Just in Time Roofing and Seamless Gutters

Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor Before Signing a Contract

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 18:53:00 GMT

Whether you are a new homeowner or a seasoned one, the first time you hire a roofing contractor can be a little intimidating. It’s tempting to just do a Google search and pick the first one that comes up in the search results. But it will pay to take the time and ask the right questions before you enter into a contract.

At Just In Time Roofing and Seamless Gutters , we want to encourage you to make an informed decision before deciding to work with us or any other roofing contractor in the Elmira/Horseheads area. That’s why we’ve taken the time to come up with some questions you want to be sure to ask.

What Is Your Full Company Name and Physical Address?

Unfortunately, in this day and age, scams are everywhere. You may hire a roofing company only to find out that they were only pretending to be a reputable business. It’s not silly to ask them what their full company name is. They may tell you that they market themselves under one name, but they’re doing business under another. That’s perfectly fine.

Also, make sure you get their actual address. A PO Box should raise some red flags in your mind. You need to know that you can actually go to the business to talk with someone if you need to.

Do You Have Insurance?

What happens if one of the roofers falls off the roof? What about if there is damage done to your home in the process of completing the job? You need to know that the company carries insurance.

Workers compensation insurance will cover employees if they are injured on the job. If the company doesn’t have it, the worker may sue you to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.

Liability insurance is very important as well. This will cover you just in case something happens to your home or to your property. In most cases, your homeowners insurance isn’t going to cover those costs.

Do You Offer a Warranty for Your Roofing Work?

The company you choose should be able to offer you a written warranty. That shows that they stand behind their work and can be trusted to do it well, and use high quality materials. Also, you should be looking for a warranty that offers you protection on the work and materials for at least ten years. If they don’t offer that, it’s best to choose someone else.

Do You Have Homeowner References?

Finally, you should always ask for homeowner references. That is the best place to learn more about the company you’re thinking of hiring. Other customers will be honest with you about your experience with the company. Don’t forget to check Facebook and Yelp as well. Both happy and dissatisfied customers are always quick to go to social media to provide feedback.

We are proud to offer free estimates to our potential customers, and we can answer any questions you may have about your roof. Please contact us today to set up an appointment.

Damage From Winter Weather Can Be Hazardous to Your Roof and Gutters When You Live in Areas That Are Prone to Winter Precipitation

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 19:26:00 GMT

Ice Dams Cause Big Problems

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam is a wall of ice that forms at the edge of the roof, typically at the gutter or soffit point. When ice gutters form, they prevent melting snow from draining off the roof and away from the house.

For an ice dam to form, three things must be present:

Snow on the roof
Higher sections of the roof’s external surface must be above 32°F
Lower roof surfaces must be below 32°F
When these factors are in play, snow will melt, and the water will flow down the roof and eventually freeze – forming an ice dam.

What Are the Signs That I Have an Ice Dam?

Your home has a history of ice dams
Icicles form on the edge of the roof or off the front edge of the gutter
Ice is coming through the soffit or forming behind the gutters
Water or ice appears on the exterior wall
Water is seeping through a door frame or window

What Harm Do Ice Dams Cause?

Water from melting snow can seep into your house and into walls, ceilings, insulation, and other interior areas. The accumulation of ice (and having it sit there for an extended amount of time) can also cause or worsen wood rot .
Ice dams can lift roof shingles up, allowing water to leak inside your home and to cause water damage.
Pressure and weight from the dams can pull off gutters. This can lead to structural damage
If attic insulation gets wet, it can become ineffective and a perfect environment for mold to form.

How Do I Prevent Ice Dams?

Have a roof inspection done to identify problem areas, and make any suggested repairs
Make sure all leaves and debris are removed from your gutters before winter.
Keep your attic cold and insulate the attic floor. Check for heat sources, including recessed lights, attic stair openings, ductwork, furnace or water-heating equipment and bathroom vent fans that are not insulated.
Rake or shovel snow off the roof before it freezes, if it is safe to do so. If you cannot do this, consider hiring someone to come and do it for you.
Install a water-repellent roof membrane

WARNING! Any person on the roof during the winter or performing work on the roof from below is risking injury and risking damage to the roof and house. It is important to contact professionals to carry out this job.

Are Roofing Scams Real, and Do They Happen in the Twin Tiers?

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 19:39:00 GMT

Are Roofing Scams Real, and Do They Happen in the Twin Tiers?

It’s that time of year again when homeowners are starting to think about replacing or repairing their roofs. If you’re a new homeowner, or you’ve never had to worry about your roof, it’s easy to get mixed up in a scam, even if the contractor seems completely trustworthy.

At Just In Time Roofing and Gutters , it angers us to think of people taking advantage of others. Sadly, it does happen, and it’s important for you to know how to recognize a scam when you see one.

Angie’s List has become a website that people trust to make recommendations on contractors for everything from roofing to plumbing. They have offered five different types of scams that you should be on the lookout for.

