Question 1

Can I get an estimate without sitting down at a computer?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Just call or text us at (315) 457-7663 from your phone. Snap a photo of the problem area and text it over, and we'll get back to you quickly. No computer or email required.

Question 2

What causes ice dams on my roof?

Accepted Answer

Ice dams form when heat escapes from your home into the attic, melting the snow on the roof. The water runs down to the colder eaves and soffits where it freezes, creating a dam. As more snow melts, the water backs up behind the dam and works its way under the shingles, causing devastating leaks inside your home.

Question 3

How do you prevent ice backup?

Accepted Answer

Prevention requires a three-pronged approach: proper attic insulation, balanced ventilation (so cold air flows under the roof deck), and a robust ice and water barrier. We install premium GAF WeatherWatch® leak barriers far past the building code minimums to ensure water cannot penetrate your decking even if an ice dam forms.

Question 4

Why shouldn't I just chip the ice off my roof?

Accepted Answer

Using hatchets, shovels, or picks to remove ice dams is incredibly dangerous and almost always destroys the shingles underneath, voiding your warranty. If you have an active ice dam emergency, call a professional. The long-term solution is to fix the underlying ventilation and insulation issues when replacing the roof.

Question 5

How long does a new roof installation take?

Accepted Answer

For most residential homes in the Syracuse area, we complete the entire tear-off and installation in 1 to 2 days. We pride ourselves on working efficiently and leaving your property completely spotless when we finish.

Question 6

Do you tear off the old roof or just lay over it?

Accepted Answer

We always perform a full tear-off down to the wooden decking. 'Lay-overs' trap moisture, hide rotten wood, and significantly reduce the lifespan of the new shingles. To guarantee a roof that will survive Central New York winters, we must start with a solid foundation.

Question 7

What does GAF Master Elite® status mean for me?

Accepted Answer

Only 2% of roofing contractors in North America hold this certification. It means we are fully licensed, adequately insured, have a proven reputation, and are committed to ongoing professional training. Most importantly, it allows us to offer GAF's strongest warranties, including the Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty, which covers both materials and workmanship.

Question 8

My roof is leaking. Do I need a full replacement?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Some leaks are caused by failing flashing around a chimney or a damaged pipe boot. We offer honest, no-pressure inspections. If it can be reliably repaired, we'll tell you. If the roof has reached the end of its lifespan, we'll explain why a replacement is necessary.

Question 9

Are seamless gutters really better than sectional ones?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Sectional gutters (the kind you buy at big box stores) have seams every 10 feet. In our climate, ice expansion causes those seams to separate and leak almost immediately. We custom-extrude seamless aluminum gutters on-site to the exact length of your home, eliminating the weak points.

Question 10

Can you install roofing in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, though it requires specialized techniques. Shingles become brittle in extreme cold, and the adhesive sealant requires sun and warmth to fully activate. If an emergency replacement is needed in winter, we use specific winter-grade underlayments and hand-seal shingles to ensure your home is protected until spring.

Question 11

How much snow is too much for my roof?

Accepted Answer

Most modern roofs in Upstate New York are engineered to hold about 20 pounds per square foot of snow (roughly 1-2 feet of packed snow, or several feet of light fluffy snow). However, if doors start sticking or you hear loud popping noises from the roof structure during a heavy lake-effect event, it may be under severe stress.

Winter Roofing FAQ

A Note on Ice Backup

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