
Get Answers to Frequently Asked Questions Here
Do you have questions about your upcoming project? Or general roofing, siding, or decking questions? You’re not alone. Below, we’re answering some commonly asked questions, including questions about working for Independent Construction.
Q: How do I know if I need a new roof or roof repairs?
A: We will inspect your roof and help you decide whether repairing your roof or replacing your roofing system is the best solution for you. You need a new roof if you notice curling shingles, missing shingles, mossy shingles, or damage around your chimney or skylights.
Q: What roofing materials can I choose from?
A: There are several types of roofing materials available, but shingle roofs are the most popular in the NEPA area.
Asphalt Shingle Roofing is a common choice for residential roofs. In addition, they offer a variety of style and color choices. Asphalt shingles are widely available, cost-effective, and easy to install, making them an attractive option for professional roofing contractors to offer to their customers.
Q: How do I know which type of roof is the best choice for my home?
A: Each home is different, just like the needs of every homeowner. Independent Construction and our team will help you choose the best roofing material and roof type for your area, budget, style, and wishes.
Q: Are there eco-friendly roofing materials and methods I can choose from?
A: Yes. A new roof with good insulation can make your home more energy efficient and keep it more comfortable. There are also several ways to make your roof installation more eco-friendly. First, find out if your roofing contractor can recycle old roofing materials. Some roofing contractors dispose of old roofing shingles and materials in a more environmentally sensitive way. It’s also possible to choose eco-friendly roofing materials for your new roof. From Green roofs (roofs that are partially or completely covered with vegetation) and environmentally-friendly composite shake roof shingles to recycled shingles and metal roofing, there are many environmentally-friendly roofing options your roofer can offer.
Q: Can I Replace my Roof in the Winter?
A: The most popular times of year for roof replacement are spring and late fall, but wintertime works as well. An experienced roof installation team knows how to install a new roof without it being damaged by cold temperatures. If you’re thinking of replacing a roof this year, now is the time to schedule an estimate before the summer rush begins. Contact us to learn more.
Q: Is New Roofing a Good Investment?
A: Quality roofing offers great return-on-investment (ROI) in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA).
Q: Are you licensed or insured?
A: Yes. Independent Construction has up-to-date credentials, including a valid contractor’s license, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation.
Q: What can I expect during the project?
A: After discussing your ideas, we will write a detailed contract and production schedule. We want to know your goals for the project, the things that may concern you about it, and where your budget is fixed — and we will address those things. Once we begin work, we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
Q: What does your quote include? Is it a fixed price or an estimate?
A: We’ll provide an itemized list of what’s included in the quote, including details of all materials to be used. The price is fixed unless we run up against unexpected issues, such as discovering water damage when we open the walls or roof.
Q: I have a large amount of snow and ice on my roof, how do I get it off?
A: We provide snow and ice dam removal services. Not only will we remove snow and ice dams, but we’ll also evaluate your entire roofing system to determine the cause of the damming and present a solution.
Q: Insurance Claims?
A: After a storm your home’s roof may be left with damage. If you notice a leak, your first thought might be to contact your insurance company for an estimate, but that’s not always in your best interest. Before calling your insurance company, contaca local roofing company. They often work directly with insurance companies and understand their processes for estimates. Let Independent Construction help you.
Q: Do You Have Videos of Your Work?
A: We are now on YouTube please check us out.
Q: What Should I Consider Before Hiring a Snow Removal Company?
A: What you should be considering before hiring a snow removal company for your commercial property is whether the snow removal company has the equipment to meet your snow and ice removal needs — and stay within your budget. You should also ask the snow removal company if they offer de-icing services, and whether they will clear a path to commercial dumpsters and ensure that all walkways and entryways will be kept free of snow and ice. And don’t forget to ask if your property will be taken care of, day or night, evening or weekend, throughout the holidays, and in most any weather condition.
Q: How Safe Are Gas Fireplaces?
A: Gas fireplaces are very safe as long as they are correctly installed. Only hire a licensed pro to install a gas fireplace safely. Remember that gas fireplaces can get extremely hot, making them a hazard for curious kids and pets. If you have children or pets in the house, use a protective screen or pen.
