Question 1

How long does a roof replacement take?

Accepted Answer

Most standard homes are done in one day, tear-off to cleanup. Very large roofs, steep pitches that need extra safety rigging, or decking that has to be replaced can add time, and we tell you before the job starts.

Question 2

What's the best time of year to replace a roof in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

The practical window is May through October. June through August is the busiest stretch after spring storms, and September is often the easiest month to get on the schedule. Winter installs are possible in mild weather with cold-weather adhesives, but carry more scheduling risk.

Question 3

Do I need to be home on replacement day?

Accepted Answer

No. Most homeowners aren't home for the work itself. Move cars out of the driveway, take fragile things off walls that share the roofline, and we'll do a walkthrough with you at the end.

Question 4

What should I ask a roofer before hiring them?

Accepted Answer

Ask for their Minnesota license number and check it with the Department of Labor and Industry. Ask for current liability and workers comp certificates. Then have them walk you through the scope line by line: decking, ice and water shield, underlayment, shingle, flashing, ventilation and warranty. The lowest of three bids usually leaves one of those out.

Question 5

Will you come out for a small repair?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A few blown-off shingles or one leaking vent is a normal job for us. Several of our reviews come from homeowners the big companies turned down.

Question 6

How do I know if I need a repair or a new roof?

Accepted Answer

It comes down to the roof's age, how widespread the damage is, and the condition of the decking. A roof under 15 years old with localized damage is usually a repair. A roof over 20 with wear on several slopes usually isn't worth patching.

Question 7

Can you stop a leak in winter?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Emergency repairs and tarping can be done in cold weather with the right products. A full replacement is better planned for warmer months.

Question 8

Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?

Accepted Answer

Getting a roofer's assessment first means you know what you're dealing with before you open a claim. Either way, coverage, deductible and depreciation all depend on your specific policy, so confirm those with your insurer.

Question 9

What is depreciation on a roof claim?

Accepted Answer

It's the part of the payout the insurer holds back until the work is done. It's typically released once the job is complete and the final invoice is submitted, but the terms depend on your policy.

Question 10

Can you tarp my roof tonight?

Accepted Answer

Call us. Emergency tarping to keep water out after a storm is part of what we do.

Question 11

Is the inspection really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There's no charge for the 18-point inspection.

Question 12

How often should a roof be inspected?

Accepted Answer

Once a year is a good habit, plus after any major hail or wind storm. Spring and fall are the most useful times in Minnesota.

Question 13

Do you inspect roofs for home buyers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A roof inspection before you buy tells you how much life is left and whether to factor a repair or replacement into your offer.

Question 14

How long does siding last in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

Quality vinyl installed correctly typically lasts 25 to 40 years. Fiber cement, kept painted, is rated for similar or longer. Either one fails early if water has been getting behind it at a poorly flashed window.

Question 15

Can siding be installed in winter?

Accepted Answer

It's not recommended below about 40 degrees. Vinyl gets brittle and sealants won't cure properly. Emergency repairs can be done in the cold; full replacements are best planned for warmer months.

Question 16

Can you replace just the damaged sections?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. It depends on whether the existing siding can be matched. Siding fades unevenly in the sun, so we check whether a real match is possible before recommending a patch.

Question 17

How much does window replacement cost?

Accepted Answer

Standard residential windows in our area typically run about $250 to $1,200 each depending on size, style, frame material, glass and pocket vs full-frame installation. Bays, picture windows and custom sizes cost more. A measured, written estimate is the only reliable number.

Question 18

What's the difference between pocket and full-frame replacement?

Accepted Answer

A pocket (insert) window goes inside the existing frame. It's faster and costs less, but only works when the old frame is sound and square. Full-frame removes everything down to the rough opening and is needed when there's rot or you want to change the size.

Question 19

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Six to ten windows usually take one to two days. Custom orders can take four to eight weeks to arrive, so plan on six to twelve weeks from first estimate to finished install.

Question 20

Seamless or sectional gutters?

Accepted Answer

Seamless. Sectional gutters have a seam every ten feet, and Minnesota freeze-thaw cracks the sealant at those seams. Seamless runs only have joints at corners and downspouts.

Question 21

How long do gutters last here?

Accepted Answer

Seamless aluminum installed correctly usually lasts 20 to 30 years, if it's pitched right, hung on sound fascia and kept clear.

Question 22

Do I need gutter guards?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your trees. Micro-mesh guards do the best job, including with maple seeds. No guard removes the need for an occasional check.

Question 23

How long does an HOA roof replacement take?

Accepted Answer

A crew can usually finish one to two townhome buildings a day in good conditions. A 20-building community might take two to three weeks of steady work, or be phased over two seasons to spread out the cost.

Question 24

What should a board look for in a roofing contractor?

Accepted Answer

A valid Minnesota license, current liability and workers comp, and real multi-unit experience. Then look at how they communicate, whether pricing is broken out by building, and whether they have a plan for resident notices.

Question 25

Do you do flat commercial roofs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, along with steep-slope commercial and multi-family. Call to talk through your building.

Questions your neighbors ask

Roof Replacement

Roof Repair

Storm & Hail Damage

Free Roof Inspection

Siding

Windows

Gutters

Commercial & HOA

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