Door-to-Door Salesmen

There are roofing salesmen who will go door-to-door in Horseheads, Elmira, Big Flats, Corning and Ithaca promising people a free roof inspection. They’ll often target neighborhoods with a lot of senior citizens, older homes, or locations where severe storms have hit. They’ll offer a free roof inspection and then do a number of different things while they’re on the roof. They may:

Show the homeowner pictures of a different roof that has been damaged after the inspection, claiming it’s their roof.
Tear off shingles themselves during the inspection.
Hit the shingles, breaking them, to simulate damage from a hailstorm.

Their goal is for the homeowner to submit the damage to their insurance company unknowingly. That way, they don’t have to pay for the new roof, but the company still gets paid.

Storm Chasing Contractors

This one is similar to the salesman, but these companies will actually follow the paths of storms looking for homes that have been damaged. They’re looking to collect insurance money, but the work they produce is shady at best.

Their goal is to put on a cheap, new roof, only doing the bare minimum amount of work. They do not address any of the other problems that may be present as a result of the storm, and they do not restore the roof to its original condition. Most of these roofs only last around seven years, at best.

The Vanishing Down Payment

This one is far too common. There are some companies who will give the customer an estimate, without signing a contract and then require a down payment prior to starting the work. They’ll say they need it to cover the cost of materials, but once that down payment is made, they never return. Sometimes they will even convince the homeowner to sign over an insurance check to them, and then they disappear.

Stick With Companies You Know to Avoid Roofing Scams

Whether you are a new homeowner or a seasoned one, it’s easy to spot a scam if you know what to look for. Your best bet is to do some research, look them up on google, read their reviews and go with a company that you know and can trust.

We want you to know that we’re here to help you if you have roofing problems. Simply contact us and we’ll schedule your free estimate right away.

A Question for Elmira/Horseheads Homeowners: Is Your Roof Ready for Winter?

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 19:57:00 GMT

Whether we want to admit it or not, winter is on its way here in the Northeast. If you live in Elmira, Horseheads, Corning, Ithaca, or the surrounding areas, you know how brutal this season can be. This might be the first winter you’ve ever owned your own home, it could be the twentieth winter you’ve seen. Either way, it’s a good idea to make sure your roof is prepared for what lies ahead.

Most homeowners aren’t excited about the thought of climbing a ladder to check out their roofs themselves. That’s why it’s a good idea to call a local roofing contractor to inspect it for you. At Just In Time Roofing and Gutters , we can provide you with this service, as well as an estimate, if necessary, free of charge.

Your Pre-Winter Roof Inspection

There are a few roofing problems your contractor will be looking for when they’re performing your inspection. They include:

Checking for loose or missing shingles – We’ve had a lot of rain this summer, and water can get under the shingles on your roof, causing them to become loose. With all the wind that accompanies rain, those loose shingles can even blow away or just slide off the roof. Your contractor should check every inch to make sure all of the shingles are present, attached and in tact.
Damage from fallen branches – If you have a lot of trees near your home, branches may have fallen on your house without you realizing it. Heavy ones can break shingles, which means you could have some damage that needs to be repaired.
Weathered and cracked sealant areas – There are so many spots on your roof that are protected by sealant. These include flashing, the chimney, antenna mounts, and plumbing stacks. As the years go by, the sealant can crack, and when it does, it needs to be repaired. This will help to protect your home against water damage.
Clogged gutters – The gutters are often the most ignored part of any house. The leaves are falling, and they can quickly become clogged by them, dirt, and other debris. It’s a good idea to have them checked during this inspection.

Scheduling Your Repairs

Hopefully, your roof will be fine and it will be ready to withstand the long winter that lies ahead. But, there’s always the chance that it won’t be fine. It’s best to have your inspection done before the snow flies. That will give your contractor a great view of your roof.

If you do need to have some work done, your contractor will provide you with an estimate. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. They will probably want to schedule your repairs before it starts to snow, which is also why it’s a good idea not to put off your inspection.

We care about our customers, and you’ll find that our expertise and the pride we take in our work speaks for itself. If you need to schedule an inspection for your roof before winter arrives, please contact us !

Potential Roofing Problems to Be Aware of When Buying Your New Home in Corning NY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 19:58:00 GMT

When you’re searching for a new home, checking the roof should be a major priority. Too many new homeowners just learn about the age of the roof and then never go on to get any more information. The fact is, a new roof can have just as many problems as an older one. Also, older roofs can be in better shape than newer ones, based on how they were installed. There are some common problems that you should be looking for before you make a deal on a new home in Corning, or in the surrounding areas. Here at Just In Time Roofing and Gutters , we would like to take a few moments and give you the information you need to make the best decision.

Faulty Installation

For the soon-to-be-homeowner, it isn’t always easy to spot a poor roof installation. There are a few things you can look for though, without any professional training. Look for the drip edge. This is an angled strip of metal that should extend from beneath the singles at the bottom edge of the roof. It should hang just over the gutters. If you don’t see one there, the installer cut corners. You can also check the shingle alignment. Roofers usually use three-tab shingles, and if they aren’t lined up vertically by their slots, they weren’t installed correctly. You should also look to see if they are lined up straight and horizontally.