Q: When should I schedule my roof survey?
A: The earlier the better! As soon as warm weather comes, we are up on roofs starting new roofing projects. It’s best to contact us later in the winter to schedule a survey as soon as spring comes to our area. This way, we can start your project as soon as the weather is good for roofing work.
Q: How much will a new commercial roof cost?
A: Each roofing situation has its own challenges, and this will cause the pricing for roofing systems to fluctuate. There are many factors that will contribute to the price of your new commercial roof. First is the size of your roof. Then it’s the condition of your existing roof, roof access, insulation choice, membrane choice, installation choice, roof penetrations, and type of warranty you need.
Q: Are you on Facebook?
A: Yes, click here to view us on Facebook and to see our Facebook reviews.
Q: How do I know which commercial roofing system is right for my facility?
A: There are many commercial roofing options on the market, including Spray Polyurethane Foam, “Single-Ply Membrane – TPO,” “Single-Ply Membrane – EPDM,” Sheet Metal, and Built-Up roofing (Tar, Asphalt or Modified Bitumen). We’ll be happy to help you decide on the option that’s best for your facility.
Q: I have a roofing emergency or a roof leak on my commercial roofing system, what should I do?
A: If you find that your commercial roof has damage or starts leaking, protect what is in your facility first. This could mean moving furniture to a safe location or covering your valuable equipment to protect it from water damage, snow damage, or other types of damage. When your property inside the facility is protected, mark the leak area and give our 24/7 emergency response team a call.
Q: What should I do before deciding on a kitchen renovation?
A: There are three things to consider when getting ready to redo your kitchen. You will need to decide on your new kitchen’s layout, the cabinet style, and the colors in the early stages. If you’re having trouble deciding on this you can always search the Internet or ask us for photos of our work.
Q: How much does a finished basement add to the value of my house?
A: More than 70% of a basement remodeling project’s cost is generally recovered when the property is sold, offering one of the biggest returns on investment when compared to other home remodeling projects. However, the true value of a basement remodel can’t be computed based on cost recovery alone.
Q: My roof repair claim got denied by my insurance, why?
A: Your roof is too old, or you didn’t maintain your roof properly, or your policy doesn’t cover that type of damage. Be sure that you understand what is and isn’t covered by your insurance policy before damage occurs to your home.
Q: Do elastomeric roof coatings stop roofing leaks?
A: When properly applied, a roof coating can be a highly effective barrier to prevent leaks.
Q: Are skylights on my roof safe?
A: YES, new skylights are built to last. Skylights now come with hurricane-rated glass built to withstand extreme winds and extreme weather conditions (snow, wind, and rain). They’re also safer than vertical windows since they’re placed on your roof and aren’t easily accessible. Some skylights are egress windows, meaning they open wider than other skylights for evacuation, but they’re also able to be locked from the inside to keep intruders out.
Q: I’m finishing a basement, do I need Egress Windows?
A: If you’re adding living space to your basement, whether it’s a home office, playroom, den, movie room, man cave, or another bedroom, the applicable code most likely requires you to add a means of egress. Check with your local contractor and your local building authorities to find out what codes apply to your situation. Definition: an egress window is a window that provides a “place or means of going out” in case of emergency.
Q: Should I consider installing vinyl siding on my home?
A: Today’s vinyl siding products can mimic wood, insulate your home, and even stand up to tornado-force winds, making vinyl siding a highly desirable exterior cladding option. New insulated siding can add another R2 to R4 to your home. New siding is like “wrapping a warm blanket around your house,” and you will no longer have to worry about those drafts coming through your walls.
Q: What Type of Flooring is Best for a Basement Remodel?
A: If you have a finished basement space and are happy with the flooring that’s installed, you don’t have to change it. But if you want a new basement look, vinyl tiles or planks, laminate flooring, or ceramic tile are durable, waterproof options that are low-maintenance and come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns. However, solid hardwood planks shouldn’t be installed directly over concrete floors because they are susceptible to warping when exposed to moisture. Carpet is also prone to mold and mildew issues when moisture is present in a basement.