Top Certified Howard County Roofing Contractors For All Repairs

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt roofs will require several types of repairs over their lifetime but leaks are the most common and range from simple to severe. Damage caused by heavy storms, wind, hail and ice are the primary culprits but sometimes pests or falling trees can strike as well. Improperly sealed (or simply worn) vent pipes can also wear out and require repair over time.

Many people enjoy a skylight on their roof but they can be the cause of another common repair job in Howard County. Many times the skylight itself may be broken, or the seal around the glass breaks. Chimney flashings (the sheet metal material that maintains a watertight seal between the roof and your chimney) can pull away from the roof or wear out if exposed to weather, and often they are not installed properly in the first place. All of which can cause severe leaks.

Finally, the roof valleys on asphalt shingle roofs cause problems as they often collect leaves and debris over time. By having roofing companies in Howard County regularly clear and inspect these problematic areas, you can help to encourage the natural down-flow of water which will help keep your asphalt roof in better shape.

Slate Roofs

Slate roofing is strong and durable and is the choice for homeowners with a little extra money to spend so they don't have to worry repairs as much as they would with asphalt shingles. However, slate roofs do require routine maintenance and should be inspected annually for common issues like cracks, broken or loose slates.

Tip: work with a roofing contractor in Howard County that specializes in slate roofing because there are techniques that they can hone that are unique to repairing and replacing slate that non specialists won't have.

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are a beautiful, affordable option for the homeowner who wants a roof that will last longer than shingles but cost less than metal. While most will last for 50 years or more, they are prone to several common issues including cracked and sliding tiles. Left unchecked, this will expose the roof underlayment to harmful sun rays, rain and more which can cause even further damage. A damaged underlayment can also cause leaks which lead to interior damage as well.

Yearly inspections also look out for corrosion, soffit and roof edge damage, and valley failure.

Metal Roofing in Howard County

Many people looking for a premium long lasting option are choosing metal roofing in Howard County. This may come as a surprise to some, but modern metal roofs are come in a huge variety of styles, textures and colors and often even come with a 50 year manufacturers warranty. Try finding that on any other major purchase for your home. If you can handle the marginally higher upfront cost of a metal roof in Howard County, you will enjoy future savings that include reduced insurance rates, energy costs (up to a third less than a traditional shingle roof), and home resale value.

Won't my metal roof rust?

It is critical to work with a metal roofing contractor in Howard County that focuses (preferably solely) on metal roofs. In addition to simply being able to offer a wider variety of options from more manufacturers at a lower cost, they will be better equipped to educate you on the type of metal roof that will work best for you. You want your roofer to be able to explain the benefits of a standing seam metal roof or the difference between galvanized zinc or galvalume, (a mixture of zinc and aluminum) in layman's terms. Building owners who want a commercial metal roof in Howard County enjoy the same benefits, but can also help with LEED certification.

Though rare, metal roof repairs include missing or corroded fasteners, splits, holes and protrusions in the metal surface. Rust inhibitors and primers usually keep rust at bay.

One common trait of all good roofing companies in Columbia, Ellicott City, Woodstock, Woodbine and Jessup is that they are patient to answer all of your questions regardless of how minor. This list will get you started but make sure to write down any additional questions before the initial consultation.

Can you remove my old roof?

A good contractor will remove the existing roof, though some will suggest saving time and money by placing new shingles over an old roof. This not a practice we recommend as soft spots or rotting wood lying underneath your old shingles can remain a problem.

Am I charged more if there is bad weather during the job?

Bad weather can happen at any time and it is important that your Howard County roofer has a backup plan for heavy rain and storms that occur in the middle of your repair project. Most will bring along large tarps or plastic covers that will cover over any open spaces to protect your roof and home until the storm passes. This will help to ensure that everything remains dry until the company is able to return back to work. Aside from the inconvenience of a delay, you should not be charged extra.

Do you recycle material from my old roof?

Will my landscaping be protected during the course of the job?

Ask for details on job site precautions to ensure that the landscaping does not become damaged. No one wants to come home to a brand new roof and torn up lawn due to heavy equipment and traffic patterns.

What are your credentials?

It is up to you to find out if the roofing company you hire has enough expertise to get the job done. Beware the journeyman roofer with no credentials to back up their claims of skill, it is just too tough to verify the quality of their workmanship until it is too late. It will help to ask about accreditation and certifications for your roof type. You can often verify this as well at:

• www.tileroofing.org for tile roofs
• www.metalconstruction.org for metal roofs
• www.slateroofers.org for slate roofs
• www.asphaltroofing.org for asphalt roofs

Can I receive a written estimate?

Before you sign paperwork be sure you have a detailed estimate that includes the cost of removing the old roofing materials, roofing materials, labor and anything else that may come up during the job.