Moisture Problems and Leaks

When you’re looking at a house, you’ll want to pay close attention to the attic. If the roof is leaking, or if there are moisture problems, you should see some interior damage. If you’re not sure, your home inspector should be able to spot the problem right away. They’ll be able to tell you how extensive they think the damage is.

Poor Flashing Installation

The roof’s shingles are least effective against the elements at the seams. That’s where flashing comes in. Its job is to cover the seams and create a watertight seal over your home. Flashing is easy enough to fix, so this might not be a deal breaker. But it’s always best to get an estimate as soon as possible so that you can either re-negotiate your deal or plan for the added expense. When you have fallen in love with a home, only to find that it has roofing problems, it can be heartbreaking. But you may not have to say goodbye to it after all. It’s a good idea to contact a roofing company that has a lot of experience. You may find that the repairs aren’t quite as expensive as you thought they would be. Even better, the sellers may be willing to cover the costs. Whenever possible, we try to provide our customers with a same-day estimate for their convenience. You’ll be happy to know we offer an amazing warranty that will protect your investment for years.

Do you need a roofing estimate? Please contact us today!

The Benefits of Seamless Gutters

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 20:06:00 GMT

Most homeowners in Elmira, Horseheads and the surrounding areas don’t pay much attention to their gutters, even though they are very important. It’s their job to fight against water damage and other issues associated with the weather. In fact, when we ask a lot of people about what type of gutters they have, many of them don’t know.

The Difference Between Seamless Gutters and Sectional Gutters

In many cases – and especially for older homes – people have sectional gutters. These are a very popular choice for a lot of reasons. They’re easy to install and they are a lot cheaper than seamless gutters. Unfortunately, they have a lot of problems. They are installed in sections, and the pieces are held together by sealant, screws or clips, or any combination of that. It is very easy for them to fail and fall apart. Fixing them is only a short-term solution because it is bound to happen again.

Seamless gutters do not have sections. The only connecting spots are at the corners of the home. Long stretches of the house’s roof will be protected by one full length of gutter. That means they won’t leak, and there are no sections that could become loose or damaged by the weather.

Why You Should Choose Seamless Gutters

One of the best parts of seamless gutters is that they require less maintenance. Sectional gutters often suffer from debris build-up, which increases the risk of leaks. Leaves get collected at the seams, and that means they need to be cleaned often. This is not an easy chore at all.

When homeowners choose seamless gutters, it isn’t as easy for debris to build up inside them. Any cleaning that is required is much easier and faster.

Our customers appreciate the fact that they don’t have to worry about mixing and matching the different sections to get the right lengths for their home. With seamless gutters, they are custom made to fit the house. They are guaranteed to fit just right and offer the best possible protection from the rain and snow.

Finally, seamless gutters offer better curb appeal than sectional gutters. Homes have a sleeker look, and that’s something that makes every homeowner happy.

What We Offer Our Customers

At Just In Time Roofing and Seamless Gutters , your happiness is our priority. We want you to enjoy your home for years to come, and one of the best ways to do that is to choose seamless gutters.

Our gutters are designed perfectly for the crazy weather we often experience in Upstate New York. They will expand and contract, and because of the free-floating hangers, you won’t need to worry about any stress on the nails or your building.

Also, they are made to last a long time. They use high-tech aluminum alloy, which is much stronger than sectional gutters. Your new gutters will be able to support more weight as well, which will keep water from leaking into your house.

When you combine that with a lifetime warranty, you truly have nothing to lose. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Signs of Trouble

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 20:19:00 GMT

Roof Inspections:

Regular inspections of your roof are a must as they can identify problems early, giving you time to act before a crisis occurs. It’s also a good idea to inspect the roof after any severe weather such as hail storms. Hail damage is difficult to see from the ground and usually requires an up-close inspection by a professional. A failing roof can allow moisture to penetrate the surface, which, over time, will cause permanent – and costly – damage to the structure of your home.

Our experienced roofing specialists can recognize condition issues, properly diagnose the cause(s) and advise you on any repairs needed to extend the life of your roof or the best options available if a full replacement is necessary.

We Know the Signs of Trouble:

Stained Rafters in the Attic
Soggy Insulation in the Attic
Sagging Rafters and Roof Decking
A History of Ice Dams in the Winter
Cracked, Curled or Missing Shingles
Excessive Algae or Moss Growth
Loose or Missing Flashing Around Vents and Chimneys
Cracked Caulk on Flashing
Cracked Rubber Boots Around Vent Pipes
Missing or Failed Gutter Systems
Excessive Amounts of Shingle Granules in the Gutters

If your roof is showing any of these symptoms, call us today at 607-739-1555 . We’ll schedule an appointment to have one of our roofing specialists inspect your roof and help you select the right roofing system for your home.

Don’t wait until you’re looking at blistered ceilings, streaks down your walls, puddles on the floor or yet another winter ice dam!

Call Just in Time Roofing and Gutters today for a no-cost inspection of your roof and let us put together a repair or replacement plan that will give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing the roof over your head is doing its job to protect your home and family!