Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Installations

With so many roofing contractors in Indianapolis it can be a daunting task to decide on which one to choose. When doing your research it is imperative to look up the contractors rating online, check with your friends and family about their past experiences, ask for proof of licensure (if required), proof of insurance, as well as references. In addition, if you are certain of the type of material that you would like to use (i.e. Metal, Asphalt, Rubber, Slate, etc.) then it is recommended that you work with a contractor that has successfully completed these types of installations in the past. Following these steps will typically guide you in the direction of a reputable and reliable contractor.

This will depend on many factors to include your geography, neighborhood association, budget and preference in design. As long as it fits your needs, there is not a “wrong” material. There are varying levels of materials that will range in cost as well as time of installation. Some of the most popular materials include asphalt, metal and slate. Though we specialize in metal roofing systems, we have completed countless installs with slate, rubber, asphalt and many other materials.

It will typically take anywhere from one to three days to have your new roof installed. This period of time will be affected by adverse weather conditions, the size and age of your house and the resources that your contractor has available to them. It is best to be transparent with your contractor about your specific needs and timeframes that you can work with. In addition, when you are reaching out to your potential contractor’s references it is recommended to inquire about the length of time it took for them to have their roof installed.

Our estimates are always free. If you come across a contractor that charges for an estimate then it is recommended to use another professional service. The estimate will typically include the cost of removing your old roof, installing your new roof, the type of material used, labor cost and applicable warranties. Do not confuse estimates with inspections though, as an inspection will typically cost a minimal fee to account for the contractors time and expertise.

No. Typically, the warranty on the material last for much longer than the workmanship warranty. A workmanship warranty at Jackson Contracting will usually be for five to ten years while a material warranty can last for as long as 40 years depending on the material used. It is recommended to inquire about material and labor warranties when you receive your estimate.

Not all roofs are fireproof. This designation is reserved for roofing materials with certain UL ratings. Some of the materials that are fireproof include slate, stone and metal. It is best to conduct independent research and consult with an experienced roofing contractor in Indianapolis to further understand what fireproof roofing materials will work best for your budget and home.

This will vary widely. Some factors will include the size of your home, geography, material used and your contractor.

A roof replacement offers many benefits that include reduced heating and cooling cost, increased home value, enhanced safety and peace of mind. If you have noticed that your heating and cooling cost have gone up, leaks, noticeable damage, missing shingles, or that the curb appeal of your home has been minimized due to the look of your roof it may be time to invest in a roof replacement.

Yes. We specialize in metal roofing systems to include materials such as copper, aluminum, steel and stone coated steel shingles. However, we are also experts in most all other materials in addition to metal roofs. Other types of roofing systems that we have regularly installed include slate, rubber, wood shake and asphalt.

This will depend on a few factors such as proper installation, regular upkeep and preventative maintenance measures, the type of material and the climate that you live in. Below we have a brief list of popular roofing materials and their estimated lifespan.

• Copper and Zinc: 70 – 100 years
• Steel and Aluminum : 30 – 50 years
• Asphalt: 10-15 years
• Slate: 75 – 150 years
• Rubber: 40 – 60 years

Again, a huge factor in maximizing the lifespan of your roof will depend on the home owners willingness to keep up with preventative maintenance as well as ensuring that you work with a skilled contractor.

Optimally, it is recommended to inspect your roof twice a year. The best time of the year to complete this inspection is during the fall and spring as these times of the year come before winter and summer which are typically the seasons with the most extreme conditions. In addition, if there is extreme inclimate weather like snowstorms, hail, heavy rain, strong winds, etc. it is best to inspect your roof after each of these occurrences to ensure that no detrimental damage has taken place. If you are uncomfortable inspecting your roof independently, then it is recommended to contact a roofing contractor in Indianapolis. Also, at least every three years it is best to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof.