofing products you are speaking about is not ... | |
| roof leaking | 10/15/2009 |
| Q: About 10 years ago we had a front porch added to our home and the whole house roofed about 3 years ... A: Not to scare but it sounds like a moisture problem at the junction were the two buildings meet, When ... | |
| Torch down roof over asphalt shigles | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: I have a roofer friend who says he can put a torch down roof on a 1/2"rise by 12" run roof right ... A: I would remove the old shingles and old felt and inspect for dryrot or damage fix as needed, apply a ... | |
| Tear off cost | 10/9/2009 |
| Q: I recently received a quote for roof replacement which included tear off of existing roof. My roofer ... A: From want it looks like is he misquoted you, He forgot to add tear off to his cost, If you signed a ... | |
| Roofing Temperature | 10/8/2009 |
| Q: What is the lowest temperature outside that you should re-roof a house at. Where I live right now ... A: There is no real time to install the shingles, If it is 50* during the day on the roof it more ... | |
| roof vent | 10/1/2009 |
| Q: We have a leak and it is by the vent. When we had our roof re shingles we didnt' put in new vents . ... A: Depending on what type of shingles used, Replacing a vent is very easy. I am sure if you called the ... | |
| advice | 9/26/2009 |
| Q: .just writing to ask some advice. first, when putting a new roof on, can you put a new roof over the ... A: You need to check with your city Building department to make sure but in most cases yes a 2nd layer ... | |
| Dust inside house during roof tear-off | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: We've had various opinions as we've asked around about how much if any dust sifts down into the ... A: Roof removal can make a big mess, (But not always) This depends on a couple of things, one how the ... | |
| fiberglass shingle roof leak | 9/23/2009 |
| Q: My roof was replaced three years ago. Shingles and 30 lb. felt paper. I am sure the contractor (who ... A: Is there any Pipe flashing, Heater vents or Valleys Near the leak area, Is there any Chimney's or ... | |
| storm collar blow by | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: I have noticed that when the wind blows hard from the east it will push water up underneath the ... A: You could add a wider piece of sheet metal at the bottom of the storm Collar by screwing on around ... | |
| pitched roof | 9/18/2009 |
| Q: If I measure a 10/12 roof from eave to ridge and frome end to end(ridge) is this my exact ... A: When I read a roof plan And it calls out for a 10/12 pitch, What I do is Box it in sections Then ... | |
| roofs | 9/15/2009 |
| Q: Is there a state website to check on complaints against roofers? My potential roofing contractor ... A: Every state should have there own contractor compliant area, in California ours is the California ... | |
| Ridge vent | 9/13/2009 |
| Q: We are considering replacing our wood shake roof with a dimensional composite shingle roof. Most ... A: I am one not fond of ridge vent, Like you I am concerned about bugs and other things getting into ... | |
| Cedar Shake Preservative | 9/3/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to determine which wood preservative product will work best on a cedar shake roof. I am ... A: Sorry My experience is not in wood shake treatments. For Cleaning I normally suggest sweeping the ... | |
| cedar roof maintenance | 9/3/2009 |
| Q: Tom, One of the guys that painted my house recently did some maintenance on my cedar shake roof that ... A: First: Power washing the roof depending on how much pressure was used is not always a good idea, it ... | |
| cedar-shake roof | 9/1/2009 |
| Q: I tore the roof off of one side of my garage today. There were two layers of asphalt shingles that ... A: First, Yes you should at least apply a number 30 felt 36" wide on first. My recommendation: to tear ... | |
| Metal versus asphalt shingles price | 8/31/2009 |
| Q: I've got two quotes for both type roofs. standing seam and asphalt The standing seam is twice the ... A: With out going through my notes, I belive I said the metal roofing, using decra tile or Gerard metal ... | |
| facia board and gutters | 8/29/2009 |
| Q: with the current economy I have been doing all of my home improvements myself. As I am currently ... A: Fascia Boards are for a wider trim and to hide rafter tails. They are used when using a smaller ... | |
| Felt | 8/27/2009 |
| Q: How long should you leave 15# felt uncovered? My understanding is that it should be covered ... A: The roofing paper should be covered as soon as possible the longer it is exposed to sunlight the ... | |
| 100 year old slate roof | 8/27/2009 |
| Q: How can you tell if asbestos is present in the slate? A: The only true way to check for asbestos to have it tested, Contact a local EPA office and asked were ... | |
| wood shake repair | 8/26/2009 |
| Q: my wood shake roof has the first row of shake under the ridge cap coming loose or missing. It looks ... A: Also from northern Ca San Jose area what it sounds like they used is what is called a cut off, a ... | |
| Roofing and roofing paper | 8/25/2009 |
| Q: Im haveing a my roof replaced and was watching the roofers lay out the paper when I became ... A: It sounds like you did the right thing, true felt paper is for that reason, Condensation ( water ) ... | |
| Water leak in the kitchen ceiling | 8/22/2009 |
| Q: I had a water leak in the winter and the roof was inspected and they say it is still good for 5 ... A: Insulation is not a water proofer, The small leak could from so many places, when the Snow builds ... | |
| step flashing on reroof | 8/21/2009 |
| Q: ..i'm selling my house, and the buyer's inspector "failed" the roof- said there is NO step flashing. ... A: Ask if this outside inspector is lic. Not the company the person who inspected it. My concern was ... | |
| step flashing on reroof | 8/20/2009 |
| Q: ..i'm selling my house, and the buyer's inspector "failed" the roof- said there is NO step flashing. ... A: Regarding step flashing, in some cases if there was a new roof put over an existing roof the ... | |
| cedar shake--to replace or not | 8/17/2009 |
| Q: We have a cedar shake roof on our home that was built in 1989. We are selling our home and the ... A: Most shake roofs last between 18-25 years depending on if there med shakes or heavy shakes and what ... | |
| When to re-roof...? | 8/17/2009 |
| Q: I notice that my asphalt shingle roof looks pretty worn - not sure exactly how old it is, but could ... A: in your situation something is holding out the water be it the present roof or if there is one under ... | |
| When to re-roof...? | 8/17/2009 |
