Most roof replacement estimates will mention warranties and guarantees with limitations and for a specific number of years.

Manufacturers' warranties usually offer coverage when there is a defect in the roofing material that causes leaks under normal conditions.  A manufacturer's coverage will typically cover the cost of replacing the materials, not the labor to do so.  They also do not cover replacing the entire roof, just repairing or replacing the defective areas.

Manufacturers' warranties often exclude damage due to pre-existing conditions of the roof.  If the shingles were installed improperly or the roof structure and gutter design was faulty, coverage may be denied.  Many warranties are prorated, meaning the longer the roof is on your home the less coverage you have.

Manufacturers may recognize quality professionals that they trust.  These contractors may be able to offer additional or extended manufacturers' warranties.

Be sure to understand the coverage and limitations of a manufacturer's warranty before using it to make your roofing decisions.

While a good warranty to cover defects is important, choosing your roofing contractor is as much so.  
Manufacturers' warranties do not cover problems arising from installation.  This is where a workmanship guarantee comes in.  

A workmanship guarantee is offered by the contractor and covers all defects related to installation work only.  A qualified contractor will know what type of material to use on your roof and how to install it properly, reducing the possibility of roof leakage. Your contractor will also recognize potential problems such as structure, drainage and ventilation issues and address those ahead of time so they won't damage your new shingles in the future.  A reputable contractor will offer a labor warranty to cover any issues that may arise for additional peace of mind. 

When considering your new roof investment, be sure to look at the coverage warranties offer and especially the quality and knowledge of the company installing them.

Craig Gouker Roofing has been installing quality residential roofing in South East Pittsburgh since 1991 and is the expert in shingle roof replacement.
www.craiggoukerroofing.com     (412)664-7679

One item that should be included on every roof replacement estimate is underlayment.  Underlayment is a layer of protective material between the roof deck or plywood and the shingles.  Often called felt paper, it is the first layer of waterproofing for your roof.  

In addition to the standard felt paper there are new types of underlayment.  Some manufacturers reinforce the underlayment with fiberglass to strengthen and resist tearing, make installation easier and improve its waterproofing effectiveness.

Manufacturers are constantly developing new underlayments.  Newer synthetic underlayments further increase the effectiveness of and ease & safety to install underlayment and increase longevity.  Some manufacturers have developed organic and green underlayment products.

It is usually recommended to use underlayment from the same manufacturer as your shingles as they are designed to work together and it may be required for a valid warranty.

A contractor will choose the best type of underlayment for your roof replacement based on the type of roof and climate in which you live.  If you have any questions regarding their choice, they are the best resource for your specific project.

Craig Gouker Roofing has been installing quality residential roofing in South & East Pittsburgh since 1991 and is the expert in shingle roof replacement.
www.craiggoukerroofing.com     (412)664-7679

Roof designs vary greatly from low-slope to steep-pitch and any number of sides.  Each has their own challenges.  It is good to know what style roof you have.

Flat Roof - Just as the name suggests, a flat roof is just that.  Uncommon on residential buildings, flat roofs are the most commonly found on commercial structures.  They are prone to leaking since water does not quickly flow off the roof.  Heavy snow will sit on the roof and cause collapse.

Lean-to/Shed Roof - Simply one side with a slope, with varying pitch, this type of roof removes water quickly.

Gable Roof - This is the most common roof in residential construction. Most gables are between 4/12 and 8/12 pitch with the ridge across the center.

Hipped Roof -  A Hip roof has 4 sides and one ridge.  This style carries water quickly to the edges and provides good wind protection.

Gambrel Roof - This is similar to a traditional barn roof.  It has sides with different pitches which allows for more interior space.

Mansard Roof - This roof has steep side slopes and is flat on top. Often this roof has a second floor under the roof with dormers. Dormers are interruptions in the roof used to get windows into roofs. Normally this is done on a sloping attic area to increase standing room for bedrooms and to permit light or views

Cross Gabled Roof - This style roof has two or more gables that intersect creating a more interesting look.

Cross Hipped - For a cross hipped roof, the two hip roofs are laid out perpendicular to each other.


Craig Gouker Roofing has been installing quality residential roofing in South East Pittsburgh since 1991 and is the expert in shingle roof replacement.
www.craiggoukerroofing.com     (412)664-7679

Roofing terms glossary to help you communicate with your roofer.  
It is important to understand what needs to be replaced or repaired.  If you don't understand your roofer's estimate, ask for further explanation.

• Felt - a barrier that protects the roof deck from moisture
• Eave - The part of the roof that extends beyond the edge
• Eave Vents - screens that allow fresh air into the attic
• Downspout - connected to the gutter, downspouts carry water to ground level, away from the foundation
• Dormer - smaller roof set into the larger roof
• Dry Rot - deterioration of wood caused by prolonged moisture
• Flashing - waterproof construction at intersections of planes and openings in the roof
• Fascia - connects the roof to the soffit, where gutters are attached
• Soffit - Covers the underside of the roof overhang
• Gutters - carries rain off roof and into downspouts to move away from foundation
• Diverter - a metal piece that moves water away from an opening when gutters can't be used.
• Hip - the intersection of two sides of the roof that form a sloping ridge from top to bottom
• Ridge - the intersection of two roof planes that form a horizontal peak
• Ridge Vent - an exhaust vent that runs along the peak of the roof to allow air to escape the attic
• Pitch - the slope of the roof
• Underlayment - the layer of protective material between the deck and shingles
• Deck - the base of the roof, usually wood or plywood
• Valley - the area where two sloping roof sides join at an angle to allow water runoff
• Square - A measurement term referring to the surface area of the roof.  100 square feet, usually 10' X 10" area

Craig Gouker Roofing has been installing quality residential roofing in South East Pittsburgh since 1991 and is the expert in shingle roof replacement.
www.craiggoukerroofing.com     (412)664-7679