Faqs

This is not recommended. At L.I.D. Roofing, we always tear-off the old shingles as part of the roof replacement process to inspect the condition of the roof deck, prevent premature rot of the roof deck, and prevent premature rot of the new shingles. Extra layers of shingles will just cause condensation between layers and can create major problems.

Not necessarily, it could just be minor patching. However, if you notice a leak, it is very important to have it fixed immediately to prevent other major problems from occurring.

This can happen due to many factors. Old flashings that have rusted can leave streaks along the shingles during rains and melts. Other metals such as zinc have been used to deter moss and algae growth on shingles and shakes, which can also leave streaks over time.

Southern exposure is the number one cause for this in Alberta. Since we reside in the northern hemisphere, the majority of our sun comes from the south. This extended exposure to sun accelerates the speed of shingle degradation. Other factors can include close proximity of pine trees and other acidic trees to the roof. Build up of pine needles and leaves also has a negative effect on shingles. It is important to check these areas at least once a year to ensure maximum life of your shingles.

Ice and water barrier is typically used in valleys and gutter edges of a roof. Use of ice and water barrier in the valley helps protect the roof in the event that shingles do fail. Valleys carry a much higher volume of water in large downpours and long rain periods. Having ice and water barrier present at the base layer is another sure fire way to protect the roof for the long term.

Standard code states that one roof vent per 400sq feet is the minimum required to properly vent the attic. This needs to be accompanied by proper vented soffits and sometimes, intake vents are also required. If intake vents are required, there should be one for each roof vent.

Homes with vaulted ceilings require different ventilation. In these cases, a ridge vent is typically used.

Ice and water barrier is a standard requirement for all houses. This is a peel and stick asphalt layer that gets placed along the gutter end of the roof. This layer needs to extend 2 feet past the outside wall of the house. We use this to ensure that in the event of ice damming the constant melting and refreezing doesn’t make its way to the roof deck.

Drip edge is used to aid in the passing of water from the roof to the actual eavestrough. Not having a proper drip edge can cause water to find its way in behind the fascia flashing, and over time can cause the fascia board to rot.

Proper installation results in no leaks. That being said, it is quite common for older skylights to leak. The type of skylight you install also plays a major factor in the likelihood of leaks developing. Simple glue down skylights are not a good choice. A properly engineered skylight will have a “curb” framed into the roof of your house, which is then covered with a peel and stick barrier similar to ice and water, and then flashed and shingled. The actual skylight itself comes with various styles of flashing that need to be installed. In short, when it comes to skylights, if you want to be sure not to have leaks later on, ensure that you have chosen a properly engineered skylight and have hired qualified personnel to install your skylight.

Replacement of the skylight itself is usually not necessary. However, flashings and counter flashings should be inspected and replaced if necessary.