| Q: I notice that my asphalt shingle roof looks pretty worn - not sure exactly how old it is, but could ... A: If there is a an layer under the present roof it may hold out the rain, I am not saying it will make ... | |
| When to re-roof...? | 8/16/2009 |
| Q: I notice that my asphalt shingle roof looks pretty worn - not sure exactly how old it is, but could ... A: Depending on the weather, an old shingle roof becomes very brittle with heavy wind it can blow away, ... | |
| Rubber Roofing ''Membrain'' Installation | 8/16/2009 |
| Q: I'm getting ready to install a Rubber roof on my mobile home, and there is 6 individual 4" round ... A: The rubber systems are fairly new in the market, and I wish I could tell you how to install over the ... | |
| Roof/Attic venting | 8/15/2009 |
| Q: Tom, My home was built in 1950, the roof only has 2 vents on the gable ends and has several ... A: The other way is to use a High and low venting. At around one ft down from ridge install an eyebrow ... | |
| Roof/Attic venting | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: Tom, My home was built in 1950, the roof only has 2 vents on the gable ends and has several ... A: I am from northern CA. We don't get a lot of Ice damning not much experience with Ice damning Do ... | |
| Roofing: plywood or OSB? | 8/13/2009 |
| Q: I live in Los Angeles, S.Fernando Valley. I'm asking estimates in order to re-roof our 35 years old ... A: OSB is used a lot and less expensive I never got bad reports about it, I don't Think radiant barrier ... | |
| roofing | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: What is the min. pitch/slope of a roof that roll roofing can be used on? A: Depending on how it's installed, If you are using cold ply adhesive along with 2 layers of felt ... | |
| Salvaging new roof while adding square footage? | 7/27/2009 |
| Q: My husband and I are looking in to a home that we love in a very expensive area. It's a "fixer ... A: Most roofing materials are meant to be a one time install, with the exception of tile, Most of the ... | |
| rights | 7/26/2009 |
| Q: I just had a reroof done on an addition,they installed a peel & stick modified system, unfortunately ... A: Lets look at the contract, Was there anything on the contract that says if dryrot or repairs were ... | |
| skip-deck re-roof alternatives | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: My existing cedar-shake roof is skip-decked, with a shallow pitch, and the east side is mostly ... A: Most Wood shake roofs are Skip Sheathed decks, For proper air flow. Adding a solid deck under it ... | |
| rubber roof on our camper | 7/18/2009 |
| Q: We have a camper with a rubber roof and the white coating is coming off in some spots, what can we ... A: What happens is the rubber expands and contracts and the paint doesn't. There's nothing that I know ... | |
| Multiple Roofing Questions | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: I'm getting a new roof because of hail damage. I live in a 1998 built ranch home - don't know the ... A: Your Question on felt I prefer the Number30# felt it lays flatter and is thicker and heavier in ... | |
| Cedar Roofing | 7/13/2009 |
| Q: I am building a Gazebo and would like to install cedar roofing directly over 3/4 pine covered with ... A: It is always wise to to add some type of ventilation when using wood shakes or wood shingles, Wood ... | |
| shingles | 7/9/2009 |
| Q: Im adding 80 inches in between to storage sheds to make one .how do i work the shingles out right A: working out shingles, Depending on the shingle you need to determine what shingle your using, on the ... | |
| Roof Coating | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: I have a flat rubber roof about 500 s.f. I had a company put on a Silver Coating. What concerns me ... A: Call the contractor and ask him what he used to coat the roof. get the name of the product. look up ... | |
| Roof vents | 6/28/2009 |
| Q: I own a home in Milwaukee, WI, with a hip roof> Would you recommend slant back roof vents over a ... A: Roof vents will over all work better for you, Ridge venting tend to leak in cold weather, Ice forms ... | |
| Enviroshake | 6/28/2009 |
| Q: My current cedar shake roof is 21 years old and has bees nests and holes showing via digital ... A: First truly look up the metal roofing on there web site you might be surprised. The only other one ... | |
| Enviroshake | 6/28/2009 |
| Q: My current cedar shake roof is 21 years old and has bees nests and holes showing via digital ... A: Welcome back. Well I have entertained using Enviroshake in the past for my installs, My finding were ... | |
| Grill vent leak in shake roof | 6/27/2009 |
| Q: last year I had a leak coming down the exhaust vent over an indoor grill. Called a roofer and he ... A: When you remove the shakes, You can see a pattern with the old felt you should be able to follow ... | |
| Grill vent leak in shake roof | 6/27/2009 |
| Q: last year I had a leak coming down the exhaust vent over an indoor grill. Called a roofer and he ... A: S Berg Lets start with, 1 is the water coming in from the inside of vent or the outside. If one, ... | |
| Repacing roofing material | 6/25/2009 |
| Q: I am about to have my roof replaced and am looking for recommendations regarding material to be ... A: Both shingles are as good as the other. Do to the cold, I would at least go up 6' from the bottom ... | |
| ridge vent | 6/24/2009 |
| Q: I have had a new roof put on with a ridge vent. The house already had gable vents on three sides. ... A: You have 3 Gable vents of which you've had for a long time, They seems to work fine. It sounds like ... | |
| IKO shingles | 6/23/2009 |
| Q: Are IKO shingles good shingles? I have heard some negative things about them. A: Here in northern CA. Iko shingles are not used much, But what i have heard is they seem to do the ... | |
| ridge vent | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: I have had a new roof put on with a ridge vent. The house already had gable vents on three sides. ... A: I was unaware you lived in a snow area, That's right I've heard of Ice build up at the bottom of the ... | |
| ridge vent | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: I have had a new roof put on with a ridge vent. The house already had gable vents on three sides. ... A: It sounds like the roofer is trying to relieve the vacuum the venting is causing, I would try to ... | |
| cedar shakes | 6/20/2009 |
| Q: When installing, how deep should staples penetrate the deck? And, should the staples come through ... A: By Code it should penetrate the sheathing 3/4" of an inch. The staple length should be around 2" for ... | |
| metal roofing | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: 45 degree angle to a straight wall as I put roof joyces to follow angle the pitch changes and the ... A: Let's look at wall, ! ! Wall How Tall are you Going up ! ! ! How far are ... | |
