top of page
Roof Shingles

FAQs

blogPost-banner-mask.png

At Evergreen Roofing, we have spent 30 years mastering the application of both low-slope and pitched roofs. With specific crews dedicated to each disciplines, we are able to uphold the highest standards for roof application regardless of the structure type.

 

These are some of the most common questions we are asked at Evergreen Roofing. If your question is not addressed, please give us a call. We are happy to answer your questions.

Q: What Types of Roofing Are Available?

A: We offer roofing systems by all the leading manufacturers of composition, metal, cedar, tile and singe-ply materials. When it comes to roofing materials (the products that are applied to your roof), it can be difficult to decipher the best option for your building. Our estimators are well versed in multiple types of roofing materials, so we can help you to hone in on the best roof system given your climate, roof structure, and budget.

Single-Ply Roof Membrane:

A popular option for low pitch or flat roofs is a single ply membrane system. Two common single-ply membranes, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) are available in 40 to 80 mils. PVC's and TPO's come mechanically fastened or fully adhered to the roof deck with seams heat welded together. PVC and TPO are extremely reflective, lightweight, and easy to repair, with most roofs meeting Energy Star requirements.


Metal Roofing:

Metal is becoming a popular roofing material option because it is durable, energy efficient, virtually maintenance-free, nonflammable, long lasting, and recyclable. Metal panels are available in galvanized steel with a high-performance enamel paint finish, copper, or corrosion resistant alloys. Metal is now available for steep-sloped roofs as well.

Composition Shingle Roofing:

For roofs with slopes of 4/12 or more the laminated shingle, also called architectural or dimensional shingle is the most popular option. Laminated shingles are designed to resemble wood or slate. The laminated shingles consist of a fiberglass core coated with mineral aggregate for added color and texture. The fastening method for both employs an adhesive backing strip and nails. Laminate shingles vary from 30 years to "lifetime" warranties.

Wood Shake & Wood Shingle Roofing:

In Oregon, Western Red Cedar is the most common wood used to create shakes and shingles. Wood shakes are irregular and rough textured whereas wood shingles are cut to a specific size and smooth finished. Both are available in a variety of lengths, widths, and grades of wood. Wood shingles and shakes can be treated for fire resistance and extended life at an additional cost.

Tile & Slate Roofing:

Tile and slate have the best record of performance and longevity compared to other roofing systems. Tile is created from clay or concrete and is available in numerous styles and colors. Slate is an organic material mined all over the world. Since tile and slate are heavy materials, you must have a reinforced roof structure to support them.

Built-Up Roofing:

Built up roof (BUR) membrane, often called "hot asphalt" or "tar and gravel" are continuous and semi-flexible roof systems made of multiple layers of felts applied with alternate layers of bitumen and then surfaced with mineral aggregate to protect the final layer from drying out.

Q: How Do I Select a Roofing Contractor?

A: The best way to protect your home, rental property or commercial property when selecting a roofing contractor is to educate yourself. The following tips are suggested guidelines for evaluating and selecting a qualified roofing contractor.

  • Consider referrals from friends, family members, co-workers, lumberyards, and general contractors.

  • A permanent place of business and a telephone in the business' name.

  • Federal tax identification number.

  • Business license number—In Oregon call the Construction Contractor's Board (CCB) in Salem 503-378-4621, or visit their website at www.ccb.state.or.us. The CCB can verify license numbers, whether a contractor is bonded and insured, and reveal previous claims brought against the contractor and if they have been resolved.

  • Call your local Better Business Bureau to check on possible complaints filed against the contractor. In Oregon call 1-800-488-4155 or visit their website at www.bbb.org.

  • Ask for proof of liability and worker's compensation insurance. Note: If the contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.

  • Always insist on a detailed written proposal. Do not assume a vague proposal will include details from verbal agreements.

  • Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (www.nrca.net). Membership in industry associations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.

  • Ask the contractor to explain their procedures for quality control, job supervision, safety practices, and clean up.

Q: What Warranties Are Offered?

A: A roofing materials warranty is only as good as its manufacturer. Some manufacturers have an up-front warranty for the first through the fifth year. They will pay for labor and materials to replace any defective shingles. The roof must be installed to a manufacturer's specifications to qualify for the warranty. Most warranties are transferable to new property owners with the payment of a simple transfer fee.

Q: How Do You Do Pitched Roofs?

A: For pitched roofs, there are many options. Most widely used, composition shingles are cost friendly and come in many styles and colors, some of which are displayed in our showroom. All our composition roofs are nailed rather than stapled, to give you the most secure roof possible. If a metal roof system is what you are looking for, we have our own metal forming machine for a truly custom roof. Cedar/shake roofing, while a more expensive option, can be a beautiful addition to your home. Talk to our representatives to learn about all your options.

Q: Can You Do Flat and Low Slope Roofs?

A: Yes! Evergreen Roofing has become a leader in flat and low slope installations. Our low slope crews are knowledgeable and experienced. This type of roofing can be applied on small residential walk decks as well as large industrial buildings. Evergreen Roofing is factory certified with the leading manufacturers, allowing us to offer the best and most comprehensive system warranties.

Q: Must I Be Home During the Roofing Project?

A: We do our utmost to protect customer property during the owner's absence. Rarely is it necessary that a building owner be present provided we have a contact phone number. A pre-job meeting to discuss any questions or concerns you may have or draw our attention to special circumstances related to your project is often helpful.

 

Q: Is Removing My Old Roof Required?

A: Usually it is best, but not always. Complete removal allows us to access the roof's substructure. Dry rot and pest infestation are often found at tear off when these they can be promptly addressed. Irregularities in the existing roof will often show through new roofing. Note: local building codes limit the number of layers with some types of roofing materials.

 

Q: Can My Roof Be Done in Winter or During Bad Weather?

A: Evergreen Roofing does roofing all year round. It usually only takes 3-6 hours to actually tear off the existing roof and apply watertight felt paper. From start to finish, a roof is usually completed in 2-3 days. The new roof itself can often be installed during inclement weather.

 

Q: Are Your Estimates Free And How Long Are They Valid?

A: Estimates are free. Past 20 days, it is best to call us; an estimate is valid for 20 days, depending on material costs.

 

Q: How Do I Treat Moss On My Roof?

A: Moss is a common problem in the Willamette Valley. There are two options for moss removal on most roofs: sweeping the moss off directly, or applying a "moss killing agent, sprinkling a powder over the problem areas which dries out the moss. Twice yearly cleanings will keep moss problems under control.

 

Q: What Maintenance is Needed For My Shake Roof?

A: As with all roofs, keeping debris cleared so that water sheds toward the drains is the most important maintenance item, this being especially true with shakes or wood shingles. Allowing debris to accumulate not only impedes proper water flow, but also encourages dry rot, deteriorating the wood and accelerating the loss of natural life.

 

Q: What Are My Options for a Flat Roof?

A: We consider a "flat" roof to be a pitch of 3/12 or less. There are methods available to apply standard roofing to lower pitches. In some cases, a special waterproofing underlayment may be applied, however, it is best to go with a roofing system designed for completely flat surfaces. After assessing your situation, we would be more than happy to advise you on the best options.

 

Q: How Do I Know If My Structure Can Support the Weight of a Tile Roof?

A: Many existing roof substructures will support a new tile roof. It is highly recommended that an engineering analysis of the current structure is made to determine if tile is a viable option.

 

Q: Will My Landscaping Be Damaged During Re-Roofing?

A: Evergreen Roofing employs procedures for preventing most roofing debris from reaching the ground. We take great pride in leaving your property and landscaping in pristine condition.

bottom of page