Roofing & Exteriors Done Right
FAQ
How to prevent ice dams?Ice dams form on the edge of roofs typically in a valley or a gutter. They form from heat escaping from your house and melting the snow on your roof, the snow then re-freezes into ice and prevents water from running off the roof which then freezes causing more ice build up.
Ice dams can cause roof leaks and can eventually cause damage to gutters.
The best way to prevent ice dams are:
- Use Heat Cables: Heat cables can be installed when your roof is replaced or later on. Heat cables plug into your house's outlets and heat up to prevent snow and ice from forming in areas prone to ice dams.
- Clean Gutters: Leaves and debris in gutters can prevent water from running off of your roof, making ice dams more likely to occur. Make sure to clean out your gutters every fall especially near the downspouts.
- Insulate your Attic: Oftentimes ice dams form because of inadequate insulation in your attic allowing heat to escape from your house. Consult a local insulation company to determine if the insulation or R-Value of your attic could be improved.
Architectural shingles can vary in life span depending on the quality of the materials used to make the shingle. Extreme weather like cold, snow, and heat can also speed up the life cycle of shingles. In Minnesota most asphalt roofs will last 15-30 years if they haven't been hit by a major wind or hail storm. If your roof is nearing 15 years old, we recommend getting an inspection by a local contractor to determine how many years your roof has left and what if any preventative maintenance can be done.
How long do I have to submit an insurance claim?
Most insurance companies give their insured a one year window to complete the work for an insurance claim.
So as a homeowner you will have 1 year from the storm date to have the roof inspected by a contractor, have it inspected by your insurance, pick a credible contractor, pick a roofing material and color, and schedule a repair date. One year may seem like a long time, but this process can take a few months or more especially if the contractors in your area are busy. We recommend that you start your insurance claim process within a month of the date of the storm or as soon as a credible contractor inspects your roof and shows you photos of the damage.
If you had to delay filing your insurance claim for any reason you can always file an extension with your insurance company as long as the extension is filed at least two weeks before the deadline.
What warranty does Renner Roofing offer?
Renner Roofing offers a 50 year System Plus warranty on all GAF roofs that we install. The System Plus warranty is transferable if you sell your house within 20 years of replacing your roof. This warranty covers the material for a full 50 years. Renner Roofing also offers a 10 year workmanship warranty.
How long does it take to complete a residential roof?
A typical house will take our crews one - two days to replace. Steel roofs tend to take a little longer so plan for two - four days for a typical house roof. This includes tear off, installing underlayment, installing shingles, and full clean up.
What are the different types of roofing materials?
The main types of roofing materials installed in Minnesota are:
Architectural Shingles:
- Lifespan: 15-30 Years
- Cost: $13,000-$23,000 on an average house
- Install time: 1-2 days
- Hail Resistance Level: Low/Medium
- Best Product: GAF Timberline HDZ
- Lifespan: 40-60 years
- Cost: $27,000 - $50,000 on an average house
- Install time: 2-3 Days
- Hail Resistance Level: Very High
- Best Product: Tilcor CF Shingles
- Lifespan: 40-50 years
- Cost: $37,000 - $60,000 on an average house
- Install Time: 3-5 Days
- Hail Resistance Level: Medium
- Best Product: Edco Steel Shingles
- Lifespan: 50-60 years
- Cost: $16,000 - $27,000
- Install Time: 2-4 days
- Hail Resistance Level: Medium
- Best Product: Central States Panel Loc Steel
- Lifespan: 50-60 years
- Cost: $16,000 - $27,000
- Install Time: 2-4 days
- Hail Resistance Level: Medium
- Best Product: Central States Horizon Loc Steel