| Mounting basketball backboard and hoop on wood shingled roof | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: We are looking to mount a basketball backboard and hoop on our sloped, shingled roof. Do you have ... A: This is not a good Idea, Why you ask, as the ball it's the back board it vibrates the board and the ... | |
| Roof Expert Competition | 6/8/2009 |
| Q: My husband and I are in the process of purchasing a home in Castle Rock, CO with a shake roof. The ... A: It sounds like the ridge caps were nailed, This is a little different Then the field, Nailing the ... | |
| Roof Expert Competition | 6/8/2009 |
| Q: My husband and I are in the process of purchasing a home in Castle Rock, CO with a shake roof. The ... A: It sounds like you have a not so fun situation, Let's look at the age of the roof and what type it ... | |
| strip or not? | 6/3/2009 |
| Q: We have some serious leaks on an 8,000sf flat rubber roof. We had an infra-red scan done & the roof ... A: Strip it I hate to be the one to direct you because the cost will be more, But in your case I ... | |
| Flat rubber roof | 5/23/2009 |
| Q: I have a fairly flat roof over a garage that I just had replaced with a rubber roof. We use the ... A: I tell people like yourself you can put an outdoor carpet down but make sure you don't glue it our ... | |
| COMMERICAL ROOF WALKING | 5/20/2009 |
| Q: Father has a shopping center with a steel roof (3/6 pitch). We need to clean gutters 2 times a year, ... A: If it were me I would try to walk on the rafters rather than the panels, That is the way I do It on ... | |
| Cal-shake repair | 5/13/2009 |
| Q: I have about 100 sq.ft. I need to replace/repair on a cal-shake roof. The area is some what hidden ... A: Cal shake as your well aware is a hard product to match, to repair and to find. What I found out ... | |
| leaking valley | 5/13/2009 |
| Q: I am going to use the method in the paragraph below to try to stop my patio from leaking... Another ... A: If this roof is a fiberglass shingle roof with at least 3 to 12 pitch. This is what I would do. ... | |
| Adding more attic floor space with Oriented Strand Board | 5/12/2009 |
| Q: Adding more attic floor space with Oriented Strand Board I have a house in North Carolina built in ... A: I would think if you block the insulation on both sides you may have a loss of the insulation ... | |
| several roofing questions | 5/9/2009 |
| Q: 4 bids received, 2 prefer CertainTeed, 2 prefer Pabco. Have read both shingle comps. have had class ... A: The Shingles you mentioned Pabco, Certainteed are both ok to use. They are both backed by very large ... | |
| celophane strip on new shingle | 5/8/2009 |
| Q: When installing new shingles, is the cellophane strip supposed to remain on the shingle or be torn ... A: The strip is for packaging so they don't stick in the bundle. You do not need to remove, I have herd ... | |
| tile roof leak | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: I recently purchased a rancher in Maryland which has stucco siding and a terracotta (Spanish) tile ... A: Lets start with the pipe and heater flashing's, These flashing's can most of the time be bought from ... | |
| leaking roof | 5/3/2009 |
| Q: I just added on to my house and roofed it with architectural shingeles.I have two valleys.I put 20 ... A: Lets me ask and assume that this was a w style valley with a small hump in the middle and not ... | |
| quality of shingles | 4/30/2009 |
| Q: I've gotten several quotes to re do our pine shingle roof here in Calgary Alberta. One contractor is ... A: The two shingle manufactures your speaking about are both good shingles, The most commonly used were ... | |
| porch roof/cost | 4/29/2009 |
| Q: about how much should a 16 by 12 ft. roof on a porch cost? A: Well what type roof is it. If it's a flat roof and you have to remove the old roofing it should run ... | |
| Painting roofs | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: I want to paint my black roofing shingles white. i contacted a company which supplies Lowes with a ... A: Painting shingles is not a good idea. paint will harden and asphalt will expand and contract, the ... | |
| Ventilating an attic in a 1930s house | 4/22/2009 |
| Q: I live in a 1930s three-story freestanding townhouse in New York City that has a steep pitched roof ... A: It sounds like your on the right track. 1. Have you considered blowing in insulation into the ... | |
| Fiberglass roofing tiles for manufactured homes | 4/20/2009 |
| Q: Do you know if the still make a fiberglass tile for manufactured homes? I am not sure if they are ... A: I know they make a light weight metal roofing product that can be used on manufactured homes that ... | |
| reroof | 4/17/2009 |
| Q: ! I installed a layer of asphalt shingles on my roof about 25 years and found this to be no ... A: start off by hiring a roof tear off company this should cost any were between 1000 to 1300 hundred ... | |
| new shingles not laying flat | 4/14/2009 |
| Q: I recently had a new roof put on Cetainteed landmark shingles and some are not laying flat. The ... A: I would wait for a warm day 80-90* give it a couple of days see what shingles lay flat, then have ... | |
| tar&gravel roof | 4/14/2009 |
| Q: I have a 40 X40 roof.I have a minor leak [one drop per 20 seconds]The suspect bad area is 12x20. It ... A: Yes you can sweep the gravel were bubbles are showing. Cut an x into the bubbles to release air ... | |
| Skylight leak on a flat tar roof | 4/13/2009 |
| Q: I live in an old rowhome in baltimore and I have a 3rd floor skylight that was installed approx 8 ... A: While it seems your at the right spot. What I would suggest is use a fabric along with the plastic ... | |
| Carport roof/porch leak | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: We have a carport (wood structure), attached to the house that has either a rubber or tar roof. ... A: Lets start with age if this roof is more than 10 years old it may have to be replaced. Now let's ... | |
| leaking roofs x 2 | 3/25/2009 |
| Q: Professional building/ stucco and flat roofs with peripts. Torch free roof, TPO. This roof has ... A: You might want to get an installation manual on the TPO product you had installed. This might help ... | |
| shake roof age | 3/20/2009 |
| Q: how does a shake roof work? I'm buying a house with a wood shake (not sure what kind of wood) roof, ... A: A wood shake roof comes in Medium thick 1/2" or Heavy shake 3/4" and they are 24" long. there is a ... | |
| Reroofing best plan to kee house cool | 3/18/2009 |
| Q: Tom, I live in San Jose, CA and I have house with wood shakes on slats. I have no AC and my house ... A: I also work in the San Jose market. If you would like I can also give you an estimate, My cell phone ... | |
| Roofing Question | 3/17/2009 |
| Q: Which is best 20 or 30 year roof and Why? A: If we are talking about fiberglass shingle. I don't belive they make a 20 year shingle anymore, What ... | |
| clear picture of shingle,gutter,and valley | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: it is a time since i am not well knowing shingle,gutter and valley and the clear picture as well as ... A: This question is hard to answer. Let's Try A shingle can refer to a fiber glass shingle, It is made ... | |
| Steel Shipping Container Roofing | 3/6/2009 |
| Q: What is easiest and quickest way to put a roof on a flat roof steel shipping container? I just want ... A: There is a product that will stick with steel out there it is called peel and stick, It comes in a ... | |
| ceiling leak | 2/21/2009 |
| Q: My husband and I recently noticed a leak in our ceiling. It dries up during the day and gets ... A: With out seeing the whole situation it's hard to tell, but some times The pipes in the attic will ... | |
| Different quotes - some add $2K for additional OSB sheathing | 2/19/2009 |
| Q: I live in the SF Bay area and have received 3 quotes for a re-roof of my 1959 house. Currently have ... A: Lets start with I also live and work in the same area ( Hayward ) What it sounds like is you have ... | |
| Repair a flat roof | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: I am repairing a flat roof. My home is in an area that get a lot of snow in the winter, and a lot of ... A: well if your just repairing the roof and it's a hot asphalt roof using tar. Then you can use plastic ... | |
| ridge vents | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: I had my house reroofed this summer.They replaced the ridge vent with a cobra exhaust vent. Last ... A: I heard this a lot in the colder climent areas, I am from calif. I know It should be vented some ... | |
| Re-roofing historical house | 2/16/2009 |
| Q: We are about to re-roof a 1900 historical farmhouse. It originally had cedar shakes but is now on ... A: There really isn't there was but most of them are no longer around. products didn't work and ... | |
| Ideal time to do roof | 2/11/2009 |
| Q: We’re ready to sign a contract with a roofing contractor but we don’t want to start work until ... A: Quotes Will very, in the spring time prices do go up roofers do get busier. you can sign a contract ... | |
| roof leaks | 2/9/2009 |
| Q: Our house is a yr old. The roof is 12/4 pitch, 50 yr. shingle, ice and water shield entire roof, ... A: It does sound like condensation. With no attic,It would be hard to tell Un fortunately I am from ... | |
| clay tile roofing | 1/29/2009 |
| Q: Where can I buy a box of clay roof tiles? I don't need a roofer, just a box of clay tiles. I've ... A: The best way is to look up in your area is to look up under roofing supplies, Not knowing were live ... | |
| Asphalt Roll Roofng | 1/28/2009 |
| Q: I want to put asphalt rolled shingles on a new 12'x12' shed with a 2:12 slope. The roof doesn't ... A: I think your talking at the top, if there is no wall a piece of L metal will work. you can get this ... | |
| aluminum roof paint for torch down roof | 1/19/2009 |
| Q: We are experiencing a leak in our home that was remodeled about 1 and 1/2 yrs ago. In investigating ... A: The roof leak has nothing to due with the aluminum coating, The roof coating is only for sun ... | |
| roof shingles | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: In your opinion is there any benefit of the organic roofing shingle over the corning fiberglass one? ... A: Sorry this took so long, I thought I already got to your question Anyway I have never heard of ... | |
| attic condensation and ventilation | 1/4/2009 |
| Q: We recently had a new roof put on our ranch house. Roof had only gable vents on each end. Roofer ... A: I do not know if the ridge vent is causing such moisture problems it sounds like it's possible, If ... | |
| shingles | 1/3/2009 |
| Q: is it wrong to reshingle without stripping the shingles.there is just one layer and the roofers feel ... A: It is always better to remove the one layer of roofing first, so you fix any dry rot that maybe ... | |
| roofing nails leaking | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: got new roof house built in 1700s all the shingle nails an older nails are dripping in my attic 11 ... A: New roof nails dripping ? This is something that is new to me. keeping in mind the roof pitch is ... | |
| wood shingles | 11/19/2008 |
| Q: Is it possible to put wood shingles directly over old asphalt shingles?. A: I do not believe it's a good idea, Wood shingles need to breath, That means air needs to come up ... | |
| follow-up to my question of 11/7 | 11/16/2008 |
| Q: Tom, Thanks for your response to my question of 11/7. As mentioned, I live about 80 miles north ... A: With Your situation and not being able to view the whole situation it's hard to give the best ... | |
| Cedar Shake Roof | 11/8/2008 |
| Q: I recently brought a house and had it inspected, about a year ago. Everything was in good shape ... A: A wood roof Wood shakes, Wood shingles They only last around 18-25 years unless they were treated ... | |
| re-roofing & insulation | 11/7/2008 |
| Q: Tom, Thanks for your time. This re-roofing will be the last expensive house work before my ... A: Let's talk about the insulation first, You can use a poly-iso on top of the roof deck, I would ... | |
| Tying new shingles into existing shake roof | 11/7/2008 |
| Q: I appreciate any advice you can give me with this issue. I live in a townhouse in the West Village ... A: This is a good question and a very tough area to tie into this is so hard to tell you the best way ... | |
| roof over | 10/31/2008 |
| Q: I have a commercial building that is a rock roof.Can I scrape the rock install glass base and torch ... A: I have never done this, I also remove the existing roofing if a leak should acure you will never ... | |
| roof underlayment for asphalt shingles in central florida | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: Tom, I have 4 estimates to replace my 48 sq. 5/12 hip/gable tile roof with asphalt shingles. Two ... A: Well I work in California And we use for the most part the #30 asphalt felt paper, Some contractors ... | |
| shingles falling off new roof | 10/18/2008 |
| Q: I had a new roof, total tear off installed 4 years ago. I have a slanted roof and got the 30 year ... A: It sounds like the nails were put to high up on the shingle or they didn't use enough nails, or ... | |
| new roof install | 10/16/2008 |
| Q: I am having a new asphalt shingle roof put on. The question that I have not ben able to find an ... A: That plastic strip is put on there for packaging so the shingles don't stick together. With the heat ... | |
| modified bitumen application | 10/14/2008 |
| Q: My roofer states that he applied a modified bitumen hot asphalt method roofing on top of the old ... A: In most cases I recommend removing the old roofing down to the sheathing. ( Reasons See below ) 1. ... | |
| torch down rubber roof | 10/2/2008 |
| Q: My question is how much of an over lap is necessary between the sections, is it important that the ... A: First make sure you understand the flame, Around 12 to 15" of the flame can not be seen during ... | |
| Cedar Shake roof | 9/21/2008 |
| Q: I'm building a 4-post shelter 12'x12', four gables with valleys ending at each post. The 1x4 slats ... A: The only way that might work is to lessen the exposer of shakes. instead of 10" go to a 7" exposer ... | |
| Wood Shake Roof | 9/19/2008 |
| Q: I live in a community in Gaithersburg, MD, where a cedar shake roof is required by the HOA. I have ... A: I am in California. wood Shakes will curl, the are made out of wood,they curl because the become ... | |
| Re: Buying a new roof | 9/17/2008 |
| Q: I am in the process of buying a second roof in a ten year period am trying to be very careful. I ... A: Well lets start with your area ( Black roofs area hotter )Yet it is a nice color. and if vented ... | |
| O'hagin's Vent vs Eyebrow vents | 9/17/2008 |
| Q: I am getting re roof done with new composition shingles and my older home is currently not ... A: Now the ridge vent was designed for catheal ceilings were you have no attic spacing or very little. ... | |
| O'hagin's Vent vs Eyebrow vents | 9/17/2008 |
| Q: I am getting re roof done with new composition shingles and my older home is currently not ... A: This is Tom I prefer Eyebrow vents, why? maybe because there is no louvers on the top, 2. I have ... | |
| DECK ARMOR and ICE AND WATER SHIELD | 9/16/2008 |
| Q: I have competing opinions about what to put under shingles. One roofer says to use DECK ARMOR for ... A: I have no Idea where you live. I am in Northern California We do not use it much unless owner spec ... | |
| leaking roof vent | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: Can you tell me how to replace or replair a vent on shingle roof? We have put tar or roof filler ... A: This is one of those areas that is hard to describe. and easy to show you how. if you go on line ... | |
| Facia borad rotting on a torch down roof. | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: We have several locations where the facia borard is rotting. Over the top of the board is a metal ... A: I believe the torch-on is under the metal. Yes you can remove the metal pull back the torch-on, you ... | |
| iko 40 year compared to certainteed 40 year | 9/15/2008 |
| Q: I have received quotes for my roof a very steep roof.I am looking at a 40 year architectual angle ... A: I think you right I prefer landmark, Also use a 30 felt not a 15, 30 is twice as thick, The water ... | |
| shingle questions | 9/9/2008 |
| Q: I have received several quotes to reroof my home with 30 yr demensional shingles. I have been ... A: Here in Northern Calif. Mostly used is Gaf/Elk/certainteed some use Tamko not much. Always use #30 ... | |
| Asbestos tiles | 9/8/2008 |
| Q: I work for a General contractor in Kansas City. I am a former adjuster and handle insurance claims ... A: You Are absolutely correct About what is in the market today. 1. you might want to be careful about ... | |
| Ridge Roof Vent | 9/6/2008 |
| Q: I have a 12 ft x 12ft Tuff Shed with a center peak pitch roof. I use it as my pump house. Right in ... A: They do make A Skylight That opens and closes, Also you can use it as a hatch fully opens I think I ... | |
| Flat Roof Dry Rot Repair | 9/5/2008 |
| Q: I have an area approx. 6ft. by 6ft. of dry rot on my roof. I intend to have new shingles applied, ... A: First Most roofing contractors do minor carpentry so no I would not think you would have to hire ... | |
| Mobile home roofing | 8/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a double wide with a coated metal roof that requires regular maintenance. I'd like to have ... A: There is a very light metal tile roofing in the market, The name of the product is decra tile or ... | |
| foam under wood shingles, venting? | 8/30/2008 |
| Q: Situation:200 year old cape, single story, with knee walls and a four ft wide ceiling on second ... A: With out seeing the whole situation it would be hard to advise. Adding insulation under the wood ... | |
| Repairing holes in a torch down roof | 8/19/2008 |
| Q: I am removing a basketball hoop from a carport roof. It was bolted through the torch down material ... A: Sorry this took so long I was out of town There is two way to fill those holes. 1st way Go to a ... | |
| negative pressure | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: on very windy days I have water leaking into my house on the windward side. I have caulked and ... A: Sorry this took so long was out of town Do you know if the shingles have felt paper behind it ? ... | |
| Venting a roof covering a vaulted ceiling | 8/12/2008 |
| Q: We replaced a cedar shake roof with asphalt shingles several years ago. Now the tongue and groove ... A: Q: Can a ridge vent be used you might want to look into it. Q: Was there extra membrane used under ... | |
| shingling a shed roof | 8/12/2008 |
| Q: i am useless diy 'er (but at least im trying!). anyway i recently (sort) re-shingled a shed roof and ... A: Do not feel bad this is most common, This is sometimes a hard area, They do make a roofing nail 1/2" ... | |
| hail damage on metal roof | 8/11/2008 |
| Q: My insurance company will not pay for hail damage on my metal roof because it is only cosmetic ... A: I am sorry what church are you speaking about ( the church in Los Altos ) Please explain Thank you. ... | |
| composition over shake shingle roof | 8/2/2008 |
| Q: I am considering buying a home with a Timberline composition roof over shake shingle. The ... A: This process has been done for years. It is not the best way to reroof a house, But it works. The ... | |
| Cedar Shakes to Asphalt Shingles | 7/31/2008 |
| Q: my dad and I are going to redo my roof but I'm going from an existing cedar shake roof (32yrs old) ... A: Remove all the wood shakes and felt paper. leave the shiplap and install the plywood directly on ... | |
| Rubber Roof | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: Should tar be used to repair rips/tears in rubber roofs? A: No tar should not be used to repair a rubber roof. The Tar will not stick on its own. What needs to ... | |
| t-lock shingles | 7/29/2008 |
| Q: recently had wind damage to our roof and can not find replacement shingles. I went to the IKO ... A: I tried to look for some replacement shingles for you through the Internet was not able to find. ... | |
| Tar and gravel roof | 7/27/2008 |
| Q: I would like to mredo my roof, however I wish to eleminate the tar and gravel. I have looked into ... A: Removing the tar and gravel is the better way to start off with a new roof, If a leak should occur ... | |
| Shingles | 7/25/2008 |
| Q: I recently bought a dome home with supposedly 40 year shingles. It was built in 1983, so there ... A: There was a shingle in the market called a two tab shingle. Since then they discontinued the ... | |
| Ventalation of enclosed porch roof | 7/21/2008 |
| Q: I enclosed a 16'x 12' porch and left the 2x6 rafters to provide a cathedral ceiling. I want to ... A: They do make a flashing for venting called a roof to wall vent. The way this works is at the high ... | |
| Mixed Cathedral and Flat Ceiling w/ Ridge Vent | 7/19/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering if I can install a radiant barrier underneath the rafters on a portion of my roof ... A: I am glad this worked, This product in my opinion is still a new product and may work in most cases, ... | |
| cedar shake roof | 7/17/2008 |
| Q: I am purchasing a house with a new cedar shake roof. When I looked in the attic I could see some ... A: Seeing light through a wood shake roof is not always a bad sign. What you should know is how old ... | |
| Clay tile and Flat Roof | 7/10/2008 |
| Q: I have a house built in the 1920's. Part is clay tile and is in reasonable shape, although it needs ... A: Sorry this took so long I was out of town. Built in the 20's I am sure the felt had to been changed, ... | |
| Barn Roof | 6/24/2008 |
| Q: We recently had a new shed built with a "Barn" or Gambrel style roof. My question is the where the ... A: J. It would seem That there should be something covering the exposed nails like metal so some type ... | |
| Sloping flat roof | 6/23/2008 |
| Q: we currently have a large flat roof over our sunroom, carport and garage (~1200sf). The sunroom is ... A: Sorry this took so long I was away yesterday. If it is affordable slopping a flat roof is the best ... | |
| Patio roof vents | 6/20/2008 |
| Q: I am building a 14ft X 16Ft wood patio cover with 2”x6” wood rafters. 2/12 slope. The ceiling of the ... A: Venting is always a good idea, you might want want to put in a couple of soffit vents on each side, ... | |
| Shake Roof Repair | 6/8/2008 |
| Q: I have two quotes for repairing a seventeen year old shake roof in the Denver area. The roof does ... A: It sounds like you have a wood shake roof and they want to use wood shingles to repair it. I Think ... | |
| Too Hot for a new roof | 6/3/2008 |
| Q: I live in Texas and need a new roof. It has been in the mid 90's for about the last two weeks. I ... A: I do not know why they say not to put a roof on in the heat. I live in Ca. We put roofs on all year ... | |
| Concrete roof tile | 5/30/2008 |
| Q: I own a brick building in Pittsburg, Tx that has concrete roof tile. It was built in 1978 and four ... A: Putting mortar under each loose ridge will hold, but should be check every couple of years, The ... | |
| Cedar Shingle Hips on Gazebo | 5/28/2008 |
| Q: I built a gazebo about 15 years ago and never got around to applying hips (poor judgement). I also ... A: Tom Here Sorry this took so long But I was out of town. Frank With out being able to see the ... | |
| 2nd layer okay on manufactured home? | 5/23/2008 |
| Q: I own a 1999 Skyline 42x48 manufactured home in northwest Washington state. Nice house, but roof ... A: You would have to check with one the manufacture and the city building department. I never recommend ... | |
| Installing Rolled Roofing | 5/19/2008 |
| Q: My husband and I are going to be installing rolled roofing this summer over a 10x10 area, so about ... A: Rolled roofing is a very low grade roofing. It can work for about 10 years if done proper. The ... | |
| Preservative coating on cedar shake roofs | 5/9/2008 |
| Q: What do you think about oil based clear preservative treatment on a 10 year old cedar shake roof? I ... A: Let me say that it work very well, But there is a fall back it is a oil and that's like putting gas ... | |
| Combination of vents | 5/9/2008 |
| Q: I'm getting my roof done. My roofer suggested to install 2 turbines and 4 low profile vents. My ... A: well it sounds like he is doing the right thing with the exception of the turbine vents, From my ... | |
| Attic Ventalation | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: I presently have ridge vents. I have a catheral ceiling that is starting to turn yellow at the peak ... A: Ridge vent is some cases is a good choose, It seems to work in some areas, The calls I have been ... | |
| roof | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: should 3/8" plywood sheathing be re-placed with 1/2" when re-roofing? A: yes Some houses were built with 3/8" plywood years ago, Today when building a home 1/2" plywood is ... | |
| Attic Ventalation | 4/28/2008 |
| Q: I presently have ridge vents. I have a catheral ceiling that is starting to turn yellow at the peak ... A: I have been getting a lot of calls on the ridge vent, Mostly in colder climates,foggy areas and were ... | |
| Replacing 30-Year Cedar Shake Roof | 4/25/2008 |
| Q: Am wondering about alternatives. Specifically, either the fake shake... or something else (metal?). ... A: There is a lot of alterative, Unfortunately, Only a few That I would recommend, But first let's ... | |
| Leak at plumbing vent flashing | 4/24/2008 |
| Q: Tom: I noticed a water stain on my ceiling a while back, and went into the attic on a rainy day. I ... A: Well Let's see who is telling the the story right. If you can see daylight through the pipe ... | |
| Flat roof drain clogged | 4/11/2008 |
| Q: My flat roof was recently redone with a torch-on membrane. It was pitch and gravel and during the ... A: Sorry to here an other ripped off consumer from a Roofing contractor, We are NOT all That way. I ... | |
| Flat roof drain clogged | 4/10/2008 |
| Q: My flat roof was recently redone with a torch-on membrane. It was pitch and gravel and during the ... A: This seems to happen a lot they should have put A drain stop in the drain before removing the ... | |
| vent boot repair | 4/7/2008 |
| Q: An inspector that looked at my house has reported that all 3 vents on my roof are leaking and the ... A: I am in ca. The so called vent boot if it is what I Am thinking, He's talking about A vent collar, A ... | |
| Which is cooler Shake or 50 yr shingle with solar fans | 3/29/2008 |
| Q: Our condo in Honolulu Hawaii is in process of re-roofing. We are down to 2 choices. A 50 yr Shake ... A: Tom here I am in Ca. I love wood shakes and wood shakes stay cooler as long as they are put on skip ... | |
| Re-Roof over Wood Shingles? | 3/28/2008 |
| Q: My husband and I are in escrow to buy a house with a wood shake roof currently in bad condition. ... A: very good Question. Tom here Let's get started the first thing is were you live. ( what state and ... | |
| 5'x7' shed roof w/app. 6" pitch over the 5" dimension | 3/27/2008 |
| Q: this shed roof has rolled asphalt material on it now and has no leaks but the roof over the app. ... A: First Thing, Does this roof have a slight pitch if so good. 2nd. the weather, does it get freezing ... | |
| Roll roofing | 3/21/2008 |
| Q: I have a roof on the back of my house thats about a 2-12 pitch and it has a hip on on one side . ... A: They make a hip and ridge material you cane get at any roofing supply house or any home depot store. ... | |
| condensation-metal roof | 3/19/2008 |
| Q: I have a metal out-building with an open on two sides, outside kitchen attached to this building. ... A: This is tough one, keeping moister out of this area sounds a little hard. with out seeing the whole ... | |
| off ridge vents | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: My firm manufactures off ridge vents, gooseneck vents, and other roof related products.In Aug 2003 ... A: The off rige vents mostly used in this market (San Jose ca.) is the Simpson Eyebrow vent, it vents ... | |
| deck requirements for wood shakes | 3/16/2008 |
| Q: Can OSB sheathing be used as the solid deck for installation of wood shakes? Everything I read says ... A: I am for The San Jose area in ca. Here: unless it's new construction we don't use solid sheathing ... | |
| Roofing in the rain? | 3/16/2008 |
| Q: It is raining as I am writing this. The roofing guys across the street are laying felt down on very ... A: This is a good question, If they don't lay the shingles down right away then with hope the sheathing ... | |
| Polystick Tu versus 90# Paper | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: We are in the process of re-roofing our home and the estimates we have been given are including the ... A: I am from the San Jose area in ca. Here we use two layers of number 30 felt paper, I have never ... | |
| PATIO EXTENSION ROOF ATTACHMENT | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: WE RECENTLY BUILT A NEW PATIO COVER AND ARE UNSURE HOW TO LAY THE ROLLED ROOFING PAPER UNDER THE ... A: The proper way is to remove two courses of shingles and also remove the nails on a cool day, Then ... | |
| steel cargo container | 3/11/2008 |
| Q: I would like to apply torch down to an 8'x40'shipping container. Do I need to prime or put base on ... A: Rick, are you planing to torch the whole roll or just the edges. Lets assume you just torch the ... | |
| roofing | 3/9/2008 |
| Q: When going over an existing roof is a drip edge needed over the old shingles and also, what size ... A: What I do is cut the old shingles back even to the fascia board, Then add the drip edge, this makes ... | |
| Roof/ceiling edge leaks | 3/7/2008 |
| Q: This summer, we had the roof on the addition to our colonial house (1970s) replaced. It was replaced ... A: Well let's get started Number one, If you have no overhang on the house, and the gutters go up ... | |
| new roof on old adobe | 3/6/2008 |
| Q: I have an old adobe house in northern new mexico with a 2x4 hip roof and r11 insulation with several ... A: I think if the 2x4's are at least 24" on center and not more you should be ok, with out seeing the ... | |
| new roof on old adobe | 3/6/2008 |
| Q: I have an old adobe house in northern new mexico with a 2x4 hip roof and r11 insulation with several ... A: Michael, I would like to know first what type of roof you are planing to use, With a 2x4 structure ... | |
| Fungus growth under roof shingles | 3/3/2008 |
| Q: our home (Encino, CA) had cement composition roof shingles. We find that a fungus (or some kind of ... A: First is this a cement tile roof or a composition roof. If this is a composition roof follow below. ... | |
| ridge vents | 3/1/2008 |
| Q: I have an 8 ft. long ridge skylight. How do I install ridge vents along the sides to insure venting ... A: From what your telling me It sounds like you can. Vernon, I have gotten a lot of calls on ridge ... | |
| Metal roof on inside porch | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: I have purchased a Manufactured Home here in Florida. My porch roof is metal. I would like to put ... A: That metal is very thin and not much I don't think you can do with it, maybe paint it or They do ... | |
| moisture and mold in the attic | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: We are experiencing high humidity, buckling of plywood and beginning mold in our attic. We were ... A: First lets look at 1st layer of roofing what type is it, Wood shakes, wood shingles,fiberglass ... | |
| insulating existing flat roof | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: I have a small screened porch on back of house. It was built with the main house in 1940. It has a ... A: This could only be done in two ways. 1st. From the top of Roof 2nd. from the inside ceiling. The ... | |
| wavy roof | 2/25/2008 |
| Q: I was just wondering if you could help me with a little problem I'm having. me and my buddies did a ... A: What it sounds like is you used 3/8" plywood on 24" center 2x4 truesses and no clips, It sounds ... | |
| Continuation of moisture in attic | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: I asked a question a while ago and thought of some additional information I wanted to relay. Before ... A: From this information I feel water is blowing into ridge vent, Cover ridge vent to the best of your ... | |
| Roof leak or condensation problem? | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a eight year old home that I have lived in for five years. For the first time, two weeks ... A: I am from califorina san Jose area. Not familer with the snow areas, what concerns me is saying you ... | |
| RV Roofing | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: My travel trailer needs a new rubber roof. Are there any issues or concerns about using fiberglass ... A: The difference between Fiberglas and rubber is fiberglass will become brittle and rubber will stay ... | |
| EPDM drip edge/ flashing | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: hey tom, i just had a rubber roof installed on my 1/12 shed roof. i was very unimpressed by the way ... A: You can wrap in any way to hold the rubber in place. it is that the metal is straight and long and ... | |
| EPDM drip edge/ flashing | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: hey tom, i just had a rubber roof installed on my 1/12 shed roof. i was very unimpressed by the way ... A: It sounds like a poor quality craftsmanship, I would call them back to FIX the corners and the ... | |
| tar papering over wet OSB | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: we had rain all day Friday and Friday night, and by Saturday morning, the roof guy was putting tar ... A: I also don't like the idea of putting felt paper over wet osb, This in my option can trap moisture, ... | |
| GAF Masterflow WC14 severe weather cap | 2/17/2008 |
| Q: Any idea where this product can be purchased? I live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast & had 3 turbine ... A: I am in the northern ca. area, I am not sure were you would be able to obtain the WC14", It would ... | |
| Ridge Vents vs. Off-Ridge Vents | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: I am having my house re-roofed. The roofer recommended Ridge vents. I would rather have off ridge ... A: I like The off ridge vents better then ridge vent, This is a question that how you look at it either ... | |
| 2 ply torcch on membrane system | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a local contractor set up to replace my 15 year old tar and gravel roof with a 2 ply torch on ... A: When you say local I am assuming you are speaking the San Jose area In Ca., If not Local is were If ... | |
| asphalt shingle roof | 2/1/2008 |
| Q: My home is 5 years old and recently we had a storm with high winds and 2 shingles were blown off. ... A: That's good you didn't have any leaks. The wind might have exposed felt paper , This is put on ... | |
| Replacing tar & gravel roof | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: We are looking to replace our aging tar & gravel roof this year. I've been told that we should ... A: I am from the San Jose area in ca. I am not saying that the contractor is not going to give you he's ... | |
| Replacing tar & gravel roof | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: We are looking to replace our aging tar & gravel roof this year. I've been told that we should ... A: Your getting a torch-on roof, Lets look at couple of things 1. do you have a slight pitch ? 2. Does ... | |
| Complaints of concrete tile | 1/29/2008 |
| Q: I'm wondering what the biggest complaints of anything having to do with concrete tiles, buying, ... A: Tom Souza Here Cell ( 650-921-7663 ) San Jose, Ca. area big Earthquake Area. Lets start with the ... | |
| Roof and wet walls | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: It's been raining quite heavily in the San Jose area. I have a tar and gravel roof. The gravel is ... A: First I work in the San Jose market, And would be glad to take look at your roof, Please call my ... | |
| Flat roof drainage | 1/23/2008 |
| Q: My home has a flat paper and tar roof. Most areas drain well has long as I keep the drains clean. ... A: Lets say why this is happening mostly house settling. 1. Can you put a drain in this area. 2. ... | |
| how do you determine how much metal roofing you will need | 1/23/2008 |
| Q: Just wondering how would i figure how much metal roofing i would need to purchase for my home it is ... A: You have 1152 sq feet First you need to choose the type of metal roofing you want. There is a lot of ... | |
| nails into the ceiling | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I have a question for you and I hope you can help. I had a roof put on and there are nails that are ... A: Sorry to here this it should not happen. 1. I would call back the roofer and have him pull them out. ... | |
| Using staples on shingles | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: I live in Massillon Ohio and had a house build in 1999 and the shingles are beginning to fall off ... A: Well I live in The San Francisco area you should check with the city Building department in you ... | |
| Rubber rolled roofing | 1/18/2008 |
| Q: I am working on a home that a rolled rubber roof. The roof seems to be working, but I notice the ... A: I am Not from the cold area, I am from the San Francisco area, What I can Tell you is That Having a ... | |
| insulation under torch down roofing | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: I am planning to apply torch down roofing on a small cottage behind my home. The roof pitch is ... A: The only one that comes to mind is a perlight insulation but you should have a solid plywood or osb ... | |
| Cold Weather Roofing | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: We were all set to have our roof replaced as we have had some major leaks due to the recent ice ... A: One: if you do the repairs now is it going to be a waste of money? Two : I am not saying you ... | |
| How do I repair sagging roof and ceiling? | 1/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a 45 year old ranch style home with a double garage dimensions are 20' x 20'. I recently ... A: With out seeing the total situation it is very hard to give you a complete answer, It sounds like ... | |
| Ice in the attic | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: Last winter, in the very cold weather, I had water dripping from the vent fans in the second floor ... A: I am not real familiar with this kind of cold, I am from the Oakland California area. But what it ... | |
| Cedar Shakes | 1/6/2008 |
| Q: We had our cedar shake roof replaced 2 weeks ago. We several large areas of black looking shakes(not ... A: What you are seeing is a wood shake that is a little moldy it's one that was in the middle of the ... | |
| Wood Shake patch | 12/31/2007 |
| Q: I recently had a patch job on my wood shake roof because it was leaking. Two questions... It seems ... A: A shake roof normally only lasts around 20-25 years,some roofing companies will tell you they can ... | |
| Roof mounted exhaust fan | 12/19/2007 |
| Q: I would like to install a bathroom exhaust fan in a home I purchased. The problem is there is a ... A: There Are Bathroom fans available For your ceiling and would be able to also roof mount. You will ... | |
| nails piercing through the eves | 12/18/2007 |
| Q: We are having our shake roof replaced. Today, they laid the plywood down. Tomorrow morning, the ... A: some inspectors may make note to the contractor that the nails missed the rafters,or and the ... | |
| touch down | 12/17/2007 |
| Q: i have a flat roof that the sides are higher then the middle, therefore the roof drains to the ... A: Chris, First you need to remove the vinyl roofing and make sure you have a solid deck and fix any ... | |
Roofing
Answers by Expert:
Tom Souza
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
Can not help in The new single ply roof systems Rubber systems mostly wood shake, wood shingle, fiberglass shingles,Torch-on, some concrete some clay tile and some still tile gerard,decra tile
Experience
Roofing since 1974 and still in it.
Education/Credentials
Passed the CSLB for a C-39 ( Roofing ) 2006
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